BRAVO 4.1

4.1

magazine

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Back in The Groove pp. 2-6

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JANUARY 2018

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For the majority of the 20th century, records ruled the home music experience. Everyone, it seemed, had a record player or knew someone who had one. The love of vinyl endured until the compact disc came along in the 1980s, and soon, sales of CDs outpaced records to the point where vinyl nearly disappeared from the scene.

However, some audiophiles never caved in completely to the CD takeover. For them, the CD was a brief affair, a dalliance from their true love: vinyl.

From old school die hards to the generations who grew up in the digital age, people are embracing records again.

The Businessman According to Nielsen Music, the vinyl revolution started around 2008, which coincides with the time when Rich Wagner

Laura Wasilowski is an Elgin textile artist and creator of hand-dyed fabrics and threads. Her pictorial art quilts (created from fused fabrics and hand-embroidered or machine quilted) are collected and exhibited internationally.

Wasilowski’s free-form embroideries share a similar style with her narrative quilts. Whimsical in nature, both textile art forms express her joy and love of creating art.

Owner of the dye shop, Artfabrik, Laura is also a lecturer, surface designer, quilt instructor, pattern designer, and author of Fusing Fun, Fuse-and-Tell, Fanciful Stitches, Colorful Quilts, and her latest book Joyful Stitching: Transform Fabric with Improvisational Embroidery.

Artist Statement I combine vivid fabrics and whimsical stories to make pictorial art quilts. My colorful, hand-dyed fabrics inspire me, as do stories of my family, friends, and home. These pieces often chronicle my life. Each wall piece I make is of my own design, of fused appliqué, and machine quilted.

Creating with fused fabric allows my work to be joyful, organic, and more inventive. It is the most direct route from a design idea in my head to the realization of that idea in fabric.

The art of quilting gives me the freedom to express myself and play at the same time. It’s the best job in the world!

Laura’s art quilts, hand-dyed materials, books, classes and more are available online at www.artfabrik.com

Rich Wagner of Rediscover Records

began buying vinyl again for his own pleasure. In 2010 Wagner opened Rediscover Records.

“It was kind of a dream to have a music store. It didn’t have to be vinyl, but that seemed to be the trend. It continued to grow organically with preowned records [and] I continued to add new releases from day one.”

The typical customer base for Wagner consists of “teenagers, people in their 20s, 30s.

Some people think [Rediscover Records] is pure nostalgia, an Elvis museum. It’s not that at all. Yeah, there’s 78s and 45s, there’s Dean Martin and things like that but ... This [pointing to a record] is Arcade Fire, a 2017 release.”

Driving the rise of vinyl is an event called Record Store Day, which began in 2008 in San Francisco. The biggest one takes

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place on the third Saturday of April. A second, smaller promotion happens on Black Friday.

For just those two days, special issue vinyl is available for sale.

Approximately 300 record exclusives are released to independent stores around the world.

The records feature exclusive designs available only to indie stores and not to industry giants like Amazon and Walmart.

A principle of Record Store Day is that no single customer can buy two of the same item.

Such a rule creates a natural demand and gives the little guy a chance to make some money by leaving the big guys out of the picture. For fans of the vinyl revolution, “CDs have become the unwanted stepchild, “ says Wagner.

a faithful re-creation of a 1970s era record store, indeed, a museum dedicated not only to vinyl but its associated products.

Many items are promotional pieces that were given to store managers by record label representatives. Some of these treasures include a red, original Rolling Stones touring jacket emblazoned with the iconic lips and tongue logo and collectible, rare buttons. Pink Floyd Dark Side of the Moon flip flops, anyone? How about some ‘70s music magazines?

However, when asked if vinyl is a nostalgic pursuit, Thoren answered with a resounding, “NO!” He continues to buy old vinyl to complete his collections

The Collector

Record collection (above) in the home of Steve Thoren (right).

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Then there are people like Steve Thoren, who has never stopped buying or listening to vinyl. Once a district manager for Appletree Records, Thoren has held onto a vast collection of records, mostly original releases. His basement holds

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Larry Kriz of LNL Recording Studio.

of recording artists and a few new releases. For him, vinyl never lost its charm and relevance.

