BRAVO 2.9

an elgin culture magazine

Staying Awake In Elgin pp. 3-6

2.9

Loss of Signal pp. 28-30

with the

SEPTEMBER 2016

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September 2016

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Shared Values: Maintaining Consciousness

Staying Awake in Elgin

Yet perhaps no one has ever taken up coffee drinking purely because of the taste. We can thank the monks of Yemen for first domesticating an Ethiopi-

Not long after its energizing properties were discovered, the drink became popular throughout the Arabian peninsula, and pilgrims to nearby Mecca carried coffee back to their homes throughout the region. The

ON THE COVER “Mother and Child” OIl on board 18 x 24 framed $850 Artist: Feng Biddle www.fengbiddle.com I am a Chicago area artist working in different media: oil, acrylic and pastel.

I love the richness of oil paints, and the immediacy of drawing and painting at the same time with pastels. These media are like friends with different personalities. I enjoy spending time with each, knowing their differences will draw my interactions with them in somewhat different directions. In a way, my paintings are the conversations I have with these friends.

My approach to art is to paint from my heart, as I explore the nature of what I see with my eyes and my imagination. Using a representational starting point, either real or invented, I examine the relationships of lines, shapes and colors. My works are largely abstract, evolving as an interaction between my vision and the process of arranging and applying color to paper or canvas. While literal images may contribute somewhat to my images, I am mainly interested in presenting simplified flat shapes, and creating color relationships. I try to rely on line and shape as content, while using color to create the emotional component in my paintings.

State Representative Anna Moeller discusses public affairs over coffee at Elgin Books & Coffee. Source: Facebook.com coffee trade spread to Turkey, then to Europe by way of Italy, and coffeehouses soon became vibrant hubs of social communication, deal-making, and even political intrigue. They still are.

The Daily Grind “The BBC is a place where our guests feel they can hang out with their friends or family but also can have a business meeting,” says Chris Mau, owner of

302 W. Chica go St., Elgin, IL

Bitter Awakening

an berry-producing shrub, and brewing and drinking a dark beverage made from the berry’s pits that helped them concentrate on their studies, and stay awake for nighttime devotions.

After seven hundred years, the motivation to sip that hot, bitter brown water has hardly changed.

The Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House

With all due respect to the restorative powers of sleep and the psychic potency dreams, let’s face it, we get more done while we’re awake. Of course we spend the majority of the day with our eyes open, but for those of us really determined to get things done, coffee is an indispensible tool in our toolbox, along with a smart phone, a laptop, and a credit card.

Blue Box Cafe in downtown Elgin. “A lot of guests have done both.”

Seated at tables in the Blue Box Cafe you’re likely to find entrepreneurs using the cafe as their secondary (or primary) office — individuals with their eyes fixed on laptops or groups making plans or doing business over a layer of loose papers.

The centuries-old tradition continues at other downtown

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launched, managed and staffed completely by students, it’s also an ongoing business practicum for its employees as well as a place to hang out, study or conduct a casual meeting.

“There’s a place where you live, and a place where you work,” says Jerry’s owner Ben Glunz, in paraphrasing a maxim from Starbucks’ Howard Schultz, “but everybody needs a third place between work and home.

That’s what a coffee shop is for.”

Moving Cup in the World Owner Brian Stanton and barista Monica Gifford outside Arabica Cafe. Source: Facebook.com Elgin coffee shops, like Elgin Books and Coffee, where owner Herminda Spencer says, “When people drink their coffee in the store, they usually are working on their laptops or meeting friends — and we do have people that hold business meetings here.”

At Elgin Books and Coffee, rare and used books are the primary product, but coffee has always fueled the quest for knowl-

edge, amusement or change because it stimulates conscious thought. For this reason, it was banned at times by governments and institutions throughout history in order to suppress any challenges to the status quo.

At Judson University, the intellectual atmosphere of a coffee shop finally found a home in the Harm A. Weber Academic Center in 2012, when two graduates opened Jerry’s Cafe. Named,

Our Mission To sell delicious and remarkable food and beverages.

To consistently provide our customers with impeccable service by demonstrating warmth, graciousness, efficiency, knowledge, professionalism and integrity in our work.

To create and maintain an environment that is comprehensive and exceptional in its attention to every detail of operation. To provide all who work with us a friendly, cooperative and rewarding environment which encourages long term growth and satisfying employment. To be a giving member of the Elgin community.

As an Artisan Concept Enterprise, Arabica Café recognizes the significance of its behavior on the success of the enterprise. Every action has a direct impact on our success and each interaction with guests, vendors and one another defines Arabica Café.

Arabica Café

Coffee Espresso Smoothies Pastries Lunch 59 Douglas Ave, Elgin • Mon-Fri 7a-4p • Sat-Sun 8a-3p

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guests is increasing as well.”

In a way, coffee has never really gone out of style in America since it became a national drink of choice in 1773, in the wake of the Boston Tea Party.

Consumption steadily increased over the next two hundred years as production expanded to the New World. Modern packaging and delivery methods ensured that cans of the coarse brown stuff would make it to grocer’s shelves, prison pantries and naval ship galleys.

Yet there’s a big world of things to get done out there, and as a result, most coffee drinkers take it on the run. “I would say it’s about 60/40 coffee to go,” reports Chris Mau. That proportion is quite consistent in Elgin.

But the quality of mass-market coffees was uninspiring, shaped by standards that allowed tolerable amounts of “foreign matter” from animal, vegetable or mineral origins.

People drank it for the stimulation, not the flavor.

“65% of our business is grab and go, with 35% being in-house, both in the café and on the veranda,” notes Diane Stanton of Arabica Café, whose opening in May 2016 suggests demand for coffee remains strong. “Our guest counts increase daily,” she says.

“We continue to see first time guests and the number of return

That all started to change when Alfred Peet began smallbatch roasting at Peet’s Coffee and Tea in Berkeley in 1966. A few of his customers replicated the idea in Seattle under the name Starbucks. That new company hired marketing manager Howard Schultz, who traveled to Milan and returned with a new

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September 2016

trends are just like any other food-related business,” says Mau, “We see what is working at other stores, shops and cafes and try to use what we think will work at our places.”

the technique. Using hot water combined with pressure, it’s indeed a quicker way of brewing, yet the word espresso means “expressed” as in “pressed out” — not “express” as in “fast.”

Coffee Amore

“In terms of espresso machines, Italian is the best,” says BBC’s Chris Mau. “They make the best machines out there.

We use a La Spaziale TK 400, which I love.” Like any artist or artisan, baristas view their equipment affectionately, like a musician loves their instrument.

People often contemplate, “Why can’t we have a Starbucks in downtown Elgin?” You’d have to ask Starbucks, since all their U.S. stores and concessions are corporately owned, and not franchises. A more important question may be, “Why do you need one?”

Coffee menu at Domani Cafe. vision: to import Italian coffeehouse culture to America.

His bosses rejected the idea, so he started his own chain of Seattle cafés called Il Giornale.

So successful was this concept, Schultz would later acquire the Starbucks business (and brand).

American palates quickly fell in love with these new, higher quality (and more expensive) Italian espresso-based drinks and Starbucks became a household word. In any other version of coffee history in which Starbucks did not pave the way, Elgin’s Blue Box, Arabica, Jerry’s and the others might not exist as they do today.

“The coffee business and its

Of all the craft coffee shops in downtown Elgin, the one with the greatest longevity is Domani Cafe, named for the Italian word for tomorrow. Here you can get an authentic Italian espresso made from imported Lavazza coffee, made on a very old machine named “Berta” after the Conchata Ferrell character from Two and a Half Men. People flock to this cafe not just for coffee, but to meet its charismatic owner Leo Urdaneta. “I encourage customers to use the shop as a place to relax, escape from their daily routine and enjoy their food or drink.”

With lively conversations often overflowing onto the sidewalk, the vibe is more like an Italian bistro where the people are as animated and vocal as they are caffeinated. “They love to talk to me and interact with other customers,” Urdaneta says, and adds, “I almost never have someone asking for a decaf coffee — I don’t even offer it.”

The legacy of Italian coffee culture is present throughout the coffee shops of Elgin, in the form of espresso machines made in or near the country that invented

Brian Stanton, co-owner and baker of Arabica Cafe’s signature pastries, explained his vision for a small, craft coffee business this way.

“It used to be when you wanted cabinets, you would go to a cabinet maker, not a Home Depot. This is an artisan concept enterprise. Everything here is made by hand.” That includes the coffee, skillfully prepared one cup at a time.

“Our espresso beverages are

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made using a Thermoplan Verismo 800 series machine,” says Arabica’s Diane Stanton. “Long the industry standard as the finest.”

The Swiss-made Verismo is the first choice for the vast majority of craft coffee shops in America, including — you guessed it — Starbucks.

Mea Coppa BBC’s Chris Mau explains, “What a lot of people do not know is that espresso is a process of extracting flavor from a bean, not a roast or a specific bean, although roasters will create a roast that works better with the espresso process.”

While espresso can be enjoyed straight from the cup, it forms the basis for a variety of hot and cold drinks, made by adding water, milk and other flavorings. Most of these drinks are of twentieth century Italian origin, though new creations appear all the time.

“Espresso-based drinks are the most popular here,” says Domani’s Urdaneta. “I can usually make anything people ask for, even if they use a different name for it.”

At Blue Box Cafe, Mau confides, “We sell a lot more lattes than anything. We offer over twenty different specialty lattes on our menu and those are our biggest sellers.”

Specialty latte at Blue Box Cafe.

So what about a plain old cup o’ joe? At a craft coffee shop, that’s called drip coffee, and they sell a lot of it, mostly in the morning. Though connoiseurs can explain why drip brewing is the least desirable of acceptable brewing methods, it’s an effiiciently made product and delivers the taste most people are accustomed to. And drip is the

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ation of enthusiasts is rejecting the brand commercialization, the exploitation of farmers, and the proliferation of syrup-enhanced drinks that all but drowned out the essence of coffee flavor. In Caffeinated PDX, author Will Hutchens describes the Third Wave this way.

“The overarching ideal of the movement is to place the highest emphasis on the coffee itself and to respect the people involved in growing it, roasting it, preparing it and drinking it.”

Can you taste the consciousness in a cup of coffee?

Ben Glunz (back right) and the staff of Jerry’s Cafe. type of coffee that launched the coffee renaissance that fueled the technological innovations that transformed the last forty years of human existence.

Cool Beans And better beans make better coffee. “We partnered with Bridgetown Coffee to produce specialty blends for Arabica Café,” says Diane Stanton. “Located in Portland, Oregon, they

roast micro batches of coffee beans from all over the world using only 100% ultra high grown, grade one Arabica beans. They arrive via producers with documented fair trade and sustainability track records.”

Portland has become the home of coffee’s “Third Wave,” a new outlook on the business cultivated in the aftermath of Starbucks’ explosive growth. A new gener-

“To us, it is more important that the people we partner with get where we are coming from, and what we do,” insists Mau. “We hope they share that as well.” For Blue Box Cafe, supporting local economies is a priority. “All of our beans are from Chicago area shops — Metropolis, Half Wit, Two Brothers, Tugboat and Modest Coffee. We try to support our local roasters.”

Home Brew Servers Even closer to home is Conscious Cup, a “third wave”

roaster based in Crystal Lake whose brand is built on a commitment to integrity. Their website home page gets right to the point. “We source the best coffees in the world, grown by farmers who care about quality, environment and community.

We believe in people. We think that good people sharing a common goal create great things.”

Conscious Cup provides a custom roast for Jerry’s Cafe at Judson University, where their shared philosophies are perfectly in tune. Jerry’s owner Ben Glunz believes “Successful coffee shops are first and foremost a gathering place, a place where community happens.” And from his Grove Avenue office at Anguleris Technologies, Glunz and his colleagues find coffee community on foot daily. He confesses, “Every morning, we walk down to Arabica...”

