BRAVO 1.3

an elgin culture magazine

with the

The Soul Collectors pp. 2-5

OCTOBER 2015

1.3

Elgin’s Finest

Craft Beer Haunts

pp. 12-13

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Fine Decorative Painting

1.3

Expression: The Self Only a Camera can See

Specializing in Era-Specific Room Design

The Soul Collectors If there is any truth to the aboriginal belief that photographs can steal your soul, then wet plate photography offers the strongest proof.

Gilded-Lily

Historical Finishes

Susan Giugliano 847-791-5102

http://gildedlily.shutterfly.com

Faux Woodgrain Marble, Leather Gilding, Glazes Textures Polychrome Custom Stenciling

Cover artist: Barbara Broeske I make photo documents that explore Elgin’s vintage (threatened) commercial, industrial, and cultural places in the old evolving heart of the city. I comb and sort through treasured (and trashed) visual references to the evidence of earlier commerce, labor, and lifeways—so thoughtfully planned and so skillfully and ornately built by Elgin-dwellers offering their best talents in making this place a Place, well before our time. I find “soulprints” that evoke that spirit of place.

I ask the community to question and consider “What is local heritage?”

The most humble, disrespected, underappreciated style and materials of a rusty old railroad bridge? Or an award-winning, restored Victorian park pavilion. Maybe, seen together, as equal, the context is richer for both. And, for all of us with eyes.

May the inevitable modernization forces honor the old hand-wrought elements with hard-won patina, and promote people and structures that provide a “soul connection” to a unique Place ... where satisfying creative lives happen. Sensitized and engaged, may both new and long-time Elgin-dwellers nurture our own gifts and insights, and keep the generous current in Elgin flowing and deep.

Through the lens of Doug Hanson's camera, skin can change its race, and faces reveal the genetic expression produced by hundreds of earthly generations.

His images might be described as X-rays that can see into the DNA of your ancestors.

Moving Spirits As an engineer by day, Hanson

needs to understand how things work. As an after-hours artist, he took up photography as a means of cataloging his paintings, and this led to an investigation into the original materials and methods of the craft.

"I felt compelled to try to do it the way it was done at the beginning," confesses Hanson. "Wet plate photography is at its most raw and basic form."

Starting with a blackened, 8 x 10 inch metal plate, he skillfully pours on a coating of halide collodion, a syrupy mixture

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October 2015

of ether, alcohol and a weak explosive. After soaking in silver nitrate for a few minutes, the plate becomes sensitive to high frequency light.

The plate slides into a camera made of wooden frames, brass brackets, a bellows and a long lens. Mounted on a tripod, it could be mistaken for a telescope that sees faces from another century. Still objects can be shot in natural light, but people are best captured in a single blinding flash.

Image Alchemy In the red glow of Hanson's subterranean lab, likenesses slowly appear on the plate as it swirls in chemical baths. The plate is washed and dried, then coated in shellac and baked over a flame.

As Hanson puts it, "These images can transport you back in time and haunt you with a view of self that you would never see looking in the mirror."

Photography geeks understand

it's the large aperture, long exposures and spectral sensitivity that gives wet plate photographs their supernatural quality. To the rest of us, the effect seems magical.

Hanson the engineer explains, "This process is fraught with unpredictability." But Hanson the artist admits to occasionally conjuring the Collodion Fairies to help create images with the characteristic artifacts that are so beloved—and bewildering—to fresh eyes.

"Most of my work results from realizing my vision in a controlled fashion. But the Fairies still surprise me with an unexpected treasure from time to time."

Things Unseen You won't find casinos, muscle cars, or sunsets in Doug Hanson's portfolio. That's partly because his photos must be developed in a darkroom immediately after they're taken, and also because outdoor lighting is

hard to predict and control.

As a result his studio subjects are usually people, and things of human scale. But he insists his medium is not the message.

"My vision for my work dic-

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tates the subject choice, not the process," he says. "The emotional connection of that vision is best realized through representations of the human experience in portraits and encountered objects."

Doug Hanson, a photographer living in Hoffman Estates, specializes in antiquarian techniques including wet plate.

His work explores dimensions of human experience and likeness represented with an altered sense of time. He exhibits both locally and internationally.

Along with his original photography work, he conducts workshops in wet plate and other photographic processes.

DougHansonArt.com

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Expression: The Soul of a City Barbara Broeske believes in capturing the soul of a Place in the images of its abandoned sites and overlooked buildings. In speaking of the Heider Electric site on State Street, she says, "I never saw this building until I took a picture of it."

Her inspiration first became action after sorting through collected photographs at the Elgin History Museum. The rare images from decades ago made her realize that scenes of a Place that has thrived for 180 years are continually disappearing.

"This Place and its lingering artifacts and beautiful remnants have stories to tell," she says.

"It's not nowhere."

Bones of the Streets

❝ I never saw this building until I took a picture of it ...

— Barbara Broeske

Now she sorts through the actual bridges, buildings and walkways of Elgin to find unusual views of structure and detail, and evidence of past activity. In many cases they are scenes that are fading away before our eyes; all of them are images that only her camera can show you.

But Broeske is an artist, not an archaeologist. Her interest in history is really a character study—an examination of the nature and personality of a Place that's still alive—and a desire to give that character a voice and a role for the future.

"I'm impelled to capture something visceral, to collect some visual fragment, and then create something new and beautiful with it."

Digital Divination Starting with a digital photograph taken in the field, Broeske explores its possibilities using Adobe Photoshop, which she first encountered at Elgin Community College in the nineties.

"These digital tools allow you to be completely naive." she says. "I'm not the least bit concerned with how it works."

To some people computers are tyrants, but Broeske finds creative liberation in the vast capabilities of software. "This button does this?" she enthuses in describing the sometimes accidental process of discovering— and transforming—the beauty of

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October 2015

a scene by manipulating its tone and texture.

Return to the Seen Though she describes her work as a form of documentation, Broeske's images were never intended to be archived on computer disks, nor merely browsed on a screen. The importance of large format printing is paramount.

"I want you to be able to see the whole image from across a room," she says, which is the closest we can get to experiencing these streetscapes the way the artist first did.

Yet technology has still more with which to inspire: the effect of radiant light from images displayed on a computer monitor led Broeske to try printing on materials other than plain white paper.

Reflective metallic backings and even bare and brushed aluminum plates can now be digitally imaged.

Topped with clear acrylic, the prints ef-

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fectively communicate Broeske's vision of the Spirit of a Place—a collective soul whose captured light seems to emanate from the iron and brick of its endangered structures.

And the solitary person in each photo?

“The sudden appearance of a person in the shot changes it— from an architectural subject to a context for a moment of conscious human presence. And there’s the magic!”

