BRAVO 2.12 by marqueemedia

an elgin culture magazine

2.12

The Inn Crowd pp. 28-30

Mime, Body & Soul pp. 2-7

with the

DECEMBER 2016

BRAVO

2.12

Expression: Experience Beyond Words

Since 1939

$1 from every OIL CHANGE is donated to a local charity. Oct-Dec 2016:

AUTO SERVICE

PADS PEOPLE LOVE US ON YELP!

Complete Car Care • Schedule Appointments Online Open Weekdays 7:30-5 • Open Saturdays 7:30-Noon

Mime, Body & Soul

217 Symphony Way • (847) 741-5457 • autoelgin.com

No talking animals here. Just straight talk, and great coverage.

KJH KIRKPATRICK, JONES & HERZOG INSU RANCE AG E NC Y AUTO HOME LIFE BUSINESS 19 S. Spring Street, Elgin | (847) 741-9393 | kjhins.com | se habla español

On the Cover: Inner Ray Artist: Lisa Nomikos Lisa Nomikos creates surreal, energy art reflecting positive and uplifting inner visions. Her subject matter ranges from surrealistic flower pots, animals, butterflies and fairies to spiritual subjects of angels, Christian and Hindu saints. “My goal is to spread light and joy in the images I create. In the landscape of my mind spin worlds unseen by the human eye — multicolor leaves capturing sparkling prisms of light after a rain storm; birds with wings spread wide, splashing sun showers in a shallow puddle on the side of a dusty road; petite white petals snowing slowly to the ground below — these are some of the drawings inspired by the world around me. Chalk pastels allow me to quickly produce the images gathering in my head.” To see her newest uplifting drawings check out her website: www. gatheringvisions.com. Original cover artwork “Inner Ray” and other original drawings and signed photo prints available for purchase at ART AREA STUDIO 51, 51 South Spring Street, Elgin (corner of Spring Street and Fulton.) Don’t miss Lisa Nomikos’ GALLERY DEBUT at the “3rd Saturday, Artist Reception” opening at Art Area Studio 51! January 21, 2017 at 7:30 pm, following “Gong in the Gallery” — gong and yoga by Lisa Gniady from 6-7pm (www.yogagong4life.com). Register now at (312) 833-4349.

“As a mime working on the street, there are three possible outcomes. People may watch and applaud; you might be ignored; or you could get beaten up.” That’s how Robert C. Carleton described his early experiences to a Chicago Sun-Times reporter in 1994. At that time, he was already a 20-year veteran performer of the stage, studio and street, and had just returned from Shanghai where he represented the United States at the first International Pantomime Festival. He had carried with him a letter from then mayor Richard M. Daley, saying “mime and pantomime are languages without borders ... Carleton the Mime speaks with his body and face to convey a contemporary message of friendship from our people to yours.” The trip to China was a high point in his career, which now spans over forty years. During that time, he appeared in dozens of films, television shows and commercials, concerts and festivals around the world. He worked with three Chicago mayors on “mime week” events and played to a “who’s who” of America’s best national brands. Dressed in his signature white tuxedo and top hat, he roller skated through every museum, hotel and shopping center in Chicagoland before buying a house in Elgin in 2012.

Getting Into Character Combining elements of theatre and dance, mime has a long history as a performance art dating back to ancient Greece. Originally portrayed by a masked dancer, the art was transformed by nineteenth century French performers into the now recognizable silent character in whiteface.

The earliest motion pictures relied heavily on mime technique to advance stories, and Charlie Chaplin used it extensively in his own acting and directing. It was a Chaplin film that inspired young Marcel Marceau, whose character “Bip” is now the de facto modern archetype of mime. “Though I’ve taken classes from Marceau,” said Carleton, “my inspiration is really Red Skelton. When I was six I used to watch his show, which included a part called the Silent Spot, and he would do a little mime.” Growing up in the Cleveland area, Carleton earned degrees in speech and theatre, with extra training in mime from a teacher at nearby Kent State University. “I wanted to go into theatre,” he explained, “but there were no paying jobs in the theatre. I had an opportunity to get a job as a flight attendant, and was hired by United in 1972 as one of the first fifty male flight attendants in the United States. That’s when I moved Chicago.” His long-range plan was to work off his college loans there, get a transfer to New York City and audition for an off-Broadway show. He dreamed, “That would be my ticket out of Cleveland.” As it happened, his next cue came from the opposite coast. “Once I started flying, I heard about Robert Shields (of Shields and Yarnell fame) performing in Union Square in San Francisco, and I would see him whenever I went there. Some news guy saw him and did a story, and the next day he was famous. I thought, I’ll become the Chicago mime.”

Breaking Out of the Box Back in the Windy City, he chose the chess pavilion at North

BRAVO

December 2016

Avenue Beach because “It kinda looked like an amphitheater to me,” Carleton recalled. Much to his relief, his first mime play on the streets of Chicago attracted 200 spectators. “When the street skating fad was starting, there was a roller skating rental place right by North Avenue Beach,” he went on to say. “And the guy hired me to skate up and down as a mime and hand out flyers for people to rent skates. I had so much fun, I bought those rental skates and used them for the next 25 years. The skating mime became my signature piece.” It didn’t take long before Carleton, like Shields, was discovered by the media. “A TV producer at Channel 2 was working on a children’s show called the Good Gang Express. As she was riding her bike to work one day, she saw me at Oak Street Beach, and had her assistant find out who I was and where I worked.” Soon after, the crew went to St. Nicholas theater, where Carleton was teaching, and filmed the show with Warner Saunders and Peggy Fleming.

For lunch, dinner or special events, great taste is ...

“The first half of the show was me doing mime, and one of the illusions I was teaching the kids was how to skate. Once the little kids were ice skating, Peggy Fleming took over and did the second half of the show.”

Partial Pavements Skating has always remained a characteristic element in Carleton’s “roving” characters, but for concert work, live musical accompaniment has set his style apart. The idea was born after a mime show at an art gallery, when a mandolin player offered up his services. Later, the duo was hired by Doc Pellegrino at Kingston Mines, where they debuted to a standing ovation from a bar room full of urban cowboys during a country band’s intermission. For years afterward, Carleton performed concerts as the Unicorn Mime Ensemble, which combined mime with guitars — or even an entire band of Chicago musicians — used both as accompaniment and as accents for the action. The improvised jazz fusion made the mime art loud

In The Neighborhood Gourmet Sandwiches Homemade Soups Deli Salads • Kids Menu

DAILY SPECIALS Dine in • Carry Out Special Event Catering

185 N. Edison Ave., Elgin

(847) 888-9486

Mon.-Fri. 10-5 • Sat. 11-3 Closed Sundays www.itndeli.com

Ken Bruderle Stays on TOP of the Real Estate Market

for YOU! If you’re thinking of selling ...

before you commit, compare and discover how Ken Bruderle’s Superior Marketing Plan is designed to net you the highest price in the shortest period of time and least inconvenience for you.

Call Ken Bruderle (847) 697-SELL Guaranteed Satisfaction! • Negotiable Commissions/Fees

-7 3 5 5

Elgin’s Superior Real Estate Expert!

BRAVO

2.12

and outrageous, and if the band did their own set of just music, they called the show “Rock Mime World.” Yet he never abandoned his roots as a street artist. “Once, on the streets of Amsterdam, I watched this girl with a suitcase take a chair and sit down, and do all of her hair and makeup in front of everbody. She got made up like Marie Antoinette. By the time she was done, she had a whole crowd around her and I thought, that’s genius. I realized how fascinated people are with process. ” “So I would go downtown in front of the Art Institute, sit on a bench and start putting white makeup all over my head. Then I put on a white robe, then angel wings, and then the skates. By the time I was ready, I already had an audience.”

When Words Escape Us Even without speaking, Carleton makes mime highly interpersonal. “I was performing as the Roving Angel in front of the Water Tower and doing the mannequin

thing, where I stand real still and then suddenly move. As I was standing there frozen, I heard click, click, click. It’s a mom and her two little girls, and one of the girls is blind, tapping a cane. So I start skating circles around the family, and the sister says ‘There’s an angel here!’ So I bent down, took the blind girl’s hand and let her feel the wings.” “Normally I don’t talk, but I offered her a ride. So she stepped up on the toe of my skate and I skated with her a little so she could feel the movement and the wind, then swung her around and put her back down in front of her mom. She whispered, ‘Mom, I flew ... I really ﬂew!’ It was a beautiful moment that had everyone in tears.” In fact, the silence of mime sometimes evokes remarks from spectators. Carleton described an incident at Celtic Fest, in which a young thug started taunting his Roving Angel character, but eventually opened up and shared tragic details from his own personal life. The angel had reminded him of his brother who was lost to gang violence.

AUTO | HOME | LIFE | BUSINESS | RETIREMENT

No one wants to file a claim But when you do... you want to be with COUNTRY Financial® You’ll get fast, fair claims service at a price you can afford! See your COUNTRY Financial representative to find out more.

Jonathan Gonzalez Financial Representative 1750 Grandstand Place Suite 20 Elgin, IL 60123 www.countryfinancial. com/jonathan.gonzalez jonathan.gonzalez@countryfinancial.com (847) 742-0003 Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company® and COUNTRY Casualty Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL

December 2016

BRAVO

WHAT A full service grocery store open to everyone WHERE In downtown Elgin WHY To focus on local foods, local farms, local jobs HOW By building a cooperative* business WHEN When we reach 1000 Shareholder Households

How you can help get the store open… 1000 Shareholder Household Challenge Elgin’s Mayor Kaptain has challenged Shared Harvest to reach 1000 Shareholder families. Thanks to the commitment of 680 current Shareholder households, we are nearing our goal of 1000 households!

Be one of the 320 new Shared Harvest Households… AND WIN in more ways than one. BUY a share for you or your family. A share is a one-time fee of $100 per share (and you can buy up to 10 shares per person/family). A WIN/WIN If you help us meet our 1000 household goal, the next 320 new shareholder families will be entered into a drawing to win local good food, good health prizes: • Gift Certificate to the five star American Club Resort in Kohler, WI • A monthly box of fresh produce from City Root Farm • Dinner for two at the Publican Restaurant in Chicago *A cooperative is an organization owned, operated, and financed by its owners. Shared Harvest Grocery will be owned by those who purchase shares (providing equity for the store). Ownership is open to all, and anyone can shop at the co-op regardless of whether they are an owner or not.

To purchase a share: go to our website or meet us at one of our December events

MEET US AT THE FOLLOWING EVENTS: HOT CIDER AT ACE HARDWARE November 28th & December 3rd from 10:00 am–Noon 215 N. Spring Street, Elgin CO-OPS, COFFEE AND CONVERSATION December 3rd & 10th from 9:00–10:00 am Arabica Cafe, 59 Douglas Avenue, Elgin December 1st & 8th from 4:30–5:30 pm Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago Street, Elgin INFORMAL INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS December 5th & 19th from 6:30–7:30 pm Imago Art Gallery, 216 Prairie Street, Elgin

WWW.SHAREDHARVEST.COOP info@sharedharvest.coop or call (224) 276-6129 Follow us on:

BRAVO

“I can’t tell you how many times I’d just be standing there, and someone goes by and says, ‘Tell my dad I love him and miss him.’ When people believe, it gives them comfort. That was the biggest surprise that came out of that angel character — I never expected it.”

A Mute Point Consider those stories as evidence that people are generally not afraid of mimes. “When I first started doing kids’ shows, I realized they were afraid of the silence,” he said. “So I would put a half-mask on, and come out and talk to them and welcome them, and then I would explain I was taking off the speaking mask to become the silent mime. Then they would accept it.” Clowns, on the other hand, are well-documented objects of fear. A recent spell of worldwide creepy clown sightings has made national news and resulted in various legal actions and official announcements. This inexplicable fear, called coulrophobia, has been exploited in film and literature for decades, and is now a social media phenomenon.

Big Apple BAGELS ® 5 6 1 N . M C L E A N B LV D . 847-697-9730

ELGIN

BIGAPPLEBAGELS.COM GOURMET MUFFINS & FRESH BAKED BAGELS

Served with butter, gourmet cream cheese and Brewster’s® Coffee.

BREAKFAST SANDWICHES

Seven varieties made with scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, veggies, classic Nova Lox and cheese.

SPECIALTY SANDWICHES Thirteen kinds made with premium ingredients on fresh baked bagel, twist or bread. Make it a meal!

CUSTOM CATERING

Serves any size group for breakfast, lunch or dessert with a choice of sandwiches, small bites and platters.

“Clowns are one of the top ten fears of people,” said Carleton the Mime, “and mime doesn’t have anything to do with clowning.” Though they are both character types that originated in classic ancient dramas, the mime was a moral teacher, or a symbol of conscience, while the clown was a rustic fool. “There was a 1991 movie called Shakes the Clown, where the clowns would beat up the mimes. A lady in USA Today did a review and basically said

2.12

who cares, everybody hates mimes anyway.” Mimes have been an easy target in popular culture, where “Bip”-like characters are parodied, mocked or worse. “People who hate mimes have probably never been to a mime show,” said Carleton. “So I wrote a rebuttal, which was published along with my picture in USA Today, just saying that mimes were regular people, and we do a lot of good.”

Still Making It Up Carleton is indeed a regular guy — and a kind, generous and fascinating one as he brings me a cup of tea, and leafs through several albums of photos, posters, and published interviews. “This was a show at Woodfield ... King Richard’s Faire ... Chicago Cultural Center ... Navy Pier ... Grant Park.” It’s an amazing record of one side of his 43-year dual career. “It took a good ten years to get established, but then I could be as busy as I wanted to be,” he says. “I could book a show anywhere a month in advance, and schedule flights around it. The airline work was there to pay the bills and the mime was there to satisfy my artistic need.” Seeing parallels in Elgin’s artistic community, he observes, “there’s a lot of creativity in this town, but everybody has their day job.” He continues to work “the friendly skies” and he still puts on the white makeup a few times a year. One client has booked him for 23 straight years, and he has just set a date for 2017. As for local performances, Carleton points out that he appeared in Elgin schools and parks long before he ever bought a house here. “I performed at McKinley School twice,

Do You Mime If I Smoke? is a kids’ tobaccoavoidance education program created in 1979 by Carleton and the Chicago Heart Association. He counts it as one of his finest accomplishments.