In the cafes of Elgin, a cup of coffee can be a work of art, a boost to concentration, an invitation to community, or a catalyst for action. And here, consciousness means more than just staying awake.

—JP

FEED.stayingawakeinelgin Drip Coffee The most familiar type of coffee, brewed by passing hot water over the top of ground coffee container in a filter.

Espresso A strong, dense brew created by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water and steam through finely ground and compacted beans.

Americano A single or double shot of espresso combined with hot water to make a drink similar in strength, but different in flavor from drip coffee.

Cappuccino Espresso combined with an equal portion of steamed milk and milk foam.

Latte Espresso combined with 2-3 times as much steamed milk and milk foam.

Cafe au Lait A combination of strong coffee combined with steamed milk in approximately equal proportions.

Arabica Café 59 Douglas Ave 224.227.7192 Mon-Fri 7a-4p Sat-Sun 8a-3p

Blue Box Cafe 176 E. Chicago St. 847.697.2583 Mon-Thu 7a-7p Fri 7a-8p Sat 8a-9p Sun 10a-4p

Domani Cafe 109 E. Highland Ave. 847.695.8851 Mon-Fri 6a-5p Sat 7a-2p

Elgin Books & Coffee 66 S. Grove Ave. 847.695.2680 Mon-Sat 9a-6p Sun 10a-2p

Jerry’s Cafe Harm A. Weber Academic Center Judson University 1151 N. State St. Mon 7.30a-10p Tue 8a-10p Wed 7.30a-10a, 11a-10p Fri 7.30a-5p Sat 2p-5p Sun 7p-11p

Starbucks (North) 2480 N. Randall Rd. 847.836.6304 Mon-Fri 4.30a-10p Sat-Sun 5a-10p

Starbucks (South) 338 Randall Rd. South Elgin 847.717.0105 Mon-Fri 4.30a-11p Sat 4.30a-11p Sun 5.30a-10p

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September 2016

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Sponsored Content

Elgin Cultural Arts Commission

Elgin Short Film Festival Returns!

by Joe Vassallo Do you know that short films are the launching pad to the Oscars for many film makers? It’s true, George Miller, who made Mad Max: Fury Road, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, who made Birdman and The Revenant, and Richard Linklater, who made Slacker and Dazed and Confused, all got their start in short films. Yes it is true and on September 24th you can possibly see the next Oscar winner at the Elgin Short Film Festival.

Since 2009 the Elgin Short Film Festival has attracted film makers from around the world to take part in this unique competition, bringing a taste of Hollywood to the Hemmens Cultural Center.

Most film festivals revolve around feature films. Short films are a way for an up and coming film maker to learn their craft, and then, hopefully secure

grants and funding for bigger projects. Any film buff will tell you that short films highlight the artist that is bound for future success.

The Elgin Short Film Festival (ESFF) treats the film makers and the audience as the big show they truly are with a red carpet reception — complete with limousine arrivals, local entertainment, paparazzi, and interviews in front of the Hemmens — starting at 6:15 PM before the show starts.

The ESFF has always given the audience a voice in the competition. Within each program you receive upon entry into the theater is a ballot so you can vote for your favorite film. And that vote is important! The audience votes have determined, on more than one occasion, which film won a top prize. All the film makers are chasing the

top prize of $1000, $750 for 2nd and $500 for 3rd prize.

This year the ESFF is also partnering with the Elgin Fringe Festival by waging a “next-in” competition. At The Blue Box Café on Thursday, September 15th and Friday September 16th the ESFF will show three films from the live action category and three films from the animation category. The competition is to determine which film from each category will make the finals on September 24th. Yes, you the audience have the power of the vote for which film makes it to the big show while enjoying the work of some of the best national and international filmmakers.

If that was not enough, WGN’s Mike Toomey, a regular on the WGN morning show, will be

back to entertain everyone and emcee the event on the 24th.

You don’t want to miss this great event so buy your tickets early. This way you can enjoy the red carpet reception that starts at 6:15, get a drink, buy some popcorn in the lobby, and find the best seat to enjoy some great cinematography on Saturday, September 24th.

To learn more about the Elgin Short Film Festival visit the ESFF Facebook page or go to cityofelgin.com. To purchase tickets call 847-931-5900. Walk up tickets will be sold the night of the event, but why wait in line, get them today.

Coming Events from the Cultural Arts Commission Elgin Fringe Festival

Art Harvest

Join the Elgin Fringe Festival (EFF) as it enters its third year. This year EFF will be in nine downtown Elgin venues showcasing artists from around the US in dance, theater, comedy, and more from September 15-18, 2016. Tickets, full festival schedule, and more can be found at www.ElginFringeFestival.com

Visit downtown Elgin on October 29th from 1:00-4:00pm for a family friendly celebration of public art and the Halloween season. Visit downtown Elgin’s public art and collect stamps to get prizes at Art Central located at DuPage Court where you will also be able to participate in a yarn-bomb spider web, paint a pumpkin, hear some scary stories, and more. This event is free and open to the public.

Elgin Short Film Festival

Comedian Mike Toomey will host the 2016 Elgin Short Film Festival. Photo by Rich Jacobs.

Grab a seat, buy a drink & get comfortable! The festival provides an opportunity for filmmakers to showcase their talents. Audience members & judges vote! Held at the Hemmens Cultural Center on September 24, 2016. Visit www.hemmens.org/annualfilmfestival for tickets and more info.

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So much is happening in September, you’d need eight weekends in order to enjoy it all. For film lovers there’s the Elgin Short Film Festival (see p. 7). For preservationists, the Historic Elgin House Tour.

Music buffs should check out the amazing TOMMY: A Bluegrass Opry at the ECC Arts Center.

For the rest of us, there’s this.

Elgin Fringe Festival

2015 Elgin Fringe Festival

The Elgin Fringe Festival (EFF) will open its third year this month when it takes over the downtown area featuring a variety of dance, music, theater and visual arts. The four-day festival will run Thursday through Sunday, September 15-18. More information is available at www. elginfringefestival.com.

A new two-day music event is scheduled to take place outside the Hemmens Cultural Center on Thursday and Friday night at the makeshift venue called “The Pit” where a mix of musical acts will play rock, indie, and folk music. Some of the performers include Flocks and the Lookout, Early Autumn Station, Dave Newton and 13-Monsters.

This year’s festival has grown to feature close to 200 artists – the most in fringe history – who will present 120 performances in venues as varied as a basement, cafe, pub, park, gallery, ballroom and a church. This year’s festival also offers an expanded Family Fringe festival and a new twoday music event.

The Martini Room will once again host the Elgin Fringe preview, after-parties and other special events during the festival. And new this year, the Elgin Short Film Festival will offer a sneak peak of short animated films to be voted on by the public.

Elgin Fringe Headquarters will be located at Side Street Studio Arts at 15 Ziegler Court, where people can get show information, purchase tickets, meet the artists, and find out about the events and all activities associated with the fringe.

Also returning this year on Saturday during the day is an expanded Family Fringe event on the grounds outside of the Hemmens Cultural Center, featuring free performances by magician/ storyteller Cody Clark, the Olive Juice Theater, Robert Frosty Theater Company and Captain Ambivalent along with other activities for kids of all ages.

To learn more about the Elgin Fringe Festival, or how to purchase fringe buttons and tickets to shows, go to www.elginfringefestival.com. Check out the Facebook page: Elgin Fringe Festival.

Elgin Symphony Returns The Elgin Symphony Orchestra begins its 2016-2017 season with concerts Saturday and Sunday, September 17-18 at the Hemmens Cultural Center. The ESO’s opening weekend concerts set the tone by highlighting Russian composers, who will be featured throughout the season.

The program fittingly begins the gala occasion with Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, an exuber-

BRAVO

September 2016

Billings Summary WIM Fox Valley

9

Harvest Christian Academy

WIM Fox Valley kicks off its new year of speakers on Thursday, September 8 at Elgin Country Club with State Senator Karen McConnaughay of the 33rd District. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m., with luncheon and program at noon. Cost for members is $22 and non members $25. Area women business owners and managers are invited to attend.

Simone Porter ant work he wrote in three days at the request of the conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra. These concerts also feature Tchaikovsky’s virtuosic Violin Concerto, once declared “unplayable,” performed by guest violinist Simone Porter, and Rachmaninoff’s final composition, Symphonic Dances, unique in its use of alto saxophone as a solo instrument.

Season subscriptions are still available, and offer priority seating, ticket exchange privileges and ten percent discount off the single ticket price. For full details, go to elginsymphony.org.

Bobby Rowland’s Cyclic The Robin and Mark Seigle Gallery at Elgin Artspace Lofts in the heart of downtown Elgin, will be host to a two week long solo exhibit of artwork by Bobby Rowland entitled Cyclic. The installation is intended to explore ideas of change, rebirth, and mindfulness. The work on display is a combination of various styles of painting and sculpture.

Cyclic opens on September 6th with a gallery reception on September 10th from 7 to 11 pm.

The event is free and open to the public.

Unveiling by artist Bobby Rowland

Sen. Karen McConnaughay Sponsor for this month’s meeting is Ramona “Monie” Burns, owner of MoMo’s Concierge Services in Elgin. The company provides harmony, security and freedom at home and work through a variety of personal and professional services.

WIM Fox Valley is open to women business professionals, entrepreneurs and volunteers in a wide range of categories. For more information on WIM or to register for the luncheon, go to wimfoxvalley.org.

DNA Pub Crawl The Downtown Neighborhood Association’s annual Pub Crawl comes crawling back to downtown Elgin on Friday, September 23 at 6 pm. $15 Tickets include a Pub Crawl Passport, T-shirt, drink specials, and a chance at cash and prizes. Part of the proceeds will be donated to Rescue Warriors Corp., a nokill animal rescue. For a list of participating businesses, visit downtownelgin.com or Facebook: Downtown Elgin Pub Crawl.

847.214.3500 1000 N. Randall Rd. Elgin, IL 60123

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Editor’s Note: A New Way of Recycling

Spirits of Elgin Countless thousands of people have passed through the place we now know as Elgin, and each has left an impression here in some way. And yet, a place can only display the evidence of these influences — be they large or small — on the buildings, landscape, and culture after the people have passed through, or passed away.

It’s a collective art project designed to decorate this place with subtle reminders of people whose presence here made a difference that we can still see and feel.

In October, we will begin a series called “Spirits of Elgin,” which recognizes a few such people who left a mark on this place, but whose faces appear only in our photographs and memories — until now.

In each issue, we will publish a life-size stencil design of the face of a “Spirit of Elgin,” along with a brief tribute. We invite you to cut out each stencil and use it to transfer the image to a visible surface in the color or medium of your choice.

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

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

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September 2016

Editor’s Note: A Prank with a Purpose

11

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But we aim to do more than just any publication. We harness the power of creative parody to attract readers to ads instead of driving them away.

Those times when an ad does get our attention, we often find it’s a product we don’t want; or a In every issue, we may publish product we need, about one or more ads for which nothing new or products, persuasive can be said; We harness fictitious businesses or events, or an ad written so designed so well that the power cleverly we fail to even blend right in. remember the product of creative they We invite you as at all. Ironically, the parody readers to search each ads that manage to issue for the spurito attract cut through the media ous ads, and in the clutter only serve to readers to process, consciously sharpen our skill as notice the ads placed ads instead critics. by the real businesses of driving BRAVO Magazine and institutions of the could not exist without them away. community who want the support of our adto serve you. vertisers, and we feel When all else fails, just look we owe it to them to do everyfor the #spurious label in the thing we can to deliver results gutter. for the dollars they spend.

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GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

HISTORIC ELGIN HOUSE TOUR

Terrifi c Twos Join us for 20 minutes of stories, interactive fingerplays and large muscle activities for 2 year olds and an adult caregiver. Attendance is limited. Registration is required.