When asked if he thought there was a sound difference between vinyl and CDs, Thoren says, “I think a record sounds better,” adding, “This [Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon”] is a new record that was pressed just a few years ago on 180 gram weight vinyl.”

The higher the gram weight, the heavier the vinyl, which makes it more durable. Most vinyl produced today uses a heavier gram weight,which eliminates some of the issues with LPs in the past, like warping.

The Musician and the Recording Engineer Larry Kriz and Scott Tipping provide contrasting thoughts on the merits of vinyl. While Kriz

Larry Kriz started LNL recording studio 16 years ago.

“I’m coming up on my 17th anniversary next year, January 1st.” LNL recording is digitally based and no longer produces vinyl. His reason for the switch to digital is because “technology has progressed to the point where almost anybody can afford it. [Musicians] can record on a laptop these days.“ Guitarist and vocalist Scott Tipping “released two projects this year that went to vinyl.” He admits that vinyl is “quite a bit more” to produce than is digital. Kriz agrees, adding that it’s always been more expensive to produce vinyl, “even back when albums were $4-5 apiece.”

The merging of the two technologies — audio tape and digital engineering — are at a point where the two can co-exist peacefully.

Kriz concurs, “Digital is now closer to the analog; Analog to digital has now improved.”

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has his feet firmly planted in the digital world, Tipping is an advocate of vinyl but appreciates the digital aspect also.

Scott Tipping (left) and Larry Kriz.

Tipping, who sees the value of both, produced The Leland Bluebird Sessions as a hybrid recording, using analog and digital techniques to make the CD and vinyl versions. He adds,“Since

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January 2018

the resurgence of vinyl, people have learned how to use digital and make it sound really nice.”

The best of both worlds are converging to create an intimate experience of sound, effectively softening the argument of analog versus digital.

“When touring,” Tipping notes, “I find that not only is there a resurgence of people listening to records, but at a [merchandise] table these days there’s a conundrum. People don’t want to buy a download card or a CD, so what do they get? A lot of [them] will buy a record.” Musicians often come to the booth to sign the record, so vinyl sells especially well at a live show.

The physicality of having a record is like buying a souvenir. “The fans want something to hold in their hands and go home with, and the records come with a download card too,” says Tipping.

Then, too, the vinyl revolution can be seen as a form of rebellion against the isolation younger people feel by being absorbed in their devices. Tipping notes, “There was a ‘lost generation’ when people went to a share site for free.” He’s observed vinyl fans wanting to get away from their laptops and devices for a day and connect with others. The vinyl revival has kids buying and selling, trading records and hanging out at record shops.

unique item to cherish.

However, when asked if vinyl is here to stay, Kriz answers, “I don’t see it as a lasting thing.

I see it as a tiny blip, and it’s gonna disappear again.”

Pointing to vinyl’s continuing presence, even through the introduction and popularity of CDs, Tipping maintains that “[Vinyl] will always have a place, and it will continue to grow.”

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The DeeJay/Graffiti Artist Another factor in vinyl’s popularity is its use as an art form in the hip-hop and club scene. Joel Amore is an Elgin-based DJ and graffiti artist. One of his pieces graces a wall at Rediscover Records.

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Amore claims that graffiti art and hiphop music go together, blending cultural traditions from the old school days up to the present. Amore is an old-school DJ, preferring to manually manipulate vinyl on his two turntable set-up. Scratching — a method of manually moving the record on the turntable in a rhythmic pattern to create a distinctive sound that is so essential to the hip-hop style —is another tool in the DJ’s sound kit.

Independent record stores are leading the way, even providing a community for people to gather for a live performance. Stores like Kiss The Sky in Batavia attract crowds of 100-150 and create an opportunity for local bands to sell vinyl. The indie to indie support takes major corporations out of the picture and gives the customer a Turntablist and grafitti artist Joel Amore.

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A purist such as Amore uses hands-on techniques, and vinyl is the star of the show. The art is in the blending of two recording by counting the beats and adjusting the tempo to seamlessly change from one turntable to the other. The term “turntablist” applies to DJs who use this original method.