BRAVO

December 2016

AT E ST R EET T S MARKET SHOPS

35 Years of 35 Unique Shops Under One Roof

Gift Certiﬁcates and Layaway Available Convenient One Level Shopping Recent photos of Carleton. Left: at home on Elgin’s east side. Right: traveling the world as an international flight attendant. about twenty years ago,” he notes from his dining room just a few blocks away. “The older schools are the best ones to perform at because they always have a stage. The new schools just have a multipurpose room.” As founder and artistic director of the former Chicago Mime Theatre, he takes an interest in the future of the art, and tested the local interest by offering

a mime workshop once at the Elgin Fringe Festival. Thinking ahead, he says, “I would entertain the thought of doing a concert, maybe a benefit for a worthy cause.” Donating a performance to a worthy cause: that’s a mime’s way of saying “actions speak louder than words.” —JP

• Antiques • Home & Garden Decor • Furniture • Estate Jewelry • Glassware • Greeting Cards • Linens • and more! Find us on: • CHRISTMAS HOURS • (through December 24th)

Monday-Friday 10-8 Saturday 10-5 • Sunday 11-5 701 N. State Street, Elgin • Rt. 31, mile S. of I-90 (847) 695-3066 • statestreetmarketshops.com

s oul f ul sp a r row

Cordially Invites You to Our

Thursday, Dec. 1st, 6-8 pm

Complimentary Holiday Treats

10 Douglas Ave • Downtown Elgin, IL • (224) 223-7718

BRAVO

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra presents

Imaginez Ensemblez at the 2016 Elgin Fringe Festival.

Magical Holiday Concerts Holiday. Family. Fun December 10 & 11

Billings Summary

All You Want For Christmas... Celebrate the Holidays Elgin Style

Beethoven’s Eroica January 7 & 8

Andrew Grams, conductor Angelo Xiang Yu, violin Stravinsky Octet Prokofiev Violin Concerto No. 1 Beethoven Symphony No. 3, Eroica

Discover the wonders of Elgin with the city’s talented performing arts community while rejoicing in the season with Elgin Celebrates The Holidays Sunday, December 18th at 3:00pm. There’s something for everyone with this holiday variety show: dance, chorale music, classic vocal performances and seasonal cheer featuring talented performing arts groups including Eastern Groove Studio, BFH (formerly Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl), Soirée Lyrique, Elgin Master Chorale, Elgin Master Chorale Children’s Chorus, and Integrity School of Dance.

folk tradition who takes care of the “dirty work” for St. Nicholas. This annual observance features a gallery exhibit of Krampus-themed art by local artists, which opens with a free First Friday reception at Side Street Studio Arts Gallery, Dec. 2nd at 6 p.m. The fun continues with the Krampus Krawl, where you’re invited to join boisterous holiday revelers on a walk from Riverside Drive up Chicago Street to Side Street Studio Arts, enjoying performances, costumed camaraderie, tasty treats and libations along the way. The klaws hit the pavement Saturday, Dec. 10th at 6 p.m. Free.

General admission tickets are $10 and can be purchased from participating groups or at the Hemmens box office in person, by phone at 847.931.5900 or online at www.hemmens.org. Proceeds from the event go to Elgin’s participating performing arts organizations.

Gershwin Rhapsodies

ESO Magical Concerts

January 28 & 29

Soprano Marisa Buchheit, Miss Illinois 2014, will perform in the Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s (ESO) magical holiday concerts, led by ESO Resident Conductor Stephen Squires, on Saturday, December 10th at 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm and on Sunday, December 11th at 2:30 pm at the Hemmens Cultural Center.

Andrew Grams, conductor Yana Reznik, piano Gershwin: Cuban Overture Rhapsody in Blue Lullaby for Strings 2nd Rhapsody An American in Paris

ElginSymphony.Org 847.888.4000

2.12

Have Yourself a Merry Little Krampus Krampuslauf returns for its third year, celebrating a character from the northern European

In addition to Ms. Buchheit and the award-winning ESO, the concerts feature the Elgin Master Chorale, Anima~Glen Ellyn Children’s Chorus and the Midwest Dance Collective performing familiar holiday favorites. The program also includes a sing-along and an appearance

BRAVO

December 2016

Save 10% on Holiday Cheer Cocktails with this ad! Limit one offer per person, per visit. Not good with other discounts.

from a very special visitor from the North Pole. Enjoy convenient free parking or use the valet service. For tickets, which are only $30-$50, visit ElginSymphony. Org or call 847-888-4000.

The 12 Dames of Christmas A rockin’ Brenda Lee, a purrfect Eartha Kitt, a proper Julie Andrews, a soulful Edith Piaf, a sultry Marilyn Monroe ... Chicago’s award-winning singer and actress Angela Ingersoll captures the iconic voices of the holiday season in this merry musical romp! The Yuletide revels include familiar takes on festive favorites including “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” “Santa Baby,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” and many more. Saturday, Dec. 10th at ECC’s Blizzard Theatre. Tickets at tickets.elgin.edu will run you $30.

Oh, That Holiday Show Fans of Janus Theatre have been returning to “That Holiday Show” for over a decade, to hear comedic storytelling that looks at the “other” side of the Holidays. The Show returns Saturday, Dec 3rd at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 4th at 6 p.m. at Elgin Art Showcase. Tickets are $16 online via janusplays.com. Caution: This holiday show is not intended for those who still believe or are easily offended.

A(nother) Christmas Carol If you missed the radio play version of Charles Dickens’ classic story of Scrooge and the three ghosts of Christmas, you can see the musical version Friday, Dec. 2nd at 7 p.m. or Saturday, Dec. 3rd, 11 a.m. Presented by Harvest Christian Academy, the shows are staged in the Chapel at HCA, 1000 N. Randall Rd. Tickets are $10 (students) and $12 (adults) at the door.

NEW

EAR’S EVE

M A R T I N I

R O O M

Coming in January: Ask Your Folks At 7 p.m. January 6th, folk trio Ask Your Folks will perform in the majestic sanctuary at First United Methodist to promote their new EP, “Just in Case,” and kick off a tour that stretches from Chicagoland to North Carolina. Eli, Libby, and Owen perform original folk music that draws heavily upon the Old Time and Bluegrass idioms, yet seeks to break down barriers through innovative arrangements and thoughtful compositions. They met at DePaul University and formed this string band which has grown in prowess and prominence over the last three years in gigs throughout Chicagoland. Adult tickets $12, students $6, under 5 free. To RSVP please email: askyourfolks@gmail.com. Learn more at: askyourfolks.com.

dancing til 4AM!

NEW

EAR’S EVE

IL 847-741-0349 M A161RE. Chicago T I NSt.IElgin, R O O M

WWW.MARTINIROOMELGIN.COM

BRAVO

2.12

Elgin Cultural Arts Commission

Elgin Celebrates The Holidays Discover this city’s talented performing arts community while rejoicing in the season with Elgin Celebrates The Holidays on Sunday, December 18, 2016 at The Hemmens Cultural Center at 3 pm. This holiday variety show is a festival of dance, great chorale music, classic vocal performances and seasonal cheer and will feature many of Elgin’s talented performing arts groups including Eastern Groove Studio, BFH (formerly Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl), Soirée Lyrique, Elgin Master Chorale, Elgin Master Chorale Children’s Chorus and the Integrity School of Dance Performance and Dance Companies. The Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra’s Maud Powell String Quartet will provide walk-in music in the lobby prior to the performance.

ceremonies for the event. General admission tickets are $10 and can be purchased from participating groups or through The Hemmens Box Office in person, by phone at 847-931-5900 or online at www.hemmens.org. All proceeds from the event go to Elgin’s participating performing arts groups. The Hemmens Cultural Center, located at the corner of Symphony Way and North Grove Avenue in Elgin, IL, is easily accessible from I-90. Driving directions are available at www. hemmens.org. Parking is free.

Dave Newton of Dave Newton Music will act as the master of

Cultural Arts Commission Upcoming Events Elgin Celebrates The second Elgin Celebrates the Holidays will be back at the Hemmens Cultural Center December 18, 2016 at 3:00pm. A holiday variety show with something for everyone.

Elgin Literary Festival The third-annual Elgin Literary Festival is coming back to the Hemmens Cultural Center in downtown Elgin January 27-28, 2017. A cel-

ebration of the written word for readers and writers of all ages; free and open to the public.

Elgin Fringe Festival Mark you calendar, dates are set for 2017!

BRAVO

December 2016

Support the

2017 Elgin Literary Festival When you shop online at

by Philip Grecian

BarnesAndNoble.com Bookfair ID: 12020574

When you present this Bookfair ID # prior to making your purchase, a percentage of the sale will be donated to the Elgin Literary Festival. This fundraiser is good on anything you buy at barnesandnoble.com!

Bookfair code valid thru Dec. 3rd

2017 Elgin Literary Festival Jan. 27-28 at Hemmens

play! Repeats 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 at 4p. 4p-5p, GBPL Rms. B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Nov.30 Job Training Information Session Training grants are available to help you get a job! Learn about WIOA services and the application process. This program is in partnership with the Kane County Department of Community Reinvestment. For more information, call 630-966-1435, ext. 40078. Repeats 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 at 9.30a. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Elgin Knit Works Open Knit Elgin Knit Works has an inviting space for open knit. Several large tables can accommodate a large number of people knitting all together or in separate small groups. There is no charge for their open knit, all they ask is that you use yarn purchased at Elgin Knit Works. All knitters and other fiber artists are invited to join us. (Occasionally open knit is replaced by a store event.) 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. 847.627.4700 elginknitworks.com

ChessMaster Junior Chess Club Kids and teens in grades 2-12 are invited to hone their chess skills during our free-play sessions. Beginners are welcome -- we will teach you how to

Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class Come and experience the warmth and cultural interaction of learning a new language alongside a native speaker. The class is taught by

BRAVO your own devices. 10a-12p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Blvd. 947.931.2090 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Shirley Remes 11a-12p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Ted Turner 12.30p-1.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Robotics Round-up: Underwater Dreams film A screening of the film which tells the epic story of how the sons of undocumented Mexican immigrants learned how to build an underwater robot from Home Depot parts and defeated engineering powerhouse MIT in the process. 6.30p8p, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Piano Performance: Isaiah Ayorinde 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Betty Martinez. No registration. Ven y disfruta un ambiente acogedor al aprender el ingles y espanol con otras personas que lo hablan como primer idioma. La maestra Betty Martinez conduce las clases. Repeats 12/7, 12/14, 12/21 at 6p. 6p-7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

MS Publisher: Enhancing Your Docs Learn how to create your own Publisher templates using a series of images, text boxes, and special effects in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Pizza and Pages for Grades 6-8 Hungry for a good read? Come enjoy a slice of pizza, hear about new and exciting books, and share what you’ve been reading! 7p-8p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night Stretch your brain with beer in hand! Wednesday nights are for Trivia! Join the EPH Trivia gang and battle against Elgin’s most ferociously competitive brainiacs. Weekly prizes for the top three teams, as well as eightweek cumulative tourneys with big grand prizes. Trivia starts promptly at 8pm. Get here early to settle in with some food, beer and cocktails. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com

Thu.Dec.1 Device Advice Drop by for hands-on learning. You are welcome to bring your own devices. No Registration. 9.30a-11.30a, Rakow Computer Cafe, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Device Advice Drop By for hands-on learning. You are welcome to bring

Homework Heroes Students who need help with homework assignments can meet one-on-one on a first come, first served basis with a helpful volunteer. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Repeats 12/8, 12/15 at 5p. 5p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Video Lab Digital Media LabTeens can learn how to create and edit a professional audio recording, direct and edit a professional video, learn MIDI, and become a Photoshop pro. 5p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Literacy Connection Board Meeting Literacy Connection Board Meeting 6p-9p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Citizenship Conversation Group/ Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudada√±a Do you need to practice English for your naturalization/ citizenship test? Come to this free group to review and practice the spoken English you will need for the interview and the 100 questions from the history/civics test. This group will be led by a tutor and is open to all. Presented by The Literacy Connection. No registration. ¬øNecesitas practicar tu ingles para el examen de la ciudadania? Ven a este grupo gratis para repasar y practicar el ingles que vas a necesitar para la entrevista y las 100 preguntas del examen de historia y civica. El grupo es liderado por un tutor y cualquiera puede asistir. Presentado por The Literacy Connection. No hace falta inscribirse. Repeats 12/15 at 6.30p. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Como mantener y proteger sus aparatos Todos nuestros aparatos requieren de cuidados especificos para funcionar correctamente y mantener nuestra privacidad. Aprenda como cuidar de sus aparatos al igual de su privacidad en linea. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: John LaBorn 6.30p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Soul of Steel The ECC Steel Bands, under the direction of Steve Butters, always delight with an eclectic mix of calypso, reggae, rock, and more. Original arrangements at past concerts have included works by The Beatles, Prince, and Bruce Springsteen. 7.30p, ECC Blizzard Theatre 847.622.0300 tickets.elgin.edu. $7-9

