BRAVO 6.11

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the elgin area’s free culture magazine

v6.11

A Poet in Every Heart pp. 29-30

Dreams pp. 2-4

with the

NOVEMBER 2020


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The Greens of Elgin

Amenities include: a library, sunroom, chapel, beauty/barber shop, fitness center, laundry room, dining room, activity room & storage units

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Shared Values: Facing Your Inspiration

Dreams:

One Elginite’s True Eddie Van Halen Story by Kate Darling

Welcome to The Greens of Elgin

The Greens of Elgin is located in Elgin, Illinois. The complex is located in a beautiful, natural setting minutes from shopping, dining, and entertainment. It is a 3-story, 90-unit, elevator building with a 55+ age restriction and a Condominium Association.

847-289-8759 www.thegreensofelgin.net

On the Cover:

“Quanah Parker” Pastel on Panel 16 x 20 x .25”

Artist:

David L. Hinds Each artwork David creates is rich in color and form, every piece with a story to tell. Many sights and sounds of David’s childhood come to life in his colorful artwork ... be it quirky animals, expressive portraits or his enduring hero, Abraham Lincoln. Working predominately in pastels, a love picked up after observing outsider artist George Colin’s mastery of the medium. Growing up on a farm situated in between Lincoln’s New Salem and Springfield, IL, David has many fond memories to draw from. Including the summer vacation adventures all across America in the family’s tiny camper. Still living on the outskirts of Springfield, David says Ole Abe is still present, here in the ‘Land of Lincoln’. Being a self taught artist, David is experimenting and learning as he goes, loving the creative process. For David, the best compliment is hearing his work brings happiness to those viewing it. See his large portfolio online at https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/1-david-hinds

Back in the summer of 1995, I was working in marketing and promotion for two giant outdoor concert venues, Alpine Valley Music Theatre in southern Wisconsin and the old World/ New World Music Theatre (now called Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre) in Tinley Park, Illinois. Van Halen were on their global Balance tour at the peak of their Sammy Hagar-era powers, and they were playing back-to-back dates for huge crowds at the two venues. I was very focused on my career and therefore hardwired to keep things professional at all times. My job involved working with touring artists, local radio stations, and the media among others to coordinate and execute tasks such as interviews and promotions. In this management role, there is no room for chasing artists around, falling all over talent, or asking for photos — ever. You do your job and stay invisible, and if an artist happens to speak to you, be cool, keep it light, and never, ever make it weird. To do anything less is to risk your career, make a complete fool out of yourself, and bring shame upon your house. I was also a Confirmed Music Snob and Jaded Industry Professional who could chat with anybody and not bat an eyelash, mostly because I thought I was too cool for many of the huge mainstream shows I was working. (Ah, youth.) Finally, I also experienced a whole other gauntlet of professional and credibility challenges I had to overcome with many of the touring acts and accompanying crews that rolled in. The

questions were repetitive and exhausting: Yes, I work here. No, I don’t need a pass. *eyeroll* No, I’m not getting you ice. For these and other reasons, I tended to keep a crisp no-bullshit attitude when working with most touring artists’ representatives and crew, who generally (and sometimes accurately) assume that the local crew are total idiots until proven otherwise. So when a heavy-hitting VP from Warner Bros Records rolled into Tinley Park on a hot July afternoon with Van Halen and hit me with a long list of detailed logistics requests for their massive meet and greet, I did my job and made sure everything from security coverage to deli trays ran smoothly. The act was a very important relationship for my employer, and the local and touring crews would all be together again the next night at Alpine Valley for an even bigger and more difficult show in the beloved but remote venue. (The meet and greet is the time-honored promotional tradition in which everyone from lucky contest winners to band VIPs and fan club members to so-and-so’s grandparents are given “backstage passes” to meet an artist. This often happens in a carefully choreographed photo-op ritual familiar to many music fans.) This VP was tough and demanding, but I kept my cool as we worked, and it quickly became clear that he was a master at his craft who knew exactly how to make sure huge fans and radio VIPs all had a dreamcome-true experience meeting Van Halen inside of about two


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fat cat custom guitars

Eddie Van Halen. Photo by Gene Ambo.

minutes. We got it done, the band met a crazy number of people, and by the end of the night that VP, Tucker Williamson, and I were in a pretty good place with each other, cracking jokes and laughing. The show was a huge success, the fans were happy, and it was a good day. I still see the pictures on Facebook. The next afternoon up at Alpine, Ed needed to do a live phone interview with a Milwaukee radio station. Cell service didn’t reach the venue in those days, so Tucker and I had to set up the interview in a cramped, noisy backstage hallway on a crusty old ‘80s phone plugged into the land line jack in the utility room underneath the stage. (I remember cleaning the spiderwebs off it.) It was a tough situation and the poor interviewer was terrified — his hands shook like a leaf — but Ed was relaxed, funny and gracious as he and the interviewer passed the huge tan handset with its spiral cord back and forth for each question and answer while live on the air. The interview wrapped, security took the jock back out, Ed headed around the corner back to the dressing room, and Tucker and I stood chatting for a moment. It was then that I mentioned to Tucker in passing that it was Ed’s fault I was standing there at all. He asked what I meant, and I confessed that I had been a devoted fan growing up, one who

cut every single picture of Ed — just Ed, nobody else, especially not Dave — out of every Circus and Creem magazine for years and pasted them by the hundreds next to the many Van Halen posters on my walls. That I had taken guitar lessons and eventually chosen my career and really the whole course of my life because of the “Mean Street” intro. That I was allergic to guitar players and would never date another, but my heart would always belong to Eddie Van Halen. “You’re kidding,” he said. “No.” “You never said anything. Two days.” “No. I’m working.” “Hold on. Stay right there.” He disappeared down the short hallway. I only had a moment to contemplate my new friend’s intention. Next thing I know I am looking directly into the smiling face of Edward Van Halen, who is standing right in front of me and looking at me expectantly as my inner 13-year-old abruptly grabs the wheel in my brain and I feel my cheeks start to flush red. “Tell him.” I look at Tucker, horrified. “TELL HIM!” You don’t argue with a VP from Warner Bros. Records, at least not in 1995.

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And so it happened that I, who had served abundant resting bitch face to these guys for two straight days, found myself breathlessly describing to Edward Van Halen himself my devoted early fandom, my battered vinyl collection, and even (to my monstrous embarrassment) my bedroom photo shrine. I told him he was the reason why I was standing there in the first place, my gateway into my love of music, which was sometimes the only thing that kept me going. Still is. I think I had just gotten to the part about asking my mom to write a check for me so I could buy the official Van Halen necklace via mail when he reached out and hugged me warmly, a real and genuine hug. He was grinning from ear to ear. “Aww. That’s so sweet. Thank you so much. I really appreciate it. Thank you.” He kissed me on the cheek. Eddie Van Halen kissed me on the cheek. “Thank you.” Now my hands were shaking.

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Over Ed’s shoulder, I saw Tucker smiling, his eyes bright as he watched a kid’s dream come true. I was so focused on not passing out, throwing up, or dropping dead that I don’t remember how the interaction ended, though I’m sure Tucker gracefully whisked Ed back away. I do remember that the show was very loud and spectacular, and that the whole band played their brains out to a packed and ecstatic house. They were all literally steaming with sweat when they came down the backstage steps, swathed in towels under the yellow bug lights, and jumped into the waiting limo to speed off into the Wisconsin night. They were miles away before the lights came up, but I had a memory to treasure for a lifetime and a new buddy whose company I enjoyed on show days for years afterward – after the meet and greet, of course – and still do on social media. Thank you, Tucker, and thank you, Edward Van Halen. I’m immensely grateful to you both.

L-R: Alex Van Halen, Tucker Williamson, Eddie Van Halen. Photo courtesy Tucker Williamson.

So baby dry your eyes, save all The tears you’ve cried Oh that’s what dreams are made of ‘Cause we belong in a world that must be strong Oh that’s what dreams are made of

Kate Darling is a marketer, promoter, and consultant to the arts, media, and entertainment industries. She does other things from time to time. Find her on Twitter at @KateDarling_.

Rest in peace, Ed. —KD

800 N. State St., Elgin, IL 60123 Wednesday – Sunday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM restoreelgin.org 847-742-9905


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“The true use of art is, first, to cultivate the artist’s own spiritual nature.” George Inness: “A Painter on Painting” Harper’s New Monthly Magazine, February 1878

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The Long Red Line The 2020 Long Red Line Juried Art Exhibit at Elgin Community College is now viewable via a 360-degree virtual experience. Postponed initially in April due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the exhibit, which is on display in ECC’s E. Max Von Isser Art Gallery, is accessible at bit.ly/ ECCGalleriesLRL until Friday, Nov, 13. ECC’s campus remains closed to the general public.

Billings Summary for November

Women’s Movements

The Long Red Line is Elgin’s expression of One Billion Rising, a global movement of women and their allies rising to end rape, violence, interpersonal domination, and oppression against women.

Long Red Line’s mission and the 2020 theme of “Rise. Empower. Unite.” Please be informed that this exhibit contains sexual imagery, which may trigger negative emotional responses to survivors. Should you need support, ECC students can call the ECC Student Wellness Services at (847) 214-7390; anyone in the community can contact the Community Crisis Center in Elgin at (847) 697-2380. Rehberg will also select the exhibit award winners, who will be announced via the One Billion Rising: The Long Red Line’s social media in early November. For more information on this exhibit, contact ECC Student Life Coordinator Megan Highland at (847) 214-7659 or mhighland@elgin.edu.

The show and virtual experience were curated by ECC Art Gallery Curator Juan Fernandez from pieces selected by the 2020 juror, Erin Rehberg, co-founder and executive director of Side Street Studio Arts in Elgin. The 29 artworks from 23 artists includes submissions from ECC students, alumni, employees, and community members and represent the

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Going Dutch

“The Long Red Line” exhibit is all virtual this year.

The Holidays have arrived at State Street!

Side Street Studio Arts presents the 10th annual Going Dutch Festival — a celebration of the female voice in dance, music, theater, and the visual arts.

New Shopping Hours Starting Nov. 10th Tuesday – Saturday, 10am - 5pm Sunday, 11am - 5pm

Vintage, Farmhouse, Pop Culture, Industrial, Repurposed Furniture, Clothing & Jewelry Shop safely with us! Face coverings and social distancing are required. 701 N. State Street (Route 31) Elgin (847) 695-3066 • www.facebook.com/StateStreetMarket


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Moana’s Mavens Side Street Studio Arts and Martini Room are thrilled to welcome back Moana Lotte and her company of drag queens Friday, November 13, 8pm outside at the Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago St., in downtown Elgin. Ages 21+ only.

The 23-day festival starts with an Opening Reception on Friday, November 6, from 6-8pm at Side Street Studio Arts gallery, 15 Ziegler Court in downtown Elgin. $5 is the suggested donation. The exhibit will remain open until November 29th during gallery hours: Fridays 12-6pm, Saturdays 10am-6pm, and Sundays 11am-3pm. Admission is free.

Please note, this performance will take place outside. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be canceled and tickets will be refunded. Limited seating available. Tickets are $25 each, available at sidestreetstudioarts.org, and reservations are required. No tickets sold at the door. In keeping with safety protocols, we have implemented enhanced cleaning strategies, limited capacity, and will require properly worn masks of all who attend.

Foresight Halloween Dead Stream On Halloween we are digging up some friends and doing our best to lift your … spirits! Go to Facebook live to dead-stream this Halloween event and trick or treat yourself to the musical styling’s of FORESIGHT! Coming to you LIVE-ish at 7pm Saturday, October 31st.

2020 Going Dutch featured artists include Ambo Dance Theatre, Kathie Collinson, dropshiftdance, Monty Etzcorn, Natalie Gotter, Christine Hands, Christine Hands and Melissa Hands, Hot Crowd, Mel Hyde, Jade Morem, Hallie Morrison, Julie R Madison, Janelle O’Malley, Erin Rehberg, Marceia L. Scruggs, Emily Soong, Alexandra Stilianos, Thank You So Much For Coming, Betty Williams, and Karen Yatsko.