During the first week of registration only customers living within the Gail Borden Public Library District may register. Registration for customers outside of the library district begins the following Monday. 10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

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BUY TICKETS ONLINE AT GPAELGIN.ORG $15 Adult, Advance Ticket $10 Seniors (65 and up) & Juniors (12 and under) www.gpaelgin.org | www.facebook.com/ElginHistoricHouseTour

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Thu.Sep.1 DNA’s Downtown Elgin Harvest Market In its seventeenth 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 more. The market continually provides an outlet for educational opportunities on sustainable practices and healthy living from local community oriented organizations and businesses. Additionally to supporting local artists the market cultivates a welcoming, accessible family-friendly, and entertaining public space atmosphere in Downtown Elgin. The market will again accept Link and credit cards this season. 9a2p, Downtown Elgin Harvest Market (City Parking Lot), 250 N. Grove Ave. downtownelgin.com Device Advice Drop by the Rakow Branch for hands-on learning. You are welcome to bring your own devices. Also 9/15. 9.30a-11.30a, Rakow Library Computer Cafe, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones 15 minutes of short stories, fingerplays, rhymes, music and a movement activity followed by a 15 minute play period. For children 12 - 23 months with parent or adult caregiver. Registration is required.

Please complete the information below or call our Registration Desk at 847-429-4597. Please sign up for only one of the time slots offered so that as many of our customers as possible can enjoy our programming.

Also 9/8, 9/15, 9/22. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info 1, 2, 3, Go! Families with 1, 2, and 3 year old’s are invited to share stories, rhymes and musical activities together. Repeats 9/8, 9/15, 9/22.

10.15a-10.45a, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six Drop in for 30 minutes of picture book stories, fingerplays and songs for children age 3 through Kindergarten. No registration required. Attend any session. Parents must remain in building. Also at 7p. 10.15a-10.45a,

ChessMaster Junior Chess Club Kids and teens in grades 2-12 are invited to hone their chess skills during our free-play sessions. Beginners are welcome — we will teach you how to play! Repeats 9/7, 9/14, 9/21. 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time Our storytime is for infants 0 - 11 months with an adult caregiver. Registration is required.

Please complete the information below or call our Registration Desk at 847-429-4597. Also 9/8, 9/15, 9/22.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Invitation for Cultural Creative Exploration Take a creative journey through “Road Show”-style stations!

Discover and explore your own culture’s creative contributions with the assistance of GBPLD library and volunteers and participate in fun, hands-on, arts based activities like printmaking and mask-making to celebrate creativity from around the world. Crystal Hollis, historic symbol researcher, will be assisting in the arts based searches for meaning.

Elgin is rich in its cultural diversity.

Each of these cultures brings and shares creative traditions through their art, music and celebrations.

These varied creative perspectives and voices make Elgin a special place to live, learn, and grow. Come and take your own creative journey and see where it leads.All ages are welcome: youth, adults, and families!

6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Fri.Sep.2 Baby Rhyme Time Our storytime is for infants 0-11 months with an adult caregiver. Registration is required.

Please complete the information below or call our Registration Desk at 847-429-4597. Repeats 9/9, 9/16, 9/23. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Wonderful Ones 15 minutes of short stories, fingerplays, rhymes, music and a movement activity followed by a 15 minute play period. For children

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September 2016 12-23 months with parent or adult caregiver. Registration is required.

Please complete the information below or call our Registration Desk at 847-429-4597. Please sign up for only one of the time slots offered so that as many of our customers as possible can enjoy our programming. Repeats 9/9, 9/16, 9/23. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out We celebrate our Geekiness most Fridays!

We open up our cache of games, play a cool movie and have fun! All are welcome and each week is a different theme. Play our games or bring your own! Have a regular group going?

Come meet-up at The BBC! Dress up, dress regularly, dress casually ... but please be dressed :) ... 5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com DNA Downtown Elgin First Fridays “Flash and Film” Flash and Film First Friday — All things photography and videography! Come to downtown Elgin to see what develops as you visit Elgin’s Central Business District’s premier photography studios. This is a rare time that all of the participating studios will open their doors and each host an Open House to showcase and focus on some of their latest work. Each studio is as individual as the owner, and each piece of work has their own creative stamp which makes every stop a must-see!

In addition to the studio Open Houses, this downtown Elgin First Friday will also include a Selfie Contest, an opportunity to have a tintype photo created and a chance to win a Downtown Elgin gift certificate! So envision yourself strolling in historic Downtown Elgin and taking in all that this Friday has to offer! It’ll be a snap! 5p-9p, Various Downtown Elgin Locations downtownelgin.com First Fridays Improv with GreenRoom Productions 2016 - back from summer hiatus! Ready to laugh, chuckle, giggle, gafa? We are. It’s been a few months since their last show, but we are excited to welcome back the amazing improvisers of GreenRoom Productions hot off their summer hiatus. 100% clean. 99.27% hilarious. 90 minutes of complete improvisation a la Whose Line Is It Anyway. With competing teams, live music and a cash bar who knows what the night will hold. Great fun for all ages! General Admission.

8p-9.45p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way greenroomimprov.com. $10-12 New Age Renegades 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Spoken Four Spoken Four delivers astounding performances that’ll make your jaw drop. With a repertoire of songs from the 50s to today’s Top 40, Spoken Four’s vocalists and musicians

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have mastered every word, every nuance, every soaring note that lifts audiences to their feet and gets them dancing like there’s no tomorrow 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover Medusa’s Jet Night Club 10p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago. St. medusachicago.com

Sat.Sep.3 Code Camp Meetup Code Camp is a free learning community for those interested in picking up and developing fundamental coding skills. Join local web developer Megan Johnson on Saturdays in September and October and explore the world of code using a free, open-source platform. Beginner levels are welcome! Bring your own laptop. Ages 14 and up. Repeats 9/10, 9/17, 9/24. 1p-2.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit Bring baby and baby’s new library card to this class to learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! For babies up to six months old and their parents. Also 9/24. 1p-3p, Rakow Library Children’s Area, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Blue Box Cafe Live at the Blue Box Join Rob, Martha and Molly and other hosts from Southgate Media Group as they record live podcasts, do awesome interviews, play great games, chat with special guests and talk about current TV shows, movies and Geek topics. Audience participation is appreciated, who knows,you may end up on one of the Podcasts!!!

6p-9p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com

SEPTEMBER 16-18

East & West Dundee • Along the Fox River

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SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Exciting Entertainment • Carnival • Great Food Car Shows • Kids Korner •Craft & Antique Fairs Magic Shows • Weekend Markets & More!

FIREWORKS | FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

•

8 PM

Grand Victoria Casino Summer Concert Featuring Daughtry with Hinder and Dishwalla Since forming, Daughtry has released four studio albums (Daughtry, Leave This Town, Break The Spell and Baptized), scored four No. 1 hits, garnered four Grammy nominations, won four American Music Awards, won three People’s Choice Awards, sold over 8.2

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families Lectures & Learning

THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSORS! Cucci Ford, Orange Crush Ltd., Terra Business Park

Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

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new life to great rock songs! With their combined 70 years of musical experience, unique arrangements, and expert musicianship, Alex & the All Stars know how to keep audiences rockin’. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover The Giving Moon 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Medusa Saturday’s 10.30p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago. St. medusachicago.com million albums and 16 million singles worldwide and sold out concerts around the globe. At radio, the band has earned four #1 singles, including the multi-format No. 1 song “It’s Not Over”. Daughtry’s self-titled debut was the fastest-selling rock debut in Soundscan history and its follow up, Leave This Town, marked the quintet’s second consecutive No. 1 album.

Daughtry’s third album, Break The Spell was certified gold within four weeks of its release while their last studio effort, Baptized, produced the certified gold single, “Waiting For Superman.” Daughtry’s album It’s Not Over...The Hits So Far is out now.

7p, Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. $30-85 Alex and the All Stars Great Rock Songs! Alex & the All Stars bring

Sun.Sep.4 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p4p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com

Tue.Sep.6 Elgin Genealogical Society Monthly meeting of the Elgin Genealogical Society. 9a-11.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones 15 minutes of short stories, fingerplays, rhymes, music and a movement activity followed by a 15 minute play period. For children 12-23 months with parent or adult caregiver. Registration is required.

Please complete the information

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below or call our Registration Desk at 847-429-4597. Please sign up for only one of the time slots offered so that as many of our customers as possible can enjoy our programming.

During the first week of registration only patrons within the Gail Borden Public Library District may register.

Registration for persons outside of the library district begins the next Monday. Also 9/6, 9/13, 9/20.

9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime The Gail Borden Public Library and Panera Bread are partnering to sponsor this program to be held at Panera Bread.

Your preschooler will enjoy stories read by a library staff member, followed by a milk and cookie snack compliments of Panera. Please register. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go at Restaurant, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Pediatric Therapeutic Playgroup An inclusive playgroup for children who currently receive therapy services or may benefit from therapeutic play, ages 0-5. This unique playgroup offers opportunities for children to focus on developmental play while families meet and find support. Also 9/6, 9/13, 9/20. 11a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Job Search & Resume Help Drop in for one-on-one assistance with your job search. Receive help with your resume, cover letter, completing online applications, and more. For more information contact the Kane County Department of Community Reinvestment at 630-966-1435. Also 9/6, 9/13, 9/20. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Rakow Rooks Chess Club Kids are invited to hone their chess skills at Rakow Branch. Beginners are welcome.

Intermediate or advanced players can play opponents or work on chess puzzles. Chess sets available or bring your own. Also 9/6, 9/13, 9/20.

4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Library Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden. info Audio Lab Digital Media LabTeens can learn how to create and edit a professional audio recording, direct and edit a professional video, learn MIDI, and become a Photoshop pro.

Also 9/20. 5p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Pizza & Books Stop by Studio 270 for a slice of pizza and join in on the conversation. We will be talking about books that we are currently reading.

For teens in grades 9-12. Also 9/6.

5p-6p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

SUNDAY

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September 2016 Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee 6p-7p, Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way cityofelgin.org SACRED YOGA Yoga in the stained glass sanctuary of First Congregational Church. 1st Tuesday of every month 6p, First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago St. (630) 886-8823. $10 Terrific Twos See 9/6. 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group Practice having everyday conversations in English, improve your pronunciation and gain confidence with a tutor from the Literacy Connection. No registration.Practica conversar en ingles, mejora tu pronunciacion y adquiere confianza con un tutor del Literacy Connection. No hace falta inscribirse.

Repeats 9/6, 9/13, 9/20. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Human Relations Commission 6.30p-7.30p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court cityofelgin.org 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 South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Danny’s On Douglas Open Mic Night One of the Northwest Suburbs’ longest running Open Mics! Grab your family, friends, and instruments and head on down! 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Neighborhood Watch Group Meeting Elgin has 140 Neighborhood Watch Groups. Neighborhood Watch Groups are the eyes and the ears of the community. All groups have a Block Captain. Block Captains, along with neighbors, are encouraged to become actively involved in crime prevention efforts, as well as the important process of information exchange between neighbors and the police department. Block Captains receive periodic newsletters providing crime tips and updates. 7p-8p, Elgin Police Department, 151 Douglas Ave cityofelgin.org Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting 7p-8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court cityofelgin.org Story Mix for Three to Six See above. 7p-7.30p, GBPL Story Room North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info

Wed.Sep.7 Job Training Information Session Training grants are available to help you get a job! Learn about WIOA

services and the application process.

This program is in partnership with the Kane County Department of Community Reinvestment. For more information, call 630-966-1435, ext.

40078. Also 9/7, 9/14, 9/21. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info 1, 2, 3, Go! Families with 1, 2, and 3 year olds are invited to enjoy stories, rhymes, and musical activities together. No registration required. Repeats 9/7, 9/21. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six Visit Rakow children’s area for 30 minutes of stories, songs and finger puppets.