Fri.Dec.2

Open Door Clinic: World Aids Day World AIDS Day is held on Dec. 1st each year and is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, show their support for people living with HIV and commemorate people who have died. Join us as we celebrate with special guest speaker Joann Montes. Ms. Montes has been openly living with HIV since 2000 and tirelessly advocates on behalf of HIV/AIDS throughout the Midwest.El 1ro de diciembre es el Dia Munidal del SIDA y cada ano es una oportunidad para unirse y demonstrar su apoyo para la gente viviendo con SIDA. La presentadora Joann Montes, hablara de su experiencia con la SIDA. 11a-1p, GBPL Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Downtown Elgin First Friday’s 5p, Various Downtown Elgin Locations 847.488.1456 downtownelgin.com Local Art & Game Night We celebrate our Geekiness most Fridays! We open up our cache of games, play a cool movie and have fun! All are welcome and each week is a different theme. Play our games or bring your own! Have a regular group going? Come meet-up at The BBC! Dress up, dress regularly, dress casually ... but please be dressed :) 5p-8p, Blue Box

2.12 Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. 847.697.2583 theblueboxcafe.com Happy Retro Geeky Holiday Come celebrate all things geeky! Bring your family to see vintage Star Wars toys. Discover The Robot Zoo, an exhibit that has been in museums all over the world. Take a selfie with some vintage TV robot stand-ups. Kids can make holiday gifts for their parents. This event takes place at the main library in Downtown Elgin. 5.30p-7.30p, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Maiden Bedlam One Year Anniversary Ribbon Cutting We are so happy to announce the One-Year Anniversary Celebration of Maiden Bedlam: Spirited Books, Gifts & Jewelry, located at 166 E. Chicago. The One-Year-Anniversary-Official-Downtown-Elgin-Ribbon-Cutting will be held on First Friday for December, 2016! 5.30p-6.30p, Maiden Bedlam, 166 E. Chicago St. maidenbedlam. com Dickens in Dundee Always a holiday favorite! East Dundee will be aglow with holly jolly lights and activites. Come on out and celebrate the season with your family friends and neighbors. 6p, tree lighting and live music. 6-7p, visit with Santa. 6-9p, decorated shop windows, hayrides, kids’ crafts, 6p-9p, The Depot, East Dundee, 319 N. River St. East Dundee dickensindundee.org. Free Side Street Studio Arts: First Friday Krampus & Wrap It Up Opening Join us for the First Friday opening reception of the dual exhibitions: KRAMPUSLAUF - ELGIN, IL and WRAP IT UP. 6p-8p, Side Street Studio Arts, 15 Ziegler Ct. 847.429.2276 sidestreetstudioarts.org

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

December 2016

BRAVO

Don’t Give the IRS More than you Should... Seek Professional Tax Advice! Who will prepare your 2016 tax return in the 2017 tax season? Is it time for a change? • Are you tired of preparing your own taxes, and finding it more difficult and time consuming? FLP Tax Service saves you time, money, and aggravation. Is your old tax preparer hard to reach and never returns phone calls, during and after tax season? FLP Tax Service staff answers phone and email messages within 48 hours, even after April 15th. • Are you paying high fees that are constantly increasing, even if your tax returns get easier and are less complicated? FLP fees are based not by the number of tax forms it prints, but on the complexity of your return. Fees are reviewed annually, and adjusted as needed. • Is your tax preparer not up to speed with the tax laws or tax software technology? FLP tax preparers are continually attending tax update schools to earn continuing education credit, to be ready prior to the start of each new tax season. Does your preparer offer three ways to get your taxes done? 1. By scheduling a sit down interactive tax appointment. Taxes are typically completed within a 1 1/2 hr. appointment or sooner, depending on whether you brought all your info. 2. By remote tax processing. Get your taxes done without leaving your home. Remote tax preparation is available using a state of the art secure web based portal system. Scan and upload your documents over the FLP Secure File portal. No need to get out of the house. Phone interviews are done at a convenient time (for you) to finish your return. 3. By mailing your tax info or by dropping it off. We will process it quickly, and before it’s completed, you will be contacted to make sure that you agree with the results. Note: you will always get to speak with a live tax preparer to complete your taxes. FLP Tax Service is a home-based business, celebrating 11 years of providing personal and accurate tax preparation. Our fees are typically one third or less than CPA firms and Franchise Tax Firms. Low overhead keeps our fees down. FLP is a Member of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce (EAC), for 11 years, and Member of the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP), for 20 years. You will get a 100% Client Guarantee of Satisfaction. There never are any extra charges for e-filing, IRS direct deposits, or copies of your tax returns (paper or pdf). Please contact us to make your appointment, call 847-608-0547 office, fax, 847-289-9808, email richkruth@richkruth.com, visit our website www.richkruth.com

FLP Tax Service • 38W780 Hogan Hill • Elgin, IL • 60124

A Christmas Carol A musical version of the Charles Dickens classic. Repeats 12/3 at 11a. 7p, Harvest Christian Academy Chapel, 1000 N. Randall Rd. 847.214.3500 harvestchristianacademy.org. $10-12 The Little Match Girl presented by Light & Life Church 7p-9p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way

First Fridays Improv with GreenRoom Productions 2016 Come in out of the cold, and warm up with laughter! Let the improvisers make you put the hustle and bustle of the holidays on the back burner for a few hours. 100% clean. 99.27% hilarious. 90 minutes of complete improvisation a la Whose Line Is It Anyway. With competing teams, live music and a cash bar who knows what the night will hold. Great fun for all ages! General Admission. 8p-9.45p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way greenroomimprov.com. $12-15 Nashville Electric Company 9p-11.59p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino. com. No Cover Teenage Mutant 90’s Turtles 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com

BRAVO brate the holidays like never before in downtown Elgin with this year’s Winter Wonderland event. Join us for this fun-filled day on Saturday, December 3rd, as the town embraces the holiday season! Sleigh Rides with Long Eared Livery Service, Meet and Greet with Dasher and Prancer (Live Reindeer), Storytime with Mrs. Claus, Pictures with Santa, Holiday Craft Market, Elgin Police Department’s Annual Open House, City of Elgin’s Official Tree Lighting Ceremony, Operation Gratitude Letter Writing, Letters to Santa, and more! 12p-7p, Various Downtown Elgin Locations 847.488.1456 elginwinterwonderland. com Side Street Studio Arts: Kids Day! Our next Community Moves Kids Day will be Saturday, December 3, from 12-4pm! As part of our Community Moves arts education and outreach program, Side Street Studio Arts hosts seasonal make and take arts events for children that are free and open to the public. In this open house environment, families are welcome to spend time at Side Street, visiting various art-making stations, making work of their own to take home, and just simply explore the gallery. 12p4p, Side Street Studio Arts, 15 Ziegler Ct. 847.429.2276 sidestreetstudioarts.org Children’s Art Project with Art for All Children are invited to drop by the South Story Room to stretch their artistic talents! Project and materials are provided by the community group, Art for All. 1p-3p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Elgin History Museum Annual Holiday Tea Join us for the holidays during this annual tradition at EHM. The holiday tea will take place on December 3 from 1-3pm and feature the amazing sounds of North Side Brass. Along with cookies, drinks and other holiday treats enjoy singing carols and holiday songs with amazing piano player and EHM Board Member, David Nelson. 1p, Elgin History Museum, 360 Park Street 847.742.4248 elginhistory.org. Free

Electric Friday with Joe Black Join high-energy, electronic shock and roll mix of thriller film soundtrack clips and cutting edge dance music. First Friday Martini of the Month is 25% off! 9.30p, Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago St. martiniroomelgin.com. No Cover Medusa’s Jet Night Club 10p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago St. medusachicago.com

Sat.Dec.3 DNA’s Window Wonderland Cele-

NENA’s Homes for the Holidays The Homes for the Holidays house tour is one of NENA’s longest running and most popular events. As the only neighborhood in Elgin with two separate historic districts, it’s no surprise that visitors from throughout the Fox

River Valley and Northern Illinois regularly join us for this special celebration. Unlike many traditional “house walks”, Homes for the Holidays celebrates more than the physical house — it’s a celebration of the wide range of holiday traditions reflecting the cultural, ethnic and spiritual diversity of our neighbors. And it’s a look into the personal approach each family brings to decorating their home for the holidays. Last year alone, visitors were treated to such unique decorations as a reindeer corral, a Mardi Gras tree, a Mexican nativity set, Chinese artifacts and ornaments featuring themes ranging from sports teams to the Wizard of Oz. 1p-6p, Advocate Sherman Center St. Campus Atrium 224.703.4966 nenaofelgin. org. $10-15-20

2.12 passed away in 2009, Steve and Johnnie created a weekly tribute by re-airing interview highlights with Les. “A Little More Les” became a “must-hear” feature on WGN Radio. Their book will highlight the “best of,” including never-told stories from the man who invented the electric guitar. Book signing and sales will take place for a special library discounted price of $20. Please register. 3p-4.30p, GBPL Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Downtown Elgin Tree Lighting Ceremony 5p, Civic Center Parking Lot, 150 Douglas Ave. cityofelgin.org The Polar Express presented by Dance Motions Repeats 12/4 at 3p, 12/5 at 10a. 6p-8p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way dancemotionsinc.com. $10-15 A Christmas Carol See 12/2. 7p, Harvest Christian Academy Chapel, 1000 N. Randall Rd. 847.214.3500 harvestchristianacademy.org. $10-12

Tis the Season to be Jolly The Festive Singers, an a cappella quartet, will enliven the library with the holiday spirit! They don their best gay apparel while performing traditional and contemporary holiday favorites. 2 - 3 pm Crafts, snacks and pictures with Mrs. Claus. 1p-3p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

Drumming for Fun Remember to attend the Simple Balance Wellness Wonderland from 2:30pm - 6:30pm, then stay for Drumming Fun! End the Wellness Wonderland with movement, playfulness, joy, rhythm, sound therapy, stress relief, connection, and rejuvenation are just some of the things you will experience. There is no drum experience necessary and no need to bring your instrument unless you have one. 7p-9p, Simple Balance Health Center, 221 E. Chicago St. 847.468.6012 simplebalancehealth.com

Elgin PD Winter Open House Activities planned include a K-9 demo, brief tours, SWAT, evidence response team, McGruff, child fingerprinting, 911, traffic fatal vision goggles and other fun activities for kids. 2p-5p, Elgin Police Department, 151 Douglas Ave. 847.289.2530 cityofelgin.org Simple Balance Wellness Wonderland Dive into our world of mind, body and spirit sessions to soothe your stress and to empower you to create joy, peace and happiness. 20-Minute sessions are just $20. Meditation, Egyptian Reflexology, Breathwork, Stress Intelligence Coaching, Chakra Clearing and much more! 2.30p-6.30p, Simple Balance Health Center, 221 E. Chicago St. 847.468.6012 simplebalancehealth. com Authors on the Fox: Steve King & Johnnie Putman, “A Little More Les” WGN Legends Steve King and Johnnie Putman will discuss their book “A Little More Les,” pages of conversations, photos, and memories from their treasured 18-year friendship with Les Paul. Each week, Les phoned them in the early hours of Tuesdays after he returned to his New Jersey home from his Monday night shows at the famed Iridium Jazz Club in Manhattan. After Les

Montana of 300 Project Evolve, Kody Yrk, Erratic, Vic Villa, Deziner GT Money. 7p, The Smooth Fox, 51 S. Grove Ave. ticketfly.com. $25-50 1920’s Repeal Party Live music by the Swing Set, the dolled up “Wal-

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

BRAVO

December 2016 nut Girls,” Sam Adams & Templeton Rye samples and giveaways. Best dressed gangster and flapper contest: 1st place = Bears Tickets, 2nd place = $50 bar tab. 8p, The Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut St. thewalnutspeakeasy.com. No Cover

Chitown Soul 9p-11.59p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover

Janus Theatre: That Holiday Show It’s back! An extremely limited engagement of That Holiday Show, comedic storytelling featuring the Janus Theatre cast of regulars: Ben Stoner, Patricia True, Kelly Bolton, Joseph Schuman, Ann Marie Nordby, Adam Yencho and Mike Murschel. The show is directed by Tara Schuman. Not for the easily offended. Repeats 12/4 at 6p. 8p, Elgin Art Showcase , 164 Division St. janusplays.com. $16

Medusa Saturday’s 10.30p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago St. medusachicago.com

Accidently On Purpose 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin. com

Friday Jackson 9p, D Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Blvd. 847.717.0511. No Cover

Sun.Dec.4 Elgin Knit Works Duffer Class It’s Duffer Time! If you haven’t made duffers yet, the time has come. These fantastic felted slippers are a quick knit you can make for everyone on your holiday knitting list (including a pair for yourself). We will be teaching the duffer class each Sunday starting October 30

Arabica Cafe ... invites you to join in on our holiday tradition with Chef Brian’s fresh, out of the oven to your table Signature Minis! These smaller versions of our Cinnamon Cyclones compliment any table. Arabica Cafe will be taking advance orders for Minis! which are baked only during the holiday season. Chef Brian will be baking early on Christmas Eve morning so you can pick up your special treats at the height of freshness. Along with the Minis!, other Arabica originals are available so your bakery basket will be brimming with fresh classic treats when you serve your special breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Stop by or call to order your Holiday treats! Monday thru Friday 7am to 4pm Saturday & Sunday 8am to 3pm Christmas Eve 8am to 3pm Closed Christmas Day

59 Douglas Avenue Elgin • 224-227-7192

15 through Christmas. While reservations for the class are required, only a day notice is needed. Space in these classes will be limited so get on the calendar sooner than later. 10a-12.30p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. 847.627.4700 elginknitworks.com Quiet Lab A quiet and serene time and space to use technology without fear of disruption or excessive noise. 12p-4.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Homework Heroes Students who need help with homework assignments can meet one-on-one on a first come, first served basis with a helpful volunteer. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Repeats 12/11, 12/18 at 2p. 2p-4p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Sunday Afternoon Concert - Northside Brass featuring David Nelson A concert of Holiday Music Favorites with Northside Brass. Including Jingle Bells, Deck the Halls, and Oh Holy Night. We will be joined by a special guest pianist and Elgin native, David Nelson. 2p-3p, GBPL Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info The Polar Express presented by Dance Motions See 12/3. 3p-5p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way dancemotionsinc.com. $10-15 E.D.G.E Theater presents Doctor Who Christmas Skits EDGE Youth Theater is coming to the BBC to do live table reads of its two Doctor Who Christmas plays: A Timey Whimey Christmas, and Gift of the Magi. Come on out for some great food and a wonderful holiday theater experience. The plays should last about an hour. After that we’ll play Trivia Mayhem! 4p-7p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. 847.697.2583 theblueboxcafe.com. Free Janus Theatre: That Holiday Show See 12/3. 6p, Elgin Art Showcase , 164 Division St. janusplays. com. $16