Don’t be brainless. Visit www.sidestreetstudioarts.org/live or find the event on FB and join the party, virtually! This event is supported in part by the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency, and the Elgin Cultural Arts Commission.

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Sponsored Content

Explore Elgin Area

Complimentary Business Support from Explore Elgin Area We know so many of our local businesses are once again having to change the way they are operating so that we can stop the spread of COVID-19, so we want to help. We want to share five complimentary promotions we have been offering businesses in our 10 communities since March.

Some of the restaurants spotlights so far include Red Poppy Bistro, Bennigan’s and Van’s Frozen Custard & Burgers.

If you are a business owner or know a business that would make sense for one of these categories please have them visit our website and sign-up for some of these promotions. We want to make sure we are spotlighting as many businesses as possible right now.

• Facebook post linking to the blog post

We will continue to edit our services as we all try to get through this difficult time. One of the resources that was used by residents earlier in the year was the “Support Your Local Businesses” website page. This page was launched back in March to update everyone on what services restaurants will offer during COVID-19. We have once again reopened this page and will plan to keep it updated all winter as restrictions change throughout our communities.

Behind the Business This year we began a social media campaign called Behind the Business. This campaign was created to encourage residents to support local businesses and to cultivate hometown pride. Business owners are able to email us to get the form that needs to be filled out in order to be considered. Some of the past businesses spotlighted include: Herb’s Bakery, The Milk House, Rediscover Records, RocHaus, The Uncommon Palate and more! Here is what we do for every

Being part of our Foodie Friday Campaign includes the following: • A Foodie Friday blog post on our website

• Instagram post Behind the Business feature: • Add a feature article to our extensive Behind the Business blog that displays all our features, and includes links to the company’s website and social channels. • Extensive Facebook social posts through our Facebook page, which has a following of over 12,000! And will link back to the full feature on our website. • Instagram posts. • Twitter posts with teasers to encourage folks to follow the provided link to the full feature on the website. • Links to any social accounts within the feature when applicable.

Foodie Friday Every Friday we highlight a local restaurant to check out. These posts are targeted to help area residents check out new places weekly and to inspire leisure visitors to stop at a foodie spot along their fall road trip. The post will offer staff suggestions for what to try and even provide information on what is happening nearby the restaurant.

• Twitter post linking to the blog post • Linking to various social profile whenever applicable

Meeting and Wedding Venue Spotlight We know that meetings and weddings are not able to happen at the same capacity as they once did, but most meetings and weddings take a year to plan and save up for. So we have continued our Venue Spotlight to showcase our venues that are still booking special events for the upcoming months. This promotion entails a detailed Facebook and Instagram post with links going directly back to the venues website.

Meeting and Wedding Vendor Spotlight Vendors that have been servicing the Elgin Area’s rapidly growing wedding industry have had to change their business model over the past couple of months as well. We have been using our social media accounts on Sundays to spotlight different vendors and how they have made changes into additional projects to keep moving forward. This spotlight can include photographers, florists, musicians, caterers, entertainment, rentals, initiation creators, etc. If you are interested in any of these spotlights please email Madison from our team at Madison@ExploreElginArea.com. Restaurants looking to get their information listed or updated on ExploreElginArea.com can find the form at: https://exploreelginarea.com/ restaurant-service-update/. We are all in this together, and our team will continue to come up with new ways to help the small businesses that our communities and visitors rely on so heavily.


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Link to menus, online ordering and delivery for these and more at DowntownElgin.com/ElginEats.

Al’s Cafe

Arabica Cafe

Blue Box Cafe

Brick’s Pizza

Danny’s on Douglas

El Camaroncito Loco

El Faro

Elgin Public House

Elgin Turners

Jimmy John’s

Kubo Sushi

La Casa del Pollo Asado

Las Gorditas

Las Mangonadas

Martini Room

Moni’s Soulfood Fiesta

Red Poppy Bistro

Toom Toom Thai

Viator Coffee

Elgin Farmers Market Presented by

Mr. Hibachi

THANK YOU FOR DINING LOCAL


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Sponsored Content

Elgin Cultural Arts Commission

Individual Artist Grant Program by David Metzger For all artists and performers, the Elgin Cultural Arts Commission (ECAC) is a great opportunity for an individual to execute a project or put on a show. An artist can receive up to $1000 by applying for an individual grant. I have been putting on shows and events for over six years and have used the individual grant to help cover some of the expenses. Over the past six years, I have put on two robot-themed art shows, two pin-up art shows and a themed art show called “Fez Fest” and last year put on a show call “Strange Imaginations and other Perplexing Wonders.” In 2019 I put up a group art show called “Cartoon Cavalcade, A Celebration of all things Toony!” This show had an Opening Reception on July 12th at the Seigle Gallery at Elgin Artspace Lofts in Downtown Elgin. The process is easy and you can download the application form from the City of Elgin website under the Boards and Commissions toolbar. Follow the key points on the form.

food, drink, and event insurance. Each show I put on goes back into the community by also sponsoring a non-profit group. I usually do a $5 suggested donation at the door. All the remaining funds for the show after expenses go to a local non-profit. I also like to do an After Party at a local bar following the reception of my show. This is a great opportunity to help drive more traffic to a local business. I encourage anyone who has a vision for an event or project to look into applying for an individual grant from the ECAC. You can start the process by reaching out to Amanda Harris at: harris_a@cityofelgin.org Dave Metzger is a local Elgin artist, graphic designer, and illustrator. He is also the Director of Oddball Art Labs, a local non-profit arts organization.

There are several resources available to those artists and arts organizations that have felt the impact of the coronavirus. While this list is not exhaustive, we will do our best to keep it updated. If you know of a resource that is not listed, please contact us at culturalarts@cityofelgin.org. The State of Illinois has created an emergency fund for artists and arts organizations in Illinois called the Arts for Illinois Relief Fund. Applications open on April 1, 2020.

A list of emergency funding sources for artists and arts organizations. creative-capital.org

The most important aspect I have found is defining your project or event. What is unique about it and how you plan to execute your idea? Remember the reason for gaining a grant from the city is to have an impact on promoting the arts in the community. I also suggest, giving your self enough time for your project or event. You will find putting together all the details will take more time than you realize. You will also need to show how your dollars will be used for your project. I use the funds to cover marketing materials, printing,

Elgin Cultural Arts Commission.artistresources

Information specifically for self-represented artists, talent managers, and agents. www.napama.org/Coronavirus

Advice for arts non-profits on managing their programming in times of emergencies. nff.org/covid-19-tools-and-resources-nonprofits

Advice on sharing your content online and collaboration in the time of social distancing. better-lemons.com/get-everyone-in-the-same-room-together-virtually General resources for all artists and arts organizations. Emergency preparedness site for all artists and arts organizations. www.artsready.org Photo by Chris Palm.

www.americansforthearts.org/ by-topic/disaster-preparedness/coronavirus-covid-19-resource-and-response-center


November 2020

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Book Review

Made in Elgin: Berkley Crowe

I Am Phoothaphone

by Tracy Altheide

MASONRY RESTORATIONS

Buildings Chimneys Porches Gateposts Monuments Foundations HISTORICALLY SENSITIVE MORTARS & METHODS

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His vision was simple — become as strong as his childhood superheroes and prove everyone wrong along the way. With consistent 100-day workout plans, he acquired a level of physical strength that few people will ever know and a status that even fewer bodybuilders achieve after years of effort: professional bodybuilder in 2014.

friends, but developed an interest in superheroes. “These superheroes [Spiderman, Batman, and Incredible Hulk] would provide my escape. They helped me forget about my tormentors temporarily.”

From his father, a high-ranking veteran and Colonel in the Royal Lao Army, Ko learned to think critically and question what he heard.

In September, the autobiography of Ko Chandetka was released titled, I Am Phoothaphone: Lessons Learned Through My Journey of Self-Discovery and Triumph Over Adversity as a Bodybuilding Champion by Ko Chandetka and Jeffrey Greenwell.

“Growing up, I’d always ask him to teach me different things. He would reply, ‘You need to be able to teach yourself.’ He believed in the value of self-directed learning. My father’s parents died when he was young, so he had no one to teach him.”

In it, Ko pulls together the pieces in his life that cascaded him into body building, depression, addiction, victory, and finally self-acceptance. In May 2019, a short documentary around his career, Fallen Star, Rising Sun was screened at the 2019 DC Asian Pacific American Film Festival, the 2019 Indy Shorts International Film Festival, and won Best Documentary in the 2019 9FilmFest in Thailand. The book goes in depth into what the documentary could only skim. Ko was born Phoothaphone Chanthadouangsy, and later with his family immigrated from Laos as refugees to the U.S. and grew up in Elgin, IL. His first name meant “Buddhist monk’s wish” and his full name was shortened to Ko Chandetka after his family obtained citizenship. As a child with few Laotian families in his neighborhood at the time, Ko struggled with acceptance at school and making

In late 2010 he began discovering the true strength in self-love and acceptance. Throughout the book, Ko covers very real and painful experiences, and peppers in the bittersweet advice he received from close family and friends.

Ko closes his book with personal lessons learned and insights so the reader can harness the true inner strength that anyone can achieve. His list of accomplishments is impressive: 1991 NPC Continental USA Overall Teen, 1995 NPC Dean Caputo’s Powerhouse Classic, 2014 NPC Master’s Nationals Overall and 7th in the 2016 Mr. Olympia Classic Physique Division. Not to mention wins in weight divisions in 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2012, and 2013. During preparations for a competition, Ko found himself with a painful injury and was recommended a painkiller, but the side effects would quickly spiral out of control in his next few years. “Maybe that sounds like common sense, but my focus on getting rid of the pain dragged me into a destructive cycle. I didn’t understand the addiction process.”

I Am Phoothaphone is available on amazon.com in paperback or Kindle e-book format. Tracy Altheide is an Elgin area writer who publishes articles, blogs and reviews online with an emphasis on discovery and self improvement.


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Expression: The Sound of Gratitude

Elgin Symphony in the Community It seems like, no matter where you look, you run into an ensemble from the ESO playing around town! During these months when we can not perform in our home venue, we have taken our music into the community.

Andrusiak (principal oboe) and Sara Sitzer (cello) perform a patio concert in partnership with the Northeast Neighborhood Association of Elgin.

Kerena Moeller (cello) perform string quartets for senior citizens at the Housing Authority of Elgin’s Central Park Towers.

None of this is possible without your help!

Maestro Andrew Grams conducts the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and violin soloist Philippe Quint at Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch in Pingree Grove for a socially distanced, masked audience.

Elgin Symphony musicians Sharon Jones (horn) and Scott Metlicka, perform a duo concert in partnership with the Northeast Neighborhood Association of Elgin and Paul Bednar Realty in August.

Elgin Symphony musicians Scott Metlicka (flute), Erik

Maestro Andrew Grams conducts the Elgin Symphony Orchestra in an outdoor socially distanced concert on the patio of The Haight in Downtown Elgin.

ESO musicians Helen Kim and Cristina Buciu (violins), Susan Posner (viola) and Matt Agnew (principal cell0) play string quartets at the blessing of new homes for Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley

Willow Lake Estates 161 West River Road, Elgin Located on the Fox River, this age-qualified (55+) mobile home community is a beautifully landscaped neighborhood featuring mature trees in a quiet country setting. Residents enjoy a private stocked lake and boat dock, a heated community swimming pool, and a fully outfitted fitness center. • On-site management • Pet friendly • Spacious clubhouse • Convenient location

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In short, there is a lot going on at the ESO! None of it is possible without the support of our community.

ESO musicians Jason Niehoff (bass), Kathryn Siegel and Kelvin Lin (violins) perform string trios for those waiting in line for distribution from the Food for Greater Elgin (FFGE) Food Pantry in collaboration with FFGE, Sanfilippo Nuts.