—JP

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wins! Win some sweet swag, gift baskets and other cool stuff from the participating breweries! 7p-9p, Elgin Public House 847.468.8810

Doug Orlyk. Fridays and Saturdays, Oct. 2-3, 9-10. independentplayers.org 8p, Elgin Art Showcase 847.931.6019. $10-12-15

Intro to Google Tools See how Hangouts, Forms, Drive, Calendar and Apps can help you simplify your life. 7p-8p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

Acoustic Duo Jame and Bob 9p, Walnut Speakeasy 847.695.2420. No cover

Fri.Oct.2

Thu.Oct.1 Downtown Elgin Harvest Market Locally grown and sustainably produced fresh, quality vegetables, fruits, bread, meat, spices, and more 9a-2p, Kimball St at Grove Ave Device Advice Bring your device for hands-on learning. 9.30a-11.30a, Rakow Computer Cafe 847.531.7271 Wonderful Ones 15 minutes of stories, music and movement activity and 15 min. play period for children 1-2 yrs with parent or caregiver. Registration required. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Terrific Twos 20 minutes of stories, interactive fingerplays and large muscle activities for 2 year olds and an adult caregiver. Registration is required. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 Story Mix for Three to Six 30 minutes of picture book stories and songs for children age 3-6. No registration required. Parents must remain in building. 10.15a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Terrific Twos 10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 ChessMaster Junior Chess Club Kids grades 2-12 are invited to hone their chess skills. All abilities. 4p5p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Baby Rhyme Time Storytime for infants 0-11 months with adult caregiver. Registration required.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room South 847.742.2411 Peter Clementi’s CD Release Party It is time to celebrate the 3rd solo album brought to you by Peter Clementi, Here’s To Sunshine. Enjoy acoustic sets from members of Tea and Little Yellow Dog! $5 suggested donation CDs are $5. 6.30p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276 Danny’s D.J. Night 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover Elgin Public House’s Battle of the Oktoberfests Four of the best craft breweries in America. Four different takes on the German classic Oktoberfest Marzen style. You decide who

Community Crisis Center: Partners in Peace Breakfast Please join us as we honor organizations and individuals who have given outstanding service to domestic violence victims and their children. Reservations required. 7.30a, Elgin Country Club 847.697.2380. $25 Baby Rhyme Time 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Wonderful Ones 10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out 5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe 847.697.2583 DNA First Friday: Warhol Monthly celebration in support of local arts, restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

Enjoy extended retail hours, special events, promotions, and live entertainment hosted by restaurants, bars, art galleries and performance venues.

5p-10p, Various Downtown Locations Something Wicked Art Opening & Reception The return of October’s Dark Arts exhibit opens on First Friday and runs through Nightmare On Chicago Street. Enjoy live music

by Night Witch. $5 donation. 6p-10p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276 The Wonder Bread Years A salute to the Baby Boomer Generation, The Wonder Bread Years is a fast-paced, hilarious production that gracefully walks the line between stand-up and theater. Starring Pat Hazell 7p, Blizzard Theater 847.214.7140. $33 ECC International Film Series: Les bas-fonds (The Lower Depths, directed by Jean Renoir) (1936) Jean Renoir and Akira Kurosawa, two of cinema’s greatest directors, transform Maxim Gorky’s classic proletariat play The Lower Depths in their own ways for their own times. Each film offers a look at cinematic adaptation— where social conditions and filmmaking styles converge to create unique masterpieces. 7.30p, ECC Spartan Auditorium 847.931.3925. Free Green Room Improv Unscripted comedy includes competing improv teams, improvised songs, audience members onstage, tons of energy ... oh, and did we mention there’s live music? 8p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900. $10-12 LOVE4 (Love to the 4th Power) An entertaining musical revue featuring songs from the contemporary musical theatre. Conceived and directed by

Smokin’ Gunz 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover Triadd Acoustic, classic rock. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000.

No cover

Sat.Oct.3 Cello Master Class with Lynn Harrell The Elgin Symphony will host a master class with renowned cellist Lynn Harrell at the Gail Borden Public Library. Witness the learning process as a world-class guest artist works with area students on technique and musicianship. 10a, Gail Borden Public Library. Free Vertical Gardening Join our neighbors as they share their experience and success with Hydroponic vertical gardening. 10a-11a, Rakow Outside West 847.531.7271 YWCA of Elgin: Annual Auction & Celebration Delicious brunch followed by a live auction. Cash bar available. 10a-2p, Elgin Country Club. $25-30 5th Annual Harvest Festival Celebrate the harvest season with games, crafts, music by area musicians, and fall treats. Activities will be held indoors in case of rain. 1p-3p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Presence Saint Joseph Hospital Auxiliary’s The Roaring 20’s Gala Have a roaring good time at the Presence Saint Joseph Hospital Auxiliary’s annual fundraiser. Come dressed in glamorous 1920s attire or formal wear and enjoy cocktails, dinner, dancing and entertainment by Phase 4. 6p, Chicago Marriott Northwest. $175 re:visit elgin Opening Reception re:visit elgin is a collaborative art and history exhibit focused on storytelling. The exhibit will include audio memories of downtown Elgin, and visual art inspired by the area - its past, present and future. Music provided

by Rediscover Records, refreshments available. Exhibit through October.

7p-10p, Imago Creative Studios Elgin Symphony Orchestra: Lynn Harrell Plays Tchaikovsky This opening weekend to remember brings together your music director, Andrew Grams, celebrated cellist, Lynn Harrell and the musicians of the ESO. Enjoy familiar American sounds with Ives, virtuosic Tchaikovsky cello performances, and the triumphant Brahms Symphony Number One! 7.30p, Hem-

1.3 mens Cultural Center 847.931.5900. $30 and up LOVE4 (Love to the 4th Power) 8p, Elgin Art Showcase 847.931.6019. $15, $12 seniors, $10 students ABB4 Music from the 80’s, 90’s and top 40. 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510.

No cover All Gold Everything Trap Edition Luminox, Axilon, Free Pizzv, M.O.B. and more. medusachicago.com 9p-4a, Medusa’s 847.488.0320 Project Atlantis 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover Rebel Reign Favorite country, rock and pop hits from the 80’s to today. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. No cover

Sun.Oct.4 Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 Intermedio de Microsoft Word Aprenda a usar MS Word para crear disenos de pagina, combinacion de correspondencia y para correccion de ortografia 1p-2.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Elgin Symphony Orchestra: Lynn Harrell Plays Tchaikovsky 2.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900. $30 and up Bad Dates, Or ... is a new one-woman show about one-woman’s journey through the asteroid field of love, dating, and the filmography of one man: Harrison Ford. 3p, Blue Box Cafe 847.697.2583. $10 donation

Mon.Oct.5 Poetry Writers Workshop Gareth Mann Sitz, poet and songwriter, will facilitate. No registration. 6.30p8.30p, GBPL Conf. Room 847.742.2411 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 7p-8p Tablets: Getting Started Learn how to navigate, connect to WiFi, download apps, adjust settings and more in this session! 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

Tue.Oct.6 Elgin Genealogical Society Monthly genealogy program and meeting. 9.30a-12p, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime Your preschooler will enjoy stories read by a library staff member, followed by a milk and cookie snack compliments of Panera Bread, 322 Randall Road, South Elgin. Registration required. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go

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October 2015 Job Search & Resume Help Drop in for 1:1 assistance with your job search, resume, cover letter, completing online applications, and more. 1p-4.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Creative Writing Lab for Grades 3-8 Complete a short piece of illustrated writing. Attendance at all four sessions is expected. Registration required. 3.30p-5p, Rakow Corridor West 847.531.7271 Property Maintenance Board of Appeals 5p-6p Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee 6p-7p, Centre of Elgin Centre of Elgin 847.531.7000 Pizza & Books Stop by Studio 270 for a slice of pizza and talk about books that we are currently reading.