Mon.Dec.5 The Polar Express presented by Dance Motions See 12/3. 10a-2p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way dancemotionsinc.com. $10-15 Spanish Cafe/Cafe en Espanol Looking for an opportunity to practice your Spanish conversation skills? Then join this drop-in group that meets the second Monday of each month. Take part in a weekly topic of discussion, learn new vocabulary and put your listening skills to the test. No registration. ¬øEstas buscando una oportunidad para practicar tu espanol? Ionete a este grupo de conversacion para aprender nuevo vocabulario y poner tus habilidades para escuchar a prueba. No hace falta inscribirse. Repeats 12/19 at 12p. 12p-1p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info After School Adventures See 11/28. 4p-5p, GBPL

•R

EM EM EM EM EM

E OV

E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV E OV

IS TH

IS TH IS TH IS TH IS TH

IS TH

IS TH IS TH

E AR

E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR

E AR

•R

•R •R

EM EM

E OV

IS TH

IS TH IS TH

IS TH

E OV

IS TH

E OV

•R

E AR

•R

•R •R

•R

•R •R

E OV

EM E OV

E OV

IS TH

E OV

E AR

•R

E OV

IS TH

IS TH IS TH IS TH

IS TH

E OV

E AR

E AR E AR E AR

E AR

A A A

•R

E OV

•R E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

I TH

I TH I TH I TH

I TH

S S S S

E OV

E AR

E AR E AR E AR

E AR

A A A

•R

E OV

•R E OV

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

I TH

I TH S

I TH

S I TH

E OV A

AR EA

AR EA AR

•R

E OV

•R E OV

•R

E OV E OV

EM •R

TH IS

TH IS TH

IS TH

E OV EA

AR EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

E OV EM •R

E OV

TH IS

IS TH

E OV EA AR

EM IS

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

E OV

IS TH

•R

E OV

EA AR

E OV

•R

E OV

EA AR

•R

E OV

EA AR

E OV

•R

E OV

EA AR

•

EA AR

E OV

•

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EM •R

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•

•R

EA AR

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

EM •R

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EM •R

E OV

•R

EA AR

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

E OV

EA AR

E OV EM IS

•R

E OV

EA AR

E OV

IS TH

TH E OV

EM •R

E OV

EA AR

EM •R

E OV

•R

E OV

EM •R

E OV

EA AR

•R

EA AR

Living out a life of passionate service in her adopted city, Lisa Boehm’s energy and strength of character became an exceptional example to generations of people, creating a legacy as beautiful as the art for which she was most celebrated.

E OV

IS TH

•R

EA AR

•R

E OV M

E OV

EM •R

E OV

•R

IS TH

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EM •R

A RE

E OV EM •R

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

IS TH

•R

IS TH

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EM •R

•R

EA AR

•R

A RE

Her gift to her community was the annual production of The Nutcracker at the Hemmens Cultural Arts Center, the longest continuous series of its performances outside of Chicago, and the longest ever seen at the Hemmens. She gave her last ballet lesson at age ninety.

EM •R

•R

EA EA

EM IS TH

•R

EA E OV

EA AR

EM •R

IS IS TH

EA AR

•R

IS TH

E OV

E OV EM •R

E OV EM

E OV EM •R

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

EM IS

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EA AR

E OV M

IS TH

E OV M

E OV

EM •R

IS TH

E OV

IS TH

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EA AR

•R

EA AR

IS TH

E OV

E OV EM •R

E OV

•R

E OV

E OV EM

•R

E OV

•R

A RE

E OV

EM •R

A RE

IS TH

•R

E OV M

IS TH

•R

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

E OV M

E OV

EM •R

EA EA AR

EM •R

IS TH

E OV EM

•R

EA AR

E OV EM

IS TH

•R

EM •R

EA E OV

EA AR

IS TH

EM •R

E OV

•R

E OV EA

EM •R

EA EA

EM •R

IS TH

EA AR

EM IS

E OV

•R

EM •R

EA AR

IS TH

E OV EM •R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

A RE

E OV

EM •R

A RE

IS TH

•R

E OV M

IS TH

•R

EA AR

E AR

•R

E OV

E AR

E OV

•R

I TH

E AR

E OV EM

E OV M

E OV

EM •R

E OV A RE

EM •R

•R

I TH

E OV

E AR

•R

I TH

E AR

•R

I TH

E AR

E OV

•R

E AR

E OV

E AR

E OV

I TH

•R

I TH

E OV

E AR

•R

I TH

E AR

E OV M

I TH

E OV

E AR

IS TH

•R

IS TH

•R

IS TH

E OV

E AR

•R

IS TH

•R

E OV

E AR

E OV

E AR

IS TH

•R

IS TH

E AR

E OV M

IS TH

•R

E OV

E AR

Elisabeth “Lisa” Spallinger Boehm (1914-2008) was born with a natural talent for dance, into a Swiss-German family with high expectations for their children. She began training in classical technique in an elite ballet studio at age eight, mentored by a disciple of Anna Pavlova. E OV M

E OV EM

IS TH

•R

Lisa Boehm

E AR

A •R •R •R •R EM EM EM EM EM EM EM EM EM EM

E OV

O • O T O • E O T A T O A O A O A OV RE AR OV M AR M AR OV A M AR E M AR E E M AR S EM E M S EM A S E I S E E I AR S E I S E EA I E I E I EM IS EM IS EM IS IS EM OV S •R IS OV OV OV •R •R TH •R TH •R AR TH •R TH •R AR TH •R TH •R TH •R TH •R TH A TH E A •R E A EM TH E A E EM EM A EM E A IS EA E A E IS E E R EA VE RE EA VE OV RE EA VE OV •R RE VE OV RE EA •R •R OV •R RE TH OV AR OV A TH O R A O R A O M A O M A M A OV A M AR M AR A A E M A S A S E E S E I AR S E E I E I E E E OV EA I E IS EM IS EM IS EM IS EM IS IS EM IS OV M •R IS OV •R TH •R TH •R AR TH •R AR AR TH •R AR TH •R TH •R M TH •R TH •R TH A TH E A •R TH E A RE S E A E S S TH A IS • E VE EA VE EA HI VE RE EA VE HI HI RE EA VE OV RE EA VE OV RE VE OV •R RE EA V O R T O A R VE O T T R A TH O R A O A O M A O M A O E E M A A O A E A E E AR E E E AR E IS EM EA IS EM IS EM IS EM IS EM IS S EM IS S EM IS AR AR EM EM OV •R IS OV OV OV •R •R TH •R TH •R AR HI TH •R HI TH •R TH •R M TH •R IS IS M M TH •R TH A •R T A T •R S TH E EA E VE A EA E VE A EA RE E VE EA TH RE TH RE VE EA E VE RE EA HI VE RE EA R E V O R E V O • R V O R EA • • O R T O A E E O A OV A O A O A O A A OV AR EA AR E AR AR EM M EM M IS AR EM M EA IS EM IS EM EA EA OV OV IS S EM IS S EM IS S S S EM AR IS OV •R RE •R RE HI TH •R RE HI TH •R AR HI TH •R HI AR AR TH •R EM EM TH •R TH S • T • T • T T •R TH S EM E E A EA IS IS E A HI EA E VE A EA E VE •R •R A EA E VE EA E VE EA V E HI V R E T V H H R E V O R E V O R V O •R R EA O T O A A O T T A O A O A E E O A O A OV E E AR AR AR E M AR E E M AR EM M EM M AR S EM M IS S EM M EA IS S EM S S S OV OV AR AR IS S IS RE HI OV RE HI •R OV OV RE HI •R RE HI M M •R RE HI TH •R RE HI TH •R AR H T • S S H T • T • T • T • T • T T E E A EM E A E EM EM RE RE A HI HI E A IS EA E A EA E EA E V E • • T T EA EA O R EA VE OV •R RE VE OV RE •R •R OV RE TH OV RE AR E E E OV AR A A OV AR OV A O A O A A A E E AR E AR AR EM EM M IS EM M EA IS EM IS EM EA EA OV OV OV IS EM IS S EM IS S EM IS S AR AR IS OV •R •R RE TH •R RE HI TH •R AR HI TH •R HI AR AR TH •R EM EM EM TH •R TH S S •R TH • T • T T TH IS E EA IS IS E A HI HI EA E VE A EA E VE •R •R •R A EA E VE EA E VE EA VE EA T T O O O O TH O OV TH TH RE AR OV RE AR OV RE AR E E OV M AR OV M AR OV EA EA EA EA M AR M AR M A E A E E A S E S E E I E I E IS EM IS EM IS EM OV OV IS EM IS EM IS AR AR AR AR EM IS IS OV •R OV OV •R •R TH •R TH •R TH •R TH •R TH •R TH •R EM EM IS IS IS IS M M TH •R TH •R A TH A TH E A E A E EA E VE EA •R •R RE RE TH TH TH TH VE EA VE RE EA VE RE EA VE RE EA VE OV RE EA OV O • • O O A E E E E O A O A O A OV AR OV AR M AR M AR EA EA EA M AR A A AR AR S EM S EM IS S OV OV OV OV EM IS EM IS EM IS EM IS S RE EM IS RE HI IS RE RE RE HI AR AR AR HI M M M M •R •R TH • T • T • A A T •R TH •R TH •R TH •R TH •R TH IS IS IS A TH E A E A RE RE RE RE E A S S E A E E E I I E • • • • E EA EA EA TH TH TH VE RE EA VE OV RE EA OV RE OV RE OV OV A A A A OV T TH TH AR O A O A E E E OV A OV A E E E E AR AR AR AR E E E AR EM EM EM IS EM IS S EM IS S EM IS EM EM OV OV OV EM IS S EM IS AR AR AR AR IS •R OV OV OV HI •R HI M M M •R TH •R TH •R TH •R S S S S TH •R T •R T •R TH •R TH TH E E EM EM EM RE RE RE A HI HI HI HI E A EA E A EA E A EA E VE EA E VE EA • • • T T T T EA O O OV RE •R •R •R OV RE OV RE AR E E E E E OV RE AR A OV AR OV AR OV M AR M A A A A AR E E IS S EM IS S EM IS EM EA EA EA RE OV OV OV OV OV EM EM EM S EM A AR EM EM EM IS IS •R •R TH

S E AR A A A A •R •R •R •R •R •R •R •R •R •R EM

She opened the Lisa Boehm School of Ballet in an old church building in 1955, and for nearly fifty years, she trained girls and boys from Elgin and beyond in the art of ballet. Her instruction was prized for its authenticity and high standards. Boehm produced hundreds of professional dancers, choreographers and teachers, and to thousands more children and young adults she taught the value of discipline, hard work, wellness and self-respect.

E AR E AR E AR E AR A A A A A A A A A A •R

By age sixteen she was dancing professionally, and by age twenty-one she had attained the rank of prima ballerina in the company of the Deutsche Opernhaus in Berlin. Spallinger toured the continent, performing for all the aristocracies of Europe until Allied air strikes over the German capitol destroyed her home in 1944.

S E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR E AR

She escaped to Switzerland by rail, where she would eventually finish her dancing career, but it was on the journey out of Hitler’s Germany that she met her future husband Frank Boehm, a Swiss watchmaking executive whose occupation would eventually bring the two of them to Elgin.