There is no limit, excepting one’s imagination, to the types of records a turntablist uses.

Amore has original vinyl from the 1960s and later that he uses to experiment and create new sounds for live gigs. A startling array of music for sampling includes a Popeye LP, bongo drums, Johnny Mathis and salsa.

Turntablists literally play their vinyl and turntables as if they were instruments. It takes a lot of practice to learn how to scratch and count beats, find unique blends and smoothly transition them. It’s a performance art that provides the mood and background for the MC, that is, the person who is rapping, spouting poetry, or generally entertaining the crowd.

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 Amore says, “There’s a civil war in the D.J. culture. With so much available digitally, some DJs have abandoned the original methods of manual manipulation.” Although he has adapted some digital ways, vinyl is king.

Collecting vinyl is part of the turntablist’s repertoire, and Amore typically has a group or sound in mind when he shops for records.

It seems vinyl will be here for the long haul. Its appeal calls to multiple generations, especially the younger crowd. The return of the record shop as a community gathering place is encouraging fans to mingle, share favorite artists, and hear live performances from local musicians.

While digital has its place, the backlash against the corporate giants that corner the market comes from the community and indies supporting indies. Call it trickle down rebellion. — DT Dorothy Turay is a recent transplant to Elgin and enjoys writing, music, the arts, history, and animals. She loves the city of Elgin and hopes to become more involved with its people and cultural activities.

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vinylhub.com Its mission is to list “every physical record shop on the planet.” discogs.com Great source for album searches and a marketplace for buying and selling.

“Appletree Records” With locations across northern and central Illinois, Appletree catered to a generation of music lovers who even today can recall the sights and sounds of their favorite neighborhood record shop.

Lower level, Wing Mansion 927 W. Highland Avenue By appointment only LNL Recording Studilo 308 Wheelock Street 847.622.9109 www.lnlrecording.com Joel Amore/Watch City www.facebook.com/WatchCity watchcity847@gmail.com Scott Tipping/The Leland Bluebird Sessions www.thelelandbluebirdsessions. stevesalmostfamous.com facebook.com/stip78

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Billings Summary for January

Winter BluesBusters

Live Love, Stop Hate

Lisztomania!

Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) Music Director Andrew Grams takes to the podium January 5-7 to conduct the first ESO program of the new year, which has a distinct Slavic flair.

Liszt’s famous Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2 opens the concert, which also features Dvorák’s 6th symphony and Mozart’s 5th violin concerto, also called The Turkish, performed by Bulgarian-born violinist Bella Hristova.

Ms. Hristova last appeared with the ESO in 2012, playing the Mendelssohn Violin Concerto.

Music Director Grams will give a Pre-Concert Chat starting one hour before each concert.

Free ESO Listeners Clubs will be held Wednesday, January 3 that will discuss the upcoming concert program. Led by music lecturer, composer, and radio personality Jim Kendros, Listeners Clubs are free lecture/ discussions that take place the Wednesday before ESO Classics Series concert weekends at the Gail Borden Public Library at 1 pm. All part of the ESO’s goal to enrich, enlighten and entertain. Saturday concertgoers are invited after the performance to “Mingle with the Musicians” at Bennigan’s Elgin. Hungarian Rhapsody concert tickets start at $30. Student tickets are $12.

Valet or free parking. For more information, visit ElginSymphony.Org or 847-888-4000.

Die Fledermaus The singers of Soirée Lyrique perform Johann Strauss’ comic operetta Die Fledermaus (“Revenge of the Bat”) on December 31st at 2pm and January 6th at 2pm. The eleven-member cast, together with a children’s chorus

2018 Community Symposium & Dinner

Much has been written and spoken about the deep political and cultural divides within the United States. First Congregational Church of Elgin (FCC) firmly believes that now is the time to “Live Love, Stop Hate” in Elgin and beyond. We propose living radical love by opening up dialogue and educating ourselves on many important societal topics. Please be our guest on Sunday evenings in January and February for a free dinner and keynote as we learn more about the issues that face our neighbors and put our faith into action through understanding and love.