Grades 9-12. 6p-7p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group Practica conversar en ingles con un tutor del Literacy Connection. Practice having every day conversations in English with a tutor from the Literacy Connection. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Human Relations Commission 6.30p-7.30p Elgin Heritage Commission 7p-8p LinkedIn Basics Learn about the site and its basic features in this informative demonstration. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover Shared Harvest Annual Meeting Shared Harvest’s vision is to open a grocery store cooperative that provides fresh, healthful, food that is primarily organic and locally produced.

Join us for discussion on the latest progress we’ve made toward building our store, and become a shareholder!

Representatives from Sugar Beet will be on hand. sharedharvest.coop 7p, Centre of Elgin 847.531.7000

Wed.Oct.7 Job Training Information Session Training grants are available to help you get a job! Learn about WIA services and the application process. Attendance is required for the entirety of the session. 9a-10.30a, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Elgin Chamber’s CEO Unplugged: Bob Paddock of Paddock Publications Find out how Bob Paddock of Paddock Publications values community relationships and how the business has changed. The luncheon will be in the Fox River Room on the second floor, at 11:30 a.m. for registration with buffet luncheon at 11:45 a.m.

Questions and networking to follow.

Reservations can be made online.

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11.30a-1p. elginchamber.com Live Web Chat with the Mayor 12p-2.30p Flickr Basics See how Flickr can help you make the most of your photos in this fun class! 1p-2.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Inklings Join other teen writers and develop ideas into finished stories, poetry, lyrics, or any other kind of writing that interests you. Bring any of your own writing with you.

Grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Special Liquor Commission Meeting 4.30p-5.30p Open Knit 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class Lecciones y conversacion en ingles y espanol. No hace falta inscribirse. English and Spanish lessons and conversations. No registration. 6p-7p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Danny’s on Douglas Family Karaoke 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400 Duct Tape Workshop Learn how to make a duct tape wallet, construct a rose, or develop your own unique duct-tape design. All experience levels welcome. 7p-8p, GBPL Middle School Zone 847.742.2411 MS Excel 2010: Conditional Formatting & Other Advanced Formulas Quickly highlight important numbers, work with multiple sheets in an Excel file, calculate percentages, and use the PMT and VLOOKUP functions.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Walking Book Club 7p-8.45p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night Wednesday nights are for Trivia!

Weekly prizes for the top three teams, as well as eight-week cumulative tourneys with big grand prizes. 8p-10p, Elgin Public House 847.468.8810 Open Mic 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover

Thu.Oct.8 Device Advice Bring your question and your device for some 1:1 help and a cup of coffee or tea! 9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 Become the speaker and leader you want to be.

Toastmasters will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation.

Please join us as a guest! No registration. 12p-1p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Sports Card Trading Club Sport

2015-16 Concert Season Tickets on Sale NOW!

Bringing extraordinary chamber music to the Fox Valley region.

Classical with a Twist!

The Wedge Quartet October 20th at 7:30 pm Side Street Studio Arts $20/$10 Students The Wedge Quartet specializes in music that is as much fun for audiences as it is for the musicians! Hear them go beyond the usual musical borders to play the best of many genres in their own elegant, kinetic style: from classical to bluegrass to rock to Bollywood, and even their own original compositions.

Buy a Season Subscription! Attend all 5 Chamber Music on the Fox concerts for $75 (a 25% savings).

ChamberMusicOnTheFox.org Chamber Music on the Fox is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization.

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8 trivia program for elementary aged students. 3.30p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 ChessMaster Junior Chess Club 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - West 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 Danny’s D.J. Night 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400 Elgin Public House’s Cademon Tap Take Over Cademon Brewing Company of Genoa, IL will be taking over our taps for a night! We’ll feature The Evil Pumpkin Patch, Vanilla Demonic Stout, Needs More Zen, and a surprise fourth beer from this up and coming brewery! 7p-9p, Elgin Public House 847.468.8810 Google Tools for Communication Learn how Google+ and Google Translate can help you streamline electronic communication. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Halloween Zendoodle! Learn how doodling with lines, patterns and shapes can spark your creativity and become a useful tool in your everyday life. Learn how to benefit from the calming effect of putting pen to paper; design a bookmark and complete a set of 2 Halloween cards to take with you. Space is limited, so please register. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 Sweet Honey in the Rock® The women of this Grammy-winning a cappella ensemble capture the complex sounds of blues, spirituals, traditional gospel hymns, rap, reggae, African chants, hip hop, jazz improvisation, and more with stunning vocal prowess. 7p, Blizzard Theater 847.214.7140. $39

Fri.Oct.9 Manufacture Your Future Exhibit Manufacture Your Future is an exhibit of leading manufacturers in the Elgin area showcasing their products and highlighting careers in advanced manufacturing. Daily, Gail Borden Public Library Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out 5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe 847.697.2583 Tequila Tree Painting Social Presented by Ola la Ijorere. 6.30p, St. Catherine of Siena Church 312.254.9807. $50 ECC International Film Series: Donzoko (The Lower Depths, directed

by Akira Kurosawa) (1957) Jean Renoir and Akira Kurosawa, two of cinema’s greatest directors, transform Maxim Gorky’s classic proletariat play The Lower Depths in their own ways for their own times. Each film

offers a look at cinematic adaptation— where social conditions and filmmaking styles converge to create unique masterpieces. 7.30p, ECC Spartan Auditorium 847.931.3925. Free

847.717.0510. No cover

Sun.Oct.11

Just South of Heaven Americana, Country and Alternative. Country with a twist! 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. No cover

Judson University Preview Overnight Tour campus, attend a meeting about your desired major, interact with current staff, faculty and students as well as attend chapel, dine in the cafeteria, and stay overnight to truly experience Judson dorm life and life on campus. Register by 10/7.