We know that these are challenging times for many people, but if you have the capacity to support the arts in our community, please consider giving a gift by visiting www.elginsymphony. org, or sending a check to: Elgin Symphony Orchestra 20 Dupage Court Elgin, Illionois 60120

Mobile Art Machine whereabouts for ESO musicians Elizabeth Huffman, Jennifer Leckie (violins), Wendy Evans (viola) and

NOVEMBER

Blue Box Cafe 175 E. Chicago St.


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Mpulse is our monthly review of artist development opportunities in the Elgin area, for anyone with a creative pursuit, whether it’s a passion or a pastime.

Come As You Are Submit your newly created experimental works, visual art, poetry, audio, music, filmmaking, performance, and more. This is an open-ended submission, and is open to all ages. All works will be on display in our virtual world during this strange time and for the rest of the year. We ask that you submit no more than once per medium per week. SSSA reserves the right to deny any works deemed inappropriate. Artwork will be updated online every Monday. Complete the form online at: sidestreetstudioarts.org/caya

The String Side Street Studio Arts presents The String, a free monthly

publication showcasing work inspired by and in response to the world around us. The String aims to create a platform for the voices of those who are marginalized, silenced, and underrepresented in the world of literature and visual art.

around your house OR from our Brown Bag Art Kits.

Deadline for submissions is the last Friday of each month. We are now welcoming work of many kinds, including: essays, fiction and non-fiction stories, interviews, printmaking, drawings, poetry, and humor.

All Virtual Drop-In sessions are FREE and open to the public. We welcome your tax-deductible donation of any size via our donation page, here: https://www. sidestreetstudioarts.org/donate.

We ask that all work and submissions be recent, and made by those within the Fox Valley area. You may submit your info and works at sidestreetstudioarts. org/thestring. You will be notified asap if you are to be included in the next issue of The String.

DRESS FOR A MESS: While we don’t try to get messy you may be using messy paints and other materials. Be sure to dress in clothing they (or you) won’t be sad to get messy, and set up an appropriate work space.

The String will be released every First Friday of the month and will be available at many Elgin establishments, including downtown retail shops, restaurants, bars, and at our MADE retail art storefront located at 13 S. Spring Street. For questions please email us at thestring@ sidestreetstudioarts.org.

Virtual Arts Education for Youth Every Tuesday and Thursday you can join our amazing artist-educators (who miss you all so much) live on Facebook for some fun in-home creativity. DROP-IN SMALL WONDERS classes will last from 30 to 60 minutes, and you will be able to send your questions or comments to be addressed during the session. Virtual Drop-In Small Wonders classes will be suitable for the whole family, and will feature activities that can use supplies from around your house OR from our Brown Bag Art Kits. DROP-IN LAB FOR TEENS classes will last from 30 to 70 minutes, and you will be able to send your questions or comments to be addressed during the session. Virtual Drop-In Lab for Teens sessions will be suitable for the whole family, but be focused on the older of our young artists, with projects designed for grades 7-12. Sessions will feature activities that can use supplies from

To request a free Brown Bag Art Kit, visit us here: https:// www.sidestreetstudioarts.org/ communitymoves. All ages are welcome!

Suggested donation $5.

Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/sidestreetstudioartselgin If you have any questions feel free to email us at info@sidestreetstudioarts.org. See you soon!!!

Script Writing Class Have you ever wanted to write your own play? In this class, you will write a 5-10 minute radio play or monologue by building a scene from the ground up! You will discover how to identify the themes expressed through your favorite stories. Then, work in small groups or on your own to write, workshop, and record your piece to premier in a final showcase! The class is presented via Zoom, Monday through Thursday evenings, November 9th - 9th, from 6:00 to 7:00pm, and is open to students in second through ninth grades. $75 per participant ($55 each for additional registrants in the same family). Pre-registration is required! Find the link on the Children’s Theatre of Elgin website, www.cteelgin.com

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and experience to make your future theatrical experiences more rewarding. From lighting design, to sound systems, to costumes and make up, and everything in between, this will be an overview of what and how things work behind the scenes. After completion, with instructor approval, participants will be eligible to take part in backstage operations of future CTE/FVTC shows. This class is held Monday and Wednesday nights, November 2nd through December 16th, from 6:00 to 7:30pm on Zoom. (Some socially distanced handson learning may take place, with less than 10 participants at a time, at local theater venues.) Tuition is $150 per student, ages 12-18 ($115 for additional registrants from the same family). Payment plans and scholarships are available. Sign up at www. cteelgin.com

Poetry Writers Workshop Share your love of poetry! Poetry Alive is a monthly group for local poets to share what they have written. Gareth Mann Sitz, poet and songwriter, will facilitate virtually via Zoom. Held the at 7pm on the first Monday of every month, the meetup is free, courtesy of Gail Borden Public Library. Please register online at gailborden.info. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to the program via Zoom. The next meetup is November 2nd at 7pm.

K-8 Writing Club Gail Borden Library is offering a series of three 30-minute sessions for young writers to learn about storytelling. The sessions are hosted by KidSpace Library Associate Aron Ryan on Wednesday nights at 6:00pm, from November 4th through 18th.

Intro to Theatre Tech Class

The first week, students will learn how to write a book, using a Book Bootcamp Kit available for pickup at the library.

CTE/FVTC presents a tech class for everyone who loves being involved in theatre. Whether you consider yourself an actor, director, stage manager, or technician, this class will give you tools, knowledge, vocabulary,

The second week emphasizes research as part of the creative process, and the third week addresses technology as focus of conflict in a story. Contact Aron at aryan@gailborden.info. Register online at gailborden.info


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November 2020 Piano Performance: Steve Yoder 11a-12p, GBPL Main Library Lobby - Piano, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Thu.Oct.29 Fall Festival Come and celebrate the change in seasons at Randall Oaks Zoo’s annual Fall Festival! The zoo will be decorated for fall with special fall activities for visitors to enjoy. Pumpkins will be available for purchase during your visit. WEEKDAY ACTIVITIES: Pumpkin Enrichment for the Animals –Every Day at 12:30 pm. Pumpkins & Fall Treats for Sale. WEEKEND ACTIVITIES: Bonfire 12:005:00 pm. Animal Shows at 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:30 pm. Free Crafts for Kids. Regular admission applies. Event activities are subject to change and weather dependent. Infants and military, free. For information, contact Kath at kellinghausen@dtpd.org Continues daily thru November 1st. 9a-5p, Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 S. Randall Road, West Dundee 847.551.4310 https://bit.ly/ROZ_Reservations. $3.75-4.50 Adventure Storytime with Ms. Stephanie Join us on the library Facebook page for a storytime full of adventure ! There will be a story, and craft or activity you can do from home. Note: We are offering Storytime Kits (egg shaker and scarf), for our storytime program participants. To receive your kit, please visit the drive-up window at the Main Library or the Rakow Branch. Ask for the Storytime Kit. While supplies last. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Baking for Kids: Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Cookies Join us on Facebook Live to learn how to bake Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Cookies. As the cookies bake, we will read stories, and learn about pumpkins. This recipe is really easy and only requires three ingredients and an oven. Before the program, please gather: 1 box of Spice Cake Mix; 1 Bag of Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; 1 - 15 oz Can of Pumpkin Puree. Please have a grown up help with the oven. This event will be held live on Facebook. Email Tabatha Anderson at tanderson@gailborden.info if you have any additional questions. 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Brittain’s Tunnel of Terror Let us scare the yell out of you while you get your car clean! Watch for ghosts and ghouls and be ready for a frightful wash! Each car receives a goody bag before they enter the Tunnel of Terror. $5 of each ticket goes to Food for Greater Elgin. #hauntedcarwash #tunnelofterror 6p-10p, Brittain’s Car Wash, 1572 Larkin Avenue 847.931.0135 brittainscarwash.com. $20 per car Terror in the Timbers 2020 has offered enough cancellations and uncertainty so the promoters of Terror in the Timbers came up with an alternative to standing in packed queue lines where Social Distancing will be nearly impossible to enforce. Not interested in wandering aimlessly through a Haunted House where you will come in direct contact with who knows what or who? Terror in the Timbers wants to put your mind at ease while entertaining you and your family & friends so we came up with a safe and fun alternative. Welcome to Terror in the Timbers. 6p, Camp Big Timber, 37W955 Big Timber Road 847.235.6600 terrorinthetimbers. com. $65 per vehicle (4 persons) Family Trivia: Halloween Edition

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Work together as a family on trivia via CrowdPurr to see how much you know about all things Halloween! While it is a live event, the whole experience is through your web browser. No videos or zoom needed for this! To play: At 6:55, click on this link: https://www.crowd.live/9XM9C The game starts at 7 pm. 7p-7.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

part of our Community Moves arts education and outreach program, Side Street Studio Arts hosts seasonal make-and-take arts events for children and their grown ups 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

Fri.Oct.30 Drive-Thru Trick-or-Treat Come to Camp Big Timber and Trick or Treat with the cast and crew of Terror in the Timbers! From 3:30 to 5PM dress in your favorite Halloween costume and drive thru our spooky forest. We’ll have special treats for every person in the car and you’ll get some behind the scenes views of our scary drive in the woods during daylight hours. We will offer a safe and fun version of our Terror show that everyone in the family can come out an enjoy. Camp Big Timber, 37W955 Big Timber Road 847.235.6600 bigtimberpumpkinfest.org/trick-or-treat. $20 per car Fall Festival See 10/29. 9a-5p, Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 S. Randall Road, West Dundee 847.551.4310 https:// bit.ly/ROZ_Reservations. $3.75-4.50 Día de los Muertos Kids Day As

Please verify that your event of interest will be held as listed here. During COVID-19, everything is subject to change.

FEED.colorcode   Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning   Wellness & Nature   Mpulse   Other

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gallery. This event is free and open to the public. We have implemented enhanced cleaning strategies, limited capacity in all spaces, and will require properly-worn masks of all who enter. Please note, you may have to wait to enter if we are at capacity. 4p-7p, Side Street Studio Arts Gallery, 15 Ziegler Court 847.429.2276 sidestreetstudioarts.org. Free Studio 270 Volunteer Squad Drop in and help out the library with cleaning, book displays, and other various projects. 4p-6p, GBPL Main Library Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Brittain’s Tunnel of Terror See 10/29. 6p-10p, Brittain’s Car Wash, 1572 Larkin Avenue 847.931.0135 brittainscarwash.com. $20 per car Terror in the Timbers See 10/29. 6p, Camp Big Timber, 37W955 Big Timber Road 847.235.6600 terrorinthetimbers.com. $65 per vehicle (4 persons) Vaguely Familiar The Vaguely Familiar Acoustic Guitar Duo invites you to join them for their unique blend of stimulating acoustic guitar music. 6p-10p, Village Squire, 125 Washington Street, West Dundee 847.428.4483 thevillagesquire.com. No Cover Modern Day Romeos Nightmare Before Halloween 8p, Old Republic Kitchen + Bar, 155 S. Randall Road 224.535.9544 oldrepublicbar.com. $10 Cover

