BRAVO 1.1

an elgin culture magazine

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Playing in The Dark A Roomful pp. 2-3 of Easels p. 4

The Burrito Challenge

pp. 13

with the

AUGUST 2015

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Expression: The Ultimate Painter

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B R A V O Magazine is published by

MARQUEE MEDIA P.O. Box 1551, Elgin, IL 60121-1551 (224) 513-1220 bravo@marqueemedia.net Publisher: Jeffrey R. Pierce Contributors: Jamey Bouwmeester Avery, Hayden & Will B R A V O is Earth-friendly Cover Artist Tracey Padron of Elgin, is a mother of six whose work history includes carpentry, landscaping and auto repair in addition to a lifelong love of figure drawing.

For nearly ten years, she coordinated the Division Street Drawing Guild — where she fine tuned her skills for drawing the human form — and she is now represented by galleries in Milwaukee and Provincetown. Included in private collections all over the world, her works range from drawings, to watercolors, to printmaking, and most recently, oil painting. She designed and built a studio addition to her Elgin home, where she works at drawing, painting and printmaking. See more of her work at instagram.com/eftstudios.

With his sharply arched eyebrows, bald head, and angular features, John French looks like a young, handsome Anton Lavey. The skulls, demons, and tortured bodies that he often chooses as his subjects do nothing to diminish that impression.

But when John smiles, which he does often, you realize very quickly that he’s no satanic overlord — or if he is, he’s an awfully shy and friendly one. Of course, when I say “smiles,” what I really mean is more of a crooked wry grin, making copious use of one of those eyebrows I mentioned above.

You’ll recognize John’s paintings when you see them — ­ they’re the ones with the thick blacks, browns, and midnight blues that bring to mind words like “stygian,” “aphotic,” and “abyss.” When I ask John about the generous use of dark colors in his work he has an answer at the ready. Quite clearly, this is something he’s thought about quite a bit.

“A lot of my imagery is dark in tone with heavy shadows for two reasons. First, values and shadows are one of my strengths, and second, I’m trying to show the viewer only what they need to see. The shadow makes them aware there may be more there, not quite seen. My goal with darker tones is not to create a dark or ugly image, or inspire fear. My goal is to reflect what fuels my curiosity — the unknown.”

I’m intrigued by this idea of painting to hint at or intimate things not quite there, rather than to illuminate or show something directly. It resonates with my experience of viewing John’s work. His canvases are full of shadowy negative space. You

John E. French:

Playing in the Dark find yourself leaning forward, trying to see if there’s something there. You get the feeling that there is, but you can’t be sure.

It’s uncanny, and more than a little unsettling.

Curious where John’s desire to plumb these depths comes from, I ask him about influences.

“I’m a big fan of H. P. Lovecraft,” he says. “He described the emotion of horror as, ‘that which the mind cannot comprehend,’ and in his work described creatures, sciences and geometries that can not be described, always hidden, always unknown.

I love the idea of trying to perceive the indescribable.”

But don’t get me wrong. It’s not all Cthulhu and H.R. Gieger.

John’s portfolio (188 finished works — not counting sketches — at last count) is quite varied.

Some of it is dark, some of it is very emotional, some of it is an attempt at beauty, some is just talking for the sake of talking.

These paintings are John’s attempt to create a documented record of his experiences, his life.

John’s been creating this document for as long as he can remember, or as he says, “visual art was my first language.”

This spring, John took his talents to the Ultimate Painting competition at Side Street Studio Arts. Ultimate Painting

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August 2015

is an international tournament, where artists create the best work they can in 20 minute rounds of live painting. The audience votes for their favorites and the champions move on.

Forty-eight Elgin-area artists competed in four competitions, all held at SSSA’s Next Door Theater.

The four winners – John, Bruce Bachelder, Rachel Elizabeth Maley, and Lindsey Wiseman, along with area high scorer Ken Simonsen – competed in the Chicago regionals in June along with seven other winners from the midwest. John came out on top and was selected to compete in the international competition in Toronto.

“I signed up for the Ultimate Painting competition because I thought it would be a good networking opportunity and chance to meet the local community of painters. I didn’t expect to win,

I just thought it’d be fun,” John told me. “I didn’t anticipate progressing very far. My goal was to create an awesome image in 20 minutes. It took a while to really sink in that I won and was going to go to Toronto. I got home from the regional event around 1:00 am and had to be at work at 8:00 am the next morning, then my second job in the evening. I hadn’t really had the time to think about it.

“I’m not sure it’s even fully sunk in yet, it probably wont hit me until after I get to the event, paint, come home, a few weeks go by and I think to myself … ‘I went to Canada to compete for the international Painting championship.’”

As I write this, I’m sitting in an apartment in Toronto. I’m here with a group of John’s supporters who made the long drive to Canada with him. The com-

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petition ended hours ago. The battle is over. John didn’t win.

There was no emotional swell of orchestral strings as we hoisted him onto our shoulders. This isn’t that kind of story. This is a smaller, quieter story, but one no less relevant for that.

This is the story of an artist and the small but fiercely loyal community supporting him.

When people ask me about this experience, my favorite part to tell won’t be the actual competition. The best part, the part I want to remember, happened afterward.

Tired from a long day I the sun, John and the rest of our group came back to the apartment we’d rented. The first thing we did was to take down the tacky black and white framed print of the Paris skyline and hang John’s painting in its place. It’s up there now. In a few days we’ll take it down and bring it back with us to Illinois, where we’ll hang it proudly along with those of the other local painters who competed in Ultimate Painting. We might not be able to boast an interna-

tional painting champion, but you can be sure we’ll be coming back next year. — JB In past lives, Jamey Bouwmeester has been an office drone, a blood sucker, and a molder of impressionable young minds. Currently you can most often find him trolling DNAs Downtown Harvest Market and haunting the gallery at Side Street Studio Arts. He enjoys taking his daughter to arts and cultural activities and taking photographs of people without their permission.

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Expression: The Paint ‘n’ Sip Movement

A Roomful of Easels A long list of artists could attest: brushing paint onto canvas is not an inherently social activity. But leave it to the creative community to turn that paradigm, like every other one, inside out.

and RAW Nights often feature local acts like Dave Newton.

The paint ‘n’ sip format has been growing, and is now served by multiple businesses in the area, like Bottle and Bottega or Vino van Gogh, whose artists lead events at Elgin’s Martini Room on Chicago Street.

“We’ve been doing this for years,” says Martini Room’s manager David Olinger. “We bring in up to 20 or more people, especially in the colder months.”