Violinist Bella Hristova Photo by Lisa-marie Mazzucco.

First Congregational Church of Elgin 256 E. Chicago Street Sunday, January 7th, 5-7pm

“No Entiendo: Assimilating into Elgin” Jaime Garcia, Executive Director, Centro de Informacion

and instrumental accompaniment retell the following story in English.

On New Year’s Eve, Eisenstein is being forced to go to jail for punching a police officer. However, he decides to postpone jail for one night so that he can go to Prince Orlofsky’s lavish soirée with his friend Falke. Meanwhile, Rosalinda knows that Eisenstein is lying and follows him in disguise as a Hungarian countess. Adele, their maid, feigns an excuse to be released from work that night so that she can also go to the soirée disguised as a Russian opera singer named Olga. After many mistaken identities, Eisenstein attempts to seduce his own wife without knowing it is her. Much frivolity and many festivities behind them, the great farce ends up with a happy ending for all.

Tickets are $30 at the door, or $25 in advance (students $15) by contacting office@soireelyrique. org or by calling 847.622.9988.

Sunday, January 14th, 5-7pm

“Civil Rights in America: Where Do We Go From Here?”

Rev. Dr. Nathaniel L. Edmond, Second Baptist Church of Elgin

Sunday, January 21st, 5-7pm

“Anti-Semitism Increases in 2017” Rabbi Margaret Frisch Klein, Congregation Kneseth of Israel

Sunday, January 28th, 5-7pm

“Antibullying and Online Civility for Adults” Lark Cowart, Kane County Juvenile Council Committee While dinner and event is free, reservations are needed. Please register.

By phone at (847) 741-4045, or at online https://www.eventbrite. com/o/first-congregational-church-of-elgin-15545231197

Coming in February February 11th: “Forging Unified Action From America’s Diversity of Faiths” February 18th: “Why Are Transgender People Still Having to Fight for Their Lives?”

February 25th: “Open Immigration with Closed Borders” Donations at the event accepted and encouraged.

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American Grands XXIII With 12 grand pianos generously provided by Cordogan’s Pianoland and close to 500 local performers, this musical spectacular returns for its 23rd season.

Under the direction of Conductor Colin Holman and Musical Director Larry Dieffenbach, this Fox Valley original is a celebration of the piano and those who love to play it. A full day of music starts at 1pm January 27, with additional concerts at 4pm and 7pm.

Admission is $24 for adults, $15 for children 12 and under.

A pre-concert buffet is available at 2:30pm or 4pm in the Spartan Terrace Restaurant for $15.

Tickets are available at tickets. elgin.edu or by phone at (847) 622-0300.

EYSO Faculty Recital The professional music faculty of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra present their annual recital of chamber music the first Sunday in January. This rare opportunity to hear talented artist-educators play material that’s often outside of the “stan-

EYSO Faculty in recital.

Source: eyso.org.

dard repertoire” returns January 7 in the Spartan Auditorium at ECC. The event is free and open to the public. No reservations required.

Elgin Literary Festival

4.1

authors’ book tables for meetups, and book signings, as well as a stage for featured talks and separate spaces for group discussions. A live poetry reading event caps off the Friday schedule with live music and a cash bar. See the complete schedule in selected copies of BRAVO Magazine. This event is free and open to the public.

centuries, this concert will fill your heart and keep you humming all the way through the Valentine season.

Sunday Afternoon Soprano

Staying indoors isn’t so bad if you’ve got movies. January is an exceptional month for film screenings at your local library.

Here’s summary of what you’ll find for kids in the pages of this month’s FEED event calendar.

Join soprano Sarah Kropski and pianist Anca Apetean as they explore the lessons and triumphs of love through song.

From opera and piano classics of the 18th and 19th centuries, to pop standards and Broadway favorites of the 20th and 21st

This free recital takes place Sunday, January 14 from 2-3pm at Gail Borden Library, Meadows Community Room.