Sat.Oct.31 Drive-Thru Trick-or-Treat See 10/30. Camp Big Timber, 37W955 Big Timber Road 847.235.6600 bigtimberpumpkinfest.org/trick-or-treat. $20 per car Fall Festival See 10/29. 9a-5p, Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 S. Randall Road, West Dundee 847.551.4310 https:// bit.ly/ROZ_Reservations. $3.75-4.50 Café Latino: Discusión de Lecturas Cortas Online En esta sesión discutiremos esta lectura corta del libro Abriendo puertas: Ampliando perspectivas disponible en la Biblioteca. El último sábado de cada mes, nos reunimos para comentar la lectura

junto con estudiantes de la clase de AP Literatura en español de Elgin High School. Todos los que estén interesados en leer y compartir son bienvenidos. Todas las lecturas son del libro: Abriendo puertas: Ampliando perspectivas. La biblioteca tiene copias del libro que se pueden sacar prestadas. Para más información, comunícate con Flor Chavez al 847427-6791 o fchavez@gailborden. info. El grupo se reúne a través de la plataforma de reunión virtual Zoom. Al registrarse le contactaremos con el enlace y código para participar: O envíenos un correo electrónico a biblioteca@gailborden.info (incluya su nombre y teléfono) O envíenos un mensaje de texto al 224-407-2399 (incluya su nombre y teléfono) After registering we will contact you with the link and code to participate: Or send us an email to biblioteca@gailborden.info (include your name and phone) Or send us a text message to 224-407-2399 (include your name and phone) 11a-12p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Google Slides - en la Biblioteca No hay costo ni hay que tener tarjeta de la biblioteca. Favor registrarse. Puede registrarse para la serie completa o para una sola clase. 1p-3p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Alan Snyder It’s a Halloween Celebration of all your favorite spooky hits! Wear your best costume and come on out for a Monster Mash! 6p-9p, Village Squire, 125 Washington Street, West Dundee 847.428.4483 thevillagesquire.com. No Cover Brittain’s Tunnel of Terror See 10/29. 6p-10p, Brittain’s Car Wash, 1572 Larkin Avenue 847.931.0135 brittainscarwash.com. $20 per car Foresight: A Halloween Deadstream 7p Free, sidestreetstudioarts.org/live Halloween Party with Libido Funk Circus THIS IS HALLOWEEN! Join Old Republic for the BEST Halloween Party in Elgin! Featuring music by Libido Funk Circus! 8p, Old Republic Kitchen + Bar, 155 S. Randall Road 224.535.9544 oldrepublicbar.com. $10 Cover Full Moon Ride October #2 It’s the Full Moon Ride Blue Moon Edition (2 in one month)! This will be a moderate pace ride for a few miles throughout the core neighborhoods of Elgin. Join us for this social night ride! Reminder: Illinois State law requires bike riders to have a clear light on the front and a red reflector or a red light on the back for night time riding. If you have not signed the 2020 annual ride waiver, please do so at: https:// waiver.fr/p-SDLTu 9p, Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Avenue 224.407.2124 elgincommunitybikes.org. Free

Sun.Nov.1

Fall Festival See 10/29. 9a-5p, Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 S. Randall Road, West Dundee 847.551.4310 https:// bit.ly/ROZ_Reservations. $3.75-4.50 Kane County Early Voting Early voting for all Kane county precincts. Daily thru 11/2. 9a-5p, GBPL Main Library Meadows Community Rooms ABC, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Mini Festival del Día de Muertos por Facebook Live Para participar conéctate el día del evento por Facebook live de la Biblioteca Gail Borden: https://bit.ly/gbplFBLV To participate, connect on the day of the event by Facebook live Gail Borden Library: https://bit.ly/gbplFBLV 11a5p, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Mini Festival del Día de Muertos por Facebook Live Disfruta esta tradición popular mexicana con un cuento bilingüe, una demostración de cómo pintar caras y una representación de una ofrenda especial con música en vivo. Envía una foto digital de un ser querido que quieres que esté en nuestra ofrenda en o antes del lunes, 26 de octubre: por correo a biblioteca@gailborden.info o por texto a 224-407-2399. Conéctate el día del evento por Facebook: bit.ly/gbplFBLV Enjoy the Mexican cultural tradition with a bilingual story, a face-painting demonstration, and a representation of a special offering with live music. Send a digital photo of a loved one that you want to be on our display on or before Monday, October 26: by email to biblioteca@gailborden.info or by text to 224-407-2399. Join us on Facebook: bit.ly/gbplFBLV 2p-3p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Vaguely Familiar See 10/30. 4.30p, Village Squire, 125 Washington Street, West Dundee 847.428.4483 thevillagesquire.com. No Cover

Mon.Nov.2 Kane County Early Voting 8.30a-7p, GBPL Main Library Meadows Community Rooms ABC, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Preschool Storytime Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes in this virtual storytime for ages 3-6. No registration. This event will be held on Facebook Live. Please visit https://bit. ly/gbplFBLV at the time of program. Storytime will be available on Facebook to watch at your leisure after live performance. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Spanish Café Conversation Group in the Library Intermediate-level participants will practice structured and spontaneous conversations in Spanish. Participantes de nivel intermedio practicarán respondiendo o empezando conversaciones en español con

6.11 fluidez y hablando con gente que habla español como primer idioma. Si tienes alguna pregunta contáctanos enviando un correo electrónico a: biblioteca@gailborden.info Dirigido por Nohora Chacon y Pita Betancourt. If you have any questions contact us via e-mail: biblioteca@gailborden.info Led by Nohora chacon and Pita Betancourt 12p-1p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Studio 270 Volunteer Squad See 10/30. 4p-6p, GBPL Main Library Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info The Magic of STEAM! for K-2 Is it magic or is it STEAM? Join us to learn a couple of magic tricks with a basis in science. Grades K-2, registration required. This program has supplies to be picked up at the Main Library. All registered participants will receive an email prior to the program date with the class ZOOM login and instructions on picking up materials for the programs from the Youth Desk at the Main Library (address: 270 N Grove Ave. Elgin) from October 26 - November 1. Program Supplies in the bag: pencil, $1 play money, 2 paper clips Program Supplies to gather from home: glass of water, coin 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info The Magic of STEAM! for Grades 3-5 See above. Program Supplies in the bag: 3 sets of connected circles, 1 pair disconnected circles, string, baggies of salt, sugar & baking powder Program Supplies to gather from home: tape, scissors, ice cube New to Zoom? Click here for instructions. 5p-5.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info MS Excel: Basics Learn how Excel’s cells, worksheets & workbooks easily allow users to manipulate, calculate, and format numbers and other types

Please verify that your event of interest will be held as listed here. During COVID-19, everything is subject to change.

FEED.colorcode   Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning   Wellness & Nature   Mpulse   Other


BRAVO

November 2020

N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

of data. This class is not part of series - please register for all events separately. 6p-7.30p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Kids’ Spanish Conversation Group on Zoom This group is for kids entering 2nd-5th grades who already know Spanish and want to improve their Spanish-speaking skills outside the classroom. Great for dual language students! Registration required After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link for watching the program via Zoom. If you don’t receive a link at least 30 minutes before the session, please call KidSpace at 847-4294685. Mejora tus habilidades de habla en español practicando con otros niños. Este programa es para niños que ya saben español y les gustaría practicarlo fuera del salón de clases. Excelente para los estudiantes que están en el programa de lenguaje dual. Para niños de segundo a quinto grado. El grupo se reúne a través de la plataforma de reunión virtual Zoom. Puede participar en una computadora, tableta o teléfono celular. Al registrarse le contactaremos con el enlace y código para participar. 3.30p-4p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Cuentos para la familia ¡30 minutos de cuentos, música, rimas, manualidades y mucho más para el disfrute de toda la familia! No necesita registrase. Families who speak or are learning Spanish can enjoy stories, crafts, and songs together at our Spanish-language storytime. This is also a great opportunity for children in the Dual-Language Program to practice using Spanish outside the classroom. This program is conducted entirely in Spanish. 7p-7.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Poetry Writers Workshop Share your love of poetry! This is a group for local poets to share what they have written. Gareth Mann Sitz, poet and songwriter, will facilitate virtually via Zoom. Please register After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to the program via Zoom. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Creativity Corner: Fall Bingo We will read a fall themed story and play virtual Fall Themed Bingo! Join us for the fun! We will read a fall themed story and play virtual Fall Bingo! Join us for the fun! Pick up your Game Card at the Rakow Branch (2751 W. BowesAn Rd.Imprint Elgin, IL from October 26th to Noof 60124) WIPF and STOCK Publishers vember 1st. All registered participants will receive wipfandstock.com • (541) 344-1528

Tue.Nov.3 General Election Polls are open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. for select Kane County precincts only. -11.59p, GBPL Main Library Meadows Community Rooms ABC, 270

WIPF & STOCK

Mentoring with Morgan Ka r e n S c h l a c k f orewo rd by

978-1-7252-6488-5 / $16 / 134 pp. / paper

Alt o n B. Po ll a rd I I I

Our journey began the first day I preached a sermon in front of people. Morgan told me after that sermon, “You must free yourself from the manuscript.” I couldn’t imagine doing that, and asked Morgan for help. Our journey continued for fifteen years. I shared my sermons (written and video) with Morgan and we engaged in conversations about preaching, congregations, struggles, God, and life. Join us and watch as I learn to preach, Morgan shares a lifetime of wisdom with me, and we both receive the blessing of friendship and sharing ministry. For anyone who presumes to preach, and those who listen to their sermons, this book peeks behind the screen to the place where sermons are made.

Associate Director, John S. Marten Program in Homiletics and Liturgics, University of Notre Dame

“Karen’s conversation partner, Dr. F. Morgan Roberts, tells her, ‘The conversation between the Christ in you and the Christ in every other life is happening all the time.’ Karen gives readers an intimate glimpse into this conversation and the sermon-making process. She shows us the transformation possible when we listen deeply to ourselves, to one another, and to Scripture.”

Karen Schlack is retired pastor of First Presbyte-

“Those of us in the pews want and need clear, understandable, inspirational preaching. Students of church ministry and even experienced preachers seek to provide that. This book gives a highly readable example of how that can be accomplished for both audiences, through a delightful mentoring experience.” —DOT RIDINGS

Former Board Chair of Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary

Media, Examination, and Review Copies:

Contact: Shanalea Forrest (541) 344-1528, ext 151 or shanalea@wipfandstock.com

Teen Book Hangout Join in and share what you are reading or learn about new books. 4p-5p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Conversación en Inglés Online Practica conversar, mejora tu pronunciación y adquiere confianza con un tutor. Practice everyday conversations, improve your pronunciation and gain confidence. With Literacy Connection tutors. El grupo se reúne a través de la plataforma de reuniones virtuales Zoom. Al registrarse le contactaremos con el enlace y código para participar: O envíenos un correo electrónico a biblioteca@gailborden.info (incluya su nombre y teléfono) O envíenos un mensaje de texto al 224-407-2399 (incluya su nombre y teléfono) The group meets on the Zoom digital platform. You can participate on a computer, tablet or phone. After registering we will contact you with the link and code to participate: Or send us an email to biblioteca@gailborden.info (include your name and phone) Or send us a text message to 224-4072399 (include your name and phone) 6.30p-7.45p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info All Things Apple Looking for the ultimate user manual for all things Apple? Join this virtual Zoom meeting with your Apple device to learn, share and help each other in this group. The All Things Apple program will be hosted via Zoom conferencing software. You can join the Zoom meeting on a computer, through the Zoom app on a tablet or smartphone, or you can call in using a cell phone or landline. Join Zoom Meeting: https://gailborden. zoom.us/j/92902688153 Meeting ID: 929 0268 8153 Password: 3zQq&wff 7p-8.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Nov.4 Toddler Time Especially for the little ones, this virtual storytime will include songs, stories, and fingerplays for ages 0-2. No registration. Please visit https://bit.ly/gbplFBLV at time of program. Storytime will be available on Facebook to watch after live performance. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Go Bilingual en la Biblioteca Estudiantes de todos los niveles practicarán con otras personas que hablan español o inglés como primer idioma. Learners of all levels practice a new language with native English and Spanish speakers. Led by teacher Betty Martinez. Group meets Wednesdays. Dirigido por la maestra Betty Martínez. El grupo se reúne los miércoles. 6p-7p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

—KARLA BELLINGER

Presbyterian pastor and Benedictine sister at Holy Wisdom Monastery, Madison, Wisconsin

an email with the zoom login prior to the program date. 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Studio 270 Volunteer Squad See 10/30. 4p-6p, GBPL Main Library Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

“Deeply moving. . . . When I finished Schlack’s book, I felt like I’d been on a rafting trip with two friends, Karen and Morgan. Conversation flowed. We basked in the sunshine of ministerial wisdom. We shot through the rocks of preaching social justice. My companions were unafraid to tackle hard homiletic questions: how to preach with humility, to care about the people, to have the courage of conviction. I enjoyed the journey!”

—LYNNE SMITH, OSB

19

rian Church in Elgin, Illinois. Prior to becoming a pastor, Karen was the administrator of child and adolescent psychiatric units, opened the Laureate Day School, was a manager in the healthcare practice of Ernst & Young, and wrote and taught the leadership curriculum for Good Samaritan Society.