Until recently, about the only places where you’d find a roomful of easels were in art schools.

But the emergence of Ultimate Painting has turned this ancient art into a competitive spectator sport (see p. 2), and the proliferation of “paint ‘n’ sip” parties has proven that people like to explore their own creative process en masse.

A group of social painters display their work after a paint ’n’ sip party at Al’s Cafe and Creamery in Elgin.

On any given night, at a variety of venues, groups of around twenty novice painters take seats at long tables where paints, brushes, a canvas and an apron await them. For about $35, they’ll be led by an accomplished artist through each step in recreating a particular painting, which they take home at the end of the night.

Adult beverages are also on the palette, er, palate.

“People come more for the experience than just the end product,” said Ola Morin-Muhammed, who organized “Al Fresco,” an outdoor paint ‘n’ sip party at Al’s Cafe and Creamery.

The subject for the night: an expressionist Stanley Cup. Ola has been hosting these events, called “RAW Nights,” at Ola la Ijorere, her event venue in the ArtSpace lofts, for over a year. The letters stand for Rhythm, Art and Wine, which is BYOB at Ola la Ijorere.

One returning painter said, “I enjoy the BYOB sessions the most ... I go to stretch my creativity skills a bit, meet new people and share in a memory with friends.”

Kids explore creativity in a Painting Summer Camp at Ola la Ijorere in Elgin ArtSpace Lofts. (Photo by Jorelle Gates Photography.)

Besides the wine, live music helps the creative juices flow,

Martini Room painters.

Although 90% of these social painters are women, they span all ages. Ola la Ijorere now hosts events designed specifically for seniors or school-aged kids.

“We create the kind of environment that allows you to relax and paint,” writes Ola on Facebook. “That’s the life...the GRAND life.”

It’s indeed a life sought after by people of every status: from history’s famous starving artists to at least four Presidents.

Although some of us may paint to indulge and activate our visual imaginations, and others may paint for relief from the anxiety of modern life, there is clearly a place for social painting.

“It just brings a spark of joy to the heart to share in these experiences with others” writes a social painter, which raises a question for another time: must an artist’s life be a solitary existence? Or can it be social? — JP

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possible that will directly support Ben and his family. 9a-9p, Blue Box Cafe 847.697.2583 Accents Kids Day In this open house environment, families are welcome to spend time at Side Street, visiting various art-making stations, making work of their own to take home, and just simply explore the gallery.

Sponsored by Elgin Knit Works. 11a, Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 847.429.2276. Free Adventures in the Zoo: Tremendous Trees Maple, Oak, Hickory, Oh my! Investigate the ancient trees of Lord’s Park and learn other natural history with Museum Educators inside the Zoo. Sponsored by Friends of the Lords Park Zoo. No registration required. 12p-2p, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655. Free

Fri.Jul.31

Art & Soul on the Fox Fine art fair that showcases artists and artisans while also featuring local musical talent and children’s activities. South Spring Street and South Grove Avenue connected by DuPage Court.

Continues Sunday. 11a-6p, Downtown Elgin. Free

Summer Musical Theatre: Sondheim on Sondheim Featuring songs from Into the Woods, West Side Story, Sunday in the Park with George, and many more, Sondheim on Sondheim lovingly explores this musical great’s personal life and artistic process. Student/senior discount. Runs through August 2nd. 7.30p, ECC SecondSpace Theater 847.214.7140. $20 Cavern Beat Performing the music of The Beatles true to their records, every performance is as outstanding as the next, with vintage instruments, amplifiers and authentic suits in the famous Fab Four style for full effect! 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. Free Nick Moss Band A blend of traditional blues and progressive, jam-oriented blues rock. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. Free

Sat.Aug.1 SoADA Juried Student Show Exhibit continues through August 31st.

By appointment only. Contact Jeffery Carl, Director. Judson University Draewell Gallery 847.628.1031 Blue Box Cafe & Southgate Media Group Podcast Marathon We’re holding a podcast marathon to raise funds for Ben, a 10 year old autistic boy from Elgin who is fighting for his life from brain cancer. At the event will be options for donating (e.g. raffles for great stuff and a silent auction, as well as a donation box).

Our goal is to raise as much money as

Sermónne World-Class band of seasoned professional musicians and performing artists who can fluently deliver every genre with consistent excellence from BACH to ROCK! Also at 1:30 PM, 3:00 PM 12p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056. Free Ben Rocha Bringing back the allure of politically and philosophically charged guitar folk music of the 60’s.

His goal is to reach a point where folk meets groovy, with a blend of wood instrument and computer music. Also at 2:30 PM 1p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056. Free Strings of Silk Jennifer Silk, “Chicago’s Strolling Violinist” 4p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056. Free The Rhythem Section Performing original material from their recently released EP “Introducing The Rhythem Section.” 4p, Rediscover Records 847.961.8445 Serafina Elgin-based belly dance performer. 5p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056. Free Curtis Evans Bridging different genres, from folk-rock to gothic

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Mini-Media Guide: FEED 411

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psychedelia, his music embodies the sound of a desolate Midwest winter. 5.30p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056. Free

How to Get Your Events Listed for FREE in The FEED Publishing and promoting all the things to do in Elgin is why we started BRAVO. We are eager to fill our pages with your events, concerts, festivals, lectures, arts happenings and more.

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Repeating Events Some kinds of events repeat regularly, like bird watching or French conversation groups. If these events are open, they are welcome in the FEED.

Basic Event Submission Visit our online event submission page and fill out the form.

Fill in all your event details, along with your own contact info in case there are questions.

Automatic Submission Fortunately, we have a means of collecting events from certain kinds of schedules you post on your website or social media.

If your website has a built-in calendar feature, there’s a good

chance that your scheduled event data can be accessed over the internet, in a form that’s conducive to publishing in the FEED. The technology is called RSS (Really Simple Syndication). Ask your webmaster about it. Then tell us the URL (web address) of your calendar RSS feed, and we will take it from there.

Facebook Events We can access the events you create in your Facebook account, provided they are open, public events.

All we need is your Facebook ID, which is a number consisting of 10-15 digits. You can determine this number by following the tips at findmyfacebookid.com (see link below).

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Edit your calendar settings and make your calendar public (or share it with us). You can obtain the URL of your calendar’s RSS feed by clicking the “XML” button. Boom! Send us that URL!

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Summer Musical Theatre: Sondheim on Sondheim Featuring songs from Into the Woods, West Side Story, Sunday in the Park with George, and many more, Sondheim on Sondheim lovingly explores this musical great’s personal life and artistic process.