Also 9/14, 9/21. 10.30a-11a, Rakow Library Children’s Area, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info

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Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin

th Sept.24

All Seats $7

8th Annual

Free Depression Screenings Family Service Association of Greater Elgin Area is Offering FREE Depression Screenings In English and SpanishEstara Ofreciendo Evaluaciones de Depresion GRATIS En Ingles Y Espanol 3p-6p, GBPL Southeast Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 9/1. 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com JourneyCare presents ‘Being Mortal’ JourneyCare, a non-profit hospice and palliative care organization providing services in Northern Illinois, will be holding a free, community screening of the documentary “Being Mortal” at the Gail Borden Public Library. Adapted from Dr. Gawande’s 2014 nationally best-selling book of the same name, and nationally aired on the PBS program “Frontline” in February 2015, this film delves into the hopes of patients and families facing terminal illness and the practice of caring for the dying.

It explores the relationships between patients and their doctors and the importance of people planning ahead and talking with family members about end-of-life decisions. After the screening, audience members can participate in a guided conversation

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

Red Carpet Reception 6:15pm Show Starts at 7:00pm Domestic & International Entries Red Carpet Arrivals & Cash Awards

Top 6 Films Screened For Prizes of Up to $1000 “PEOPLE’S CHOICE” Award Based On Your Vote Tickets On Sale Now at Hemmens Box Office

847-931-5900 FilmFreeway.com/Festival/ElginShortFilmFestival Hemmens.org • Facebook.com/ElginShortFilm

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Discussion. Also 9/14, 9/21. 7p-9p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Ken Bruderle

Danny’s on Douglas Karaoke 8p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com

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“Press Play” for letterhead, posters, flyers,

envelopes, booklets, programs, manuals, brochures, newsletters, folders, invitations, labels, forms and anything else you can print on paper.

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on how to take concrete steps to identify and communicate wishes about end-of-life goals and preferences. Participants will also receive a free copy of “Five Wishes”, an advance care planning tool. GBPL will also offer information on their related resources. 6p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info La M!scara, la Vida y la Muerte: Charla y Baile/The Mask, Life & Death La Mascara, la Vida y la Muerte:Charla y Baile/The Mask, Life and Death: Talk and DanceEn Mexico la mascara forma parte de la artesania ceremonial que produce la cultura popular. Escucha una charla con visuales por Fernando Betancourt, actor, director teatral y promotor cultural, quien nos habla sobre las festividades de los pueblos originarios de Mexico y la integracion de la mascara en una vida dedicada al teatro. Luego disfruta de danzas por los grupos Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl y Ballet Girasol.In Mexico masks are part of a ceremonial artistry that is the product of popular culture. Listen to a talk by actor, director and cultural promoter Fernando Betancourt on the festivities of the native peoples of Mexico and the integration of masks in a life dedicated to theater. Then enjoy dances by Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl and Ballet Girasol. 6p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Cuentos para la familia/Spanish family storytime 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs and fun for parents and children to enjoy together.!30 minutos de cuentos musica, rimas, manualidades y mucho mas para el disfrute de toda la familia! No registration required. All ages welcome.No necesita registrarse. Para todas las edades. Repeats 9/7, 9/14, 9/21 6.30p-7p, GBPL Story Room North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Locker Crafts for Grades 6-8 Feeling blah about organizing your school supplies? Come try three crafts that will make your locker or homework space look snazzy! 7p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Walking Book Club Walk and Book

Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night Stretch your brain with beer in hand!

Wednesday nights are for Trivia!

Join the EPH Trivia gang and battle against Elgin’s most ferociously competitive brainiacs. Weekly prizes for the top three teams, as well as eight-week cumulative tourneys with big grand prizes. Trivia starts promptly at 8pm. Get here early to settle in with some food, beer and cocktails.

Repeats 9/7, 9/14, 9/21, 9/28. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. elginpublichouse.com

Thu.Sep.8 DNA’s Downtown Elgin Harvest Market See 9/8. 9a-2p, Downtown Elgin Harvest Market (City Parking Lot), 250 N. Grove Ave. downtownelgin.com Gail Borden at Harvest Market GBPL information table and crafts at Harvest Market On the corner of Grove and Kimball Avenues, across from the library. Stop by our table for Harvest Market-themed crafts, and learn about new programs and branch service information. 9a-2p, GBPL Library On The Go, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Terrifi c Twos Join us for 20 minutes of stories, interactive fingerplays and large muscle activities for 2 year olds and an adult caregiver. Attendance is limited. Registration is required.

During the first week of registration only customers living within the Gail Borden Public Library District may register. Registration for customers outside of the library district begins the following Monday. Repeats 10a, 10.45a. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Coffee, Conversation and More!

Informal discussions on topics for people old enough to have a past.

Pictures welcomed.September 8 - School Days 9.30a-11a, Rakow Library Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Device Advice Need help figuring out how to use your tablet, smartphone, or eReader? Bring your questions and your device to the library for some 1:1 help! Also 9/22. 9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 9/1. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Terrifi c Twos See above. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

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September 2016 1, 2, 3, Go! See 9/1. 10.15a-10.45a, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/1.

10.15a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Terrifi c Twos See above.

10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 Become the speaker and leader you want to be.

No registration. Toastmasters will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation. Whether you are a professional, student, stay-at-home parent or retiree, Toastmasters is the most efficient, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you open an entirely new world of possibilities. You’ll be more persuasive and confident when giving presentations, and you’ll improve your one-on-one dealings with others.

Please join us as a guest! Also 9/22.

12p-1p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Homework Heroes Students who need help with homework assignments can meet one-on-one on a first come, first served basis with a helpful volunteer. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Repeats 9/15, 9/22. 5p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 9/1.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Cross-Cultural Creativity Continue the fun and sharing with acclaimed artist Indira Johnson. She will lead an exploration of symbols from across the globe and a community-engaged, arts piece that will pull together these cultural expressions.

No artistic experience to expert artists are welcome, as well as all ages - youth, adults, and families!

Participation in Workshop 1 is not required. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Genealogy Writers’ Group Learn from others with a similar interest in writing their family’s history.

6.30p-7.45p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info CAN Do! How to can produce, save money, and save the planet Canning is what our mothers and grandmothers did, and with the local food movement gathering steam, canning is back in the limelight. Margie DillLentz started her first garden back in 1990 with her husband and found out they harvested way more than

they could eat and started canning.

She preserves jams, sauces, herbs and a variety of pickled and canned fruits and vegetables. Find out why canning is also very beneficial for the planet, too. Please join us to learn all about what she cans and how easy and fun it is. Please register.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Fri.Sep.9 Baby Rhyme Time See 9/2.

9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Wonderful Ones See 9/2. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit Welcome Baby! Bring baby and baby’s new library card to this class designed especially for Baby’s First Library Card holders. Learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! For babies up to six months old and their parents. Registration preferred. Also at 3p. 1p-1.30p, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info

17

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra 2016 Illinois Orchestra of the Year

Join us this 2016-17 season Tickets start at only $30 Valet or Free Parking Gala Season Opening Concerts!

Tchaikovsky & Rachmaninoff

Sept 17 & 18

Charlie Chaplin’s City Lights

Oct 7, 8 & 9

All-Russian Program

A film with live orchestra

Use code 16-Bravo for 10% savings

(excludes holiday concerts)

Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See above. 3p-3.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

ElginSymphony.Org 847.888.4000

Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out See 9/2.

5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com Anatomy Science Night Skeletal system, muscular system, digestive system- all systems that are way more important to us than any computer system! What makes our bodies work the way they do? How do they help us survive? Experiments and demonstrations will be set up at different stations throughout theMuseum for kids and their families to learn all about the inner workings of the human body. This is a drop-in program; No registration required.

Members free. 6p-8p, Elgin Public Museum, 225 Grand Blvd elginpublicmuseum.org. $2 Rob Post Band ROB POST is a

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

Photo: Paolo Cascio

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Exhibitors $15 registration. 10a, Raceway Woods Nature Preserve, Carpentersville, IL, Carpentersville, IL (847) 421-2891. Free 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. Reapeats 10.30a, 11a, 11.30a. 10a-10.15a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

diverse, high-energy, fun, party band, playing the truest in classic rock music with a nice mix of current favorites. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino. com. No Cover

WordPress: Basics Learn how WordPress allows users to build websites or blogs as well as basic features such as how to navigate, create pages, and write posts in class one of the WordPress series. 10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Smokin’ Gunz A great night of country music. 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin. com. No Cover

Read to Rover See above.

10.30a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info

Medusa’s Jet Night Club 10p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago. St. medusachicago.com

Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See above. 10.30a-11a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Sat.Sep.10 35th Annual Annual Historic Elgin House Tour The Annual Historic Elgin House Tour is an educational event that offers something for everyone.

There’s architecture, history, home remodeling, interior decorating, gardening and more. The interior tours of the homes are guided and interpreted. The houses can be toured in any order. If you participate, wear comfortable shoes and allow yourself the full day to see all of the homes.

9a-4p, Elgin History Museum Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St. gpaelgin.org. $10-15-20 Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit Welcome Baby! Bring baby and baby’s new library card to this class designed especially for Baby’s First Library Card holders. Learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! For babies up to six months old and their parents. Registration preferred.

Repeats at 10.30a. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info 8th Annual Meadowdale, Motorsports and Memories Car Show The Midwest Racing Preservation Association (MiRPA) is pleased to announce the 8th Annual Meadowdale, Motorsports and Memories Car Show will be held at Raceway Woods Nature Preserve, rain or shine. A wide array of vehicles of interest will gather on the straightaway of the historic Meadowdale International Raceway “ghost track.” The car show is free to spectators and will also feature food, beverage and memorabilia vendors.

Read to Rover See above. 11a-11.15a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Read to Rover See above.

11.30a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info ¡CelebrArte! Celebrate the arts with family activities and live dance and music performances by groups including Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl and Luz de Ande. Enjoy the theatrical presentation of La Flor de Roca, a play based on fables from Latin America with children from our community and directed by Fernando Betancourt. Funded in part by a grant from the Florence B. and Cornelia A. Palmer Foundation. There will be English translation.Celebra las artes con actividades para la familia y actuaciones en vivio incluyendo Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl y Luz de Ande. Disfruta la presentacion de teatro de La Flor de Roca, una obra basada en fabulas latinoamericanas con ninos de Elgin y dirigida por Fernando Betancourt de Mexico. Con el apoyo de una subvencion de Florence B. and Cornelia A. Palmer Foundation.

Habra traduccion al ingles. 1p-4.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Code Camp Meetup See 9/3.

1p-2.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Tabla Workshop — Indian Drums Come to meet a top master of North Indian Tabla Drums, Pt Charanjit ChaturLal, visiting here from New Delhi. Pandit Charanjit ChaturLal is the founder of the society that honors his father who made history bringing Indian music to the west in

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the 60’s with Pt. Ravi Shankar and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. This weekend intensive is geared toward beginners and intermediate students, advanced students welcome by appointment.

Introductory workshop on Saturday, September 20, from 2-4pm, in South Elgin! Call 505-795-1255 for details.

2p-4p, Ganesh Academy of Indian Arts, 1 Quarry Court, South Elgin (505)795-1255 chicagoindian.com. $25

and funky personality, they deliver outstanding songs and an unforgettable live show. 9p, D Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Blvd. d-hangout. com. No Cover

Illinois Brews at Bowes Creek Join us at Bowes Creek Country Club for a fun and worthwhile event benefiting the Recreation Youth Scholarship Fund. Bowes Creek Country Club will provide a beautiful backdrop for this fun-filled event, which will feature Craft and home brews. The event will feature live music and golf related activities.Tickets purchased in advance are $35 for the Ample Ale Package and $15 for the Designated Driver.

The day of the event the cost will increase. Buy your tickets now and plan to join us for this exciting event!