Winter Films at Gail Borden Public Library

Smurfs: The Lost Village (12/27 at 10a), Elf (12/27 at 2p),

This celebration of the written word returns to the Hemmens Cultural Center for the fourth straight year. ELF presents a slate of authors of all genres, offering perspectives on writing, publishing, and the state of literature in talks, panel discussions and networking over coffee, drinks and lunch.

The lower level of the Hemmens will host a room full of

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BRAVO

January 2018

January you can catch the 1940 classic Rebecca on Jan 8th at 11:00 am.

The ten-part, 18-hour documentary film series The Vietnam War has been playing episodes for the past several weeks, and this month Episode 5: “This Is What We Do” 1967 will be screened at 7:00 pm on January 11th.

Women’s issues and interests are highlighted in the ongoing Reel Women for Real Women film series, co-hosted by the AAUW Elgin Area Branch. This month they are showing The Glass Castle (2017) at 6:00 pm on January 23rd.

Enjoy the show!

Despicable Me 3, (12/28 at 10a), Disney’s Descendants 2 (12/29 at 10a), Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (1/2 at 10a), The Emoji Movie (1/3 at 10a), Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul (1/4 at 10a), Beauty and the Beast Interactive Movie (1/5 at 10a), Moana (1/12 at 10a), and Akeelah and the Bee (1/15 at 11a).

The Brown Bag Lunch Classic Film Series features a golden oldie every month, and for

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Cultural Arts Commission Calendar Elgin Literary Festival, Cultural Arts Commission Sponsored Event Save the date for the fourth-annual Elgin Literary Festival (ELF) on January 26 & 27, 2018 at the Hemmens Cultural Center.

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GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Winter Film Festival - Despicable Me 3 - 2017 Gru meets his long-lost charming, cheerful, and more successful twin brother Dru who wants to team up with him for one last criminal heist. (Rated PG, 90 minutes). No registration required. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Wed.Dec.27 Week of Play Join us all week long as we transform our youth areas into a wonderland of play with games and many other activities! 9a-6p, GBPL Youth Center - West, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Smurfs: The Lost Village (2017) A mysterious map sets Smurfette and her friends Brainy, Clumsy and Hefty on an exciting race through the Forbidden Forest leading to the discovery of the biggest secret in Smurf history. (Rated PG, 90 minutes)No registration required; children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

10a-11.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Tiny Tech for Preschoolers Engage with your child through technology at the library! This program will feature a variety of drop-in stations, including interactive iPad apps like Tiggly Shapes and Tiggly Worms, plus STEMbased games like Start-Up Circuits and Robot Mouse! 10.30a-11.30a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Holiday Flicks: Elf Escape from the cold and watch a Christmas classic.

2p-4p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Knit for a Cause Join us for hat and scarf loom knitting that will be donated back to the community for those in need. 3p-5p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info

Get to Know Your ESO!

January 5-7 Liszt, Mozart and Dvořák

Tiny Tech for Preschoolers See 12/28. 10.30a-11.30a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 Become the speaker and leader you want to be. No registration. Toastmasters will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation. Whether you are a professional, student, stay-at-home parent or retiree, Toastmasters is the most efficient, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you open an entirely new world of possibilities. You’ll be more persuasive and confident when giving presentations, and you’ll improve your one-on-one dealings with others. Please join us as a guest! 12p-1p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

January 27 & 28 Williams Scores Spielberg Movies

Duct Tape + Paper Toys + You for Grades 6-8 Construct a duct-tape wallet, make a rose, or assemble a nifty paper toy. 3p-4p, GBPL Middle School Zone, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Karen Maxwell 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Creativity Lab Grades 1 & up. Art, tinkering activities, and games will be available for creative play. 4p5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info

February 10 & 11 Mozart Requiem and Vivaldi Gloria

Piano Performance: Shirley Remes

ChessMaster Junior Chess Club Kids and teens are invited to hone their chess skills during our free-play sessions. Beginners are welcomeowe will teach you how to play! 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Thu.Dec.28 Week of Play See 12/27. 9a-6p, GBPL Youth Center - West, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Device Advice Drop in for 1:1 help with your mobile device. 10a-12p,

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12 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Tiny Tech for Preschoolers See 12/28. 10.30a-11.30a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Happy Noon Year Party Preschoolers ages 3 to 5. Can’t stay up until midnight? Come ring in the New Year early with fun stories, games, holiday food and dancing. 11.30a-12.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info

4.30p-5.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Evening Chess Club NEW LOCATION - 2nd Floor tables near the back of the Elevator. See Reservation Signs.