Student/senior discount. 7.30p, ECC SecondSpace Theater 847.214.7140. $20 Q Balls Pop, rock and R&B from the 1960’s to the latest and greatest hits of today. 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover

Sun.Aug.2 Art & Soul on the Fox More than 70 artists return to Elgin along with music and kids activities. South Spring Street and South Grove Avenue connected by DuPage Court. 11a-5p, Downtown Elgin 847.531.7056 Oba William King Poetic storytelling. 12p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056 Dave Newton Unique acoustic renditions of popular music from all genres and across all decades. 1p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056 The Steve Barnes Musical Project With Bethany Barnes. By combining the sounds of Americana and jam, Steve and Bethany’s music knows no boundaries and follows no set of rules. Fusing the new and familiar together, their music encompasses a cutting edge sound in American music. 2p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056 Suzy Music Guitar. 3p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056 Flocks and the Lookout Singer-songwriter duo. 4p, Art & Soul on the Fox 847.531.7056

http://www.marqueemedia.net/events Fill out the form with your event title, date, time, location, phone number, short description, and price. Your name, email and phone number are also required in case we need to double-check your details! http://www.findmyfacebookid.com Go to the Facebook profile page for your business. Copy the URL (web address) shown in your browser’s location field.

Go to findmyfacebookid.com and paste your profile page URL into the box at the top of the screen. Click Submit. The next screen will display your Facebook ID. Send us that number.

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Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 The Shamrock Ragsters Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the fun & energy created by the Shamrock Ragsters, who are a quartet of top musicians from the Chicagoland area who sing & play a mix of traditional Irish/Celtic, bluegrass, and Dixieland Jazz. They perform their music using a wide variety of instruments that include banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, bass, Jew’s harp, tin whistle, Irish flute, concertina, trumpet, & trombone.

Rain Location: Meadows Community Rooms 2p-3p, GBPL Outdoor Stage 847.742.2411 Summer Musical Theatre: Sondheim on Sondheim 3p, ECC SecondSpace Theater 847.214.7140. $20

Mon.Aug.3 Maker Mondays Get crafty with Studio 270’s Maker Mondays, featuring Do-it-Yourself crafts and projects.

Drop in any time between 3 -7pm for the following programs. For teens entering grades 9-12. 3p-7p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 The Gaming Event Players in grades 3-up are welcome to come to this monthly drop-in event. Play Pokemon(tm), Yu-Gi-Oh(tm), and other role-playing games (Don’t know how to play? We will teach you and get you started). Bring your cards to play or trade. No registration required. 6p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 Poetry Writers Workshop Come 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.

No registration. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 7p-8p 847.382.1245

Tue.Aug.4 Elgin Genealogical Society Monthly genealogy program and meeting of the Elgin Genealogical Society 9.30a-12p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime The Gail Borden Public Library and Panera Bread are partnering to sponsor this program to be held at Panera Bread, 322 Randall Road, South Elgin. Your preschooler will enjoy stories read by a library staff member, followed by a milk and cookie snack compliments of Panera. Please register for each program you would like to attend.

9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go 847.742.5400 Job Search & Resume Help Drop in for one-on-one assistance with your job search. Receive help with your

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August 2015 resume, cover letter, completing online applications, and more. For more information contact the Kane County Department of Employment and Education at 630-966-1435. 10a2p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee 6p-7p, Centre of Elgin Centre of Elgin 847.531.7000

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an country of Trinidad and Tobago to talk about and demonstrate their incredible instrument, the steelpan (also commonly called the steel drum). While showcasing the instrument’s ability to perform multiple types of musical genres, they trio will also share information about the history of the pan as well as how one is made and tuned. There will also be hands-on demonstrations to show how quickly you can learn how to play various Caribbean rhythms. Please register. 7p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411

Wed.Aug.5 Job Training Information Session 9a-10.30a, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 National Night Out Citywide Block Party No block party in your neighborhood for National Night Out? No problem! Come to Festival Park for an evening of fun! There will be inflatables, a splash-pad, an antique fire truck, a train, the Safety Town display, EPD’s BATT and tactical equipment, a K-9 demo at 6:45, food vendors, live music and the movie Who Framed Roger Rabbit at dusk. There will be crime prevention information and even some special guests! Booths will start clearing when the movie starts, but the party doesn’t end until the movie’s over. 6p-9p, Festival Park 847.931.6123

Re:Pop III Re:Pop III will showcase how the resurgence of printmaking as an art and business has shifted the dynamic of all media, and the future of the printed arts. Exhibit continues through August 30th. Gallery hours: Wed-Fri 12-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-3pm. 12p, Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 847.429.2276

Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group Practica conversar en ingles, mejora tu pronunciacion y adquiere confianza con un tutor del Literacy Connection.

Practice having every day conversations in English, improve your pronunciation, and gain confidence with a tutor from the Literacy Connection.

6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411

Walk with the Mayor Starting point: Gifford Park 6.30p-7.30p, Gifford Park 847.931.6123

Human Relations Commission 6.30p-7.30p 847.382.1245 Elgin Heritage Commission 7p-8p 847.382.1245 Movie at Festival Park - Who Framed Roger Rabbit? Bring your blanket or chair and come out and enjoy a family movie. Before the movie kids can enjoy activities based on the movie theme, refreshments sold by local not-for-profits and take a train ride on the Elgin Express.

7p-1.59p 847.931.6123 MS Excel 2010: Basics 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic Night 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400 Potts & Pans Steelband The Potts & Pans trio consists of Christina Guerrero, Matt Potts and Anthony Jay Houston. During this program, the trio will take you to the Caribbe-

Video Lab Teens can learn how to create and edit a professional quality video recording in our state of the art digital media lab. For teens entering grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411

28th A n n ua l 28

C E M E T E RY Wa l k at Bluff City Cemetery 945 Bluff City Blvd. • Elgin, Illinois

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2015 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. $10.00 IN ADVANCE AND FOR ELGIN HISTORY MUSEUM MEMBERS • $12.00 ON DAY OF EVENT FREE FOR CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER • GROUP RATES AVAILABLE Tickets are available at the Elgin Hisotry Museum and Ziegler’s Ace Hardware

For more information contact the Elgin History Museum at (847) 742-4248 or go to www.elginhistory.org or visit us on Facebook

Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700

MS Excel 2010: Charts & Graphs 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Walking Book Club Walking and book discussion 7p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic Night 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510

Thu.Aug.6 Harvest Market The market meets every Thursday, June 4 to October 1, 9am to 2pm. In its sixteenth year the market offers and encourages locally grown and sustainably produced food

FEED.disclaimer We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the event details listed in the FEED, but some of our sources may contain errors, and we make mistakes once in a while, too.