Orders: Contact your favorite bookseller or order directly

from the publisher via phone (541) 344-1528, fax (541) 344-1506 or e-mail us at orders@wipfandstock.com

Writing Club: Book Bootcamp In the spirit of National Novel Writing Month, let’s write our own books! You’ll receive a Book Bootcamp Kit to conquer writer’s block and start your next adventure. Grades K-8. Registration required. This program has a Book Bootcamp Kit to be picked up at the main library. In order to receive your Book Bootcamp Kit, writers must register for our Book Bootcamp challenge on Beanstack. KidSpace Library Associate Aron Ryan will email all writers the class zoom login and instructions on kit pick-up. Feel free to reach out to Aron Ryan at aryan@gailborden.info with any questions. One kit per writer. 6p-6.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info


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FEED.whereisbravo EAST SIDE Baker Hill Restaurant 1279 Dundee Ave. Beef Villa 1055 Dundee Avenue Blue Kangaroo Coin Laundry 464 Summit Street Elgin History Museum 360 Park Street Elgin Public Museum 225 Grand Ave Gail Borden Public Library 270 N. Grove Avenue Jewel-Osco 1040 Summit Street Olde Towne Inn 412 Bluff City Boulevard Superior Homes Team Realty 1173 Dundee Ave. Tri-City Animal Hospital 790 Summit St.

DOWNTOWN Al’s Cafe & Creamery 43 DuPage Court Arabica Cafe* 59 Douglas Ave Associated Bank 16 N. Spring Street Blue Box Cafe 176 E. Chicago Street Centre of Elgin 100 Symphony Way Danny’s on Douglas* 231 Douglas Avenue Downtown Neighborhood Assn* 31 S. Grove Avenue #100 Dream Hall at 51* 51 S. Grove Avenue Elgin Antiques & Uniques 207 E. Chicago Street Elgin Area Chamber 31 S. Grove Avenue Elgin ArtSpace Lofts 51 S. Spring Street Elgin Art Showcase 164 Division Street Elgin Books & Coffee 66 S. Grove Ave. Elgin City Hall 150 Dexter Court Elgin Public House 219 E. Chicago Street Elgin Symphony Orchestra 20 Dupage Court

Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way

Jewel-Osco 1660 Larkin Avenue

Jewel-Osco 375 Randall Road

Imago Creative Studios 216 Prairie Street

Judson University 1151 N. State Street

Stanley’s Ale House 335 N. McLean Boulevard

Kellenberger Auto Service 217 Symphony Way

Metra Rail Big Timber Station 2025 Big Timber Road

Starbucks 338 S. Randall Road

Law Offi ces of Shirley Sadjadi 169 E. Chicago St.

Paul’s Family Restaurant 1300 Lawrence Avenue

EAST/WEST DUNDEE

Mama Lee’s Gourmet Popcorn 20 S. Spring St.

Presence St. Joseph Hospital 77 N. Airlite Street

Courtyard by Marriott 2175 Marriott Drive, West Dundee

Martini Room 161 E. Chicago St.

Sirin Dentistry 1 Crescent St.

The Dundee Depot 319 N. River St., East Dundee

Pastigel Bakery 154 E. Chicago St.

State Street Market Shops 701 N. State St.

East Dundee Village Hall 120 Barrington Ave., East Dundee

Radio Shopping Show Redemption Center 16 Douglas Avenue

Walnut Speakeasy 214 Walnut Avenue

Emmett’s Brewing Company 128 W. Main St., West Dundee

Willow Lake Estates* 161 West River Road

The Manor Restaurant 425 E. Main St., East Dundee

RANDALL CORRIDOR

Midwest Retro 207 Barrington Ave., East Dundee

Razor Heads Barber Shop 18 S. Spring Street Red Poppy Bistro 109 E. Highland Avenue Rediscover Records 9 S. Spring Street Senior Services Associates 205 Fulton Street Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 15 Ziegler Court

WEST SIDE Alexander’s Cafe 1725 N. State Street Bender Dental Care 217 N. McLean Blvd. Big Skillet Restaurant 90 Tyler Creek Plaza Big Apple Bagels* 561 N. McLean Boulevard Clean Vistas Laundromat Tyler Creek Plaza D Hangout Bar and Grill 550 S. McLean Boulevard Ecker Center 1845 Grandstand Place Elgin Community College 1700 Spartan Drive Elgin Shopping Mall 308 S. McLean Boulevard Habitat for Humanity ReStore 800 N. State Street Hampton Inn 405 Airport Road Hawthorne Hill Nature Center 28 Brookside Dr. Herb’s Bakery 1020 Larkin Ave.

Explore Elgin Area 60 S. Grove Avenue

Highland Ave Church of the Brethren 783 W. Highland Ave.

Funky Rooster Tattoo & Gallery 73 S. Grove Avenue

Holiday Inn Express 495 Airport Road

1600 Professional Building 1600 N. Randall Road 1710 Professional Building 1710 N. Randall Road Advocate Sherman Hospital 1425 N. Randall Road Candlewood Suites 1780 Capital Street Comfort Suites 2480 Bushwood Drive Jimmy’s Charhouse 2290 Point Boulevard Johnny’s Supper Club 1250 Bowes Creek Road McDonald’s 255 S. Randall Road Panera Bread 2484 North Randall Road Physician’s Immediate Care 2490 Bushwood Drive Rakow Branch, Gail Borden Library 2751 W. Bowes Road Rookie’s All-American Pub & Grill 2486 Bushwood Drive Starbucks 2480 North Randall Road Village Pizza and Pub 2496 N. Randall Road Woodman’s Market (C’Ville)* 2100 Randall Road

SOUTH ELGIN Booker’s Bar & Grill 420 N. McLean Boulevard Cleveland Veterinary Clinic 400 N. McLean Boulevard S. Elgin Branch, Gail Borden Library 127 S. McLean Boulevard

Pampered Pet Services 1050 Dundee Ave. The Uncommon Palate 316 N. River St., East Dundee *Preferred Pickup Location Supplies are limited at these locations and may run out early in the month. If you don’t see B RAVO Magazine on display, please let management know that you saw their location listed here, and came in for a free copy! Would you like a supply of B RAVO Magazine at your high-traffic retail of public location? Let us know! Special perks available for sites that allow placement of our B RAVO magazine rack! Contact us at: bravo@marqueemedia.net


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November 2020

Quickbooks Desktop Series Learn how QuickBooks desktop accounting software (2018 Desktop Premier Version) allows users to manage their company finances by adding items, working with customers & vendors, and running reports. This is a series. Registering for the first class automatically enters you in all required sessions. 11/5 - Basics 11/12 - Working with Items *No Class 11/19* *No Class 11/26* 12/3 - All About Customers 12/10 - All About Vendors 12/17 - Reports. 6p-7.30p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Thu.Nov.5 Adventure Storytime with Ms. Stephanie See 10/29. 10a-10a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Steve Yoder 11a-12p, GBPL Main Library Lobby - Piano, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Kids Explore for Grades K-2: Paper Quilling! Paper quilling is the art of taking thin strips of paper and rolling it into coils to make a piece of art. Learn about quilling while you make a quilled turkey of your own! This program has supplies to be picked up at the KidSpace Youth Reference Desk at the Main Library (270 N. Grove Avenue, Elgin). Program supplies will be ready for between Monday, October 26th- Sunday, November 1st. All registered participants will receive an email with the zoom login prior to the program date. Program Supplies in the bag: 1 printed white cardstock page I am thankful! 12 strips 1/2” x 12” in each of the following colors: yellow, orange, red construction paper 15 strips 1/2 x 12 brown construction paper 2 thin paintbrushes (for liquid glue and wrapping the strips) Small paper plate for glue Turkey body page printed on white cardstock (1/2 sheet) **NOTE: Paper strips are bundled together into a loop to keep them from bending. Program Supplies to gather from home: Crayons or markers Liquid glue (Elmer’s or similar) Pencil Scissors *Please color and cut out your turkey body before the program. You may wish to have a napkin on hand for gluey fingers. 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Kids Explore for Grades 3-5: Paper Quilling! See above. 5p-5.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time Singing, clapping, simple stories and lapsit bounces at this virtual 1/2 hour program. Best for birth-23 months. Please register. This event will be held live using an online meeting platform, Zoom. Once you have registered, please check your email one hour before the program for a link. 6p-6.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Fri.Nov.6 Stomp! Clap! Read! This energetic virtual program is all about movement! Sing and dance to kid-friendly music hits and listen to storytime favorites. Best for ages 2-6. This event will be held live simultaneously using the online meeting platform Zoom, and also be streamed on Facebook. You can choose which platform to use. If you use Zoom, your child will not be shown on screen. To participate using Zoom, please register. Once you have registered, please check your email one hour before the program for a link. To participate using Facebook Live, please visit https://bit.ly/gbplFBLV at the time of the program. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Medicare 101 Tom Perrucci from Premier Medicare Benefits will review Medicare Supplements, Advantage Plans, Part D Prescription Coverage, and cost saving strategies. Please register for the link to Zoom. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to the program via Zoom. (Please check your spam/junk folder if you don’t see the confirmation link) 10.30a-11.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Sat.Nov.7 Fall Trash Drop Off Event This event will include secure document destruction. ***NOTE: This event no longer includes electronics recycling. Residents interested in recycling electronics should schedule a pickup with the City’s At Your Door service (learn more at cityofelgin.org/atyourdoor). The cost is $20 per vehicle (cash only) filled with household waste. Absolutely no household hazardous waste will be accepted. This event is for Elgin residents only – proof of residency via state-issued ID is required. 8a-12p, Waste Management, 1245 Gifford Road 311 cityofelgin.org. $20 per vehicle Teclado y Ratón - en la Biblioteca No hay costo ni hay que tener tarjeta de la biblioteca. Favor registrarse. Puede registrarse para la

serie completa o para una sola clase. Computer Class in Spanish. There is no cost and you do not have to have a library card. Please register. You can register for the entire series or for a single class: www.gailborden.info/ eventos. 1p-3p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Live at the Blue Box: Pandemic at the Disco! That’s right. Live at the Blue Box is back for one night only (at least for now). Watch the live podcast that started it all from the comfort of your own home featuring the original line up of hosts. Tonight’s theme Pandemic At The Disco! Rather than get all heavy and depressing about the coronavirus, we are going to have some fun talking about all things nerdy and geeky involving pandemics. The line up includes: Binge Worthy, Pop Culture Countdown, Read Between the Lines, Geek N Out, Music Under Glass, and more! There will even be some interactive game show segments and other surprises. Whew, that’s a lot to fit into 2 hours. 5p, Virtual, Live on Facebook 847.697.2583 orderblueboxcafe.com. Free

Mon.Nov.9 Preschool Storytime See 11/2. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Spanish Café Conversation Group in the Library See 11/2. 12p-1p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Coding Club: Dance Party Show off your digital dance moves with Blockly code on this virtual coding dance party! Using today’s hit songs, you will create characters that move and shake to the beat. Grades 2 and up Registration Required You will learn about code loops and debugging code while working through this fun adventure. An additional coding activity will be available for more experienced coders. This virtual program will take place in ZOOM and is assisted by Gail Borden staff. Participants will receive an email invitation with login information and links 24 hours before the program begins. 4p-5p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

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Tue.Nov.10 Temas de Padres Online/Parenting Topics Online Este programa ofrece apoyo, confianza e información para interactuar con los niños y apoyar su educación. Con Family Focus. En inglés y español. Nuestro programa enriquece las necesidades de las familias. Cada mes nos enfocaremos en un tema en particular. Instrucciones para unirse por Zoom Regístrese en www.gailborden.info y le contactaremos con el enlace y código para participar: O envíenos un correo electrónico a biblioteca@gailborden.info (incluya su nombre y teléfono) O envíenos un mensaje de texto al 224-407-2399 (incluya su nombre y correo electrónico) This program offers support, confidence and information to interact with children and support their education. With Family Focus. In English and Spanish. Each month we focus on a particular topic. The group meets through the Zoom virtual meeting platform. You can participate on a computer, tablet or cell phone. After registering we will contact you with the link and code to participate. 10a-11a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Kids’ Spanish Conversation Group on Zoom See 11/3. 3.30p-4p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info STEAM for K-2: Pringles Engineering Challenge Create a ring out of Pringles chips! Grades K-2 Registration required. No supplies for pickup. Can you make a ring out of Pringles Chips? We will have fun together as we virtually try this engineering challenge together! No supplies for pickup. Supplies needed from home: 1 can of Pringles Chips. (any flavor is fine) All registered participants will receive an email with the zoom login prior to the program date. 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Studio 270 Volunteer Squad See 10/30. 4p-6p, GBPL Main Library Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info STEAM for Grades 3-5: Pringles Ring Engineering Challenge See