Spirits of Elgin: A Tireless Producer of Dance and Dancers

IS TH

E AR

E AR •R A

E AR •R

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R

IS TH

E AR IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R

E AR

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R IS TH IS TH A

E AR •R A

E OV

I TH

E OV •R

IS TH

E AR IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R

E OV

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

EM E AR IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

E AR •R A

E AR •R •R IS TH E OV IS TH E OV

E OV

•R

E OV •R •R A IS TH

•R

I TH IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

EM IS TH

EM IS TH IS TH A

IS TH E OV

E OV

•R

IS TH

E AR

E OV

E AR

E OV

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E OV

AR •R A

•R

E OV

E AR •R A

•R

E OV

E AR •R A

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R

•R

E OV

E AR •R A

E AR •R E AR E AR IS TH E OV

E OV

•R

I TH IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E OV

AR •R A

•R

E OV

E AR •R A IS TH E OV E AR IS TH IS TH E OV

E OV

•R IS TH E OV

E OV

I TH

A S

I TH

E AR

I TH

E AR

E OV

•R I TH

E OV

•R

E OV

•R E AR

A I TH E OV E OV

•R

E OV

•R E AR

E OV

E AR E AR

A A

E OV

TH IS

E OV

•R IS

E OV

•R

E OV

•R E AR

•R E AR •R A

E OV

AR TH E OV

EM E OV

TH IS

TH E OV IS

E OV

•R

E OV

•R EA

AR •R EA E OV

AR O

•R

E OV IS

•R E OV E OV

TH O E OV

•R

•R EA

TH EA

•R

E OV

EM TH

AR EA

•R

TH E OV

IS IS

•R

IS IS

AR EA

•R

E OV

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

EM •R

•R

EM •R

•R

EM •R

•R

EM •R

EA AR

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

EA AR

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV EM •R

E OV EM

•R

E OV EM •R

E OV EM

•R

E OV EM

•R

E OV EM

•R

EM •R

•R

E OV

E OV M

EM •R

E OV

EM •R

E OV EM

EM •R

E OV

EM •R

E OV

E OV EM

•R

E OV EM

•R

E OV

EM •R

EA AR

EA AR EA AR

EA AR

EA AR EA AR

EA AR

•R

E OV

EM •R

EA AR

E OV

EM •R

•R

EA AR

EA EA

•R

AR E OV

IS IS

E OV

E OV IS IS

IS TH

IS IS

IS TH

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

EM •R

E OV

•R

E OV

IS TH

•R

EM •R

IS TH

EM •R

IS TH E OV E OV

EM •R

E OV

EM •R

E OV

•R

EM •R

•R

E OV

EM •R

EA AR

E OV

•R E OV

EA AR

EM •R

TH EA EA

EA AR

E OV

EM •R

E OV

•R

E OV

EM EA

•R

IS EA

AR E OV TH

E OV EM

EA EA

IS IS TH

E OV EM

•R

E OV EM

IS IS

TH TH

•R

IS TH

E OV

E OV EM

•R E OV

•R

E OV

•R

EM •R

E OV

EA EA

E OV

E OV E OV EM

E OV EM

E OV

E OV EM •R

•R

EM •R

•R

EM •R

•R

E OV

IS IS

•R

E OV

•R

IS TH EA

EA EA

AR EA

AR E OV

E OV EM

EA EA

E OV IS IS

EM •R

•R

E OV EM

EA AR

•R

IS TH

E OV

•R

AR IS

TH EA

AR E OV

EM TH E OV

EM TH EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

E OV

EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA AR

E OV

IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS TH

•R

E OV EM •R

•R

IS TH

E OV

IS IS

•R

E OV

EM EA

•R

AR IS

TH •R EA

EA IS EA

AR E OV

E OV EM

EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

E OV E OV

EM •R

•R

IS TH

E OV IS IS TH

EM •R

•R

E OV EM

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

AR IS

TH EA

AR E OV

EM E OV

EM TH EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA A RE

E OV IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS TH

EM •R

•R

E OV EM •R

•R

E OV

IS IS

•R

E OV

EM EA

•R

AR IS

EA IS EA

AR E OV

E OV EM

EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

E OV

E OV EM •R

•R

IS TH

E OV IS IS TH

EM •R

•R

E OV EM

EA AR

•R

E OV

•R

AR IS

TH EA

AR E OV

EM E OV

EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA EA A RE

E OV IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS IS TH

EM •R

•R

E OV EM •R

•R

E OV

IS IS

•R

E OV

EM EA

•R

E OV

•R

E AR

E AR I TH A A

EA IS EA

AR E OV

E OV EM

EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

E OV E OV

EM •R

•R

IS TH

E OV IS IS TH

EM •R

•R

E OV EM

EA AR

•R

E OV

I TH

•R

E AR

E AR I TH E AR E OV

•R E OV

EM TH EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

EA EA EA EA EA EA EA A RE

E OV IS IS IS IS IS IS IS TH

EM •R

•R

E OV EM

EA AR

•R

E OV S S

I TH

•R

E OV

EM A

E AR

•R

S E AR E OV

E OV EM

EA EA

EA AR

E OV EM

E OV

E OV EM •R

•R

IS TH

E OV S S I TH

I TH

EM •R

•R

E OV

EM E AR E AR

E OV EM

E OV

E OV EM •R

EA EA EA EA EA A RE

E OV S S S S S I TH

I TH

EM •R E OV

•R

E OV EM

E OV E OV

EM •R

•R

E OV

E AR

•R

I TH

E AR E AR

I TH

A A A A

I TH A A

E AR E AR

E AR

I TH

E OV

I TH

•R

•R A E OV

I TH

•R

E AR

E AR I TH •R A

E OV

EM I TH I TH E OV

•R I TH I TH

E OV EM

E OV

I TH

EM •R

E OV

•R

E AR

E AR I TH A E OV

EM A

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

E AR

•R •R

E AR E AR

E OV EM •R

E OV

E OV EM •R

E OV

I TH

EM •R E OV

•R

E OV

EM •R

E OV

E AR

•R

E AR

•R

IS TH

E OV

•R E OV E AR A

IS TH

E AR

E OV E OV E AR A

IS TH

E AR E OV E OV

E AR

IS TH

E AR E OV

IS TH

E AR

E OV IS TH

IS TH

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R

•R

E OV

E AR •R A

E AR •R E AR E AR

•R

E AR

IS TH E AR

•R

E AR

IS TH E AR E OV

•R

E OV

E AR

•R

IS TH A A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

E AR •R

•R

E AR

IS TH E AR IS TH A IS TH IS TH E OV

EM E OV

•R

E OV

E AR

•R

IS TH A A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

EM IS TH IS TH

E OV EM

•R

E OV EM

E AR

•R

IS TH A A

IS TH

E AR

E OV EM

IS TH IS TH

E OV EM

Step 1: Carefully cut on the dotted line with a hobby knife or scissors. Remove the paper from the middle.

E OV

S HI

IS TH

E AR

E OV

S HI IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

S HI

E OV E AR A E OV E OV A

E AR •R E AR E AR E OV E OV

EM E AR E OV

•R

E OV

EM A A E OV

•R

E OV

EM E AR

•R

E AR

•R

IS TH A A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH E AR

IS TH

E OV

•R

E OV

E AR

•R

IS TH A EA

E AR

E OV

IS TH EM

E AR

E OV

•R

E AR •R A

IS TH

E AR

IS TH E AR IS TH •R

E OV

E AR

•R

E OV

•R

E OV

E AR

•R

IS TH

E AR

•R

IS TH

Caution: defacement of public or private property is a crime under Illinois law and the Elgin municipal code. Penalties are worse when a church, school or memorial is involved. Please do not tag anything that does not belong to you without permission.

EM EM E AR

E OV

•R

IS TH

•R

Step 2: Tape the four corners of the stencil to a safe surface. It works best if the stencil is lying down flat. Spray paint through the opening to transfer the design to the surface underneath. Submit your nominations and photographs of people who have passed through — and passed away — to be considered for a future edition of Spirits of Elgin.

E AR •R •R

E OV

E AR

Spirits of Elgin recognizes the people who left a mark on this place, but whose faces appear only our photographs and memories until now.

S HI

A A IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E OV •R IS TH E OV

E OV

IS TH

E OV

•R

E OV

IS TH

E OV

•R

E OV •R •R

E OV

•R

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

It’s a collective art project intended to decorate the community with subtle reminders of people whose presence here made a difference we can still see and feel.

IS TH

E AR

E AR •R A

E AR •R E AR E AR

•R

E AR

IS TH E AR A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E AR •R

E OV

IS TH E AR EM EM A

•R

E OV

EM EM

•R

Spirits of Elgin

E OV

S HI

IS TH

E AR

E OV

S HI IS TH A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

S HI

E OV

IS TH

E OV

IS TH

E OV

•R

E AR

•R

IS TH A A

IS TH

E AR

E OV

IS TH

E AR

E OV

S EA

All images are positives. For best results, use a light color against a dark background.

BRAVO

they have written. Gareth Mann Sitz, poet and songwriter, will facilitate. No registration. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Shared Harvest Informational Meeting See 11/28. 6.30p-7.30p, Imago Creative Studios, 216 Prairie St. sharedharvest.coop

Youth Center - Creation Station, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Creativity Lab See 11/28. 4p-5p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

Tablets: Library Entertainment Apps Learn how to download free eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, and music using your library card and GBPL’s entertainment apps. Bring your device and a valid library card. 6.30p-8p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 7p-8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 847.931.6001 cityofelgin.org

Tue.Dec.6

Pet Photos with Santa Have your pet photos taken with Santa and support Elgin families in need! This event is free to Elgin residents; however, we would love your support. We are collecting pet supplies for families in need. We are looking for: pet food, collars, beds, toys, treats, chew bones, leashes, pet houses, tie outs, food/water dishes. Please bring any of these items, in new condition, so we can distribute them to other Elgin residents in need this holiday season. In return, you will receive a digital copy of your pets photos with Santa for the holidays!All pets must be secured either on a leash or in a carrier. All dogs must be up to date on vaccinations and have their tags displayed on the collar. 4p-8p, Elgin Police Department, 151 Douglas Avenue 847.289.2530 cityofelgin.org Chief’s Monthly Community Meeting Meet with Chief Jeff Swoboda and talk about community issues. 6p-7.30p, Elgin Police Department, 151 Douglas Avenue 847.289.2530 cityofelgin.org The Gaming Event Players in grades 3-up are welcome to come to this monthly drop-in event. Play Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh and other role-playing games. Bring your cards to play or trade. Don’t know how to play? We will teach you and get you started. No registration required. 6p-8p, GBPL Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Poetry Writers Workshop Come share your love of poetry! This is a group for local poets to share what

Elgin Genealogical Society Holiday social and monthly meeting/workshop of the Elgin Genealogical Society. 9a-1.30p, GBPL Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime The Gail Borden Public Library and Panera Bread are partnering to sponsor this program to be held at Panera Bread. Your preschooler will enjoy stories read by a library staff member, followed by a milk and cookie snack compliments of Panera. Registration required. 9.30a-10a, Panera Bread, 322 S. Randall Rd., South Elgin Career Services & Resume Assistance See 11/29. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Rakow Rooks Chess Club See 11/29. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

2016 December Heritage Awards This year’s Heritage Plaque recipients and Bungalow Thematic Historic District recipients will be honored. In addition, local historian Bill Briska will enlighten the crowd with the unique history and current rehabilitation of the Nancy Kimball home. 6p-9p, Elgin History Museum, 360 Park Street 847.742.4248 elginhistory.org Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee 6p-7p, The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group See 11/29. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Human Relations Commission 6.30p-7.30p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 847.931.6001 cityofelgin. org The Robot Zoo Ice Cream Social & LEGO Robot Showcase for Kids Enjoy ice cream and see more cool robot LEGO projects. The Blue Box Bots FIRST Tech Challenge Team will demo its robot, Captain Jack. The Elgin team is composed of seven high school students who competed at he World Championship level and won multiple awards. This event will be held at the main library in Downtown Elgin. 6.30p-8p, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Danny’s On Douglas Open Mic Night See 11/29. 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com Heritage Commission 7p-8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 847.931.6001 cityofelgin.org

Audio Lab Digital Media LabTeens can learn how to create and edit a professional audio recording, direct and edit a professional video, learn MIDI, and become a Photoshop pro. 5p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Build Your Own Desktop PC Series Learn how to build your own computer and perform basic computer repairs in this three-part, hands-on series. Class size is limited to 16. Must attend all three sessions: 12/6, 12/13, 12/20. Ages 14 and up are welcome. 5p-6.30p, GBPL Computer Training

LinkedIn Basics Learn how LinkedIn-the internet’s number one professional networking website--allows you to create and promote workplace skills, experience, and successes in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Pearl Harbor - A Day of Infamy It was a day that our parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles would never forget. It was a day that would live in infamy forever more - December 7, 1941. That morning Japanese warplanes appeared over the Hawaiian Islands to launch a surprise aerial bombardment of American air and

2.12 naval installations. It was the event that propelled the United States into the Second World War. Battlefield expert Robert Mueller reviews the why and how the Japanese almost wiped out the American Pacific Fleet in one fell swoop. Using individual stories of the men who responded to the attack, Mr. Mueller presents the tactics and the consequences of the most treacherous assault ever launched upon American soil. The program ends with a review of the surviving relics and, appropriately, a visit to National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Please register. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Dec.7 Job Training Information Session See 11/30. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Volunteer Perk Up! Coffee, Tea and Conversation Volunteer Coffee Hour 10a-12p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 11/30. 4p-5p, GBPL Rms. B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Elgin Liquor Control Commission 4.30p-5.30p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 847.931.6001 cityofelgin.org City Council Meeting 5p-8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 847.931.6001 cityofelgin.org Elgin Knit Works Open Knit See 11/30. 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. 847.627.4700 elginknitworks.com Selling on eBay Learn how to create an auction, employ selling strategies to maximize profit, navigate eBay’s rules, and earn seller ratings that boost future business in this class. 5p-6.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class See 11/30. 6p-7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Exhibits & Film Creativity Causes & Community Other

December 2016

BRAVO

2.12

FEED.whereisbravo EAST SIDE Baker Hill Restaurant 1279 Dundee Ave. Elgin History Museum 360 Park Street Elgin Public Museum 225 Grand Ave Gail Borden Public Library 270 N. Grove Avenue Neighborhood Housing Services 1 American Way

Wall to Wall Retro 225 E. Chicago Street

Panera Bread (South Elgin) 322 S. Randall Road

WEST SIDE

Porter’s Pub 1250 Bowes Creek Road

Alexander’s Cafe 1725 N. State Street Big Skillet Restaurant 90 Tyler Creek Plaza Big Apple Bagels* 561 N. McLean Boulevard Cleveland Veterinary Clinic 400 S. McLean Blvd, South Elgin

Pampered Pet Services 1050 Dundee Ave.

Colonial Cafe 600 S. McLean Boulevard

Superior Homes Realty 1173 Dundee Ave.

D Hangout Bar and Grill 550 S. McLean Boulevard

Tri-City Animal Hospital 790 Summit St.

Grumpy Goat Tavern 875 Sports Way

DOWNTOWN

Elgin Community College Campuswide 1700 Spartan Drive

Arabica Cafe* 59 Douglas Ave Blue Box Cafe 176 E. Chicago Street Central Barber Shop 172 E. Chicago St. Danny’s on Douglas* 231 Douglas Avenue Domani Cafe 109 E. Highland Avenue

Habitat for Humanity ReStore 800 N. State Street Highland Ave Church of the Brethren 783 W. Highland Ave. Holiday Inn Express 495 Airport Road In The Neighborhood Deli 185 Edison Avenue

Dog’s Paw Brewing Co. 74 S. Grove Avenue

Judson University (Commons & Library) 1151 N. State Street

Downtown Neighborhood Association 10 N. Spring Street

Kendall’s Kountry Kitchen 219 Walnut Ave.