PLEASE verify the details of any of these events with the host and/or venue before making firm plans. Enjoy!

~ 34th Annual ~

Historic Elgin House Tour

Saturday, September 12, 2015 from 9am to 5pm Great Living, Traditional Neighborhood, Vintage Style.

Seven historic homes on the NE side–never featured on the tour before!

BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT GPAELGIN.ORG $15 Adult, Advance Ticket $10 Seniors (65 and up) & Juniors (12 and under) Presented by The Gifford Park Association www.gpaelgin.org | Check the website for details and updates! www.facebook.com/ElginHistoricHouseTour

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from area businesses who offer fresh, quality vegetables, fruits, bread, meat, olives, spices, and knife sharpening services. 9a-2p, Kimball Street at Grove Ave. 847.488.1456 Two Rivers Head Start: Reunion de familia/Family Gathering 9.15a-12p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. B 847.742.2411 Dance Party! Come Shake it Off to your favorite pop/hip hop beats. Wear your favorite pop/hip hop fashions.

Get your funk on and practice your pop and lock moves. 11a-12p, GBPL Rakow Branch 847.531.7271

SHAPE YOUR LIFE TO SHAPE THE WORLD

Storytelling at Harvest Market 11.30a-2p, GBPL Library On The Go 847.742.5400

opportunities await Ask any Judson University student and you will hear that they have so many opportunities to lead, engage in the classroom, try new ideas and succeed.

Students go on to become graphic designers, architects, entrepreneurs, marketers, worship leaders, artists, musicians, pastors, counselors, educators, and so much more! At Judson University, we’re preparing you to shape your world, living out your gifts, talents and passion for God’s glory and in service to others.

Read to the Rhythm at Lords Park Zoo 1p-2p, GBPL Library On The Go 847.742.5400

visit us on preview day!

September 7 October 11-12 November 13

Sew What: Sewing Workshop Whether you’re looking to learn how to sew on your own or want to come make something with some friends, look no further. Learn how to operate a sewing machine, sew by hand, and much more. For teens entering grades 9-12 3p-4p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411

Judson is ranked in the Top Tier, Midwest Best Colleges, U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges Survey 1151 N. State Street | Elgin, IL 60123 CALL. 847.628.2510 WEB. VisitJudson.com/bravo

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ChessMaster Junior Chess Club 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Gail Borden’s Got Talent! Can you sing? play an instrument? tell jokes?

Here’s your change to show off your talent! Kids up to 8th grade are invited to perform; all are welcome to attend the performance. A parent 2:52 PM permission slip is required and can be filled out in person at the Youth Help Desk or at the Rakow Branch starting July 1st. 6.30p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411

Refl ections: Each One, Reach One In the midst of national social-political efforts to seek racial and economic justice, leaders were creating change right here in Elgin. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, prominent Elgin leaders and role models will be interviewed by their children, grandchildren or friends. Share in this personal view of the Civil Rights Movement from groundbreaking community and civic work to trials and triumphs experienced during this time. Program Host & Presenter: Joyce Fountain, Professor, Elgin Community College.

Perspective: David Johnston, Director, Center for Higher Education Retention Excellence “Policy, Planning & Politics: How Stories and Sharing Stories Support and Inform Inclusion” 7p-9p, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411

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Fri.Aug.7 First Friday’s: Kids Night Out First Friday is a monthly celebration in support of local arts, restaurants, shops, and nightlife hot spots. Enjoy extended retail hours, special events, promotions, and live entertainment hosted by restaurants, bars, art galleries and performance venues.

5p-9p, Various Downtown Locations 847.488.1456 Re:Pop III First Friday Re:Ception Side Street Studio Arts is proud to be hosting Re:Pop III, their third annual printmaking pop-art exhibit August 5th - 30th. Re:Pop III will showcase how the resurgence of printmaking as an art and business has shifted the dynamic of all media, and the future of the printed arts. This exhibit is focused on those artists dedicated to print media, i.e. fabrics, paper, and the remainder of all printed arts. 6p-10p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276 Peter & The Versatiles Bands at Bowes -- bring blankets and/or lawn chairs 7p, Bowes Creek Country Club Porter’s Pub 847.214.5877 Bat Hike Take a walk on the wild side as we look for these nocturnal creatures! Start the program off at the museum to learn about bats’ behaviors and adaptations, and then out into the night we go. Not appropriate for younger children who are easily scared of the dark. Registration Required. Discount for members 7.30p-9p, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655. $5

Jerrod Niemann and Rodney Atkins In Festival Park. 7.30p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. $30 and up Battle of the Bands Little Yellow Dog vs. Wayfarer 8p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. $5 donation The Clowder Alternative blues rock. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Sat.Aug.8 Homebuyer Education Class NHS of the Fox Valley is offering a FREE comprehensive eight hour seminar to prepare families for home purchase. 56 S. Grove Ave. Register in advance. 8a, NHS of the Fox Valley 847.695.0399 No Limits Cover band with a wide variety of repertoire. 9a, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover

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August 2015 Project Backpack Project Backpack, is a community-based initiative led by Elgin Community College to benefit students in need. Backpacks are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is a limit of one backpack per student. Proof of registration required. 10a-2p, GBPL Library On The Go at ECC 847.742.2411

month. Take part in a weekly topic of discussion, learn new vocabulary and put your listening skills to the test. No registration. 12p-1p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411

800 North State Street Route 31 • 1 mile south of I-90

(847) 742-9905

Maker Mondays 3p-7p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411

Read to Rover 11.30a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Andean Music Concert Come and enjoy Andean music with the group Luz de Ande, and learn about the unique wind instruments of the native cultures of Latin America. No registration. In case of inclement weather, this program will be moved indoors to Meadows Community Rooms. 1p-2p, GBPL Outdoor Stage 847.742.2411

Family Picnic - Rope Warrior Bring a picnic dinner to the library’s west lawn at 6:00 pm. Beverage and dessert will be provided by the library.