MS Excel: Charts & Graphs Learn how to add visual interest and tell stories by displaying numbers and data sets in chart or graph format. This class is not part of series - please register for all events separately. 6p-7.30p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Cuentos para la familia See 11/2. 7p-7.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

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Adventure Storytime with Ms. Stephanie See 10/29. 10a-10a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Steve Yoder 11a-12p, GBPL Main Library Lobby - Piano, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Kids Explore for Grades K-2: Code Crackers! See above. 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Studio 270 Volunteer Squad See 10/30. 4p-6p, GBPL Main Library Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info above. 5p-5.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Conversación en Inglés Online See 11/3. 6.30p-7.45p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Medicare 101 See 11/6. 7p-8p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Nov.11 Toddler Time See 11/4. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Veterans Voices 2020 Panel Discussion Join us for a Veteran’s Day panel discussion on YouTube 1p-3.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Crafting a Cover Letter Learn tips & tricks for crafting a cover letter. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Zoom meeting. 6p-6.45p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Go Bilingual en la Biblioteca See 11/4. 6p-7p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Transition Time Songs & Rhymes for Preschoolers Transitions help control behavior through song and dance. Learn songs, rhymes, and other strategies specifically for transition times. This is a Gateways Certified Workshop. Please register. This event will be held on the virtual platform, Zoom. Please register and you will receive a link to the event the morning of the program. 6p-8.15p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Writing Club: Buried Treasure Can you find the long lost treasure? Bring your maps, your pencils, and your characters on a quest for buried treasure, ancient curses, and epic stories. Grades K-8. Registration required. All registered participants will receive an email with the zoom login. For questions, please contact Aron Ryan, KidSpace Library Associate, at aryan@gailborden.info 6p-6.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Thu.Nov.12

Kids Explore for Grades 3-5: Code Crackers! Join us to learn about cryptography and how the Navajo Code Talkers used it during World War II then create some code generators of your own! This program has supplies to be picked up at the KidSpace Youth Reference Desk at 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Program supplies will be ready for pick-up between Monday, November 2nd and Sunday, November 8th. All registered participants will receive an email with the Zoom login prior to the program date. Program Supplies in the Bag: 1 copy Can You Crack this Morse Code Message? packet (2 pages) 1 copy Caesar Shift Cipher instructions 1 copy Caesar Shift Cipher Circles printed on cardstock 1 paper fastener (brad) 1 copy My Secret Code Generator page printed on cardstock 2 strips of orange cardstock Program Supplies to gather from home: Scissors Markers *Please cut out the two Caesar Shift Cipher circles before the event. Feel free to read and start on the Morse Code worksheet in advance if you wish. 5p-5.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 11/5. 6p-6.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Quickbooks Desktop Series See 11/5. 6p-7.30p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Hope For The Holidays Though holiday time can be full of color and wonder, for some people that color is blue, and they wonder if they will ever experience joy and happiness. Joy Symonds and a local therapist offer strategies and skills to cope with the holidays during times of grief, loss, and disappointment. Program will be presented on Zoom. After registering, you will receive a link to the Zoom program. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Collecting or Hoarding? We all collect things, but when does it become a problem? Gloria Bersani from Lutheran Home with help answer these questions and give practical advice. Registrants will receive an email with the Zoom meeting link before the event. 7p, Virtual 847.428.3661 /

www.frvpld.info/collecting-or-hoarding Fantastic Space Discoveries: The Search for Planet 9 Join a quest to discover whether our Solar System has another massive planet beyond Neptune. Jim Kovac, a member of the Chicago Society for Space Studies, will present via Zoom. Please Register In this program we will consider the evidence gathered thus far that hints at its presence and discuss the possible nature of this predicted outer planet. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to the program via Zoom. 7p-8p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info

Fri.Nov.13 Stomp! Clap! Read! See 11/6. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Cocktail Classes: Fruity Endeavors WARNING: this class will have you addicted to it’s vast array of flavors and combinations. Ride a rainbow of martini colors that will have you torn between which one is your favorite. Nothing but easy drinkers in this one with all the appropriate amounts of booze. We typically sample six to eight different cocktails, while explaining the ingredients used, the historical origins, and how best to make them at home or for guests. At the end of the demonstration, you’ll get to make a full sized version of whichever drink you want for yourself. Tickets are limited. Four classes in the series. 6p, Lounge 51, 51 S. Grove Avenue 224.535.8075 lounge51co.com. $25 Side Street presents: Moana’s Mavens at Martini Room Side Street Studio Arts and Martini Room are thrilled to welcome back Moana Lotte and company. Ages 21+ Please note, this performance will take place outside. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be canceled and tickets will be refunded. Limited seating available. Reservations required. No tickets will be available for purchase at the door. TICKETS ON SALE NOW on the website below! We have implemented enhanced cleaning strategies, limited capacity, and will require properly worn masks of all who attend. Sponsored in part by the Elgin Fringe Festival. 8p, Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago Street 847.429.2276 sidestreetstudioarts. org/live. $25 Wait, What? (Mark Solo) Your Friday plans are covered! Catch Mark of Wait, What? at the amazing Rosie O’Hare’s from 8-11pm playing all of your favorite acoustic hits! 8p-11p, Rosie O’Hare’s Public House, 702 Water Street, East Dundee 847.426.1116 rosieohares.com. No Cover

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Sat.Nov.14 El Internet - en la Biblioteca Aprende a buscar y encontrar en tu teléfono o computadora y conoce recursos locales y de la Biblioteca. No hay costo ni hay que tener tarjeta de la biblioteca. Computer Class in Spanish. Favor de registrarse. Puede registrarse para la serie completa o para una sola clase. Computer Class in Spanish. There is no cost and you do not have to have a library card. Please register. You can register for the entire series or for a single class: www.gailborden.info/eventos. 1p-3p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Sun.Nov.15 Gong Bath Gongs have been used throughout history to signify awakening, arrivals, and important transitions. Gong baths provide a powerful sonic experience in which guests are immersed in the vibrations of these ancient instruments, creating space for a profound inward journey of meditation, exploration, and release. Please note: Masks covering the nose and mouth must be worn at all times. Guests are asked to lie down on floor cushions. Accommodations will be made for all. Space is limited. Register in advance. 1.30p, Still Life Meditation, 25 S. Grove Avenue 224.407.2707 stilllifemeditation.net. $25 EYSO: Origins Concert Livestream Our 2020-21 season is called MYTHS & LEGENDS—and we can’t wait to explore it together. Through our study of incredible orchestral music, we’ll be building and examining connections between music and our wider world, exploring preconceived notions and societal and cultural constructs, and examining our own values and beliefs. We’ll ask the question, how do our myths and legends, both cultural and personal, influence our worldview? Livestreamed concerts are free to experience, but donations are encouraged. More performances at 4.30p and 7p. Go to EYSO.org/ Concerts. 2p, Virtual, 847.841.7700, eyso.org Extreme in the Mainstream The Proud Boys, Boogaloo, The Base: Extremist groups are in the news and in the public eye, when once they lurked in the shadows. Where did these groups come from? What drives their actions and ideologies? What potential impact do they have on our community? Join us for an informative and illuminating panel discussion moderated by attorney Junaid Afeef and featuring Dr. Elizabeth Yates/U. of Maryland, David Goldenberg/ADL Midwest, Elgin City Council member Tish Powell, and Rabbi Margaret Frisch-Klein, Congregation Kneseth


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November 2020 Israel/Elgin. 2p-3p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info EYSO: Origins Concert Livestream Our 2020-21 season is called MYTHS & LEGENDS—and we can’t wait to explore it together. Through our study of incredible orchestral music, we’ll be building and examining connections between music and our wider world, exploring preconceived notions and societal and cultural constructs, and examining our own values and beliefs. We’ll ask the question, how do our myths and legends, both cultural and personal, influence our worldview? Livestreamed concerts are free to experience, but donations are encouraged. More performances at 4.30p and 7p. Go to EYSO.org/ Concerts. 2p, Virtual, 847.841.7700, eyso.org EYSO: Origins Concert Livestream See above. Livestreamed concerts are free to experience, but donations are encouraged. Go to EYSO.org/Concerts. 4.30p, Virtual, 847.841.7700, eyso.org EYSO: Origins Concert Livestream See above. Livestreamed concerts are free to experience, but donations are encouraged. Go to EYSO.org/ Concerts. 7p, Virtual, 847.841.7700, eyso.org

Mon.Nov.16 Preschool Storytime See 11/2. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Spanish Café Conversation Group in the Library See 11/2. 12p-1p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info STEAM on the High Seas for K-2 Arrrrr! Join our merry band of Pirates on the High Seas. Who knew Pirates used STEAM? We did! Grades K-2, registration required. This program has supplies to be picked up at the Main Library. All registered participants will receive an email prior to the program date with the class ZOOM login and instructions on picking up materials for the programs from the Youth Desk at the Main Library (address: 270 N Grove Ave. Elgin) from November 9 - November 16. Program Supplies in the bag: compass, kraft paper, coded pirate name sheet, gold sample Program Supplies to gather from home: crayons or markers 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Studio 270 Volunteer Squad See 10/30. 4p-6p, GBPL Main Library Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info STEAM on the High Seas for Grades 3-5 See above. 5p-5.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info MS Excel: Formulas & Functions Learn to use formulas to automati-

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cally calculate and manipulate totals, percentages, averages, and ranges. This class is not part of series please register for all events separately. 6p-7.30p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Cuentos para la familia See 11/2. 7p-7.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info The Real Costs of Homeownership Financial Literacy Educator, Donna Rasmussen, will discuss costs of owning a home & the impact on your budget. Learn about the different types of loans for homebuyers along with answers to questions. Program provided by Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Northern Illinois, Inc. Topics covered include budgeting and planning for emergencies, upfront fees and monthly ongoing costs. Please register for link to Zoom. 7p-8p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

13 S. Spring Street • Elgin

Tue.Nov.17 Thankfulness Storytime Join us for a virtual storytime to celebrate what is good in the world. Stories, songs, and rhymes about being grateful. Best for ages 2-6. No registration. This event will be held on Facebook Live. Please visit https://bit.ly/gbplFBLV at the time of program. Storytime will be available on Facebook to watch at your leisure after live performance. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Gentle Chair Yoga Join certified Yoga Instructor, Boontiva, to learn how to release tension, connect with breathing, & enhance relaxation with Chair Yoga. Click title for details on what you will need to participate. Gentle Chair Yoga allows the participants to modify their yoga practice based on mobility, health, strength,

Please verify that your event of interest will be held as listed here. During COVID-19, everything is subject to change.

FEED.colorcode   Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning   Wellness & Nature   Mpulse   Other

Side Street Studio Arts’ MADE program hand picks local artists and makers to collaborate on a pop up retail experience, incorporating innovative new ideas on space usage, retail business modeling and display, marketing, and economic development. Currently featuring the work of these artists and many more: Ivette De Santiago Karl Jahnke Jane Erlandson Melina Scotte

Natalie Pivoney BaM! Horror Floral Jess Rocha

Christine Goetz Conor Goetz Crighton Studios Erin Cramer

Open Fridays 3-7pm, with Extended Hours in November sidestreetstudioarts.org/made


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VIRUS TREE TRIMS

Despite their sickening effects, virus particles are quite beautiful! Corona Virus

The Faque News                          Humor and/or Satire

Job Discrimination Settlement Rejected In a statement released last week, a spokesperson for Troffer International described an employment discrimination complaint from an Elgin man a “nuisance charge.” The complaint was brought by 48 year old Aubrey Johnson, the former Director of Engineering at the Huntley-based lighting manufacturer, where he had worked for thirteen years.