Uptown 6 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700

Something Wicked: A Halloween Burlesque Revue Chicago Burlesque Showcase, led by MsPixy with Giant Martini, returns for their third annual Halloween Burlesque Revue. 10p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. $20 donation

LinkedIn Fundamentos Obtener una vision general de las caracteristicas basicas de LinkedIn y aprender como se puede ayudar a avanzar en su carrera. 1p-2.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

LOVE4 (Love to the 4th Power) 8p, Elgin Art Showcase 847.931.6019. $15, $12 seniors, $10 students

Sat.Oct.10 Community Crisis Center October is National Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. Come to the lobby of the library to find out what services are available from the Community Crisis Center. 9a-5p, GBPL SE Lobby Read to Rover 10a-10.15a, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Star Wars Reads Day Star Wars Reads Day activities 10a-4p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 Read to Rover 10.30a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 SSSA’s Krampus Mask Workshop The first of two Krampus mask workshops including kids size masks of paper and / or fabric mache. Get ready for the Krampus Krawl on December 4th! 11a, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. Donation Accents Kids Day As part of our Accents arts education and outreach program, Side Street Studio Arts hosts seasonal make and take arts events for children that are free and open to the public. Sponsored by Elgin Knit Works. 11a-3p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. Free LOVE4 (Love to the 4th Power) 8p, Elgin Art Showcase 847.931.6019. $15, $12 seniors, $10 students

Sunday Afternoon Concert - Around the World with Percussion The ESO Percussion Ensemble spins the globe and visits countries around the world, showing off the incredible variety of instruments. 2p-3p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 Zoo-a-Palooza Gala Fund Raiser Hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer, soda plus live music, silent auction and raffles.

Questions: betsya4518@aol.com 4p7p, ArtSpace 847.214.2922. $30 Whose Live Anyway? 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. Second show 10/14. 7p, Blizzard Theater 847.214.7140. $45-55

Mon.Oct.12 Let’s Make Masks! Come and make a mask! All materials provided.

10a-11.30a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Brown Bag Lunch Classic Films - Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948, NR) Abbott and Costello, as railroad baggage clerks, receive a strange shipment - the last remains of Dracula and Frankenstein’s monster. This is one of Abbott & Costello’s finest efforts, and teamed with the classic Universal Monsters, the film is a surprisingly entertaining mix of comedy and chills! With Bela Lugosi, Glenn Strange. (Not rated, 83 minutes) 11a-1p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411

ZAHDE A storytelling experience featuring Guest Artist Karim Nagi, Arab Musician & Folk Dancer from Egypt & USA. 8p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. $15 donation

Spanish Cafe/Cafe en Espanol 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

Cavern Beat Beatles tribute. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000.

No cover

No School Discovery Day - Grades 3-6 Create metal sculpture from mined recycled appliance parts.

Registration required. 1p-2p, Rakow Corridor West 847.531.7271

Flanl 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover No LIMIT’s Music from the 80’s, 90’s and top 40. 9p, D Hangout

Minecraft for Grades 6-8 All ability levels are welcome. 2p-3p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

1.3 Audio Lab Teens learn how to create and edit a professional quality audio record in our state of the art digital media lab. Grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411 STEAMologists Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math! Kids in first-fifth grade will be exploring, experimenting and creating. 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 The Gaming Event Players in grades 3-up are welcome to come to this monthly drop-in event. Play Pokemon™, Yu-Gi-Oh™, and other role-playing games. No registration required. 6p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. B-C 847.742.2411 World Leader’s Forum: Inspirational Series Featuring Nick Vujicic Join Us for the 2015 World Leaders Forum Inspirational Series featuring Nick Vujicic. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the event begins at 6:45 p.m. Nick’s keynote address will be “Nothing But Change, Can Change.” 6.45p, Judson University Herrick Chapel 847.628.2500. $50-500 Great Books Discussion Group Book Discussion 7p-9p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Tablets: Using Apps Learn about some of the best apps for enhancing your life and having fun with your device. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

Tue.Oct.13 Two Rivers: The Importance of Literacy/La Importancia del Alfabetismo Literacy Connection family program. 10a-11a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 Armchair Generals: Lincoln and Civil War Era Show ‘n’ Tell A Brown Bag Civil War and Lincoln Interest Group. Bring your own artifacts and stories to share. This meeting will be held at the Elgin History Museum, 360 Park Place (Old Main) in Elgin.

Phone (847)-742-4248. 11.45a-1.15p Job Search & Resume Help 1p-4.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Creative Writing Lab for Grades 3 - 8 3.30p-5p, Rakow Corridor West 847.531.7271 Lecture: Social Justice Matters A Research Colloquium with Dr. Ambareen Nasir: “Advocating for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students in Urban Schools” 5p-6p, Judson University Creekside South Education Building 847.628.1105. Free Dance Lesson: Salsa and Bachata/ Clase de Baile: Salsa y Bachata With Celia Lopez, 6p-7p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411

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October 2015 Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/English Conversation Group 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Getting Started with LinkedIn Create your profile, find and add contacts, locate companies and join groups in this next-level class.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Library Board Meeting 7p-9p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Wed.Oct.14 Job Training Information Session 9a-10.30a, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Facebook Basics Create a profile, request a friend, send a message and comment on a post in this introductory class. 1p-2.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Minecraft for Grades 3-5 All ability levels are welcome! Registration is required. 4p-5p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Video Lab Teens learn how to create and edit a professional quality video in our state of the art digital media lab. Grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411 Open Knit 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class 6p-7p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Family Karaoke 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400 Microsoft Excel 2010: Basics Covers topics like how to create and modify spreadsheets, and format cells , columns and rows. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

Pub Trivia Night 8p-10p, Elgin Public House 847.468.8810

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ICAG H C F BAR O L A I C OFFI

Open Mic 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover

Thu.Oct.15 Device Advice 9.30a-11.30a, Rakow Computer Cafe 847.531.7271 ChessMaster Junior Chess Club 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudadana/Citizenship Conversation Group Practicar el ingles que vas a necesitar para la entrevista y las 100 preguntas del examen de historia y civica. No hace falta inscribirse.

Practice the spoken English you will need for the interview and the 100 questions from the history/civics test.

No registration. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Novels @ Night The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Rakow Branch Danny’s D.J. Night 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400 Elgin Genealogical Society 7p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 Google Tools for Collaboration Learn how Google Drive, Google Docs and Google Hangouts make collaboration possible. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Soon To Be Famous Illinois Author Michael Alan Peck Join Michael Alan Peck, author of The Commons and the 2015 Soon To Be Famous Illinois Author winner, as he takes us on a dark, thrilling journey. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411

Fri.Oct.16

Pocket Circus/Show de Circo Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, enjoy the “world’s smallest circus,” including acrobatics, juggling, magic, humor and fun! This show stars Pocket Circus, a “new circus”-style duo from Argentina and will be presented in English and Spanish. Disfruta de Pocket Circus, “El Circo mas Pequeno del Mundo.” !Este duo de Argentina realizara actos de acrobacia, malabares, magia, humor y diversion! En ingles y espanol. 7p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411

Chamber Theatre ENCORE The five stories in our ENCORE!!™ highlight the versatility of five great authors: Edgar Allan Poe, Washington Irving, W.W. Jacobs, Guy de Maupassant and Mark Twain. 10.30a-12.15p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900

Walking Book Club 7p-8.45p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411

Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out 5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe 847.697.2583

Whose Live Anyway? 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. 7p, Blizzard Theater 847.214.7140. $45-55

Boys & Girls Club of Elgin: Great Futures Gala 6p-11p, Stonegate. $125 and up

Bellydance Wednesdays: Super Spooky Edition 8p, Martini Room 847.741.0349. No cover

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Baby’s First Library Visit Learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development. Registration preferred.