At 7:00 pm Join us for a performance from The Rope Warrior. He will dazzle you with his performance which incorporates a thrilling combination of the best elements of rope jumping, dance, aerobics, martial arts and rhythmic gymnastics. 6p-8p, GBPL Outdoor Stage 847.742.2411 Great Books Discussion Group 7p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411

Tue.Aug.11 Job Search & Resume Help 10a2p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Armchair Generals: Dakota Uprising of 1862 by Jerry Allen A Brown Bag Civil War and Lincoln Interest Group 11.45a-1.15p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411

Jazzin’ on the 8th The Elgin Cultural Arts Commission presents Jazzin’ on the 8th, a night of swing, jazz, and dancing. 8p-9p, Elgin Art Showcase 847.931.6019 Rock Hounds Fun, classic “in your face” hard rock tunes. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Sun.Aug.9 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700

Mon.Aug.10 Brown Bag Lunch Classic Films An American in Paris (1951, NR) An American in Paris (1951, NR) - 113 minutesThree friends struggle to find work in Paris. However, things become more complicated when two of them fall in love with the same woman. This lavish musical won the Best Picture Oscar in 1951 with its straightforward story, gorgeous dance sequences, and beautiful, frequently melancholic Gershwin score.

Director: Vincente MinnelliCast: Gene Kelly, Leslie Caron, Oscar Levant 11a2p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 Spanish Cafe/Cafe en Espanol Looking for an opportunity to practice your Spanish conversation skills?

Then join this drop-in group that meets the second Monday of each

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Sports Card Trading Club Sport trivia program for elementary aged students. 3p-4.30p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group Practica conversar en ingles, mejora tu pronunciacion y adquiere confianza con un tutor del Literacy Connection.

Practice having every day conversations in English, improve your pronunciation, and gain confidence with a tutor from the Literacy Connection.

6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411

Open Tuesday-Saturday 9-5 www.ReStoreElgin.org

• Appliances • Furniture • Cabinets • Fixtures • Lighting • Flooring • Doors • Windows • Building Materials • and more!

Visit our 40,000 square foot

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Where to Look for BRAVO Magazine Blue Box Cafe 176 E Chicago St, 847.697.2583.

Jewel-Osco 1660 Larkin Ave, 847.695.7573.

Danny’s on Douglas 231 Douglas Ave, 847.742.5400.

Simonelli Farmers Insurance Agency, 1831 Larkin Ave, 847.488.9121.

Domani Cafe 109 E Highland Ave, 847.695.8851.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore Elgin 800 N State St, 847.742.9905.

Downtown Neighborhood Association 10 N Spring St, 847.488.1456.

Judson University Lindner Commons 1151 N State St, 847.628.2500.

Library Board Meeting 7p-9p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411

Ola la Ijorere 51 S Spring St, 312.401.3956.

Elgin History Museum 360 Park St, 847.742.4248.

Movies in the Park: Monsters University Bring your blanket or chair and come out and enjoy a family movie. Before the movie kids can enjoy activities based on the movie theme, refreshments sold by local not-for-profits and take a train ride

Rediscover Records 9 S Spring St, 847.961.8445.

“D” Hangout 550 S McLean Blvd, 847.717.0511.

Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 15 Ziegler Ct, 847.429.2276.

Elgin Community College 1700 Spartan Dr, 847.697.1000.

Soulful Sparrow 10 Douglas Ave, 224.223.7718. Artist exhibits.

Dutch Inn West 36W610 Foothill Rd, 847.888.9560.

Jewel-Osco 1040 Summit St, 847.622.8112.

Woodman’s Market 2100 Randall Rd, Carpentersville, 847.649.9005.

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MS Excel 2010: Formulas & Functions 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic Night Share your talent at Studio 270’s Open Mic Night. We are looking for musicians, poets, comedians, story tellers and more to perform. For teens entering grades 9-12 7p-8p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411

Wed.Aug.12

Permanently Resolve Your Tax Problems Today!

With one of the Nation’s Leading Experts in Tax Negotiations and Mediation Schedule your FREE Consultation

pjntaxsolutions.com 167 N. Spring St. • Elgin, IL 60120

B R A V O 1.0 Special Edition for Advertisers July 2015 Back Issues are still available

Job Training Information Session 9a-10.30a, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Audio Lab Teens can learn how to create and edit a professional quality audio recording in our state of the art digital media lab. For teens entering grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411 Inklings Join other teen writers and staff to help you through the creative writing process. Learn how to develop ideas into finished stories, poetry, lyrics, or any other kind of writing that interests you. Feel free to bring any of your own writing with you. For teens entering grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 MS Excel 2010: Pivot Tables & Other Advanced Functions 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

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situation. Whether you are a professional, student, stay-at-home parent or retiree, Toastmasters is the most efficient, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you open an entirely new world of possibilities. You’ll be more persuasive and confident when giving presentations, and you’ll improve your one-on-one dealings with others. Please join us as a guest! 12p-1p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Ice Cream & Books Stop by Studio 270 for some delicious ice cream and talk about the books that you are currently reading. For teens entering grades 9-12. 2p-3p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 ChessMaster Junior Chess Club 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Genealogy Writers’ Group Learn tips and tricks from others with a similar interest in family history. 6.30p-8p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Movies in the Park: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory Bring your blanket or chair and come out and enjoy a family movie. Before the movie kids can enjoy activities based on the movie theme, refreshments sold by local not-for-profits and take a train ride on the Elgin Express. 7p, Festival Park 847.931.6123

Fri.Aug.14

Walking Book Club Walking and book discussion 7p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411

Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit 1p-1.30p, GBPL Story Room South 847.742.2411

Open Mic Night 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510

RAW Nights Painting Social “Rhythm, Art, and Wine” painting social. No painting experience required, our fabulous artist will help you along the way. 6.45p, Ola la Ijorere 312.254.9807. $35

Thu.Aug.13 ChamberFest Golf Outing The 38th annual ChamberFest Golf Classic brings together participants from many of our area’s leading small and large businesses. Register in advance. 9a, Bowes Creek Country Club 847.741.5660. $45 and up Harvest Market The market meets every Thursday, June 4 to October 1, 9am to 2pm. In its sixteenth year the market offers and encourages locally grown and sustainably produced food from area businesses who offer fresh, quality vegetables, fruits, bread, meat, olives, spices, and knife sharpening services. 9a-2p, GBPL Kimbal St at Grove Ave 847.488.1456

Request a Back Issue by emailing

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Device Advice 9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Listen Learn Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 Become the speaker and leader you want to be. No registration.Toastmasters will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any

Evening Soiree with the North Side Brass The Elgin History Museum is offering a FREE event to thank Museum’s donors, members, and supporters. Celebrate the summer and bring a friend on August 14 at 7pm.