Packages Include:Ample Ale: Event admission, Craft and home brew tasting, souvenir glass, food fresh off the grill Designated Driver: Event admission, food fresh off the grill, soft drinks/water. 3p-8p, Bowes Creek Country Club, 1250 Bowes Creek Blvd cityofelgin.org. $15-35

35th Annual Annual Historic Elgin House Tour See 9/10. 12.30p-4p, Elgin History Museum Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St. gpaelgin.org. $10-15-20 cash or check

Blue Box Cafe Live at the Blue Box See 9/3. 6p-9p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com Cyclic. A Solo Art Exhibit from Bobby Rowland — Artist Reception Beginning with an end. Change is the story line. Perception and senses are the narrators. Interpretations define the characters. Same source, alternating manuscripts. All participants taking and feeding queues. A thread of events. Seemingly independent. Always in unison. Perpetual cause and effect. When challenged, the thread gets thin. The air gets dry. A match is lit. The ashes settle.

Change is the story line. Ending with a beginning. Exhibit runs 9/6-9/18.

7p, Elgin Artspace Lofts’ Robin and Mark Seigle Gallery, 51 S. Spring ST. (847) 894-5250 bobbyrowlandart. com. Free Beatlerama “Beatlerama!” is a Beatles tribute that blends the energy and youth of an actual Beatles show with note for note performances of the group’s most classic numbers. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover Teenage Mutant 90’s Turtles 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Tonic Freight Train If there is one band that can usher in a new wave of funk rock music, it is Tonic Freight Train. With an explosive sound that stems from a melting pot of influences, an intense passion for music,

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

Sun.Sep.11

Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p4p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com Painting Social — “Night Blooms” 7p-9.30p, Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago St. vinogogh.com. $38

Mon.Sep.12 Google Tools: Gmail Learn how to streamline electronic communication with an in-depth overview of Gmail and Google Contacts in this class.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Great Books Discussion Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of the month at 6:55 pm in the Conference Room. For more information, call Jeanne Hebeisen at 847-741-6264. Co-sponsored by the American Association of University Women Elgin Branch. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Russian Conversation Group Govorite po-russki? If you find Russia fascinating and the Russian language beautiful, join fellow Russian language enthusiasts to discuss contemporary events, history and culture. Some knowledge of Russian is expected. Course facilitator is John Schwartz, a retired USG Russian translator and instructor. 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Tue.Sep.13 FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Exhibits & Film Creativity Causes & Community Other

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Save the Date 10.22.16 Save the City Don’t miss Chicagoland’s biggest Halloween event: The city of Elgin invites you to the “Safe Zone,” the only place where the Zombie Defense Initiative can protect you from the zombie outbreak on Saturday, October 22, from 6-11 p.m.

This may be your last shot at survival, so the ZDI ensures that every human will have a good time with four stages of entertainment, bands, drinks, vendors, food vendors, live graffiti artists, and guests like SVENGOOLIE. Expect some businesses to be boarded up, trash strewn about, burning tires, cars damaged and overturned, and even ZOMBIES caged up. Do not fear! Your safety is guaranteed by military presence, concerned citizens and the Zombie Defense Initiative. Some of the businesses will be open for you to get food, shelter, and medical treatment.

Remember there is no vaccine or treatment for the infection. Be safe, be prepared, and get to the “Safe Zone”at the sixth annual Nightmare on Chicago Street.

Visit nightmareonchicagostreet.com for tickets, information, photo galleries, and much more.

nightmareonchicagostreet.com

Elgin

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FEED.whereisbravo EAST SIDE Baker Hill Restaurant 1279 Dundee Ave. Elgin History Museum 360 Park Street Elgin Public Museum 225 Grand Ave Gail Borden Public Library 270 N. Grove Avenue Neighborhood Housing Services 1 American Way Pampered Pet Services 1050 Dundee Ave. Superior Homes Realty 1173 Dundee Ave. Tri-City Animal Hospital 790 Summit St. DOWNTOWN Arabica Cafe* 59 Douglas Ave Blue Box Cafe 176 E. Chicago Street Central Barber Shop 172 E. Chicago St. Danny’s on Douglas* 231 Douglas Avenue Domani Cafe 109 E. Highland Avenue

Soulful Sparrow 10 Douglas Avenue

Porter’s Pub 1250 Bowes Creek Road

Wall to Wall Retro 225 E. Chicago Street

Rakow Branch, Gail Borden Library 2751 W. Bowes Road

WEST SIDE

Starbucks 2480 North Randall Road

Alexander’s Cafe 1725 N. State Street Big Skillet Restaurant 90 Tyler Creek Plaza Big Apple Bagels 561 N. McLean Boulevard Collingbourne’s Interesting Things 219 W. Higland Ave. Colonial Cafe 600 S. McLean Boulevard “D” Hangout Bar and Grill 550 S. McLean Boulevard Grumpy Goat Tavern 875 Sports Way Elgin Community College Campuswide 1700 Spartan Drive Habitat for Humanity ReStore 800 N. State Street Holiday Inn Express 495 Airport Road In The Neighborhood Deli 185 Edison Avenue

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

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

Downtown Neighborhood Association 10 N. Spring Street

Kendall’s Kountry Kitchen 219 Walnut Ave.

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

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

Elgin Public House 219 E. Chicago Street

RANDALL CORRIDOR

Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way

Advocate Sherman Hospital 1425 N. Randall Road

Kellenberger Auto Service 217 Symphony Way

Candlewood Suites 1780 Capital Street

Maiden Bedlam 166 E. Chicago St.

Dutch Inn West 36W610 Foothill Road

Pastigel Bakery 154 E. Chicago St.

Hawthorne Hill Nature Center 28 Brookside Dr.

Rediscover Records 9 S. Spring Street

Jimmy’s Charhouse 2290 Point Boulevard

Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 15 Ziegler Court

Panera Bread 2484 North Randall Road

Smooth Fox 51 S. Grove Ave.

Panera Bread (South Elgin) 322 S. Randall Road

Starbucks (South Elgin) 338 S. Randall Road Village Pizza and Pub 2496 N. Randall Road *Preferred Pickup Location Supplies are limited at each of those locations and may run out early in the month.

If you don’t see BR AVO Magazine displayed, please let management know that you saw their location listed here, and came looking to get a free copy!

Would you like a supply of BRAVO Magazines at your office or place of business? Let us know!

Display racks are available upon request for high traffic retail locations!

Contact us at: bravo@marqueemedia.net

Wonderful Ones See 9/6.

9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Computer Maintenance Basics Learn tips and tricks for improving your computer’s performance, stability and speed through common maintenance tasks in this class.

10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Roald Dahl’s 100th Birthday Party Come play games and make a craft at stations based on Roald Dahl’s favorite books! 10a-6.30p, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Pediatric Therapeutic Playgroup See 9/6. 11a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Armchair Generals - Andersonville Prison A Brown Bag Civil War and Lincoln Interest Group.Andersonville Prison presented by Frank Crawford 11.45a-1.15p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Job Search & Resume Help See 9/6.

1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Rakow Rooks Chess Club See 9/6.

4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Library Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden. info QuickBooks: Basics Learn how QuickBooks’ accounting software for small-medium sized businesses allows users to manage their company finances in class one of the QuickBooks’ series. 5p-6.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Terrific Twos See 9/6. 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group See 9/6.

6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Danny’s On Douglas Open Mic Night See 9/6. 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin. com. No Cover Library Board Meeting Monthly meeting of the Library Board which is

September 2016 generally held on the second Tuesday of the month. 7p-9p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info MS Word: Basics Learn how to create text-based documents using Microsoft Word, as well as how to complete simple actions like saving, opening, and printing documents in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/6.

7p-7.30p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Wed.Sep.14 Job Training Information Session See 9/7. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/7.

10.30a-11a, Rakow Library Children’s Area, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden. info LinkedIn: Basics Learn how LinkedIn--the internet’s number one professional networking website--allows you to create and promote workplace skills, experience, and successes in this class. 11.30a-1p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Offi ce of Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth - Satellite Offi ce Hours Office of Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth - Satellite Office Hours on the 2nd Wednesday of each month to provide information on resources in their office. 12.30p-4.30p, GBPL Southeast Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Elgin Symphony Orchestra Listeners Club This free, interactive lecture/discussion series, led by Jim Kendros, meets on the Wednesday afternoon during the week of the ESO’s Classics Masterworks series and will broaden your understanding of the music to be performed that week. You will study the music from the inside out, make new friends, and enhance your concert experience.

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Please register at www.elginsymphony.org or call 847-888-0404 ext. 238 to reserve your seat. 1p-3p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 9/1. 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info MS Excel: Basics Learn how Microsoft Excel’s cells, worksheets, and workbooks easily allow users to manipulate, calculate, and format numbers and other types of data in this class. Also at 6.30p. 4p-5.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info STEAMologist Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math! Kids will explore, experiment and create. 4p5p, Rakow Library Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info 5th Annual Foundation Book Sale - Preview Night Thousands of books and media for sale at the annual Library Foundation Book Sale - proceeds help support programs and events at the library! Event continues through 9/18. 5p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com Video Lab Digital Media LabTeens can learn how to create and edit a professional audio recording, direct and edit a professional video, learn MIDI, and become a Photoshop pro.

5p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info

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CEMETERY WALK at Bluff City Cemetery 945 Bluff City Blvd. • Elgin, Illinois

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2016 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.

$12.00 in Advance and for Elgin History Museum Members $15.00 on Day of Event Free for children 12 and Under • Group Rates Available Tickets are available at the Elgin History Museum and Ziegler’s Ace Hardware For more information call: (847) 742-4248 or go to: www.elginhistory.org or visit us on Facebook

Elgin Fringe Festival — BLIMP RAISING The Elgin Fringe Festival is coming up on its third year of taking over the downtown Elgin area with a variety of dance, music, theater and visual arts. This year’s festival has grown to feature close to 200 artists – the most in fringe history – who will present 120 performances in venues as varied as a basement, cafe, pub, park, gallery, ballroom and a church. This year’s festival also offers

In Celebration of Elgin Garden Club’s 100th Year JOIN US FOR AN OUTSTANDING PRESENTATION

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Tuesday, September 20, 3:30 p.m.

Richard Deverell, Director of England’s Kew Gardens will present their mission of using the power of science and the rich diversity of gardens to provide knowledge, inspiration and understanding of why plants matter.

Gail Borden Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin, IL Registration required: online at gailborden.info/register or call (847) 429-4597

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BRAVO 5th Annual Foundation Book Sale Thousands of books and media for sale at the annual Library Foundation Book Sale - proceeds help support programs and events at the library!

Event continues through 9/18. 9a-9p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info DNA’s Downtown Elgin Harvest Market See 9/8. 9a-2p, Downtown Elgin Harvest Market (City Parking Lot), 250 N. Grove Ave. downtownelgin.com

an expanded Family Fringe festival and a new two-day music event.

Elgin Fringe performances will take place at the Blue Box Cafe, Elgin Art Showcase, Elgin Public House, Imago Studios, Next Door Theater, outside the Hemmens Cultural Center and the First United Methodist Church. Elgin Fringe Headquarters will be located at Side Street Studio Arts at 15 Ziegler Court, where people can get show information, purchase tickets, meet the artists, and find out about the events and all activities associated with the fringe. Complete program included within limited supply of BRAVO Magazine issues. 5.30p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe. com. Free Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class Come and experience the warmth and cultural interaction of learning a new language alongside a native speaker. The class is taught by Betty Martinez. No registration.Ven y disfruta un ambiente acogedor al aprender el ingles y espanol con otras personas que lo hablan como primer idioma. La maestra Betty Martinez conduce las clases. Also 9/21. 6p-7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Spanish Storytime Families who speak or are learning Spanish will enjoy stories and songs with Ms. Madeleine. 6p-6.35p, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Cuentos para la familia/Spanish family storytime See 9/7. 6.30p7p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Device Advice See 9/15.

9.30a-11.30a, Rakow Library Computer Cafe, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 9/1. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info 1, 2, 3, Go! See 9/1. 10.15a-10.45a, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/8.