11a-11.30a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411

Halloween Science Night Learn the science behind black lights, spider-webs, and the main ingredient in witch’s brew; dry ice! Members are free. No registration. 6p-8p, Elgin

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10 Public Museum 847.741.6655. $2 Wicked Witch BYOB Painting Social 6.45p, Ola la Ijorere 312.254.9807. $35 Heartland Voices 2015 Gala Concert: Nothing but Nonsense Performance only. heartlandvoices.com 7.30p, Elgin Academy Kimball Street Theater 847.695.0303. $20 Acoustic Generation 9p, Walnut Speakeasy 847.695.2420. No cover The Moods Motown favorites from Chi-town’s most popular band! 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000.

No cover

Sat.Oct.17 Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit 10.30a-11a, GBPL Story Room South 847.742.2411 Native American Day Sal Redhawk will have his lodge set up on the Museum ground to answer questions about the Pottawatamie. Bill Buchholz Allison will be playing Native flute and Ken Geier will be flintknapping. No need to register! 12p-4p, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655. Free Games & Gadgets An assortment of board games, chess, Legos, Wii video games, or iPads will be available. Free 2p-3.30p, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Pumpkin Cemetery Kids Painting Social Rhythms & Art Workshop 4 Kids. Halloween special Spooky treats & drinks provided. 2p-3p, Ola la Ijorere 312.254.9807. $25 Manga and Anime Club for Grades 6-12 Watch anime, share fan art, and enjoy Japanese snacks while socializing with other fans. Grades 6-12 are welcome - bring a friend! 3p-4.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Oktoberfest! All You Can Eat Pizza Buffet, All You Can Drink Oktoberfest Drafts and Live Music FUN!! 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. $25 Heartland Voices: “Nothing But Nonsense” Hors d’oeuvres, raffle, silent auction and performance. heartlandvoices.com 7.30p, Kimball Street Theater 847.695.0303. $50 Rebel Souls Rock n roll. 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover Soda Party rock in the house! 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000.

No cover

Sun.Oct.18 Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 Introduccion a LinkedIn Comienza a crear tu perfil, agregar contactos y unirse a los grupos a medida que explora el poder de LinkedIn. 1p-2.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

Elgin Symphony Orchestra: Sci-fi Movie Classics Hear music from sci-fi classics such as Star Wars, Star Trek, Back to the Future and more!

2.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900

Mon.Oct.19 Wonderful Ones 9.15a-9.45a, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271 Story Mix for Three to Six 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Wonderful Ones 10a-10.30a, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271 Illinois DHS Division of Rehabilitation Services Information Session Come learn about DRS Vocational Rehabilitation Services for persons with disabilities. 1p-3p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Story Mix for Three to Six 3.30p4p, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Audio Lab 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411 Page to Screen: Harry Potter vs The Hobbit Attend this Fantasy Face Off between Harry Potter and The Hobbit. Vote online and in Studio 270 during Teen Read Week to decide who will be watched. 4p-8p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Sew Much Fun! Grades 3 & up. Get started or polish your sewing skills.

All materials provided. 4p-5p, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Wonderful Ones 5.30p-6p, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Family Jam Take a break as a family after your busy day with 30 minutes of active movement, stories and fun!

6.30p-7p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B 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 Tablets: Free Entertainment from your Library Learn how to download free eBooks, audiobooks, documentaries and movies to your device!

7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

Tue.Oct.20 Wonderful Ones 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime 9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go at Restaurant Story Mix for 3 to 6 10a-10.30a,

GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Pediatric Therapeutic Playgroup An inclusive playgroup for children who currently receive therapy services or may benefit from therapeutic play, ages 0-5. Siblings welcome.

11a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Job Search & Resume Help 1p-4.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Creative Writing Lab for Grades 3 - 8 3.30p-5p, Rakow Corridor West 847.531.7271 Art for All General Meeting Social hour 6-7 PM, meeting begins at 7PM. artforallelgin.com 6p, ArtSpace 847.214.2922 Terrific Twos 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/English Conversation Group 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Oktoberfest Dinner Pairing Six courses of culinary delights paired with seasonal beers. Call for reservations. Menu online. 6.30p, Elgin Public House 847.468.8810. $50 Elgin Alive - The Victorian Art of Death Presented by Michael Murschel and Judi Brownfield. Draw your curtains, cover your mirrors, set traps for the Resurrectionists at your loved ones’ graves, and put a bell in the coffin. Michael Murschel, author of “The Uncommon History of Elgin, Illinois and Surrounds,” and Judi Brownfield, owner of Books at Sunset, undertake to lead you in a shadowy procession through more than one hundred of the exquisite points of Victorian funereal culture. No registration.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 LinkedIn Tips & Tricks Fine-tune your LinkedIn profile, upload a resume, add strategic connections and target specific employers. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Room 847.742.2411 Open Mic 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover Story Mix for Three to Six 7p-7.30p, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Classical with a Twist! The Wedge Quartet specializes in music that is as much fun for audiences as it is for the musicians! Hear them go beyond the usual musical borders to play the best of many genres in their own elegant, kinetic style: from classical to bluegrass to rock to Bollywood, and even their own original compositions.

7.30p, Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 847.429.2276. $20/$10 students

1.3

Wed.Oct.21 Job Training Information Session 9a-10.30a, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Children’s Theatre of Elgin The Adventures of Aladdin Travel back to the ancient days in a delightful musical where genies, a magic lamp, and a princess all help our young hero figure out who he really wants to be. 9.45a, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900 1,2,3 Go! Stories, rhymes, and music for kids 1-3. No registration required.

10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 Drop-In Fall Story Time 30 minutes of stories, songs and finger puppets for ages 3+. 10.30a-11a, Rakow Children’s Area 847.531.7271 Pinterest Basics 1p-2.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Build It Up! with LEGOS LEGO building blocks will be provided for this fun-filled, creative building program.

Grades 1+. Under 8 with a parent.