Elgin Antiques & Uniques 207 E. Chicago Street Elgin ArtSpace Lofts 51 S. Spring Street Elgin Books & Coffee 66 S. Grove Ave. Elgin City Hall 150 Dexter Court Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way

Metra Rail Big Timber Station 2025 Big Timber Road Paul’s Family Restaurant 1300 Lawrence Avenue Presence St. Joseph Hospital 77 N. Airlite Street State Street Market Shops 701 N. State St. Walnut Speakeasy 214 Walnut Avenue

Kellenberger Auto Service 217 Symphony Way

RANDALL CORRIDOR

Maiden Bedlam 166 E. Chicago St.

Advocate Sherman Hospital 1425 N. Randall Road

Martini Room 161 E. Chicago St.

Candlewood Suites 1780 Capital Street

Pastigel Bakery 154 E. Chicago St.

Dutch Inn West 36W610 Foothill Road

Rediscover Records 9 S. Spring Street

Hawthorne Hill Nature Center 28 Brookside Dr.

Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 15 Ziegler Court

Jimmy’s Charhouse 2290 Point Boulevard

Soulful Sparrow 10 Douglas Avenue

Panera Bread 2484 North Randall Road

Rakow Branch, Gail Borden Library 2751 W. Bowes Road Starbucks 2480 North Randall Road Starbucks (South Elgin) 338 S. Randall Road Village Pizza and Pub 2496 N. Randall Road Woodman’s Market (C’Ville)* 2100 Randall Road *Preferred Pickup Location

Spanish Holiday Storytime Families that speak or are learning Spanish will enjoy holiday stories and songs with Ms. Madeleine. 6p-6.30p, GBPL South Elgin Branch at Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. 947.931.2090 gailborden.info

Supplies are limited at each of those locations and may run out early in the month. If you don’t see BR AVO Magazine displayed, please let management know that you saw their location listed here, and came looking to get a free copy! Would you like a supply of BRAVO Magazines at your office or place of business? Let us know! Display racks are available upon request for high traffic retail locations! Contact us at: bravo@marqueemedia.net Artist Opening Reception: Ginger Peach Tree Check out new art and meet the artist. Presenting acrylics and watercolors by Ginger Peach Tree. Complimentary finger food. Martini Flight specials! 7p, Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago St. martiniroomelgin.com. No Cover iTunes Basics Learn how iTunes can help you store, organize, and enjoy your music collections as well as how to purchase and download digital media files for music, movies, and more! 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Holiday Traditions The ECC Concert Band, under the direction of Jim Kull, thrills audiences with a broad range of music in heart-stirring arrangements. December’s concert will feature holiday favorites. 7.30p, ECC Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Dr. tickets.elgin.edu. $7-9 Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night See 11/30. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com

Thu.Dec.8 Device Advice Need help figuring out

December 2016 how to use your tablet, smartphone, or eReader? Bring your questions and your device to the library for some 1:1 help! This event is for GBPL cardholders only. 9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Tinsel Time Join us, along with Mrs. Claus, as we celebrate the holiday season! Come out of the cold to sing and dance with Stacy Buehler, or better known as Stacymusic! Mrs. Claus will be available for photos. 10a-11a, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

BRAVO the scenes look at what politicians once called Elgin’s “conscience,” the Daily Courier News. The book also contains several of Bailey’s columns, including the locally famous Lamont. Books available for purchase, $20. 5p-7p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. 847.697.2583 theblueboxcafe. com Homework Heroes See 12/1. 5p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 Become the speaker and leader you want to be. No registration. Toastmasters will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation. Whether you are a professional, student, stay-at-home parent or retiree, Toastmasters is the most efficient, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you open an entirely new world of possibilities. You’ll be more persuasive and confident when giving presentations, and you’ll improve your one-on-one dealings with others. Please join us as a guest! Repeats 12/22 at 12p. 12p-1p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Ted Turner 12.30p-1.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Piano Performance: Isaiah Ayorinde 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

YWCA Open House Good friends, good cheer! It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Gather your friends and family and come to YWCA Elgin on December 8th from 5-7pm. Help us celebrate another year of service to the people of the Elgin Community. There will be live entertainment, wine themed Christmas presents for sale, a hot chocolate/coffee bar, light hors d’oeuvres, and lots of merriment! 5p-7p, YWCA of Greater Elgin, 220 E. Chicago St. 847.742.7930 ywcaelgin. org. Free Consejos Para Tomar Fotos Con Su Telefono Movil Parese que estamos usando nuestros aparatos para tomar fotos mas que las camaras pero con los dias festivos aprenda de lo que es capaz su telefono para tomar fotos de mejor calidad. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Genealogy Writers’ Group Learn from others with a similar interest in writing their family’s history. 6.30p-7.45p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: John LaBorn 6.30p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

300 Lake Street: Book Signing by Mike Bailey 300 Lake St. is the story of the once intertwined relationship between the Courier News and the City of Elgin, exploring events during that crucial period from 1975-1985 that shaped both, as well as a behind

Fri.Dec.9 Around the World in One Night In place of Family Science Night, enjoy a night of cultural traditions through Elgin Public Museum’s Touching on Traditions exhibition. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the stories, crafts and foods of different winter holidays highlighted in this interactive, drop-in program. No registration required. 6p-8p, Elgin Public Museum, 225 Grand Blvd 847.741.6655 elginpublicmuseum.org. $2 Final Groove 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover

Piano Performance: Shirley Remes 11a-12p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Fall Into Jazz The ECC Jazz Combo and ECC Concert Choir unite to present their fall semester concert! The smooth sounds of jazz performed by the talented ECC Jazz Combo, under the direction of Shawn Maxwell, always impress. The ECC Concert Choir, under the direction of Chris Cherry, performs a wide breadth of choral music. Celebrate our talented music students at this joyous evening of music. 7.30p, ECC Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Dr. tickets.elgin.edu. $7-9

Holiday GIFT

GUIDE Great Gifts

Ugly Sweater Party with Sam Dandals Band 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover

Secret Santa

Stocking Stuffers Door Prizes for the Office Party

Sat.Dec.10 Star Wars Night Join Blue Box Cafe as they celebrate all things Star Wars in anticipation of the release of the movie Rogue One sponsored by Live at The Blue Box and Southgate Media Group! We will be podcasting live during the event! Shows include several Star Wars Roundtables, interviews with CosPlayers, Star Wars Trivia Games, Pop Culture Countdown and more surprises along the way! The BBC will have a fun Star Wars themed menu too! Please make plans to join them! Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. 847.697.2583 theblueboxcafe.com Special Committee of the Whole Meeting - Budget Discussion 9a2p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 847.931.6001 cityofelgin.org Read to Rover Tails are wagging at Read to Rover. School-aged kids may practice their reading skills by cuddling up with a good book and reading aloud to a fully trained and certified therapy dog. Repeats 10.30a, 11a, 11.30a. 10a-10.15a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Read to Rover See above. 10.30a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Read to Rover See above. 11a-11.15a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Read to Rover See above.

Super Savings

WEEKEND December 9, 10, 11 Celebrating almost 35 years of saving you money on ★ Destinations ★ ★ Dining ★ ★ Entertainment ★ ★ Theatre ★ ★ Home Services ★

Phone the Show

847-931-1410

BRAVO are approximately two hours long, including a 25 minute intermission. Repeats 12/10 at 7.30p, and 12/11 at 2.30p. 2.30p-4.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way Holiday Whiskey Tasting About 35 whiskeys will be sampled. This is our best tasting event of the year. Admission price will be credited toward the purchase of whiskeys that are being sampled that day. Call ahead, very few tickets left! 3p-6p, Otter Creek Wine and Spirits 847.931.2950 ottercreekwineandspirits.com. $25

11.30a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Santa’s Shindig The VIP craft package includes painting a snowman plate with Mrs. Claus, followed by a special kids lunch with dessert and small gift, $30 (limit 20 kids). The lunch package only is $20. Meet and greet with Santa, 2-4p. Reservations are required! 1p-4p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400. $20-30 Welcome Baby Baby’s First Library Visit Bring baby and baby’s new library card to this class to learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! For babies up to six months old and their parents. 1p-3p, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Holiday Sing-a-long Join us for this fun family event, where we will jingle and jangle! We will sing holiday favorites. Instruments will be provided-- just come with your holiday spirit and singing voices! No registration. 2p-3p, GBPL South Elgin Branch at Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. 947.931.2090 gailborden.info Manga and Anime Club for Grades 6-12 Calling all fans of Attack on Titan, Soul Eater, My Neighbor Totoro, and more! Here’s your chance to watch anime, share fan art, and enjoy Japanese snacks while socializing with other fans. Students in grades 6-12 are welcome - bring a friend! 2p-3.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Elgin Symphony Orchestra ~ Magical Holiday Concerts Bring the whole family and create joyful holiday memories together at our Magical Holiday extravaganza. For the second year in a row, Miss Illinois 2014, soprano Marisa Buchheit, will be featured soloist. The concerts include performances by the Elgin Master Chorale, Anima-Glen Ellyn Children’s Chorus and the Midwest Dance Collective performing familiar holiday favorites. The program includes a sing-along and an appearance from a special visitor from the North Pole. Concerts

Dinner with Santa Reserve your spot now for an evening of holiday fun which includes: dinner, a craft, a sing-along, and visit with Santa! Don’t forget to bring a camera for a picture with Santa. Registration deadline December 5th. Code 20752 6p-8p, The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way

Planet Groove 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover

Sun.Dec.11 Elgin Knit Works Duffer Class See 12/4. 10a-12.30p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. 847.627.4700 elginknitworks.com Quiet Lab A quiet and serene time and space to use technology without fear of disruption or excessive noise. 12p-4.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Holiday Ornaments Get into the holiday spirit at the Elgin Public Museum! Listen to some yuletide music while making your own festive ornaments. Afterwards, check out our holiday exhibition, Touching on Traditions. This annual, beautifully decorated exhibition features traditional holiday displays from 32 countries around the world. 2p-4p, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655 elginpublicmuseum.org. $1-2 Homework Heroes See 12/4. 2p-4p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Krampus Krawl Third annual Krampuslauf festival featuring art, eats, drinks and fun! Art exhibit opening and performances at Side Street Studio Arts, 6p. ($5 donation). Krampus-inspired cocktails, costume contest, live music at Martini Room, 8p-10p (No cover). 8p Alpine Thunder performs. 9.30p Krampus Costume contest. 6p, Side Street Studio Arts & Martini Room. $5 donation; cash bar The 12 Dames of Christmas A rockin’ Brenda Lee, a purr-fect Eartha Kitt, a proper Julie Andrews, a soulful Edith Piaf, a sultry Marilyn Monroe-Chicago’s award-winning singer and actress Angela Ingersoll captures the iconic voices of the holiday season in this merry musical romp! The Yuletide revels include familiar takes on festive favorites including “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” “Santa Baby,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” and many more. 7p, ECC Blizzard Theatre 847.622.0300 tickets.elgin.edu. $30 Elgin Symphony Orchestra ~ Magical Holiday Concerts See above. 7.30p-9.45p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way Leaving Scarlet 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover No Limits 9p, D Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Blvd. 847.717.0511. No Cover

2.12 gingerbread house with our frosting and decorations. They will also have a pizza break. Each child will get a photo of them, their gingerbread house, and our mascot Cupcake! Minimum 6 yrs of age -- parents must drop off (due to limited space) Advance reservations required by phone: 630.303.2235. Repeats 12/18. 5.30p-7.30p, Delish Cakes, 213 E. Chicago St. 630.303.2235 delishcakes. net. $25

Mon.Dec.12

Brown Bag Lunch Classic Films - It’s A Wonderful Life (1946, NR) It’s A Wonderful Life (1946,NR)An angel helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman by showing what life would have been like if he never existed.Director: Frank CapraWriters: Frances Goodrich, Albert HackettStarring: James Stewart (George Bailey), Donna Reed (Mary Hatch), Lionel Barrymore (Mr. Potter), Henry Travers (Clarence), Beulah Bondi (Mrs. Bailey), Frank Faylen (Ernie), Ward Bond (Bert), Gloria Grahame (Violet).Time of Movie: 2 hours 10 minutes 11a-2p, GBPL Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Finals Feeding Frenzy Stop in the studio to get your study on! We’ll have snacks to help you cram for your finals. Repeats daily through 12/20 at 3p. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Make Someone Happy With Elizabeth Berg Author Elizabeth Berg returns to Gail Borden Public Library to talk about her new book, Make Someone Happy. She will also present her retelling of the Christmas story, The Handmaid And The Carpenter, published in 2006. Join us for light refreshments, lively conversation, and Berg’s warmhearted wit and wisdom. 2p-4p, GBPL Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Elgin Symphony Orchestra ~ Magical Holiday Concerts See 12/10. 2.30p-4.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way Kids’ Gingerbread House Party Drop off your kids at our store for a fun workshop of building gingerbread houses for two hours while you finish your shopping! We will help the children create their own

Creativity Lab See 11/28. 4p-5p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info STEAMologists Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math! Kids in first-fifth grade will be exploring, experimenting and creating. 4p-5p, GBPL Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Cultural Arts Commission 7p8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 847.931.6001 cityofelgin.org Have a Holly, Jolly Holiday with Pinterest Come and learn how Pinterest can help you collect holiday recipes, decorating tips, gift ideas, and more! 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Russian Conversation Group Govorite po-russki? If you find Russia fascinating and the Russian lan-