Come chess players of all skill levels and ages 10+ for our evening freeplay session. Some boards will be provided, but feel free to bring your own.

This club is not designed to teach you how to play chess, but some help will be provided to beginners. 5p-7p, GBPL 2nd Floor - Elevator Annex, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Gifford Park Association General Membership Meeting General Membership meetings are open to the public. Non-members (and future members) are welcome. The Gifford Park Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the Elgin Historic District. The GPA is perhaps most well-known to the general public for the annual Historic Elgin House Tour. For more information, visit their website at: gpaelgin. org 7p-8p, Elgin History Museum, 360 Park Street 847.742.4248 gpaelgin.org Piano Performance: John LaBorn 7p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Fri.Dec.29 Week of Play See 12/27. 9a-6p, GBPL Youth Center - West, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Winter Film Festival - Disney Descendants 2 - 2017 When the pressure to be royally perfect becomes too much for Mal (Dove Cameron), she flees Auradon and returns to her roots on the Isle of the Lost. Hoping to retrieve her, Evie (Sofia Carson) and the rest of the gang sneak onto the Isle. But Mal’s former archenemy Uma (China Anne McClain), daughter of Ursula, has seized power. Together with her pirate crew, Uma prepares to unleash havoc on the VKs and Auradon! (Not Rated, 90 minutes).

No registration required. Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. 10a-12p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue

Roller Coaster Creator for Grades 6-8 Flex your engineering skills build and test a cardboard roller coaster. 2p-3p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info Wordplay at TWAAP HQ featuring Moore Come through for West Burb Wordplay at T-WAAP HQ. T-WAAP HQ is located at Imago Creative Studios in Elgin. Wordplay is a safer/braver space for you to speak your truth, based on the format of the longest running youth open mic in Chicago hosted by Young Chicago Authors.

Show off your talents at our open mic (8pm) or arrive early to take part in our writing workshop, led by one of one of our inspiring teaching artists!

(Workshop participants get priority placement on the open mic list.)

Based on the format of the longest running youth open mic in Chicago hosted by YCA every Tuesday night, Wordplay is a safer/braver space for you to speak your truth. The address is 216 Prairie St. in Elgin - There’s a parking lot as well as other free parking next to the building. So bring your friends and family along with your instruments, voices, and creative works to the writing workshop and open mic. (And don’t forget to follow @twaap on Twitter or “like” our Facebook page to keep updated!) 7p, Imago Creative Studios, 216 Prairie Street 630.677.8735 twaap.org

Sat.Dec.30 Movie Poster Exhibit and Scavenger Hunt Join us for some reel fun!

View an extensive collection of movie posters for current and upcoming films on the first floor. Test your powers of observation by completing a movie poster scavenger hunt to enter a prize drawing. Fun for all ages. 9a-4.30p, GBPL Youth Hallway, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Week of Play See 12/27. 9a-6p, GBPL Youth Center - West, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Happy Noon Year Party Come join us as we ring in the New Year with fun stories, games, holiday food and even a little dancing!For preschool Kindergarten with an adult. Registra-

tion is required. 11.30a-12.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit Bring baby and baby’s new library card to learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! Registration preferred. 1p-1.30p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See above. 2p-2.30p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Yesterday’s Future 7p, Jimmy’s Charhouse, 2290 Point Boulevard 847.783.0200 jimmyscharhouseelgin. com Hillbilly Rockstars 9p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Ave 847.468.7000 grandvictoriacasino. com. No Cover

Sun.Dec.31 Die Fledermaus Comic operetta by Johann Strauss (in English) featuring an 11-member cast, children’s chorus and instrumental accompaniment. See p.7 in this month’s edition of BRAVO. 2p, First United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland Ave. 847.741.0038 soireelyrique.org. $25-30 New Year’s Eve Murder Mystery Dinner Join us for a Speakeasy themed murder mystery, with champagne reception, buffet dinner with carving station and MURDER. Reservations and deposit required. 6p, Elgin Public House, 217 E. Chicago St. 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com. $50 + tax and tip New Year’s Eve with Smokin’ Gunz Champagne toast and balloon drop.