4p-5p, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 DIY: Altered Books Create your oneof-a-kind work of art or journal with an altered book. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Video Lab 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab 847.742.2411 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class 6p-7p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 Cuentos para la familia/Spanish Family Storytime 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs and fun for families. 30 minutos de cuentos musica, rimas, manualidades y mucho mas para la familia! No registration required. No necesita registrarse. 6.30p-7p, GBPL Story Room 847.742.2411 Contemporary Fiction Book Group Enrich your reading of contemporary novels by sharing insights with fellow readers. 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Danny’s on Douglas Family Karaoke 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas

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!

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October 2015 847.742.5400 Medicare 101 David Wylly of the Medicare Solutions Network will detail what Medicare covers and what it doesn’t, and options for additional coverage. Please register. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Microsoft Excel 2010: Charts & Graphs Learn how easy it is to create them--and share a graphical representation of your data--in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Walking Book Club 7p-8.45p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411 Pub Trivia Night 8p-10p, Elgin Public House 847.468.8810 Open Mic 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover

Thu.Oct.22 Terrific Twos 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 Device Advice 9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Wonderful Ones 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Children’s Theatre of Elgin The Adventures of Aladdin 9.45a, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900 Attachment Parents 101 Come hear a brief history of Attachment Parenting International, learn the Eight Principals of Parenting, and share in a group Q & A. Children and babies are welcome. Registration preferred. 10a-11a, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271 Terrific Twos 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 Story Mix for Three to Six 10.15a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room North 847.742.2411 Terrific Twos 10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C 847.742.2411 Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 12p-1p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 ChessMaster Junior Chess Club 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - South 847.742.2411 Page to Screen: Divergent & Insurgent Celebrate Teen Read Week with a book on the big screen, popcorn, and snacks. 4p-8p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Aztec Stories with Michael Heralda/Historia Aztecas con Michael Heralda 6p-7p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 Baby Rhyme Time 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Book Club Discuss a new selection each month while enjoying refreshments. Every fourth Thursday. 7p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. $5 donation

Danny’s D.J. Night 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400 German Conversation Group John Schwartz will present articles and videos about Germany and German-speaking Europe to be viewed and discussed auf Deutsch in a friendly atmosphere. No registration.

7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room 847.742.2411 Google Tools for Productivity Come and learn how to use Forms, Slides, Sheets, Calendar and Task in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411

Fri.Oct.23 Baby Rhyme Time 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Wonderful Ones 10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 The Bats are coming... Join Dan Peterson along with Egyptian Fruit Bats and African Straw-colored bats to learn how important these creatures are to us and our world. Bring a caregiver for children under 8. 11a-12p, Rakow Children’s Area 847.531.7271 Incredible Bats 1.30p-2.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 DIY: Pocket Dioramas Create a miniature diorama of your favorite book to carry in your pocket. 3p-5p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 SoADA Lecture Series: Kjellgren Alkire Installation and performance artist Kjellgren Alkire of Lake City Minnesota will give a keynote address, followed by a reception in the Draewell Gallery 4.30p, Judson University Herrick Chapel 847.628.2500 Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out 5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe 847.697.2583 Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” Judson University Theatre Department presents the longest-running show of any kind in history, Friday-Saturday, Oct. 23-24, and Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 29-31. 7p, Judson University Thulin Performance Hall 847.628.2500. $5-10 The Adventures of Aladdin Travel back to the ancient days in a delightful musical where genies, a magic lamp, and a princess all help our young hero figure out who he really wants to be. Showings Friday, Saturday and Sunday. cteelgin.com 7.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900. $12/$10 students & seniors Cadillac Casanovas Rockabilly superstars. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. No cover

9 S. Spring St. Elgin, IL

11

New Releases Re-Releases Vintage Albums Rare Vinyl Turntables

• • • • •

(847) 961-8445 Open 7 Days

rediscoverrecords.com LIVE PETE SHOW! 9p, Walnut Speakeasy 847.695.2420. No cover

to today. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. No cover

The Lennys 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Swap One One man band that can rock music from the 80’s, 90’s and top 40. 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510.

No cover

Sat.Oct.24 Elgin Zombie Run (5K Run & 1 Mile Walk) All participants received a custom Dri-Fit long sleeve T-shirt & refreshments. Register online before 10/22. bgcelgin.org 9.30a-11.30a, Kimball St and Grove Ave. $12-35 Read to Rover Tails are wagging at Read to Rover. School-aged kids may practice their reading skills by cuddling up with a good book and reading aloud to a fully trained and certified therapy dog. 10a-12p, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271 A Taste of Shared Work Spaces Stimulate your senses and get inspired by the sounds, sights and tastes of local shared spaces with Artists from Elgin Artspace Lofts, delights from Dream Kitchen, and sounds from Studio 270. No registration. 1p-3p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411 Welcome Baby ! Baby’s First Library Visit 1p-3p, Rakow Children’s Area 847.531.7271

Sun.Oct.25 Open Knit 1p-4p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 LinkedIn Consejos y Trucos Afina tu perfil, subir su hoja de vida y aprender a investigar y orientar los empleadores especificos. 1p-2.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Stand with the Silent Stand with the Silent will raise awareness, visibility, dialog and unity to the Elgin community concerning the serious and debilitating issues that victims of childhood bullying face. Interactive walk, art project and family friendly activities. 1p-4p, GBPL Outdoor Stage 847.742.2411 The Adventures of Aladdin 2p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900. $12/$10 students & seniors

Mon.Oct.26

Clarinet Master Class with Gene Collerd Elgin Symphony Orchestra principal clarinet Gene Collerd offers tips and expertise from which all instrumentalists, teachers, students, and parents will benefit. 2p-4p, ECC Spartan Auditorium 847.931.3925.

Free

Wonderful Ones 9.15a-9.45a, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271

Nightmare on Chicago Street V nightmareonchicagostreet.com SEE PAGE 14. 6-11p, Chicago Street 847.531.7056. $12 advance, $15 gate

Forever Young: Senior Health Fair Join us for a Senior Health Fair for mini sessions of manicures, hand massages, health screenings, presentations on Senior Topics (Medicare, Medicaid, Real Estate, etc.), vendors, music, and free refreshments. Organized by Community Care Alliance of Chicago. No registration. 11a-2p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C 847.742.2411

Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” 7p, Judson University Thulin Performance Hall 847.628.2500. $5-10 The Adventures of Aladdin 7.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900. $12/$10 students & seniors Spoken Four Songs from the 50’s

Story Mix for Three to Six 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Wonderful Ones 10a-10.30a, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271

DNA’s Out to Lunch For the Out-ToContinued on p. 14 ...

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Taste: The Ghosts of Malted Barley, Hops and Yeast

Elgin’s Finest Craft Beer Haunts A recent beer selection at Grumpy Goat Tavern.

By the 1850’s Elgin had its own brewery, Charles Tazewell’s Eagle Brewery, located where the Elgin train station now stands along the river. Initially brewing English ales, Tazewell later turned to the lagers desired by his mostly German farmer neighbors.

In 1868, Casper Althen bought out Tazewell and a couple of other smaller breweries, and created the Elgin Eagle brand which lasted until Prohibition in 1919. The brewing industry in Elgin never recovered from Prohibition.