Sip drinks, nibble on tasty treats, and gamble on a 50/50 raffle while listening to the sounds North Side Brass - String Quartet play everything from Bach to Coldplay. Donations are appreciated. 7p, Elgin History Museum 847.742.4248 Battle of the Bands Semifinals.

Bands TBD 8p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. $5 donation The Moods Four guys dedicated to the fine art of harmony and choreography. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Sat.Aug.15 Trolley Fest The Village of South

BRAVO

August 2015 Elgin and the museum celebrate the long weekend along the Fox River with food, music, trolley rides, viewing historic rail cars and exhibits, carnival rides and fireworks. The Village celebration starts Thursday afternoon, but the museum is open 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM for this Saturday and Sunday only. 365 S. LaFox, South Elgin 11a, Fox River Trolley Museum 847.697.4676 Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit 11a-11.30a, GBPL Story Room South 847.742.2411 YWCA’s Queen for a Day Tea The afternoon tea includes music merriment and an opportunity to be chosen as a Lady-in Waiting, Princess or Queen for a Day. There is also a Silent Auction and Raffle Baskets. Reservations required. (847) 742-7930 11a-1p, Elgin Country Club 847.468.8810. $25 and up Adventures in the Zoo: Skulls and All See skulls, fur, horns, antlers and shells from different types of animals, large and small, to learn about their behaviors and habits at this final “Adventures” program of the summer.

No registration required. 12p, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655. Free Battle of the Bands Fund Raiser 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. Free Disco Fever Studio 54 Party Turn up the heat. Martini Room takes you to the 70’s with a Disco Fever Party worthy of Studio 54 itself. 9p, Martini Room 847.741.0349 Smokehouse Elgin based band that covers current rock classics as well as classic rock favorites. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Sun.Aug.16 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700

Mon.Aug.17 Illinois DHS Division of Rehabilitation Services Information Session 1p-3p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 French Conversation Group Refresh and enhance your knowledge of French language and culture in a conversational setting with former college language professor Dennis Schwank. No registration.

6.30p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411

Tue.Aug.18 Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime The Gail Borden Public Library and Panera Bread are partnering to sponsor this program to be held at Panera Bread, 322 Randall Road, South Elgin. Your preschooler will enjoy stories read by a library staff member, followed by a

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FEATURING

milk and cookie snack compliments of Panera. Please register for each program you would like to attend.

9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go 847.742.5400

Deli Sandwiches Soups & Salads Baked Goods Breakfast

Job Search & Resume Help 10a2p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Logic Pro Tutorial We’ll show you how to compose, record, edit, and mix great sounding tracks. For teens entering grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411

Locally Sourced Coffee & Tea

School of Business and Professional Studies Open House Learn from enrollment representatives about degress in Applied Psychology, Business Administration, Human Services and Management and Leadership. RSVP. 5.30p-7p, Lindner Tower, 2nd Floor 847.628.5025 Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/English Conversation Group 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic Night 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400

Wed.Aug.19 Job Training Information Session 9a-10.30a, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Geodes and Gems Geodes are one of the coolest phenomena of geology; deceptively like a regular rock at first glance, but when cracked open, geodes reveal beautiful quartz formations. Discover how they formed and even have a chance to crack one open for yourself! Registration Required. 12p, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655. $2

Mon-Thu 7am - 7pm Friday 7am - 8pm Saturday 8am - 9pm

176 E. Chicago St. Downtown Elgin (847) 697-2583 theblueboxcafe.com private events and catering available

WEEKENDS

Podcasts Movies Games

Check our calendar

ORIGINAL POETRY

Video Lab Teens can learn how to create and edit a professional quality video recording in our state of the art digital media lab. For teens entering grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 Rep. Anna Moeller presents: Citizen’s Utility Board Clinic Confused about all the choices out there for electric and gas service? Trying to

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

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Theater & Dance

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Lectures & Learning Creativity Other

wanted for Volume 5 of

elgin MUSE

send to elginpoetrybox@live.com deadline: August 15, 2015 www.facebook.com/elginpoetrybox

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12 figure out the best phone solution for you and your family? Come to our free workshop and get free one-onone advice from the Citizens Utility Board (CUB), Illinois’s premiere utility watchdog group. Bring your gas, electric, and phone bills and a CUB representative will sit down with you and go over all the confusing charges and make sure you’re on the best plan for your needs. 5p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 Contemporary Fiction Book Group 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Walking Book Club 7p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic Night 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510

Thu.Aug.20 Harvest Market The market meets every Thursday, June 4 to October 1, 9am to 2pm. In its sixteenth year the market offers and encourages locally grown and sustainably produced food from area businesses who offer fresh, quality vegetables, fruits, bread, meat, olives, spices, and knife sharpening services. 9a, Kimball St at Grove Ave 847.488.1456 Harvest Market in the PM 9a, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000 Brown Bag Lunch: Toy Soldiers with

Don Pielin Don Pielin and Steve Sommers both well known historians and collectors of vintage toy soliders will give insight into how toy manufacturers viewed major historic events and how that reflected in the toy figures they manufactured. This is a not to be missed event! Refreshments provided. 12p, Elgin History Museum 847.742.4248 ChessMaster Junior Chess Club 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Wordplay The Teen Writers & Artists Project, in which teens pursuing writing and other art forms are mentored by professionals, will present a writing workshop, open mic and special featured performer. 6p-8.30p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Elgin Genealogical Society 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Veterans Information Networking Session 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411

Fri.Aug.21 Battle of the Bands Semifinals.

Bands TBD 8p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. $5 donation Del Sol Covering music from the 80’s - now. Including Santana and some Latin covers as well. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. Free

Sat.Aug.22 Read to Rover 11.30a-12p, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271 Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit 1p-3p, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271 Big Head Todd and The Monsters In Festival Park, with JJ Grey and Mofro, and G Love & Special Sauce. 7.30p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. $25 and up Pop Machine Purveyors of pure power pop. 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510.

Free Q Balls Pop, rock and R&B from the 1960’s to the latest and greatest hits of today. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. Free

Sun.Aug.23 Illinois Lao Leadership Forum Round table discussion to better the Lao community throughout the state.

12.30p-4.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700

Tue.Aug.25 Open Mic Night 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400

Wed.Aug.26 Learn the Secrets of Amazing Marketing Jackie Camacho-Ruiz of JJR Marketing, knows the ins and outs of marketing, what works and what doesn’t. Using her knowledge and experience, she readily shares what it takes to make marketing work for you. Sponsored by Elgin State Bank.