10.15a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Brown Bag Lunch: History of Presidential Campaigns 12p, Elgin History Musem, 360 Park St. elginhistory. org. $3 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¬óor any other kind of writing that interests you. Feel free to bring any of your own writing with you. For teens in grades 9-12. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Minecraft for Grades 3-8 All ability levels are welcome! Beginners can learn how to play; experts can show off their amazing skills by competing in a building challenge with friends.

Registration is required. 4p-5p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Homework Heroes See 9/8. 5p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

MS Excel: Basics See above. 6.30p8p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Walking Book Club See 9/7. 7p-9p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Danny’s on Douglas Karaoke 8p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night See 9/7. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. elginpublichouse.com

Thu.Sep.15

Elgin Fringe Festival — THURSDAY LINEUP Olive Juice Theatre, Creative Moves, La Groove Fatale, Elgin Short Film Festival Preview, Titterglitz,

2 Merry Men, Cody Clark, Captain Ambivalent, David Boyle, Improvised Mythology, William Pack, Elaine Phillips, Elgin Theatre Company, Dave Newton, Early Autumn Station, Flocks & the Lookout, Huck Poe and more!

See the Elgin Fringe Festival program or visit the website for show times, venues, tickets and complete details!

6p, Downtown Elgin elginfringefestival.com. $3 and up Baby Rhyme Time See 9/1.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Aparatos Inteligentes: Lo B!sico Aprenda las caracteristicas y funciones basicas de su telefono inteligente; cubriremos ajustando las configuracion, conectando a Wi-Fi, descargando aplicaciones y mucho mas. Also 9/16. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudadana/Citizenship Conversation Group Do you need to practice English for your naturalization/ citizenship test? Come to this free group to review and practice the spoken English you will need for the interview and the 100 questions from the history/civics test. This group will be led by a tutor and is open to all.

Presented by The Literacy Connection. No registration.¬øNecesitas practicar tu ingles para el examen de la ciudadania? Ven a este grupo gratis para repasar y practicar el ingles que vas a necesitar para la entrevista y las 100 preguntas del examen de historia y civica. El grupo es liderado por un tutor y cualquiera puede asistir. Presentado por The Literacy Connection. No hace falta inscribirse.

6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Novels at Night Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel 6.30p-7.30p, Rakow Library Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info 12 Angry Jurors 12 Angry Jurors,

by Reginald Rose and adapted by Sherman L. Sergel is a story where the defense and prosecution have rested and the jury is filing into the jury room to decide if a young man is guilty or innocent of murder. What begins as an open-and shut-case soon becomes a detective story that presents a succession of clues creating doubt, and a mini-drama of each of the jurors’ prejudices and preconceptions about the trial, the accused, and each other. All of the action takes place on the stage of the jury room.

7p, Judson University Thompson Center for Performing Arts, 1151 N. State St. (847) 214-3500 harvestchristianacademy.org/jurors. $12 Elgin Genealogical Society Monthly meeting of the Elgin Genealogical Society. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

2.9 Veterans Information Networking Session Join us for monthly programs to provide information on a varying range of topics dealing with Veterans and to meet and discuss with other Veterans. Topics may include veterans benefits (medical, dental, compensation, pension, burial, etc.), and updates on these benefits, military experiences, PTSD, trauma, recording of discharges and others.

Coffee and tea will be served. No registration. 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info

Fri.Sep.16 5th Annual Foundation Book Sale See 9/15. 9a-6p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 9/2.

9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Aparatos Inteligentes: Lo B!sico See 9/16. 10a-12p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 9/2. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Elgin Fringe Festival — FRIDAY LINEUP Olive Juice Theatre, Titterglitz, Chicago Burlesque Showcase, Dave Newton, Watch City, T.R.A.C.Y. Presents, 2 Merry Men, Jeremy Schaefer, Kelly Bolton, Jeannie McQueenie, Improvised Mythology, David Boyle, Elgin Theatre Company, Independent Players, Elaine Phillips, Big Ned & The Electra 225, The ions, Noxious Neighbors, 13-Monsters, Huck Poe and more. See Fringe Festival Program or visit website for show times, venues, and more information!

4.30p, Downtown Elgin elginfringefestival.com. $3 and up Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out See 9/2.

5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com 12 Angry Jurors See 9/15. 7p, Judson University Thompson Center for Performing Arts, 1151 N. State St. (847) 214-3500 harvestchristianacademy.org/jurors. $12

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

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YOUR GREATEST ADVOCATE IN OUR COMMUNITY When it comes to your health, Advocate Sherman Hospital is in your corner. We’re committed to helping you and your family live your healthiest life. And we know your time is valuable.

We’re pleased to provide sameday physician appointments, 3D mammography with same-day results and online reservations at three immediate care locations throughout the Fox Valley.

Learn more at advocatehealth.com/sherman 1.800.3.ADVOCATE (1.800.323.8622)

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be available for photo ops. Participants must get 2 punches in their booklet by participating in Curiosity Day activities to get a ticket for the photo op. 9.30a-12.30p, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info WordPress: Getting Started Learn how to pick WordPress themes to match your web content and how to customize the style and layout of your website while managing posts and pages in this class. 10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info C-Factor The pop/rock, female-fronted five-piece has an electrifying stage show with an eclectic music lineup.

9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com.

No Cover Hillbilly Rockstarz 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Medusa’s Jet Night Club 10p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago. St. medusachicago.com

Sat.Sep.17 Homebuyer Education Class Thinking about the possibility of home-ownership, learn how to make it a smooth move. NHS of the Fox Valley offers FREE monthly Homebuyer Education Classes that teach the basic home-ownership terms, steps, and strategies to be prepared for a positive home buying experience. Ask questions, hear questions, and walk away prepared to make informed decisions. REGISTER today!

CALL (847)227-1001. 8a, Presence St. Joseph Hospital St. Luke Conference Room, 77 N. Airlite St. 847.227.1001.

FREE 5th Annual Foundation Book Sale See 9/15. 9a-6p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info SACRED YOGA Yoga in the beautiful stained glass sanctuary of First Congregational Church. Third Saturday of every month. 9a, First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago St. (630) 886-8823. $10

Elgin Fringe Festival — FAMILY FRINGE Face Painting, Caricatures, Community Art Project, Story Corner, Bounce Houses. Live Performances by: Jason and the Argonauts Interactive Game Show (11a), The Magic of Cody Clark (12p), Robert Frosty Theater Company - Sketch Comedy with Stage Fighting (1p), Captain Ambivalent - Nerd Rock of the Best Sort (2p).

See the Fringe Festival program or website for full details! 11a, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way elginfringefestival.com. Free Elgin Fringe Festival — SATURDAY LINEUP Robert Frosty Theatre Company, Imaginez Ensemblez, Creative Moves, La Groove Fatale, The Group Project, Laugh You Bastars, Elgin Short Film Festival Preview, Cody Clark, Captain Ambivalent, Debbie From, Madeleine Hicks, Julia Brown, Olive Juice Theatre, Titterglitz, Dave Newton, T.R.A.C.Y. Presents, 2 Merry Men, Jeremy Schaefer, Kelly Bolton, Jeannie McQueenie, Improvised Mythology, David Boyle, Elgin Theatre Company, Independent Players, Elaine Phillips, Huck Poe and more.

See Fringe Festival Program or visit website for show times, venues, and more information! 11a, Downtown Elgin elginfringefestival.com. $3 and up 12 Angry Jurors See 9/15. 1p, Judson University Thompson Center for Performing Arts, 1151 N. State St. (847) 214-3500 harvestchristianacademy.org/jurors. $12 Code Camp Meetup See 9/3.

1p-2.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Curiosity Day with Curious George!

Join us as we celebrate the 75th Anniversary of classic tale Curious George! We will host a special storytime, literacy activities, crafts, and a presentation about our new 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program and the United Way’s Imagination Library. Participate in these programs to win a ticket to take a photo with the real, live Curious George in the library! 9.30a-12.30p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Let’s Decorate for Fall Make a seasonal mini-wreath using colored tissue paper flowers. All supplies provided 1p-3p, Rakow Library Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden. info

Meet Curious George! Curious George is visiting the library and will

Guitars Under the Stars Fête Featuring The Shaws, Rev Ev Hanson,

Games & Gadgets Drop-in for some family free play! An assortment of board games, chess, Legos, Wii video games, or iPads will be available. Children under the age of eight must be accompanied by an adult. 2p-3.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Hyphens, Sam Dandals Band, Jack Daddy & the Vinos, Blue Adapters, They Found Us. To benefit the almost home foundation which provides animal rescue services for unwanted, neglected or abused animals. 5p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Blue Box Cafe Live at the Blue Box See 9/3. 6p-9p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com Gala Opening Weekend: Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff The ESO’s opening concerts set the tone by highlighting Russian composers, who will be featured throughout the season.

The program fittingly begins the gala occasion with Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, an exuberant work he wrote in three days at the request of the conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra. The concerts also feature Tchaikovsky’s virtuosic Violin Concerto, once declared “unplayable,” performed by guest violinist Simone Porter, and Rachmaninoff’s final composition, Symphonic Dances, unique in its use of alto saxophone as a solo instrument. Andrew Grams, conductor. Simone Porter, violin.

7.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way elginsymphony.org. $30 and up No Limits Music from the 80’s, 90’s and Top 40. 9p, D Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Blvd. d-hangout. com. No Cover Sam Savage The King of R&B and Soul!!! Sam and his band cover it all, from the classic 50s through soul greats of the 60s & 70s, through the disco era and contemporary R&B. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover Medusa Saturday’s 10.30p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago. St. medusachicago.com

Sun.Sep.18 5th Annual Foundation Book Sale See 9/15. 12p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Elgin Fringe Festival —SUNDAY LINEUP Robert Frosty Theatre Company, Imaginez Ensemblez, Creative Moves, The Group Project, Cody Clark, Captain Ambivalent, Debbie From, Olive Juice Theatre, Titterglitz, Dave Newton, Jeremy Schaefer, Kelly Bolton, Elgin Theatre Company, Independent Players and more. See Fringe Festival Program or visit website for show times, venues, and more information! 12p, Downtown Elgin elginfringefestival.com. $3 and up 50th Commemorative Ceremony for PFC Florentino John Santana and His Gold Star Family Bring your lawn chair and dancing shoes for a special outdoor event with live music

2.9 to celebrate a hometown hero and Purple Heart recipient who made the ultimate sacrifice and to honor his loving family. Cash bar and food available, along with live music by The Bad Penny Trio. In the event of inclement weather, the event will go on as scheduled, inside VFW Post 1307. 1p, VFW Post 1307, 1601 Weld Rd (630) 777-8574 joy@symondsmadison.com. Free Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p4p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com Homework Heroes Students who need help with homework assignments can meet one-on-one on a first come, first served basis with a helpful volunteer. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Also 9/25. 2p-4p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Gala Opening Weekend: Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff The ESO’s opening concerts set the tone by highlighting Russian composers, who will be featured throughout the season.

The program fittingly begins the gala occasion with Shostakovich’s Festive Overture, an exuberant work he wrote in three days at the request of the conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra. The concerts also feature Tchaikovsky’s virtuosic Violin Concerto, once declared “unplayable,” performed by guest violinist Simone Porter, and Rachmaninoff’s final composition, Symphonic Dances, unique in its use of alto saxophone as a solo instrument. Andrew Grams, conductor. Simone Porter, violin.

2.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way elginsymphony.org. $30 and up

Mon.Sep.19 Baby Rhyme Time Our storytime is for infants 0-11 months with an adult caregiver. Registration is required.

Please complete the information below or call our Registration Desk at 847-531-7271. Also 9/26. 9.15a-9.45a, Rakow Library Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six Also at 3.30p. See 9/1. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time Our storytime is for infants 0-11 months with an adult caregiver. Registration is required.

Please complete the information below or call our Registration Desk at 847-531-7271. Also 9/26. 10a-10.30a, Rakow Library Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Spanish Cafe/Cafe en Espanol Looking for an opportunity to practice your Spanish conversation skills?