Drinking with a Purpose Although Elgin has not had its own brewery for years, it is by

no means a “beer desert.” After a study of Elgin’s various bars, pubs and restaurants in search of the best variety of craft beers, we were able to formulate a list of places that consistently have a good selection of craft beer.

The search for craft beer is not a snobbish pursuit, trying to isolate good from bad. It is rather a quest for the unique, the flavorful, or the edifying. It is a search for a beer apart—apart from the sameness of the macros.

Getting in the Door In order to qualify for our list, each place needed to have at least 4 craft beers on tap as well as more than 12 craft beers available in bottles or cans.

One barrier we encountered was the lack of lists or menus available for the public to see.

Often the only way to know what was on tap was to walk up to the bar and read the tap handles.

Most servers didn’t know what was on tap or had no idea what the beer style was. These were common problems, however not every place suffered from these obstacles.

Craft Beer Heaven The widest selection of craft beers is found in the far west at Plank Road Tap House. With fourteen crafts on tap, all listed by name, style, ABV (alcohol by volume) and IBU (international bittering units), it is a beer quester’s dream. They do

not serve food but do have food trucks that visit on weekends.

Downtown Haunts The Elgin Public House has four tap handles devoted to crafts and one of the largest selection of bottles and cans in the area. You can trust them to feed you well and quench your thirst.

Danny’s on Douglas has four handles for craft also as well as twice that number of macro handles. Their bottle and can selection includes a fair share of craft beers and their pizza is an Elgin favorite.

If you haven’t been to Chooch’s Pizza lately, stop by and see that all four of their taps now have craft beers and the

FEED.craftbeerhaunts Chooch’s Pizza 64 South Grove Avenue, 847.888.0211, closed Mondays choochspizza.com Danny’s on Douglas 231 Douglas Avenue, 847.742.5400, open 7 days dannyspizzaelgin.com Dog’s Paw Brewing Company 74 South Grove Avenue, 224.227.7655 dogspawbrewing.com Elgin Public House 219 East Chicago Street, 847.468.8810, open 7 days elginpublichouse.com Grumpy Goat Tavern 875 Sports Way, 847.931.5950, open 7 days grumpygoattavern.com

Nick’s Pizza and Pub 990 South Randall Road, 847.531.5550, open 7 days nickspizzapub.com Porter’s Pub 1250 Bowes Creek Boulevard, 847.214.5877, open 7 days porterspubelgin.com Prairie Rock Bar and Grill 127 South Grove Avenue, 630.883.8799, open 7 days prairierockgrill.com The Walnut Speakeasy 214 Walnut Avenue, 857.695.2420, open 7 days thewalnutspeakeasy.com Elgin Eagle Brewery Reproduction Glasses $7 each, available only at Elgin History Museum

Craft beer is a specialty at Dog’s Paw Brewing Company.

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Taste: Elgin’s Finest Craft Beer Haunts bottle list is continuously expanding. A beer and a meal on their patio is not to be missed.

The newest kid on the block, right down the street from Chooch’s, is Dog’s Paw Brewing Company. While they don’t brew their own beer yet, they opened with all four of their handles pouring excellent crafts. The can and bottle menu reads like a “who’s who” in the craft beer world. It is one of the friendliest places in the area to have a beer and a sandwich.

The venerable Prairie Rock Bar and Grill has several handles of craft beer with some bonus handles in the beer garden during the warm months.

A beer and a snack in that beer garden is something every Elginite should experience.

West Side Haunts Walnut Speakeasy on the west side of the river has four craft beers listed on their menu but we found a couple more by visiting the bar. Their bottle and can selection is really extensive as is their food menu.

A trip out to the Elgin Sports Complex to the Grumpy Goat Tavern is certainly worthwhile.

Owned by Greg and Lou of EPH, here you find at least seven crafts on tap and a very wide variety of cans and bottles in their cooler. Dinner overlooking the golf course could be a finishing touch to your visit.

Randall and Beyond Out on Randall Road, you can stop in for a pizza and beer at Nick’s Pizza and Pub. They dedicate at least four of their tap handles to craft beer with a focus on local brews. It’s a comfortable, peanut-shells-on-the-floor sort of place with lots of room to spread out.

Way out west you will find Porter’s Pub at Bowes Creek Country Club. On any given night you will find six craft beers on tap, and a reasonable assortment of packaged craft beers.

Watching the sun set over the golf course with a cold craft beer in your hand, ends a wonderful evening.

We didn’t visit every place that serves a glass of beer. If you know of a place that should have been in this listing, let BRAVO know. Who knows maybe this will become a yearly survey and the list will expand. —DP/IK.

“ Filet wrapped in prosciutto was cooked PERFECTLY!” — Karen C. August 2015

Oct. 1: Battle of Oktoberfest Battle of the best Oktoberfest beers!

Don Pielin is a retired history teacher and Ian Kuhn is co-owner of Elgin Knit Works. Both are beer aficionados and accomplished home brewers.

Oct. 10-11: Oktoberfest Menu

Special German items like Thuringer, Schnitzel, Knackwurst, Pork Loin and more!

Oct. 20: Oktoberfest DINNER PAIRING Reception starts 6:30 $50 per person

Oct. 24: Nightmare on Chicago Street 2015!

Pouring Miller Lite, New Holland Ichabod Pumpkin Ale, Scorched Earth Base Jumper IPA and 51st Ward Amber Ale made especially for EPH & Nightmare on Chicago Street! plus tax & tip

219 E. Chicago St. • Elgin • Free Parking

OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK Recent beer selection at Porter’s Pub.

847-468-8810 • elginpublichouse.com

BRAVO

14 Lunch there will be BBC Box lunch (vegetarian option will be available).

IL State Representative Anna Moeller will present updates on small business and economic development at the State level as well as give a budget update. Includes food, drink, tax and tip. 12p-1p, Side Street Studio Arts 847.429.2276. $12 Rakow Readers The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez 1.30p-2.30p, Rakow Living Room 847.531.7271 Story Mix for Three to Six 3.30p4p, GBPL Story Room - North 847.742.2411 Teen Scream Week: Candy Melting Stop by Studio 270 to make candy, catch horror flicks, grab some snacks, and more! For teens in grades 9-12.

4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 847.742.2411 Wonderful Ones 5.30p-6p, GBPL Story Room - South 847.742.2411 Family Jam 6.30p-7p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B 847.742.2411 Care and Feeding of Your Windows PC We share tips and tricks to keep your Windows computer safe, updated and running efficiently. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room 847.742.2411 Writers on the Fox This writer’s peer group will inspire and motivate you with thought-provoking writing prompts and constructive critique.