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The complaint stems from an incident that occurred at the 2019 company Christmas party, Johnson explained. “Lars Gerlach was passing out envelopes containing our Christmas bonus checks, and he handed me the wrong one,” Johnson told Faque News. “That’s how this whole thing started.” Gerlach, the 74 year old President of Troffer International, personally hands out the bonus checks each year at the annual party, employees said. Johnson, however, was handed an envelope with a check for Aubrey Johnsen, Gerlach’s 31 year old personal assistant. The company claims it was a simple mistake caused by the similarity of the two names.

I carried tremendous responsibility as Director of Engineering. For her to be paid several times more than me for doing very little work is where I feel the discrimination comes in. It made me furious, to be honest.” Johnson’s job description lists numerous technical requirements for the position, and includes full accountability for product safety, code compliance, material sourcing and documentation for Troffer’s extensive line of lighting fixtures. “Aubrey Johnsen showed up once or twice each week and spent a couple hours in Lars Gerlach’s office with the door closed,” Johnson attested. “What she did in there nobody knows, but there are rumors.” Johnson, an openly gay African American man, filed a charge with the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) in February. The charge claims employment discrimination based on age, race, gender and sexual orientation resulting in disparity of pay and unequal application of employee policies. “There’s no way she could handle my position,” Johnson said

“When I opened that envelope and saw the amount of the check, I almost fainted,” said Johnson. “It was more than I make in six months. But when I looked at the year-to-date totals, it was obvious that it wasn’t my check.”

Responding in an interview last March, Troffer’s Vice President of Human Resources Beth McCormack told the Elburn Gazette, “This company has a distinguished record of valuing human dignity. We’ve been recognized nationally for our programs like Parking with a Purpose and Perking with a Purpose.” The two programs were created to encourage employees to stand against racism and to signal their support for LGBTQ+ associates, using a set of incentives like preferred parking stalls and free espresso in rainbow-colored coffee mugs. “We regret that Mr. Johnson needed to bring this grievance up for mediation, but I can assure everyone that no discrimination is taking place at Troffer International.” Both parties participated in voluntary mediation at the IDHR in April, and reached a temporary settlement which included changes to Johnson’s pay and benefits guaranteed by a six month employment conciliation contract, after which either party could terminate the relationship at will. “Working there actually became worse, not better,” Johnson said. “Aubrey Johnsen was in the office every day, smirking at me with her rainbow latte.”

When Johnsen exchanged envelopes with Johnson, he quickly became upset by the large difference in his salary and bonus compared to Johnsen’s. “I have advanced degrees.

candidly, “but I could do her job in my sleep ... though I certainly wouldn’t want to.”

Aubrey Johnson.

Aubrey Johnsen.

Johnson resigned in late October, and is planning to press the matter further with IDHR, potentially taking Troffer to court. He is currently being considered for a position with Elgin Hourglass. —FN


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November 2020

flexibility and current ability level. Chair Yoga offers a practice that includes seated poses on the chair and standing poses using the chair for balance and support. The format will be fundamentals, with discussion, posture training, and relaxation techniques. Requirement: one sturdy chair, without arm, 2 blocks, 1 strap/ old tie, 1-2 pillows. Please register for Zoom link. 2p-3p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Kids’ Spanish Conversation Group on Zoom See 11/3. 3.30p-4p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Creativity Corner: Dice & Dominoes Let’s have some fun with dice and dominoes and engage in some fun with numbers! This program has supplies to be picked up at the Rakow Branch drive-up window (2751 W. Bowes Rd). Program supplies will be ready for pick up between Monday, November 9th through Sunday, November 15th. All registered participants will receive an email with the Zoom login prior to the program date. In your bag: 1- sheet of dominoes (please cut out prior to Creativity Corner) 1- sheet of an 8 sided flower (please cut out prior to Creativity Corner) Supplies to gather from home: 1-dice (maybe you could find one in a game you already have!) 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info DIY Origami for Grades 6-8 It’s the Japanese art of paper folding! Make a paper crane, a heart, and more. Tune in on 11/17 to get help or share your creations. This program has supplies to be picked up at the KidSpace Youth Reference Desk at the Main Library (270 N. Grove Avenue, Elgin). Program supplies will be ready for pick-up from Wednesday, Nov. 11 to Tuesday, Nov. 17. All registered participants will receive an email with the zoom login prior to the program date. Program Supplies in the bag: Origami paper Information sheet. 4.30p-5.15p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Race and Rights: Wells, Willard, and Addams Join the Jane Addams HullHouse Museum for a virtual presentation on race and women’s rights. This session will focus on three Chicago

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activists - Ida B. Wells, Frances Willard and Jane Addams. Who gets to be a citizen? How did debates in Chicago around voting, lynching and women’s rights break down across racial lines? How do we think about these divisions today, and why are they relevant? This session will focus on three significant Chicago-based women activists who were connected in their reform work, but who encountered difficulties in finding common ground. Ida B. Wells, Frances Willard and Jane Addams each worked to expand women’s rights and influence. However, they had significant disagreements in their approaches informed by their differing views about the impact of race and racism 6p-8p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Conversación en Inglés Online See 11/3. 6.30p-7.45p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Organizing & Parenting Solutions to Pandemic Problems Professional organizer, Jennifer Barnes, will show how to best organize your home to provide healthy and efficient work spaces for adults & kids in this new normal with new difficulties we are facing. Through discussion of how to organize our space and our time, we will learn practical ways to teach our kids to be organized and responsible. The talk closes with discussion of how to maintain the systems and spaces that we set up in our homes, long after the pandemic fades. Please register for link to Zoom. 7p-8p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Nov.18 Toddler Time See 11/4. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info Studio 270 Volunteer Squad See 10/30. 4p-6p, GBPL Main Library Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Go Bilingual en la Biblioteca See 11/4. 6p-7p, GBPL Main Library Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Resume Essentials Learn about the key aspects of creating a professional resume that will grab the reader’s attention and help get your foot in the door for interviews. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Zoom meeting. 6p-6.45p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Writing Club: Robot Rebellion Robots are taking over the world! Will you join the robot rebellion? Will you side with the humans? Learn how technology can create conflict in storytelling. Grades K-8. Registration required. All registered participants will receive an email with the zoom login. For questions, please contact Aron Ryan, KidSpace Library As-

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information, contact Andrea Houston at ahouston@gailborden.info or 847289-5844. 7p-8p, GBPL Main Library Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info German Conversation Group Herzlich willkommen! Practice or improve your conversation skills with other German speakers. Barbara Laane will be facilitating the conversation with different relevant themes virtually via Zoom. Please register and you will receive a link to the meeting. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden. info sociate, at aryan@gailborden.info 6p-6.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Lullaby Storytime Wear your PJs and cuddle up to hear stories, songs, and rhymes in this storytime. Best for children ages 2 to 6. Please register. This event will be held on the virtual platform, Zoom. Please register and you will receive a link to the program via email one hour before the program. 6.30p-7p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Contemporary Book Group The Contemporary Book Group discusses current literary selections once a month. November 2020 discussion: Darling Rose Gold by Stephanie Wrobel. Registration is required. For more

Thu.Nov.19 Adventure Storytime with Ms. Stephanie See 10/29. 10a-10a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Steve Yoder 11a-12p, GBPL Main Library Lobby - Piano, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Kids Explore for Grades K-2: Let’s Be Inventors Let’s read a book about inventing, then we will imagine what things we can invent for our world. This program has supplies to be picked up at the KidSpace Youth Reference Desk at the Main Library (270 N Grove Ave., Elgin). Program supplies will be ready for pick-up between Nov 9 – Nov 15. All registered

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participants will receive an email with the zoom login prior to the program date. Program Supplies in the bag: Inventor worksheets (Families can also download the worksheets with this link and print them at home.) Various craft supplies for creating an invention Program Supplies to gather from home: Glue Markers Pencil or Pens 4p-4.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

practice breathing techniques to reduce anxiety and stress. In Spanish. The programs will take place through the Zoom virtual meeting platform. Register at www.gailborden.info and we will contact you with the link and code to participate:Or email us at library@gailborden.info (include your name and phone number)Or text us at 224-407-2399 6p-7p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Kids Explore for Grades 3-5: Let’s Be Inventors See above. 5p-5.30p, 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Race and Rights: Wells, Willard, and Addams See 11/17. 6p-8p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Baby Rhyme Time See 11/5. 6p-6.30p, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Mujeres con Propósito Online: Manejo de ansiedad ¡Disfruta de un tiempo especialmente para ti! Aprende y practica técnicas de respiración para reducir la ansiedad y el estrés. En español. Las participantes explorarán temas de bienestar y actividades de relajación. ¡No te lo puedes perder! Los programas tendrán lugar a través de la plataforma de reuniones virtual Zoom. Regístrese en www.gailborden.info y le contactaremos con el enlace y código para participar. O envíenos un correo electrónico a biblioteca@ gailborden.info (incluya su nombre y teléfono, o un mensaje de texto al 224-407-2399 Enjoy some time especially for yourself! Learn and

Fri.Nov.20 Stomp! Clap! Read! See 11/6. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Virtual 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Sat.Nov.21 Thankful Plate Decorate your own ceramic plate to be used on Thanksgiving. Pick up your materials at the library from Nov. 15 thru 20th and then join in on our Zoom meeting on Nov. 21st. A link will be sent out so please provide us with your email address. Virtual 847.428.3661 www. frvpld.info/thankful-plate


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November 2020

Fremont Jenkins turns to his mother, Valencia Price-Jenkins. “Mom, do you want some more salad?” “No, thank you. It’s delicious, though. Did you make this yourself, Rebecca?” “It’s from a recipe Monty got at the firehouse. He said everybody likes it there, too.” The telephone rings on the buffet behind them. The caller ID displays “APEX RSRCH.”

BRAVO Serial Fiction: “Your Opinion Counts”

Part Six:

View From the Top

“Hey, it’s Apex Research,” Jenkins says. “Are they still asking about the security cameras?” “Yes, we voted to have them continue the survey for another week. Can you put it on speaker?” “Hello, Barstow resident,” the recorded voice says. “I’ve never actually heard one of these,” says Price-Jenkins. “They never call my house.” Jenkins follows the touch tone prompts, entering his birth year, gender, ZIP code and income bracket. “Thank you. The City of Barstow is considering a plan to install closed circuit video cameras throughout the city to improve emergency response and to help prevent and prosecute crime. The cost of the project will be funded by a municipal bond issue requiring no increase in taxes on residents. Press 1 if you support this plan; press 2 if you do not; press 3 if you are unsure, or wish not to answer. Press 4 if you would like to hear additional background information.” “Press 4,” Price-Jenkins urges. “Dozens of studies have shown that well-lit video observation is more effective at preventing crime than police patrols, barriers, or signage in public and semi-public locations. Large scale installations of security camera networks reduce crime by nearly half, and alert first responders to traffic and other emergencies faster than 911 call centers. Security camera programs are the fastest growing approach to public safety in Europe and the United States for cities with populations of 40,000 or more. After the initial investment in equipment, these systems reduce costs and liabilities, protect property, and save lives.” “That sounds like a sales pitch, not a survey.”

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by Mark Averill “Press 1 if you support this plan; press 2 if you do not; press 3 if you are unsure, or wish not to answer.” Beep. “Thank you. Your opinion counts.” “I’m all for it, I hope they do it,” says Jenkins. “There’s nothing worse than getting to a fire or a crash scene and losing somebody because you’re a minute too late.” Mayor Michael Sheilds raps the gavel. “Our next order of business is the pending resolution on the contract with Peak Security Systems for the installation of 267 cameras, with cabling, transmitters and monitors, including upgrades to three City of Barstow facilities.”