Then join this drop-in group that meets the second Monday of each month. Take part in a weekly topic

BRAVO

September 2016 of discussion, learn new vocabulary and put your listening skills to the test. No registration.¬øEstas buscando una oportunidad para practicar tu espanol? √önete a este grupo de conversacion para aprender nuevo vocabulario y poner tus habilidades para escuchar a prueba. No hace falta inscribirse. 12p-1p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Illinois DHS Division of Rehabilitation Services Information Session Come learn about DRS Vocational Rehabilitation Services for persons with disabilities who want to work, and about DRS Home Services Program, for persons with disabilities who are in danger of going to a nursing home or institution, as well as the other programs and services offered by the Division of Rehabilitation Services.

1p-3p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/1.

3.30p-4p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info After School Adventures Join us for a special game, craft or activity each week. Bring a friend and learn something new! Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Also 9/26. 4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - Creation Station, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Creativity Lab Art, tinkering activities and games will be available for creative play. 4p-5p, Rakow Library Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six Enjoy stories, songs and finger plays. No registration. Also 9/26. 6p-6.30p, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Family Jam Take a break as a family after your busy day with 30 minutes of active movement, stories and fun!

Also 9/26. 6.30p-7p, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info French Conversation Group Refresh and enhance your knowledge of French language and culture in a conversational setting with former college language professor Dennis Schwank. No registration.

6.30p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Google Tools: Chrome Learn how the Google Chrome browser and Web Store can be used to personalize and enhance your web browsing experience in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Tue.Sep.20 Wonderful Ones See 9/6.

9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.

info Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime The Gail Borden Public Library and Panera Bread are partnering to sponsor this program to be held at Panera Bread.

Your preschooler will enjoy stories read by a library staff member, followed by a milk and cookie snack compliments of Panera. Registration begins August 16. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go at Restaurant, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

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Coming to the Northern Fox River Valley this September...

September 21-30, 2016 #drinksonthefox Enjoy over 30 different cocktail specials!

Visit northernfoxrivervalley.com for details

Cybersecurity Basics Learn about common viruses, email and Internet safety, firewalls, and other security features and practices in this class.

10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info La Importancia del Alfabetismo/ The Importance of Literacy Parents of children from birth to five years learn how to help children and families remain healthy in body and mind. No registration. Los padres que tienen ninos entre recien nacidos y los 5 anos pueden aprender a mantener a sus familias saludables en cuerpo y mente. No hace falta inscribirse. 10a-11a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. B, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Pediatric Therapeutic Playgroup See 9/6. 11a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Friday, September Sep 30 Riverside side Dri Drive Promenade Downtown Elgin 5:00-9:00PM Art Vendors Food Trucks Cigar Rolling Cooking Demos Live Li Entertainment Bee Beer & Wine Tastings V.I.P. P. Stomp Challenge P.

Presented n nted by:

Elgin Area Convention & Visitors Bureau 60 S. Grove Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120 847-695-7540 northernfoxrivervalley.com

Job Search & Resume Help See 9/6.

1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew The series culminates with a director from England’s Kew gardens discussing their mission of using the power of science and the rich diversity of gardens to provide knowledge, inspiration, and understanding of why plants matter.In sponsorship with Elgin Garden Club, Ball Seeds, Platt Hill Nursery, Wasco Nursery & Garden Center, Town & Country Gardens, and Gail Borden Public Library. Please register. 3.30p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Rakow Rooks Chess Club See 9/6.

4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Library Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families Lectures & Learning

arvest arket 9 am - 2 pm every thursday

200 North Grove Avenue fresh, locally grown and sustainably produced vegetables, fruits, bread, meat, olives & spices live entertainment • food trucks free kids program use your LINK card at the Market and double your value

Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

sponsored by

BRAVO

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info Audio Lab See 9/6. 5p-6p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info QuickBooks: Getting Started Learn how to set up a company, adjust preferences, and work with accounts in class two of the QuickBooks series.

5p-6.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Homework help for parents Parents and guardians, take the hard work out of homework! Learn how to access free, round-the-clock reliable research tools. Connect your students to high quality, relevant content to help kids make the grade. 6p-7p, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info InspirArte:Artistas Trabajando/ InspirArte: Artists at Work Vistia la biblioteca y observa artistas y artesanos locales. !Acercate e inspirate!Drop by to watch talented local Latino Artists and artisans in the process of creating their work. Get up close and inspired! Also 9/22. 6p-8p, GBPL Southeast Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Terrific Twos See 9/6. 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Elgin Alive - A Short History of Elgin Mental Health Center Presented by Bill Briska.For 144 years Elgin Mental Health Center has been part of our community. While still a psychiatric hospital, its mission has changed several times since opening. This slide show and lecture will tell the story of the facility’s history, along with the larger societal forces and changes in treatment technology that have shaped EMHC’s mission.

6.30p-8.45p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group See 9/6.

6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Dance Social: ¡A Bailar!/ ¡A Bailar Juntos! Get you shoes ready for modern and timeless Latin American dance rhythms from salsa to danzon.

No previous experience or partner is required. Prepara tus zapatos para

ritmos latinoamericanos de ayer y hoy. Ritmos incluyen salsa y danzon.

No se requiere experiencia previa ni pareja. 7p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Danny’s On Douglas Open Mic Night See 9/6. 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin. com. No Cover

MS Excel: Charts & Graphs See above. 6.30p-8p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

MS Word: Formatting Docs Learn how to format and align text, apply bullets or numbers, and adjust spacing within your Word documents in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Contemporary Fiction Book Group Enrich your reading of contemporary novels by sharing insights with fellow readers 7p-8.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info

Cuentos para la familia/Spanish family storytime See 9/7. 6.30p7p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

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 in grades 9-12.

7p-8p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Duct Tape + Paper Toys + You for Grades 6-8 Learn how to make duct tape wallets and roses, assemble paper toy models of your favorite characters, or try more cool crafts.

All ability levels are welcome. 7p-8p, GBPL Middle School Zone, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/1.

7p-7.30p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Walking Book Club See 9/7. 7p-9p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Wed.Sep.21 Job Training Information Session See 9/7. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info 1, 2, 3, Go! See 9/7. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/7.

10.30a-11a, Rakow Library Children’s Area, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden. info LinkedIn: Getting Started Learn to create your LinkedIn profile, find and add contacts, locate companies, and join groups in this class. 11.30a-1p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Build It Up! with LEGOS Kids in Grades 1 & up; children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. LEGO building blocks will be provided for this fun-filled, creative building program. 4p-5p, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 9/1. 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info MS Excel: Charts & Graphs Learn how to add visual interest and tell stories by displaying numbers and data sets in chart or graph format in this class. Also at 6.30p. 4p-5.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com Clase Futuros Bilingues / Go Bilingual Class See 9/14. 6p-7p,

Danny’s on Douglas Karaoke 8p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night See 9/7. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. elginpublichouse.com

Thu.Sep.22 DNA’s Downtown Elgin Harvest Market See 9/8. 9a-2p, Downtown Elgin Harvest Market (City Parking Lot), 250 N. Grove Ave. downtownelgin.com Terrific Twos Join us for 20 minutes of stories, interactive fingerplays and large muscle activities for 2 year olds and an adult caregiver. Attendance is limited. Registration is required.

During the first week of registration only customers living within the Gail Borden Public Library District may register. Registration for customers outside of the library district begins the following Monday. Repeats 10a, 10.45a. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Device Advice See 9/8. 9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 9/1. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

2.9 info Terrific Twos See above.

10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Donor Club Book Review Dramatic Book Review featuring Jenny Riddle presenting ‘Capital Dames’ by Cokie Roberts. Luncheon included. Cookies and baked goods will be available for sale as well as gently used books.

Multiple raffle baskets will be available with all proceeds donated to local charities that benefit area residents. 11a, Elgin Country Club, 2575 Weld Road (847) 931-1926. $30.00 Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 See 9/8. 12p-1p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Healthy Family Fun Fair/Feria Divertida de Salud Familiar Play fun games while learning about healthy eating and exercise. Children who complete their passport to fitness will receive a special gift! Presented by Advocate Sherman Hospital and community partners.Jueguen y diviertanse mientras aprenden acerca de la alimentacion saludable, la importancia del ejercicio y meriendas saludables. !Los ninos que completan su “pasaporte al bienestar” recibiran un regalo especial! Presentado por Advocate Sherman Hospital y colaboradores de la comunidad. 4p-7p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Homework Heroes See 9/8. 5p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info InspirArte:Artistas Trabajando/InspirArte: Artists at Work See 9/20.

6p-8p, GBPL Southeast Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 9/1.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info Aparatos Inteligentes: La seguridad y las aplicaciones Aprenda como mantener informacion segura en su aparato inteligente, asi como buscar, instalar, usar y eliminar aplicaciones.

Also 9/23. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Fri.Sep.23

1, 2, 3, Go! See 9/1. 10.15a-10.45a, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info

YWCA Family Literacy Program The YWCA Elgin annually enrolls 40 ESL families in the Family Literacy program, which serves to empower the parent to grow the child. On Fridays, students join together for special interactive activities. 9a-11a, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/1.

10.15a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.

Baby Rhyme Time See 9/2.

9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.

Terrific Twos See above. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

BRAVO

September 2016 info Aparatos Inteligentes: La seguridad y las aplicaciones See 9/22. 10a-12p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 9/2. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Blue Box Cafe Geek N Out See 9/2.

5p-8p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com Downtown Elgin Pub Crawl 6p, Downtown Elgin downtownelgin.org. $15 Many Voices One Song Centro de Informacion has served the Hispanic Community in the Elgin area and beyond for the last 44 years. Please join us in a song of support by attending our elegant evening that includes great food, lively entertainment and the excitement of silent and live auctions. All to benefit the wonderful work of Centro de Informacion! 6p, Villa Olivia, 1401 W. Lake St., Bartlett (847) 754-8064 centrodeinformacion.org. $90.00 45 RPM 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin. com. No Cover The Chicago Sugar Dolls This flirty cabaret revue features a talented and stunning, all-female cast that will capture your undivided attention as they sing and dance their way into your hearts. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover

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Code Camp Meetup See 9/3.

1p-2.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See 9/3. 1p-3p, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Construction, Installation, Conversation, and Celebration Celebrate International Peace Day (9/21) with your active participation in making our community engaged arts installation become a reality through YOUR contributions and take part in the next steps for the Create, Innovate, Ignite initiative. No registration.

2p-4.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Manga and Anime Club for Grades 6-12 Calling all fans of Attack on Titan, Soul Eater, My Neighbor Totoro, and more! Here’s your chance to watch anime, share fan art, and enjoy Japanese snacks while socializing with other fans. Students in grades 6-12 are welcome - bring a friend!

2p-3.30p, GBPL South Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Saturday Silkscreening Learn how to create a design and silkscreen it onto paper. For teens in grades 9-12.

3p-5p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

HA S ARRI VED AT

s o u l f u l s p a r row GIFTS • CLOTHING • JEWELRY • VINTAGE DECOR 10 Douglas Ave •Downtown Elgin (224) 223-7718 STORE HOURS Tuesday 10-6 Friday 10-6 Wednesday 10-8 Saturday 10-4 Thursday 10-6 Sunday 11-4 Mondays by Chance

Blue Box Cafe Live at the Blue Box See 9/3. 6p-9p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E.