BRAVO

December 2016 guage beautiful, join fellow Russian language enthusiasts to discuss contemporary events, history and culture. Some knowledge of Russian is expected. Course facilitator is John Schwartz, a retired USG Russian translator and instructor. No registration. 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Tue.Dec.13 Hands-On Storytime for Preschoolers Are you ready for fun? Children will experience stories through all of their senses in this engaging storytime. For children age 3-6 and an adult caregiver. Registration required. NOTE: Some activities may be messy - please wear old clothing. 9.30a-10.15a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Armchair Generals - Holiday Trivia Game A Brown Bag Civil War and Lincoln Interest Group. Join forces to commemorate events, share insights, and talk about books or experiences during the 150th anniversary. Bring your own hardtack. No registration. 11.45a-1.15p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Career Services & Resume Assistance See 11/29. 1p-4p, GBPL Com-

puter Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Rakow Rooks Chess Club See 11/29. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Build Your Own Desktop PC Series See 12/6. 5p-6.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group See 11/29. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Dannyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On Douglas Open Mic Night See 11/29. 7p-11p, Dannyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com Library Board Meeting Monthly meeting of the Library Board which is generally held on the second Tuesday of the month. 7p-9p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info LinkedIn: Getting Started Learn how to create your Profile on LinkedIn, how to strengthen it by adding sections that tell a meaningful story, and how to add professional Connections in part two of our LinkedIn series.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Dec.14 Job Training Information Session See 11/30. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Offi ce of Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth - Satellite Offi ce Hours Office of Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth - Satellite Office Hours on the 2nd Wednesday of each month to provide information on resources in their office. 12.30p-4.30p, GBPL Southeast Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 11/30. 4p-5p, GBPL Rms. B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info STEAMologists Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math! Kids will explore, experiment and create. 4p-5p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden. info Elgin Knit Works Open Knit See 11/30. 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. 847.627.4700 elginknit-

23 works.com Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class See 11/30. 6p-7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Stories at the Museum Stories at the Museum for this event will be about Race Cars. Storytelling on the second floor near the Elgin National Road Race exhibit. Special presentation immediately following by Sara Russell, Museum Educator. Storytime is for ages 3-6 years. 6p-7p, Elgin History Museum, 360 Park Street 847.742.4248 elginhistory.org A Discussion on Public Education Join Illinois Humanities and Gail Borden Public Library for a free facilitated community dialogue about school funding. This event is part of a state-

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

BRAVO

GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Novels at Night A Spool of Blue Thread by Anne Tyler 6.30p-7.30p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Piano Performance: John LaBorn 6.30p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

wide series called Continuing Ed., which looks at the future of public education in Illinois. Come hear your neighbors’ thoughts and share your own on how we should support our schools. Light refreshments will be provided. Space is limited, so please register. 6.30p-8p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Windows 10 Basics Learn how to navigate, use the task manager, manage your files, and more with Microsoft’s latest operating system, Windows 10. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night See 11/30. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com

Thu.Dec.15 Device Advice Drop by for hands-on learning. You are welcome to bring your own devices. No Registration. 9.30a-11.30a, Rakow Computer Cafe, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Ted Turner 12.30p-1.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Isaiah Ayorinde 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Minecraft for Grades 3-8 All ability levels are welcome! Beginners can learn how to play; experts can show off their amazing skills by competing in a building challenge with friends. Registration is required. 4p-5p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Homework Heroes See 12/1. 5p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Citizenship Conversation Group/ Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudada√±a See 12/1. 6.30p-7.30p,

Que es y como usar iTunes Un programa de Apple, iTunes es parte de la vida diaria de muchos usuarios Aprenda todo lo que puede hacer dentro de iTunes. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Veterans Information Networking Session Join us for monthly programs to provide information on a varying range of topics dealing with Veterans and to meet and discuss with other Veterans. Topics may include veterans benefits (medical, dental, compensation, pension, burial, etc.), and updates on these benefits, military experiences, PTSD, trauma, recording of discharges and others. Coffee and tea will be served. No registration. 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Fri.Dec.16 Discovery Storytime for Toddlers Let’s explore! Join us for an interactive storytime designed to enrich your child’s sensory experiences. For toddlers 1 - 2 years old and an adult caregiver. Registration required. NOTE: Some activities may be messy - please wear old clothing. 10a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit Welcome Baby! Bring baby and baby’s new library card to this class designed especially for Baby’s First Library Card holders. Learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! For babies up to six months old and their parents. Registration preferred. Repeats 12/16 at 3p, 12/17 at 9.30a. 1p-1.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See above. 3p-3.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Guy King 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover

Sat.Dec.17

Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See 12/16. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Bienvenido Bebe!/Welcome Baby! BabyFirst Library Visit Bienvenido Bebe! Llevan a su bebe y bebes nueva tarjeta de la biblioteca a esta clase es disenado especialmente para bebes primer titular de la tarjeta de la biblioteca. aprenda acerca de los programas y recursos para apoyar el desarrollo de alfabetismo temprano de su bebe y recibir un regalo especial! Para los bebes sies meses y abrriba con sus padres. Registrados preferidos. Presentado en espanol. Welcome Baby! Bring baby and baby’s new library card to this class designed especially for Baby’s First Library Card holders. Learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! For babies up to six months old and their parents. Registration preferred. Presented in Spanish. 10.30a-11a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Family Holiday Crafts Make a bracelet, snowflake and ornament with popsicle sticks. Create seashell art as gifts. 1p-3p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Games & Gadgets Drop-in for some family free play! An assortment of board games, chess, Legos, Wii video games, or iPads will be available. Children under the age of eight must be accompanied by an adult. 2p-3.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

2.12 United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland Ave 847.741.0038 heartlandvoices.com. $15-18 Alpha Omega Funk Brothers 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Cool Rockin’ Daddies 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover Hobo Junkies 9p, D Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Blvd. 847.717.0511. No Cover

Sun.Dec.18 Elgin Knit Works Duffer Class See 12/4. 10a-12.30p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. 847.627.4700 elginknitworks.com Community Christmas Dinner We are proud to announce the first annual community Christmas Dinner. There will be plenty of free food, beverages, desserts, music and games and face painting for the kids. Free for all! 11a-2p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way 847.888.9486. Free Quiet Lab A quiet and serene time and space to use technology without fear of disruption or excessive noise. 12p-4.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Homework Heroes See 12/4. 2p-4p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

This Christmastide: Christmas Around the World Choral concert by the Heartland Voices. Repeats at 7.30p. 3p, First United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland Ave 847.741.0038 heartlandvoices.com. $10 Community Christmas Sing-A-Long 4p, First Congregational Church-Elgin, 256 E. Chicago St. 847.741.4045. Free This Christmastide: Christmas Around the World Choral concert by the Heartland Voices. 7.30p, First

Elgin Celebrates the Holidays Discover this wonder of Elgin with the city’s talented performing arts community while rejoicing in the season with ‘Elgin Celebrates The Holidays’ Sunday, December 18th at 3:00pm. There’s something for everyone with this holiday variety show: dance, chorale music, classic vocal performances and seasonal cheer featuring talented performing arts groups including Eastern Groove Studio, BFH (formerly Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl), Soir√©e Lyrique, Elgin Master Chorale, Elgin Master Chorale Children’s Chours, and Integrity School of Dance. General admission tickets are $10 and can be purchased from participating groups or at The Hemmens Box Office in person, by phone at 847.931.5900 or online at www.hemmens.org. Proceeds from the event go to Elgin’s participating performing arts organizations. 3p-5p, Hemmens

BRAVO

December 2016 Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way cityofelgin.org. $10 Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Kids’ Gingerbread House Party See 12/11. 5.30p-7.30p, Delish Cakes, 213 E. Chicago St. 630.303.2235 delishcakes.net. $25

tance See 11/29. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Holiday Singalong! Join us for this fun family event, where we will jingle and jangle! We will sing holiday favorites, old and new in our decorated lobby. Instruments will be provided -- just come with your holiday spirit and singing voices! No registration. 4p-5p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

lucky children to the North Pole for a visit with Santa. The train’s conductor (Tom Hanks) along with the other passengers help turn Billy’s crisis in faith into a journey of self-discovery. 6.30p-8.45p, GBPL Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Finals Feeding Frenzy See 12/12. 3p-9p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Ancient Cultural Traditions and the Solstice The Winter Solstice is a dark time of year — the darkest here in the northern hemisphere. Humans have replaced the long hours of darkness with lights and festivals since ancient times in the northern hemisphere. The Celtic people of Ireland and many other cultures chose the solstice as a time to celebrate the seasons. Solstice is usually celebrated by fires, light, family and community gatherings. The cycle of nature is the ultimate celebration. The Elgin Public Museum invites you to hear about long gone cultures and astronomical significance of the winter solstice. Learn about the Druid Oak King and the Holly Queen and watch the Yule log be burned in a glowing campfire. Learn about the significance of the harvest and wildlife to ancient peoples. Drink warm cider and enjoy campfire treats! 7p-8p, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655 elginpublicmuseum.org. $3-5

After School Adventures See 11/28. 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center Creation Station, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Danny’s On Douglas Open Mic Night See 11/29. 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com

Creativity Lab See 11/28. 4p-5p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

LinkedIn: Tips & Tricks Learn how to add a resume, endorse someone’s skills, ask for a Recommendation, participate in Groups, Follow Companies, and find Job information in part three of our LinkedIn series. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Painting Night Out Vote for the paining you want featured at this event: surveymonkey.com/9KDCLVC Everyone who votes gets a $10 discount to attend and will be entered into a drawing to win two FREE tickets to this event! Featured artist: Melissa Shea. 7p, Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago St. vinogogh.com. $38

Mon.Dec.19

STEAMologists Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math! Kids will explore, eperiment and create. 4p-5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch at Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. 947.931.2090 gailborden.info

Spanish Cafe/Cafe en Espanol See 12/5. 12p-1p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Rakow Rooks Chess Club See 11/29. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

Rakow Readers Fates & furies by Lauren Groff 1.30p-2.30p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

Build Your Own Desktop PC Series See 12/6. 5p-6.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

French Conversation Group Refresh and enhance your knowledge of French language and culture in a conversational setting with former college language professor Dennis Schwank. No registration. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Tue.Dec.20 Career Services & Resume Assis-

Elgin Alive - Screening of The Polar Express 2004, G Directed by Robert Zemeckis and based on children’s author Chris Van Allsburg’s modern holiday classic of the same name, “The Polar Express revolves” around Billy, who longs to believe in Santa Claus but finds it quite difficult to do so, what with his family’s dogged insistence that all of it is just a myth. This all changes, however, on Christmas Eve, when a mysterious train visits Billy in the middle of the night, promising to take him and a group of other

Wed.Dec.21 Job Training Information Session See 11/30. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Build It Up! with LEGOS Kids in

Grades 1 & up; children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. LEGO building blocks will be provided for this fun-filled, creative building program. 4p-5p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 11/30. 4p-5p, GBPL Rms. B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Elgin Knit Works Open Knit See 11/30. 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. 847.627.4700 elginknitworks.com Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class See 11/30. 6p-7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Contemporary Fiction Book Group Book discussion - A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Belly Dance Wednesdays: Holiday Hafla Holiday season inspired belly dance performance by Eastern Groove Dance Studio. 8p, Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago St. martiniroomelgin.com. No Cover Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night See 11/30. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com

Thu.Dec.22 FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other #spurious

Karl’s

K at ering

H ouse Recip e Most accioli

Funeral S and wic hes

Enchilada Pie • Chop Suey • Mini Meatballs • Scalloped Potatoes Weddings • Funerals • Parties • A Holiday Tradition Since 1966

Call (847) 555-0479 to schedule your next Event

Karl ’s T una Casser o le

Specia lty J ello Desser ts

Y um my Kr istma s Ko o kies T o o !

BRAVO

Community Crisis Center. Donations of canned food items is encouraged! 5p-11p, The Smooth Fox, 51 S. Grove Ave. 224.281.4832 thesmoothfox. com. $10-15 Final Say 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover

Sun.Dec.25 Merry Christmas from The FEED 6a-6p 224.513.1220 marqueemedia. net. Peace! Indoor Recess It may be too cold to play outside, but we have playground games to get you moving and jumping! First grade and up; children under the age of eight must be accompanied by an adult. 10a-11.30a, GBPL Rms. B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Mon.Dec.26

Holiday Movie Marathon Come join us for our annual holiday movie marathon! Escape the cold and enjoy some hot chocolate. For teens in grades 9-12. Repeats 12/26. 12p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Stage & Screen, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Winter Family Film Festival: The Secret Life of Pets (2016) Taking place in a Manhattan apartment building, Max’s life as a favorite pet is turned upside down when his owner brings home a sloppy mongrel named Duke. They have to put their quarrels behind, when they find out that an adorable white bunny named Snowball is building an army of abandoned pets determined to take revenge on all happy-owned pets and their owners. (PG, 87 minutes) 10a-12p, GBPL Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Piano Performance: Ted Turner 12.30p-1.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Piano Performance: Isaiah Ayorinde 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: John LaBorn 6.30p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Fri.Dec.23 Holiday Paper Crafts Make something for your tree or for a gift - all materials provided. 10a-11a, GBPL Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Holiday Movie Marathon See 12/22. 12p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Stage & Screen, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info After School Adventures See 11/28. 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center Creation Station, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Creativity Lab See 11/28. 4p-5p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Sew Much Fun! Grades 3 through 8. New to sewing? We will help you get started by working on simple beginner projects. Already know how to sew? Come polish your skills. All materials provided. 4p-5p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Writers on the Fox See 11/28. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Rock the Halls 2016 Third annual fundraiser featuring Dylan Harris, Big Ned & Electra 225, Night Witch, The Reverends, and The Belvederes! Also unlimited food & drink buffet (while it lasts), raffle and more. Proceeds to benefit Food for Greater Elgin and