“Berto is right, it doesn’t look good to residents. But they obviously want us to move forward, so I’m supporting this.” The resolution passes 5 to 1, over Councilor Andermayer’s unstated objections. A new husband at a laundromat picks up a discarded copy of the Barstow Journal, folded open to the editorial page. A headline reads “Populism for a Change.” He reads a few paragraphs while his wife is folding towels. “They’re gonna start putting those cameras in at the end of this month,” he says. “Strange. I didn’t think we had a big crime problem here.”

YOUR 29% OPINION 37%

“I move we take up the motion from the table.”

COUNTS

“I second.” The motion passes. “The second week of surveys by Apex has given us a clear reading of public opinion on this security camera project. Is anyone here still undecided?” “For the record, I’d like to state that I’m very dissatisfied with the bid process,” says Councilor Salazar. “We should have had competing bids.” “I don’t disagree, but we called for bids like we always do and only got the one from Peak Security. Councilor Kromberg?”

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“But it’s a safety thing, too, right? So they can get to emergencies faster or whatever?”

“The paper says, when we asked visitors to our website why they support the security camera project, most people said it would make them feel safer in their community. Only a few were concerned about privacy or the cost to taxpayers.” “That other load is dry now. Will you bring it over here, please?” Working on a laptop in her home office, Valencia Price-Jenkins types an email to Councilor Maurice Greeley. “Morry: Last week while I was at my son’s home for dinner, he

received a call from Apex Research with the camera survey. We listened to the additional background information, and it was pretty one-sided in favor of the project. I started Googling and I found out that Apex is majority-owned by Acme Capital Holdings. Acme also owns Summit Software, Pinnacle Environmental Services and Peak Security Systems. One of the senior partners in Acme Capital is Doreen Harbold, Richard Andermayer’s wife. I am now concerned about the appearance of a conflict of interest, but I’m not sure since Andermayer publicly opposed most of those projects. Here’s a link to a page about Acme. Let me know your thoughts. VPJ” Two women sitting in the bleachers at a Barstow High School football game are looking at their smart phones. “It says it’ll rain in 15 minutes.” “What weather app do you use?” “Barstow VUE. They added a new feature that shows weather radar and sends alerts. See?” She shows her phone to the other woman. “I hope they add a feature that shows where all the new security cameras are located. I’d like to know if I’m being watched while I ... go the drug store. Do you have the Barstow Journal app?” “No.” “They just posted an article this afternoon about how someone on City Council has an inside connection to the camera company. And since no other companies were considered for the project, it looks bad for the Council. One second, I’ll pull it up ...” A drop of rain lands on the woman’s phone screen. She wipes it away. “It says ... Richard Andermayer’s wife owns ... uh, her company owns Peak Security Systems (which is the camera company), Pinnacle Environmental Services, Summit Software (who makes Barstow VUE) and Apex Research, all of which have contracts with the City of Barstow.” The other woman huffs. “Yet the public record shows that Andermayer has voted consistently against all of those contracts ...”


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The Inner Craft

“Art” Didn’t Exist Before 1660:

How our Words Alter Our Opinion of What We Do by Michael J. Murschel, SD The American novelist, short story writer, screenwriter, playwright, actor, and author of one of my all-time favorite works, Breakfast At Tiffany’s, Truman Capote, relates to this notion of naming things when he quotes Holly Golightly about why her cat has no name. “If I could find a real-life place that’d make me feel like Tiffany’s, then — then I’d buy some furniture and give the cat a name!” Names, it turns out, are really important things. Everything has a name. Everything. But the big question is whether or not we actually know the formal name for it. At least, the formal name du jour. Things have assumed names which we apply to them, but they don’t always have a ‘formal’ name, i.e. one which everyone acknowledges is the true name of whatever it is. You might not have even known that something was “a thing” until you actually heard the name for it and then realized that there must be something more to it, and dimensions to it you never considered. Thanksgiving, for example. We tend to think of that first Thanksgiving as being held as a joint feast between the Plymouth Colony settlers and the indigenous Wampanoag in the autumn of 1621. But another large feast could eclipse that if historians can make a sound case for Florida being the first such site in North America. When a Spanish fleet came ashore at St. Augustine in 1565, they celebrated their arrival with a feast of thanksgiving with 800 Spanish settlers sharing the moment with the native Timucuan people. We won’t even speculate on what moments of thanksgiving were held on this continent by the Vikings, or the Phoenicians, etc. Other nations, other cultures, have thanksgiving observations, as well. Canada, Germany, Liberia, Japan, The Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Grenada, Norfolk Island, and many more

do. For our purposes here, though, let’s just keep this local, so to speak. It wasn’t until October 3, 1863, that the holiday here was formally named by President Abraham Lincoln and established on the fourth Thursday of November. Mind you, this was in the midst of one of the most challenging times in the history of this nation, the great American Civil War. Hardly, one would think, a time to be giving thanks for much of anything. That fourth Thursday of November was finally made its permanent date by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1942. After all, the first “Thanksgiving” feast given by Western Europeans in this land was in November of 1621, a full two centuries and 42 years before it was formally named as such in this nation. And what about the creative work you do? In this country, in this culture, at this time, we call that “Art”.

According to many linguists and language historians, the word “Art” has its roots in English, French, and Italian. Of course, you can roll it back to the ancient Latin word, “Ars”. Literally, that means “skillfulness,” “craft,” or “technique.” By the 1300s, the term had expanded to include the disciplines of “scholarship” and “learning.” That word, though, was not applied to the idea of “fine art” until the 1660s — almost two centuries after the European Renaissance, which came right after the Middle Ages. During the Renaissance, there was painting, sculpture, decorative arts, but the overall term “art” for that sort of “fine art” wasn’t used as an umbrella term until then. Of course, “Art” was being created since the beginning of human existence. It just didn’t have a name, or at least the name we now give it. All of this brings up the ever-changing question of what truly constitutes art. Can you hang a shovel on a wall and call it art? Does it satisfy something similar in your soul to what a Rembrandt can do? And maybe what you have been doing all along is really an art, and you just never identified it as such. Drawing. Dancing. Writing. Teaching. Learning. Praying. How do you define what you do? Does it change your opinion of that? And maybe even of yourself? And ... ? Michael J Murschel, SD, is a Spiritual Director whose private practice focuses on nurturing the conversation of people and groups with the workings of The Spirit, God, that Universal Power, in their lives in order to guide them to becoming all which they are created to be. His offices are located in downtown Elgin, Illinois, and he may be contacted at 224-577-8338, or by email to: michael@michaeljmurschel.com


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Shared Values: To Know and Be Known

A Poet in Every Heart by Karen Schlack author of Mentoring with Morgan Their journey began in 2016. Marcia was a photographer, storyteller, and textile artist. She served on the board of the organization Art for All, which supports visual artists in Elgin. Gareth led a poetry group that met in the library for 13 years. Gareth had a proposal she brought to Marcia. Why not have the poets in her poetry group provide poems for the visual arts on display in an upcoming event at Art Space? When the President of Art for All decided not to move forward with the project, Marcia jumped in to take the lead. The gallery show at Art Space was a great success. Many who saw the display liked it and some even cried when a poem affected them. Marcia had put her toe into the world of poetry. But Gareth and Marcia’s story did not end there. Gareth sensed that Marcia might have a heart for poetry. She invited Marcia to come to one of her poetry groups. Marcia was a bit reluctant. She did not yet see herself as a poet. “At my first meeting with the poets to talk about our collaboration when they asked me to stay and participate, I ran away,” Marcia said. “Poetry was my way-outside-the-box non-comfort zone.” But she came back. Over the coming weeks and years, Marcia discovered for herself that there was a poet inside her heart. Marcia had always been a writer, but her writing took the form of stories as an oral storyteller. In Gareth’s group, Marcia began to see poetry as a sort of story. But unlike

the folk stories she told that had a beginning, a middle and an end … the meaning and truth of a poem remained a mystery to be discovered. “Marcia really blossomed,” Gareth said. “She went from a person who didn’t write poetry to writing poetry all the time.” Marcia attributes her growth as a poet to the environment Gareth provided in her weekly poetry groups. Gareth believes a safe environment is vital for nourishing the creative poet that is in each person. The foundations for this safe environment are: First, the poet is the best judge of her own work. Second, if a poem reaches only one person, it has still fulfilled its purpose. Third, only the person who has written the poem is qualified to judge it. In Gareth’s group, poets encourage each other by pointing out the strengths of each other’s work. They share how the poems of other members of the group touch their heart. The unique relationships that are developed in this remarkable group are a treasure to all who participate. Gareth’s group is an example of mentoring, which is a form of teaching and learning. Members teach each other and they also benefit from Gareth’s leadership and experience as a poet. The individuality of each member is nurtured and embraced. Although a poem written and read in the group might not connect with one member, another member might connect to it right away.

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There are many voices, many hearts, and many experiences that are shared in the group. The group has become a family. As Gareth has said, “The most important thing is to come to know each other and to be known by each other.” I had a mentoring experience with a preacher named Morgan who I met in Seminary more than 15 years ago. I sent him my sermons each week and we shared our impressions with each other. That experience enriched my life and has helped me to understand the vital importance of mentoring. Mentoring can be a single conversation, or a group like Gareth’s that continues over weeks, months, or even years. A mentor helped Marcia discover the poet in her heart. Her poems now speak to the poet in all our hearts. Be a mentor. Find a mentor who can help you. It could change your life. —KS Karen Schlack is retired pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Elgin, IL. Prior to becoming a pastor, Karen was the administrator of child and adolescent psychiatric units, opened the Laureate Day School, was a manager in the healthcare practice of Ernst & Young, and wrote and taught the leadership curriculum for Good Samaritan Society.

Marcia Gutiérrez reads with the Poetry Writers Workshop, April, 2018. Video still by Daniel Schlack.

Everyone’s an Artist. Art is Powerful. So make your art now.

Stay informed . . . Learn how you can . . .

SaveDCCook.com

Suggestions ~ Visit 850 N. Grove in Elgin’s Northeast Neighborhood ASAP. That gorgeous NeoClassical building is scheduled for demolition. We invite artists to Document Elgin’s most famous Oak, or any aspect you want to feature. Draw century-old archtectural details. Paint a broad landscape. Capture a photo image or a video. Write a poem or story, or Assemble a collage. Discover up close what we may soon lose. All ages welcome. Children especially! All art accepted. A Community Exhibit is planned! Why not be part of it? SaveDCCook.com will supply details, and all Actions scheduled as they develop. Things change quickly ... stay tuned for updates! Contributing your art will bring a special heartfelt awareness to this threat to an irreplaceable element of our heritage. ART is a powerful and effective means to state what we VALUE. And if, in spite of our efforts, Cook is taken down, at least ART will remain to honor and respect the memory of what’s been lost.


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ASSIGNMENT BOARD

ADVERTISE WITH US

This is where we post article topics for volunteer writers like you. 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 ...

2020 Advertising Rates

Hometown Pride

Full Page $240 • Half Page $156 Quarter Page $104 • Eighth Page $62 Standard rates include design & layout. 15% Discount for ready-to-print digital artwork.

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Elginites have organized into a variety of volunteer groups and networks with the purpose of improving the City’s image, living conditions, business climate or environment. A roundup of these groups and their goals is in order.

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

COVID Culture

Circulation Information

The Forces of Nature have always made humans adapt. How has the Plague of ‘20 affected our creative practices? Talk to a few artists and write a story about it.

4,000 copies circulated at more than ninety locations in Elgin, South Elgin, Dundee and Carpentersville (see listings). Estimated readership of 6,000.

What This Town Needs

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Next ad deadline: Weds., November 20, 5:00 p.m.

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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.

is published by

MARQUEE MEDIA P.O. Box 1551 Elgin, IL 60121-1551 (224) 513-1220 (voice or text) bravo@marqueemedia.net Publisher: Jeffrey R. Pierce Contributors: David Hinds, Kate Darling, Gene Ambo, Tucker Williamson, Tracy Altheide, David Metzger, Explore Elgin Area, Nick Freeman, Mark Averill, Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Michael J. Murschel, Karen Schlack, Daniel Schlack, Chris Palm.


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