1001 S. Randall Road 5p, Elgin State Bank 847.741.5660 Open Mic Night 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510

Thu.Aug.27 Bar Stool Lecture Series: Elgin’s Sweet Past From factory to home production, ice cream and various candies have been made right here in Elgin! Find out where and when and view memorabilia from Elgin’s sweet past. Donations accepted 7p, Martini Room 847.741.0349 Harvest Market The market meets every Thursday, June 4 to October 1, 9am to 2pm. In its sixteenth year the market offers and encourages locally grown and sustainably produced food from area businesses who offer fresh, quality vegetables, fruits, bread, meat, olives, spices, and knife sharpening services. 9a, Parking Lot

1.1 847.488.1456 Book Club Gather with friends and readers to discuss a new selection each month while enjoying refreshments. Every fourth Thursday. 7.30p, Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 847.429.2276. $5 donation

Sat.Aug.29 Bison Feeding Join us for an up close and personal look at the bison, deer and elk at the Lords Park Zoo. Meet at the Museum for a short introduction after which we head for the zoo to assist the zookeeper in feeding these magnificent creatures. Space is limited to 12 people, so please register early! Free for members. 7a, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655. $2 Women’s Outdoor Weekend Take advantage of the unique outdoor opportunities available to you through the Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation.

Join us and discover your Inner Outdoor Woman! Two-day event continues Sunday. Registration Required.

7.30a, Max McGraw Wildlife Foundation 847.741.8000. $160

Elgin iFest 4th Annual International Festival In its fourth year, Elgin iFest celebrates the Greater Fox Valley’s rich cultural diversity through music and entertainment, ethnic cuisine, hands-on activities, City of Peace, a “world market”, and cultural arts and crafts. 11a-7p, Riverside Drive Promenade 847.531.7056. Free Battle of the Bands FINAL Bands TBD. Visit www.sidestreetstudioarts.org for details. 8p, Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 847.429.2276. $5 donation One Way Energetic live music for listening and dancing. 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover

BRAVO

August 2015

Taste: The State of the Steak Burrito

The Burrito Challenge We went around Elgin trying burritos at various taquerias. At each location, we ordered three steak burritos (one for each of us), without making any special requests. We scored each burrito based on its overall quality and value. Below are our picks for best quality and best value, out of the eleven restaurants we visited.

roncito Loco on North State St. Each of these restaurants delivered fantastic burritos for around $4.50.

Best Quality

While not the best value of all the restaurants we visited, an honorable mention in this category was Taqueria El Cokito for including a generously sized bag of tortilla chips complimentary with our burritos.

The best burrito we had was made by Mariscos El Amigo II on Summit St. When you first taste their burrito, something is different. The first bite isn’t overpowered by tortilla or filler ingredients like you might find at a lot of other places.

Instead, you get a combination of steak, veggies, and refried beans that is flavorful and well mixed. If you are looking for something a little extra, the house salsa certainly delivers as it adds tons of flavor and dimension to the meal, without too much heat.

Best Value The best value was a toss-up between two restaurants on the same block: El Faro and Cama-

These burritos weren’t skimpy either, weighing in at over one pound of food per person. El Faro even included a small baggie of pickled vegetables.

Good Noms Award

The Three Gastronauts Avery lives on the far west side, and works as a software technician at R.R. Donnelley Premedia Technologies in downtown Elgin.

Hayden lives on the east side, and is a web developer at Velocity Software in Lombard.

Will is an east-sider who attends the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee.

FEED.steakburritos Mariscos El Amigo II • 915 Summit Street • (847) 841-7615 El Faro • 9 N State Street • (847) 888-0161 Camaroncito Loco • 21 N State Street • (224) 633-8880 Taqueria El Cokito • 81 Villa Street • (847) 695-7930 Cilantro Taco Grill • 512 Waverly Drive • (224) 227-7224 El Faro • 1315 Lillian Street • (847) 697-9058 El Paraiso • 315 S. McLean Boulevard • (847) 429-9200 Los Girasoles • 840 Summit Street • (847) 697-7733 Taqueria Chapala • 901 Liberty Street • (847) 695-1312 Tacos La Flor • 910 Dundee Avenue • (847) 888-3554 Taqueria La Rosa • 895 Villa Street • (847) 760-6120

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BRAVO

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BRAVO 1.2 . . . . . . . . . . . . August 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 3 BRAVO 1.3 . . . . . . . . . . . . September 23 . . . . . . . . . . September 25 . . . . . . . . . . . October 1 BRAVO 1.4 . . . . . . . . . . . . October 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . October 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . October 29 BRAVO 1.5 . . . . . . . . . . . . November 25 . . . . . . . . . . November 27 . . . . . . . . . . . December 3 BRAVO 1.6 . . . . . . . . . . . . December 21 . . . . . . . . . . December 23 . . . . . . . . . . . December 31 Publication dates are subject to change.

Please contact Marquee Media before scheduling your ad.

BRAVO

August 2015

ASSIGNMENT BOARD This is where we post assignments for volunteer writers, photographers, and artists. We tell you what material we need, and you send in your work. 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 ...

BRAVO 1.2: Fringe Fest & Films Deadline: Wed. August 26, 5pm Cover Art: Fringe Fest poster or local film poster Stories about local films & film makers (300 words) Interview with Fringe Fest performers (300 words) Elgin Filmography (infographic) Photos from Elgin Fringe Fest 2014 (1200 x 1200 pixels)

BRAVO 1.3: Tin Types & Craft Beers Deadline: Wed. Sept. 23, 5pm Cover Art: Photograph on metal, Elgin theme preferred Local photographers who develop on metal (300 words) Pics of metal substrate photographs (1200 x 1200 px) Where to find Elgin’s Best Beers (300-500 words)

Submit to: bravo@marqueemedia.net

HELP WANTED Freelance Producers (1-2)

A Word From the Publisher

Print: A Medium of Place In my line of work, I often hear the phrase “print is dead.”

Newspapers are shrinking, telephone books are extinct, and magazines now pay for readers instead of the other way around.

The variety and immediacy of digital media is irresistible compared to ink and paper.

Yet the ability to share experiences instantly from around the globe means we can be virtually everywhere—or nowhere—at any time. In cyberspace, we lose our sense of place.

Facebook.com is a “site,” but Elgin, Illinois is actually a place.

This experiment in publishing is an attempt to reestablish that sense of place, by sharing words and images by, for and about Elgin. And you can only get this experience of Elgin culture by showing up at a local place to pick up a free copy.

Produce an entire issue of BRAVO Magazine once every 4-6 weeks. This requires Adobe Creative Suite 6 on Macintosh, and advanced premedia skills. The position involves everything except ad sales, photography and writing, but those chops are valued, too.