Writers of all genres are welcome to participate. No registration.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room 847.742.2411

Tue.Oct.27 Open Mic 7p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Wed.Oct.28 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p-8p, Elgin Knit Works 847.627.4700 Danny’s on Douglas Family Karaoke 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400 Pub Trivia Night 8p-10p, Elgin Public House 847.468.8810 Open Mic 9p, D Hangout 847.717.0510. No cover

Ola la Ijorere’s We Live & Die 2gether - The Skeleton’s Halloween Painting Social BYOB Halloween special painting social + LIVE Music...

6.45p-9p, Ola la Ijorere 312.254.9807 Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” 7p, Judson University Thulin Performance Hall 847.628.2500. $5-10 Halloween Party Music and costume contest! 8p, Walnut Speakeasy 847.695.2420. No cover SSSA’s Live Read Series: Young Frankenstein Our Live Read Series flips the script, literally. With the help of local artists and actors, we will create live script-reading sessions of modern American cinema masterpieces. This October, we present Young Frankenstein. 8p, Next Door Theater High Infi delity Cover band performing hits from Journey to Buckcherry. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. No cover Nick Moss Band 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover

Sat.Oct.31 Bison Feeding in Lord’s Park Meet at the Museum for a short introduction after which we head for the zoo to assist the zookeeper in feeding these magnificent creatures. Register early!

Members free. 7a-8.30a, Elgin Public Museum 847.741.6655. $2/$1 children City of Elgin Recommended Trick or Treating Hours Recommended hours 3PM-7PM. 3p-7p Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” 7p, Judson University Thulin Performance Hall 847.628.2500. $5-10 Elgin Symphony Orchestra: Musical Chills & Thrills Hair-raising stories and soul-haunting sounds abound at this frighteningly funny concert featuring acclaimed actor and a current star in NBC’s The Player, Damon Gupton! Costumes welcome! 7.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center 847.931.5900 Del Sol 9p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400. No cover Generation Classic rock and soul of the 60’s and 70’s. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino 847.468.7000. No cover

Thu.Oct.29 Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” 7p, Judson University Thulin Performance Hall 847.628.2500. $5-10 Danny’s D.J. Night 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas 847.742.5400

Fri.Oct.30 Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out 5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe 847.697.2583

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Lectures & Learning Kids & Families Creativity

1.3

Shared Values: Zombie Defense Initiative

Nightmare on Chicago Street It happens just one night a year, for the briefest five hours you will ever know. For decades, there has existed a small squad of dedicated men and women that work all hours in secrecy to protect the citizens of Elgin, IL. But five years ago, a threat became more than this crew could handle on their own, and when word spread that they needed help, the citizens answered the call.

The city of Elgin’s Zombie Defense Initiative had predicted that by October of 2011, they would need to establish a special area where citizens could come to wait out the biggest wave of undead that the city had ever experienced. Warnings were posted about the zombie uprising, volunteers rallied to board up buildings, and chain link fencing was rolled out to protect the heart of downtown.

Citizens arrived at the “Safe Zone” slowly at first, but then heavier as waves of the zombie menace shambled their way toward the city. Mayor Dave Kaptain broadcast a warning, and all citizens were scanned for signs of infection before being allowed to enter. Every year since, crowds continue to grow, and the experience for that five brief hours has no comparison.

The people in the “Safe Zone” this year will be celebrating 5 years of Nightmare on Chicago Street. Five years of street theater, four stages of live music, dancing, dark artwork, vendors and a guarantee to hopefully never run out of beer like we did that first year. But this year is a celebration, indeed! Step right up, citizens, and prepare to be AMAZED! —AM.

NoCS.Sat.Oct.24 Nightmare on Chicago Street V nightmareonchicagostreet.com 6p, Chicago Street, downtown Elgin 847.531.7056. $12 advance, $15 gate Oceans and Oceans Winners of Side Street Studio Arts 2015 Battle of the Bands. Main Stage. 6p-6.45p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Burlesque Showcase, La Groove Fatale, Cabaret by “Faces” Oasis Hookah Lounge/Steampunk area in the Spring Street Parking Deck.

6p-11p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Goodbye Hero Today’s Hits. Second Stage. 6p-7.30p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Joe Vourteque, Titano the Strongman, Graffi ti Artists, DJs from Howard Production Techno Stage &Cirq d’Freak Show, DuPage Court.

6p-11p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Safe and Sober Zone At Ola la Ijorere, 51 S. Spring Street. 6p-9p, Nightmare on Chicago Street ZDI Original Series Playing at Fades ‘N’ Blades Movie Theater. 6p-11p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Mallrats 90’s alternative. Main Stage.

7.30p-8.30p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Hot Sauce Committee 90’s pop.

Second stage. 8.15p-11p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Svengoolie Meet and Greet Side Street Studio Arts. 8.30p-9.30p, Next Door Theatre 847.429.2276 97Nine 70’s and 80’s classic rock.

Main Stage. 9.15p-11p, Nightmare on Chicago Street Costume Contest with Svengoolie Second Stage. 9.45p-10.15p, Nightmare on Chicago Street

BRAVO

October 2015

15

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

(847) 742-9905

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

2012: Scenes of chaos in the streets as municipal authorities engage the zombie menace outside the scanning and decontamination area.

2013: Light entertainment within the Safe Zone offers a welcome distraction from the shambling hordes of the undead.

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: Don Pielin, Ian Kuhn, Alice Moring, Doug Hanson, Barbara Broeske 2015 Advertising Rates: Full Page $169 • Half Page $99 Quarter Page $69 • Eighth Page $39 15% Discount for ready-to-print digital artwork (PDF) For complete advertising details, go to: www.marqueemedia.net/Advertise Next deadline: Weds., October 21st, 5:00 p.m.

BRAVO is Earth-Friendly

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Visit our 40,000 square foot

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filled with new and gently-used goods

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priced 50-75% below regular retail Donations of Building Materials accepted from stores, builders & you!

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

BRAVO 1.4: Symphony Orchestras & The Secondary Market Deadline: Weds., October 21, 5pm Cover Art: Elgin Orchestra-themed artwork Stories or interviews about ESO, JUCO, EYSO (300 words) Photos of orchestras or music personnel (1000 x 500 px) Elgin Resale, Vintage & Antique Stores (500 words) Secondary Market Infographic or Photos (2 columns)

BRAVO 1.5: Choirs & Elgin on the Menu Deadline: Weds., October 21, 5pm Cover Art: Elgin Choir-themed artwork Stories about or pictures of Elgin choirs (300 words) Article on restaurants with menu items named after Elgin, or Elgin people and institutions (500 words)

Submit to: bravo@marqueemedia.net

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10% OFF Dessert Martinis 15% OFF Beers

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25% OFF all Martinis

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* Price and theme subject to change.

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WEDNESDAY

Martini Flights 5 mini Martinis for $15*

THURSDAY

All $9 Martinis: $6

WEEKENDS Nightly Specials $3 Mystery Shots

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Corner of Chicago St. & State St. • ELGIN