Medusa’s Jet Night Club 10p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago. St. medusachicago.com

Sat.Sep.24 Bison Feeding in Lord’s Park 7a, Elgin Public Museum, 360 Park St. elginhistory.org. $1-2 WordPress: Configuring Options Learn how to improve and manage your WordPress website with plugins, manage multiple site contributors, add interactive forms and more in this class. 10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

Kendall’s

Kountry Kitchen Daily Specials Homemade Soups Mexican Eggs Biscuits & Gravy Mon-Sat 5:30 am - 2 pm Sunday 5:30 am - 1:30 pm

219 Walnut Avenue (847) 742-5642 Thank You Customers for 31 Great Years!

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

847-606-6284 • OPEN DAILY 11-5

28 Chicago St. theblueboxcafe.com BBI Various Old and New School!

BBI is a five member band that plays old school to hip hop, from 60’s to today’s hits. BBI is an innovator in the true meaning of variety in music. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover The Lennys Rock ‘n’ Roll music! 9p, D Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Blvd. d-hangout.com. No Cover Medusa Saturday’s 10.30p-4a, Medusa’s, 209 E. Chicago. St. medusachicago.com

Sun.Sep.25 Annual Bluff City Cemetery Walk 11a-3p, Bluff City Cemetery, 945 Bluff City Blvd. . $12-15 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 1p4p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com

BRAVO Station, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Creativity Lab Art, tinkering activities and games will be available for creative play. 4p-5p, Rakow Library Corridor West, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Sew Much Fun! Grades 3 through 8. New to sewing? We will help you get started by working on simple beginner projects. Already know how to sew? Come polish your skills. All materials provided. 4p-5p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/19.

6p-6.30p, South Elgin Library Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Blvd. gailborden.info Wonderful Ones Repeats at 6.45p.

See 9/1. 6p-6.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Homework Heroes See 9/18. 2p-4p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Sunday Afternoon Concert - Liang-He Piano Duo Recent grand prize winner of the 18th Tokyo International Duo Piano Competition, the Liang-He duo has been acclaimed for its combined artistry and synchronicity. The members of the duo, Xiaomin Liang and Jue He, began playing together when they were students at Northwestern University. They later developed into a professional ensemble while living in Chicago. They have been named Chicagoland’s first “Young Steinway Artists.” Both Xiaomin Liang and Jue He received their Doctorate degrees in piano performance from Northwestern University.

2p-3p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden. info. Free

Mon.Sep.26 Baby Rhyme Time See 9/19.

9.15a-9.45a, Rakow Library Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden. info Story Mix for Three to Six Also at 3.30p. See 9/1. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 9/19.

10a-10.30a, Rakow Library Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden. info Rakow Readers Orphan Train by Christina Baker Kline 1.30p-2.30p, Rakow Library Living Room, 2751 W. Bowes Rd. gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 9/1.

3.30p-4p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info After School Adventures See 9/19.

4p-5p, GBPL Youth Center - Creation

Shared Values: More Bars in Elgin

Loss of Signal As your car leaves the driveway on the west side, on your way to see Don’t Breathe at the Marcus Elgin Cinema, you pull out your smart phone to double check show times and tickets.

Suddenly neither your movie app nor your browser will bring up any results. The spinning icons indicate you’ve entered a “dead zone.” Your evening is turning into The Nightmare on Shuler Street.

“My whole house is a dead zone,” says John Marston from his living room on the east side.

“You’d think living a half mile

Chamber Music on the Fox presents a screening of The Trouble with Harry The collaboration between Alfred Hitchcock and Bernard Herrmann was the most famous and celebrated partnership of a director and composer in film history. Herrmann’s score for The Trouble with Harry was a personal favorite of Hitchcock’s.

CMOTF has chosen this wonderfully dark, comic masterpiece to start our celebration. Please register.

6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info. Free

270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Family Jam See 9/19. 6.30p-7p, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info

Elgin Public House’s Trivia Night See 9/7. 8p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago St. elginpublichouse.com

Wonderful Ones See 9/1. 6.45p-7.15p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Ave. gailborden.info Google Tools: Drive Learn the many ways in which Google Drive can be used for uploading, organizing, and sharing files in the cloud in this class.

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

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Tue.Sep.27 Danny’s On Douglas Open Mic Night See 9/6. 7p-11p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin. com. No Cover

Wed.Sep.28 Elgin Knit Works Open Knit 5p8p, Elgin Knit Works, 8 Douglas Ave. elginknitworks.com

Thu.Sep.29 DNA’s Downtown Elgin Harvest Market See 9/8. 9a-2p, Downtown Elgin Harvest Market (City Parking Lot), 250 N. Grove Ave. downtownelgin.com

Fri.Sep.30 Inertia 8p, Martini Room martiniroomelgin.com. No Cover Friday Jackson 9p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover Rendition RENDITION is one of Chica-

from the tollway, I’d get a decent signal.”

Many observations of peculiar cellular reception — or the absence of it — would seem to defy logic, and unfortunately a fair bit of investigation fails to shed much light on the subject.

Read on.

Flagging Waves It’s difficult to generalize about cell phone reception quality because the technology is affected by so many factors that are unique to any given place, and even your exact position within go’s most entertaining cover bands with a high energy stage show and extensive song list. 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave. grandvictoriacasino.com. No Cover

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

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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!

BRAVO

September 2016

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Shared Values: More Bars in Elgin

MONDAY, OCTOBER 10

MARY LOU RETTON 1984 Gold Olympic Medal Winner

AT&T

W RLD LEADERS FORUM

T-Mobile

Inspirational Series

Sprint

Verizon

Above: locations of cellular towers registered with the FCC. Source: cellreception.com

Mary Lou Retton, who took the gymnastics world by storm in 1984 when the vibrant young woman won the All-Around Gold Medal in women’s gymnastics at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles. She went on to win five medals, the most wins for any athlete during the 1984 Olympics. This trailblazer, who was named “Sportswoman of the Year” by Sports Illustrated in 1984 and became the first woman ever to appear on a Wheaties cereal box, was also the first gymnast and youngest inductee into the USOC Olympic Hall of Fame.

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that place. Even though it’s “digital,” wireless communication still relies on old-fashioned radio frequency waves, just like AM/ FM radio or television always did.

Bravo – WLFIS.indd 1

Locations of towers and antennas, obtained from publicly available databases. Source: anntennasearch.com

But those older technologies used lower frequencies that were capable of traveling along the ground, hopping over buildings and hills along the way. What’s different about mobile phone transmissions is that their higher frequency waves depend on “line of sight” pathways between two antennas.

Cell phone antennas mounted on towers can communicate with devices within a limited range, according to the power of the transmitter, the direction it’s pointing, its height above the ground and its downward angle.

Every antenna is set up a little differently according to its surroundings. As a result, there’s no general answer to how near or far from an antenna you need to be.

Weak in Density Crowdsourced signal strength readings. Source: signalmap.com

In a recent blog article, Ken Perkins lists the top five rea-

sons why your cell signal is weak, and four of them involve 8/29/16 obstructions. Since radio frequency waves are in the same family as visible light, there are various materials which behave as though they are more or less “opaque” to cell phone transmissions.

“Hills, mountains, ridges, bluffs and similar terrain will block cell signals. Any situation in which there is higher ground between your phone and the cell tower can cause signal issues.”

If you drive out to hill country, you’ll notice your reception fluctuates wildly with each passing mile. The presence of dirt and rock between your iPhone and an antenna — including when you’re in a subway or a tunnel — will drastically hamper communications.

“Almost anything built by humans can interfere with cell phone connectivity. Radio frequency signals can’t easily pass through metal or concrete, so anything built with either or both can cause reception problems.”

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This explains why you’ll often have trouble with cell phone reception in a large, older edifice like a hospital, school, or government building: the concrete and its metal reinforcements are absorbing your text messages just like the State absorbs your taxes.

“Research shows that on the average, cell signal strength drops by about 30 percent inside a vehicle.”

The denser and thicker the material, the more it will weaken your phone reception. Try streaming Spotify from inside an armored tank. Now try it from the deck of a pontoon boat on Fox Lake. Big difference, right?

“Trees, shrubbery, almost any kind of foliage can absorb cell signals.”

The natural moisture content of plants combined with the cumulative thickness of trees and branches in the way of your carrier’s antenna will sap the energy from your signal. In fact even fog, smoke, dust and other airborne substances can have an effect.

“If the receiver (in this case your cell phone or tablet) is too far away from the signal source –for our purposes, a cell tower – then the signal will be weak or maybe altogether unusable.”

Of all the factors that block our signal, this one rankles us the most. We don’t want to cut down the trees, level the buildings or flatten the terrain of Elgin just to watch YouTube on our phone. But a couple more antennas in the area might be nice.

Antennas Anyone?

The four major wireless providers in Elgin — AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint and Verizon — all proclaim they have full coverage over the entire city (and beyond). If you check their coverage maps, our entire region is flooded with their corporate color, indicating that they have enough antennas in the right places to transmit voice and data everywhere.

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But locating the antennas is rather difficult. Many a tech nerd has tried to gather the information online, but the wireless companies keep it closely guarded. Two websites have gone to the trouble of obtaining publicly available data on the types and locations of antennas and towers and published it online in map form.

Antennasearch.com delivers the most thorough and detailed data of this kind, but it’s so technical, it’s difficult to pick out which antennas might be talking to your phone. Cellreception. com has a nicer interface, but it shows only the towers that are required to register with the FCC (which is only a small fraction of them).

Another approach to generating detailed local coverage maps is “crowdsourcing.” OpenSignal collects signal strength readings from its mobile app users as they travel around an area, and then plots the data on a Google map. The patterns of red (weak signal) and green (strong signal) tend to follow major thoroughfares, suggesting that data was collected while the user was in a moving vehicle. But patterns are apparent in some areas, and this may be as close as we can get to seeing dead zones on a map.

For those of you who like this sort of thing, there’s signalmap. com, where you can mark your own dead zone and see where others have pinpointed signals of varying strength. Unfortunately there are very few data points collected in our area. Deadcellzones.com is similar, calling itself a “wireless coverage complaint database,” half-heartedly devoted only to dead zones (and ad clutter).

No Service We had hoped it might be easier to visualize cell phone coverage characteristics in Elgin, but greater minds than ours have failed to paint a complete picture. So we’ll just leave this here, and wish you the best in your quest to find more bars.

When you find them, send us a text, okay?

—JP

Signal strength maps compiled from crowdsourced data. From top to bottom: AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Verizon. Source: opensignal.com

September 2016

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ASSIGNMENT BOARD

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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 2.10: Education in Elgin & Nightmare on Chicago Street Deadline: September 21st, 5pm Cover Art: Abstract painting. Overview of local schools: public, private, parochial; true confessions of parents and students; latest statistics?

BRAVO 2.11: Home Brewing & Whimsical Lawn Art of Elgin Deadline: October 19th, 5pm Cover Art: Beer-themed art, or front yard masterpiece.

Personal case studies of home brewing, including photos.

Home brewing clubs; local regulations.

Photos of outdoor seasonal decorations or permanent art installations. Interviews with lawn artists.

Submit to: bravo@marqueemedia.net

THE FINEST IN PRINT BRAVO Magazine strives to publish error-free material, but mistakes and omissions may arise from our sources or may occur during the production process. With the exception of spurious ads, we will not publish anything we know to be false, defamatory or an infringement on copyright. All brand names, logos and trademarks are assumed to belong to the entities to which they refer, whether marked as such or not. Facts asserted and opinions expressed in articles are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Our advertisers are responsible for the content of their advertisements, and BRAVO Magazine does not necessarily endorse any of the products, services, organizations or political candidates whose ads appear herein. Our advertising policy accommodates any and all commercial messaging that is decent and legal; it does not discriminate on the basis of religious or political affiliation or any other basis that is prohibited by law.

Events appearing in the FEED calendar have been aggregated from a variety of sources including websites, online calendars and user submissions. These event announcements are repeated herein as a benefit to readers and the event hosts or sponsors, and BRAVO Magazine does not necessarily prequalify, endorse or attend these events. We regret any contradictions that appear in the details we publish as relates to the actual event details.

BRAVO Magazine is a free publication available at select locations in and around Elgin, Illinois and is not to be sold at retail.

It is not available as a postal subscription. We reserve the right to temporarily or permanently discontinue publication at any time, at the publisher’s discretion, without any advance public notice.

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