At BRAVO magazine, we define culture in terms of these three things.

Freelance Distributors (1-2)

We’re defined by what we choose for ourselves, and while true on so many levels, the old cliché “You are what you eat” is only part of the story.

Pick up BRAVO magazine from the printer on a Wednesday, and deliver bundles to pre-arranged distribution locations in grocery stores, restaurants and retail stores on Thursday. Requires a car, valid driver’s license, and knowledge of Elgin.

Freelance Ad Sales People (1-2)

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Taste

In addition to food and drink, our tastes include our personal

style, our choice of surroundings, and the things we devote our attention to.

Expression We’re also defined by the messages we send to others: our language, our stories, our visions. This is the realm of the arts, where we communicate not just with words, but with paint and pathos, music and motion.

Shared Values There is already enough that divides us. Therefore, we won’t report bad news here, encourage criticism or take a stand on controversial issues.

Instead, our mission is to bring people together around things we can agree on, like peace, freedom, friendship; love for people, respect for the community, and care for the environment.

For as long as this project is a living thing, don’t be alarmed by changes in name, appearance, or attitude. And we invite you to join us on the journey by sharing your events, ads, artwork, stories and photos. See you around!

Jeffrey R. Pierce Publisher jeffrey@marqueemedia.net

Sell ad space in BRAVO magazine to Elgin businesses, non-profits and professional offices. Work as much or as little as you want, and keep a percentage of what you sell. Multilingual preferred.

Freelance Print Ad Designers (1-2) Create awesome advertisements for BRAVO advertisers, suitable for print. Must be fast, accurate, highly creative, and equipped with tools to produce CMYK PDF files with vector and raster art.

Write to: jeffrey@marqueemedia.net All positions are for freelance contractors, not employees. You must be self-employed and have a means of producing an invoice for your services to Marquee Media.

❝ We define culture

in terms of these three things: Taste, Expres­­sion, and Shared Values.

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

Lynn Harrell Plays Tchaikovsky October 3, 2015 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center October 4, 2015 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Andrew Grams, conductor Lynn Harrell, cello Ives Variations on America Tchaikovsky Variations on a Rococo Theme Tchaikovsky Andante Cantabile Brahms Symphony No. 1 Celebrate opening weekend with one of America’s most celebrated soloists alongside Music Director Andrew Grams!

Out of this World: Sci-fi Movie Classics

October 16, 2015 7:30 pm Schaumburg Prairie Center for the Arts October 17, 2015 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center October 18, 2015 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Matthew Kraemer, conductor If you like the movies, you’ll LOVE the music! Come hear themes from your favorite sci-fi classics…

Musical Chills & Thrills

October 31, 2015 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center November 1, 2015 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Andrew Grams, conductor Damon Gupton, narrator Mussorgsky Night on Bald Mountain Saint-Saens Danse Macabre Gounod Funeral March of a Marionette Stookey Lemony Snicket's The Composer is Dead Hair-raising stories and soul haunting sounds abound at this frighteningly funny concert featuring acclaimed actor, Damon Gupton.

French Connection with Isabella Lippi

Andrew Grams Plays Violin

January 8, 2016 7:30 pm Schaumburg Prairie Center for the Arts January 9, 2016 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center January 10, 2016 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Andrew Grams, conductor & violin Isabella Lippi, violin Matthew Agnew, cello Bach Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 Corelli Concerto Grosso, op. 6 Theofanidis Muse Mozart Symphony No. 25 in G minor, K. 183 As virtuosic a violinist as he is a conductor, don’t miss Andrew Grams’ violin debut with ESO!

Copland & Shostakovich

January 30, 2016 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center January 31, 2016 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Andrew Grams, conductor Copland Appalachian Spring Shostakovich Symphony No. 11 (The Year 1905) This concert embodies the hopeful dreams of a young America and the stark realities of the Russian Revolution.

A Rodgers & Hammerstein Celebration

February 12, 2016 7:30 pm Schaumburg Prairie Center for the Arts February 13, 2016 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center February 14, 2016 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Stephen Squires, conductor Jenn Gambatese & Sean McLaughlin, vocalists Oscar Andy Hammerstein III, host Music of Rodgers & Hammerstein Experience the great Rodgers and Hammerstein classics with Lyric Opera star Jenn Gambatese.

November 21, 2015 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center November 22, 2015 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Andrew Grams, conductor Isabella Lippi, violin Adams Tromba Lontana Chausson Poème Berlioz Rêverie et Caprice Sibelius Symphony No. 2 Dark and velvety sounds will set your imagination wild as ESO favorite Isabella Lippi takes the stage.

Brahms & Ives: No Limits

Magical Disney Experience

Rachel Barton Pine Plays Dvořák

November 28, 2015 1:30 pm & 6:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Stephen Squires, conductor Your favorite Disney films and music come alive onstage. Hear music and see film clips from The Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Beauty and the Beast, Lion King, Frozen, and more!

Magical Holiday Concerts

December 12, 2015 1:30 pm & 6:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center December 13, 2015 1:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Stephen Squires, conductor Marisa Buchheit, soprano (Miss Illinois 2014) Elgin Master Chorale, Elgin Children's Chorus & Midwest Dance Collective Enjoy musical holiday favorites at this magical concert - perfect for the whole family!

ElginSymphony.Org

847-888-4000

Ticket prices range from $30-$65.

Taxes and fees not included.

March 12, 2016 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center March 13, 2016 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Andrew Grams, conductor Alexander Schimpf, piano Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-flat Major Ives Symphony No. 2 After Alexander Schimpf’s limitless piano skills astound you, prepare yourself for Ives’ specialty: musical surprises!

April 1, 2016 7:30 pm Schaumburg Prairie Center for the Arts April 2, 2016 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center April 3, 2016 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center David Danzmayr, conductor Rachel Barton Pine, violin Dvořák Othello Overture Dvořák Violin Concerto Dvořák Symphony No. 9 in E minor “From the New World” The most romantic of programs played by one of the most talented and well-loved Chicago violinists, Rachel Barton Pine. Plus, a special tribute to an original American violinist, Maud Powell.

Season Finale: Bernstein & Mahler

April 30, 2016 7:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center May 1, 2016 2:30 pm Hemmens Cultural Center Andrew Grams, conductor Laura Wilde , soprano Bernstein Symphony No. 1 “Jeremiah” Mahler Symphony No. 4 The ESO closes its 15-16 season with Andrew Grams conducting two titans of the symphonic repertoire!