Career Services & Resume Assistance See 11/29. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Duct Tape + Paper Toys + You for Grades 6-8 Learn how to make duct tape wallets and roses, assemble paper toy models of your favorite characters, or try more cool crafts. All ability levels are welcome. 1p-2p, GBPL Middle School Zone, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Piano Performance: Shirley Remes 11a-12p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 See 12/8. 12p-1p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

girl soon realizes that the 24-foot behemoth is actually quite gentle and charming. As their friendship grows, Sophie’s presence attracts the unwanted attention of Bloodbottler, Fleshlumpeater and other giants. After traveling to London, Sophie and the BFG must convince Queen Elizabeth to help them get rid of all the bad giants once and for all. (PG, 117 minutes) 10a-12p, GBPL Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit Bring baby and baby’s new library card to learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! Registration preferred. 4p-6p, GBPL South Elgin Branch at Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. 947.931.2090 gailborden. info Rakow Rooks Chess Club See 11/29. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Cafe Latino Explora temas y libros relacionados a la superacion personal, salud, relaciones, y cuestiones legales/sociales. Refrescos. En asociacion con el Centro de Informacion. Explore topics and books related to self-improvement, healthy, relationships and legal/social issues. Light refreshments. In partnership with Centro de Informacion. 6p-7.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Danny’s On Douglas Open Mic Night See 11/29. 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com

Fri.Dec.30

Tue.Dec.27 Winter Family Film Festival: The BFG (2016) Ten-year-old Sophie is in for the adventure of a lifetime when she meets the Big Friendly Giant. Naturally scared at first, the young

Doctor Who New Years Eve Eve Send 2016 out with a bang as we celebrate all things Doctor Who presented by Blue Box Cafe, Southgate Media Group and Live at the Blue Box! We

2.12 will podcast live from 6 pm to 8 pm. We will then follow that with a replay of the 2016 Christmas Special. Shows to include a Doctor Who roundtable, Doctor Who themed Pop Culture Countdown and Doctor Who Trivia with prizes! COS Play is encouraged, and we will have the Snowman for pictures!!! (Snowman courtesy of ACME Designs in Elgin, Il) We are also hoping to capture a Dalek or maybe even K-9 for the event! The BBC will be serving Fish Fingers Custard, Jammie Dodgers, and Jelly Babies 6p-9p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. 847.697.2583 theblueboxcafe. com. No cover BBI 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave grandvictoriacasino. com. No Cover Street Corner Blues 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover

Sat.Dec.31 Bison Feeding in Lords Park Join us for an up close and personal look at the bison, deer and elk at the Lords Park Zoo. Meet at the Museum for a short introduction after which we head for the zoo to assist the zookeeper in feeding these magnificent creatures. Space is limited to 12 people, so please register early! 7a-8.30a, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655 elginpublicmuseum. org. $1-2 New Year’s Eve in Elgin Check next month’s edition of The FEED for New Year’s Eve events. January issue comes out December 29th.

FEED.disclaimer We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the event details listed in the FEED, but some of our sources may contain errors, and we make mistakes once in a while, too. PLEASE verify the details of any of these events with the host and/or venue before making firm plans. Enjoy!

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

BRAVO

December 2016

2100 Randall Road at Miller Road Carpentersville, IL • (847) 649-9005

Open 24 Hours • Employee Owned • No Fee ATMs Large Liquor Variety • Huge Natural & Organic Selection

Everyday

Low Price Leader! Hot Deals in All Departments Printable Manufacturer Coupons

Great Services Throughout the Store!

Great Gas Prices • Car Washes $4 • Oil Changes $19.99 Fresh Sushi • Parcel Pickup • Redbox DVD Rentals

Connect with us

Mobile App

Also: Facebook • Twitter • Yelp • Foursquare Take our survey for a chance to win $100 gift card

Store Locations • Shopping Lists Find Products • Share with Friends

at woodmans-food.com

iPhone & Android

Saving You Money Since 191 9!

BRAVO

2.12

Taste: More Than Just a Two Dollar Beer

The Inn Crowd

COLOR ME

HOLIDAY TABLE RUNNERS Starting at $20

For your next seasonal print project! (847) 931-9006 eiprint@sbcglobal.net elgininstantprint.com

N DA

Berkley Crowe MASONRY RESTORATIONS

Buildings Chimneys Porches Gateposts Monuments Foundations HISTORICALLY SENSITIVE MORTARS & METHODS BerkleyCroweRestorations@gmail.com

(847) 426-0363

NY’S PIZZ

DOUGLAS

In this season of crowded inns, we set aside one Saturday afternoon for visiting four “inns” of Elgin. Though none of these places provides lodging (as far as we know), they all cater to world-weary travelers of all walks of life.

Hoppe’s Neighborhood Bar

They have all remained in their present form for at least twenty years and have colorful histories that reach back many years further. Their longevity is a result of steady-handed tavern owners and a community’s insatiable thirst for cheap drinks in an atmosphere that’s free of pretense.

Formerly known as the North End Tap, the bar itself was moved to the south end of the room and enlarged to a three-sided rectangle some years ago.

You’ll find beer signs, team logos, an ATM, a digital jukebox, televised sports, pool tables, and video gaming machines in all these places, as well as clocks set to “bar time”: anywhere from five to thirty minutes ahead of real time. But on Saturday afternoon, you won’t find a bouncer.

Holding fast at the corner of Liberty Street and Shoe Factory Road is Hoppe’s Tavern, a stalwart but unassuming landmark in Elgin’s North End.

The interior gray and black color scheme is neatly decorated for Christmas, and has a familiar character reminiscent of the finest and proudest bars found downstairs in some Milwaukee homes. On this particular afternoon the patrons are several diverse individuals, so comfortable here that they will leave their keys, phone and cash on the bartop and carry their drink to the video slot machine.

Elgin’s Best Pizza!

847-742-5400 231 Douglas Ave.

MONDAYS:

ALL PIZZAS HALF OFF

Open 11AM to Midnight or 2AM

Dining Room Only

OPEN MIC

LIVE BANDS KARAOKE VIDEO GAMING

www.dannyspizzaelgin.com

Hoppe’s Neighborhood Bar in Elgin’s North End.

BRAVO

December 2016

American drafts in a 10 ounce pilsner glass are in the two dollar range. The kitchen is open for lunch every weekday; Wednesday night they offer steaks and burgers, and Friday night features a fish fry that locals say is “awesome.”

Community Christmas Dinner

If you’re flying solo and want to mind your own business, you’ll blend in nicely here.

Dutch Inn West

Christmas decorations at Hoppe’s.

Everybody gravitates to one corner of the bar here and sits close together, kibbitzing loudly with bartenders over the noise of a classic hits soundtrack and college football telecasts. No one is playing video poker.

If you come for a frosty two dollar mug of PBR, and you ain’t a frequent visitor, bring your own klatch to kibbitz with.

Olde Towne Inn The most welcoming bar in Elgin is also its oldest, dating to the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, when Schmitty’s Bar-B-Q landed the second liquor license granted in Illinois (after Berghoff Tavern). That makes it the oldest bar in the state still in operation.

Rustic floor in the side room at The Dutch, where punk rock bands pack the house every month or so.

Far more attention is paid to people — especially the regular crowd of Anglos over forty — than to decorating. But the building seems to have been here forever (formerly Dirty Gert’s) and comes by its character honestly.

December 18, 2016

11am - 2pm

A FREE meal for the community plus music & kids’ area No Reservations Needed ... Just Join Us!

Hemmens Cultural Center

Downtown Elgin Sponsored by Elgin Community Network and In the Neighborhood Deli Desserts and/or Monetary Donations Accepted

Now known as the Olde Towne Inn, the building retains numerous features and artifacts from that era, despite being moved in 1958 a hundred yards down the hill from its original site in the middle of what is now the Route 20 bypass. At this place, the bartender will personally introduce you to some new drinking buddies — if they haven’t introduced them-

“The Dutch” attracts a younger crowd at night, especially nights when a three- or four-band punk rock lineup entertains for a modest cover charge. Locals recommend the wood-smoked barbecue here, a Saturday night staple on a bar food menu featuring Herb’s Bakery breads that’s available for Friendly customers sitting together at lunch or dinner Tuesday one end of the bar chat up the bartenders through Sunday. at Dutch Inn West.

207 E. CHICAGO ST. ELGIN www. ELGIN-ANTIQUES.NET

847-606-6284 • OPEN DAILY 11-5

BRAVO

Gluten Free!

race and gender sipping cheap and plentiful American lagers.

PIZZA BRAVO Complete 2016 12-issue set in a 12” pizza box

Order before 12/15 for pre-Christmas arrival Caution: contents hot Email your order information to

bravo@marqueemedia.net

More choices can be found in a glass-door self-serve cooler on the back wall, beside a calendar and a bulletin board with posted announcements. Except for the occasional passing freight train, the only noise comes from two TV’s at low volume. The deliberative atmosphere is confirmed by an engraved brass sign screwed to the wall that reads, “NO DANCING.” Vintage woodwork at the Olde Towne Inn.

selves already. Surrounded by sunlit windows, seats can be scarce at the cozy bar enclosing a vintage cocktail island topped with a mountain of booze bottles. But a small adjacent dining room has tables where you can enjoy food that’s cheap from a cook who’s honest. Beer by the pint is market priced.

Only $20.16 Free Delivery!

Cover design may vary ... but we hope it doesn’t!

2.12

Need a personal invitation? Check the Olde Towne’s Facebook page for details on live bands, biker nights and more.

Eaton’s Redwood Inn

Video slots and lottery tickets are ready if you’re feeling lucky, pretzels and sausages if you’re feeling hungry, and Cubs fans will appreciate the only remaining trough-type fixture still in use in any Elgin men’s room.

Join the Crowd You’re more than welcome to mingle with the “inn crowd,” but bring a friend and some extra money for generous tips. Long term memberships among the ranks of The Regulars are always available. “It’s the easiest club to get into,” says east sider John Marston. “It’s not like trying to join the Masons.” —JP

Despite the commotion of traffic, transit and transients swirling just outside its doors, the Redwood is a pleasant, peaceful place for inexpensive, judgment-free drinking. The wood paneling may transport you to a north woods tavern of yesteryear, minus the taxidermy, lumberjacks and loud country music. The spacious room houses two pool tables, a couple of vintage dinettes and a rectangular bar where you’ll meet customers of diverse age,

Vintage charm only some will get to see at the Redwood Inn.

FEED.inns Hoppe’s Neighboorhood Bar 1075 N. Liberty Street 847.695.7060 Dutch Inn West 36W610 Foothill Road 847.888.9560 Olde Towne Inn 412 Bluff City Boulevard 847.608.1703 Eaton’s Redwood Inn 118 W. Chicago Street 847.742.9032

Natural light through two of several original windows at the historic Olde Towne Inn.

Lottery tickets and a self-serve cooler are unique features of Eaton’s Redwood Inn.

Hours, menus, ratings and more photos can be found online.

December 2016

BRAVO

ASSIGNMENT BOARD

ADVERTISE WITH US

This is where we post assignments for volunteer writers, photographers, and artists. We can’t compensate you properly (yet), but we give credit where credit is due, and excellent contributors have a way of getting our attention. So when those paid assignments do come along, well, we know who to call ...

2017 Advertising Rates

BRAVO 3.1: Museums & the Elgin Photography Scene Deadline: December 21, 5pm Photos, interviews, and articles about Elgin freelance and amateur photographers. Photographs by Elgin photo artists. Articles about the Elgin History Museum, Elgin Public Museum, Fire Barn Museum, Trolley Museum, and similar places, including photos and visitor’s info.

BRAVO 3.2: MWSEQ & Calling All Artists Deadline: January 18, 5pm Photos, interviews, and articles about R. Darryl Thomas and MWSEQ. A roundup of local demand for artists: auditions, exhibits, publications, grant applications.

Submit to: bravo@marqueemedia.net

Full Page $179 • Half Page $109 Quarter Page $79 • Eighth Page $47 Standard rates include design & layout. 15% Discount for ready-to-print digital artwork.

12-month Contracts Available 3-5 ads during contract term earns 5% discount 6-11 ads during contract term earns 10% discount 12+ ads during contract term earns 15% discount

Circulation Information 4,000 copies circulated at more than fifty locations in Elgin, South Elgin, Dundee and Carpentersville (see page 20). Estimated readership of 7,000.

Ad Production Complete specifications are given on our website http://www.marqueemedia.net/Advertise For full details and personalized service, contact Sales Representative Dean Tripp. (847) 702-2888 or dtripp@marqueemedia.net Next ad deadline: Weds, December 21, 5:00 p.m.

THE FINEST IN PRINT BRAVO Magazine strives to publish error-free material, but mistakes and omissions may arise from our sources or may occur during the production process. With the exception of spurious ads, we will not publish anything we know to be false, defamatory or an infringement on copyright. All brand names, logos and trademarks are assumed to belong to the entities to which they refer, whether marked as such or not. Facts asserted and opinions expressed in articles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Our advertisers are responsible for the content of their advertisements, and BRAVO Magazine does not necessarily endorse any of the products, services, organizations or political candidates whose ads appear herein. Our advertising policy accommodates any and all commercial messaging that is decent and legal; it does not discriminate on the basis of religious or political affiliation or any other basis that is prohibited by law. Events appearing in the FEED calendar have been aggregated from a variety of sources including websites, online calendars and user submissions. These event announcements are repeated herein as a benefit to readers and the event hosts or sponsors, and BRAVO Magazine does not necessarily prequalify, endorse or attend these events. We regret any contradictions that appear in the details we publish as relates to the actual event details. BRAVO Magazine is a free publication available at select locations in and around Elgin, Illinois and is not to be sold at retail. It is not available as a postal subscription. We reserve the right to temporarily or permanently discontinue publication at any time, at the publisher’s discretion, without any advance public notice.

B R A V O Magazine is published by

MARQUEE MEDIA P.O. Box 1551 Elgin, IL 60121-1551 (224) 513-1220 bravo@marqueemedia.net Publisher: Jeffrey R. Pierce Contributors: Robert Carleton, the Elgin History Museum, the Elgin Cultural Arts Commission, and John Marston.

Publish your events for free in The FEED http://www.marqueemedia.net/events