Package includes pizza and soda buffet (8-11p) plus bar (9-11p). Designated driver package available. 8p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave. 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com. $25-40 New Year’s Eve at Jimmy’s Charhouse Bonnie Bridges will be performing in our lounge. Ring in the New Year at Jimmy’s Charhouse of Elgin. 9p, Jimmy’s Char House, 2290 Point Boulevard 847.783.0200 jimmyscharhouseelgin.com New Year’s Eve Party 9p, D-Hangout, 550 S. McLean Blvd. 847.717.0511 d-hangout.com. No Cover Presley, Perkins, Lewis and Cash NYE 2017 And stick around for the countdown to 2018! 10p-11.15p, Grand Victoria Casino Pavilion, 250 S. Grove Ave. 847.468.7000 grandvictoriacasino.com

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Tue.Jan.2 Elgin Genealogical Society Monthly meeting of the Elgin Genealogical Society. 9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime The Gail Borden Public Library and Panera Bread are partnering to sponsor this program to be held at Panera Bread.

Your preschooler will enjoy stories read by a library staff member, followed by a milk and cookie snack compliments of Panera. Registration begins December 12. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go at Restaurant, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017) Two overly imaginative pranksters named George and Harold hypnotize their principal into thinking he is a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dimwitted superhero named Captain Underpants. (Rated PG, 89 minutes)No registration required; children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. 10a-12p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Job Search and Resume Help Job Search & Resume HelpDrop in for one-on-one assistance with your job search. Receive help with your resume, cover letter, completing online applications, and more.*Schedules occasionally change. Please check www.gailborden.info/events for specific locations and times. This program is in partnership with the Kane County Office of Community Reinvestment. For more information, call 630-844-8768. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Rakow Rooks Chess and Games Club Kids and teens of all skill levels are invited to practice and play.

Grades 3-8. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info South Elgin Sentinels Chess Club Kids are invited to hone their chess skills. Beginners are welcome. Intermediate or Advanced players can play opponents or work on chess puzzles. For children in grades 3-8.

4.30p-5.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info Elgin Heritage Commission 6p-1.59p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org Human Relations Commission 6.30p-7.30p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org Board of Examiners of Stationary Engineers 7p-8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org

BRAVO

January 2018 Danny’s Open Mic One of the Northwest Suburbs longest running Open Mic! Grab your family, friends, and instruments and head down to Danny’s on Douglas! 4 songs or 20 minutes, 7-9p is acoustic only. OPEN MIC ETIQUETTE: Arrive early and introduce yourself to the host; Put down your (own) name on the list, and please only sign up for one slot; Be tuned up and ready to play; Time slots include your setup time, so keep it quick and simple; Stay and support other performers; Support the venue and buy something; Most importantly...have fun! Backline and house drum kit available. Powered by Flying Pig Sound. 7p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover

Special weeknight sale! Kick off the new year with us Wednesday evening, January 3. Sale begins at 5:00pm with viewing starting at 3:00pm. 5p, Bunte Auction Services, 755 Church Road 847.214.8423 bunteauction. com. Free

Full Moon Ride It’s the monthly Elgin full moon ride. This will be a moderate pace ride for a few miles throughout the core neighborhoods of Elgin. This one has a chance of being a #frostbike. Reminder: Illinois State law requires bike riders to have a clear light on the front and a red reflector on the back for night time riding. That would be the minimum attempt for safety, so let’s all be easy to see on the street. 9p, Advocate Park, 179 E. Chicago Street elginbikehub.com

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul (2017) A Heffley family road trip to attend Meemaw’s 90th birthday party goes hilariously off course thanks to Greg’s newest scheme to get to a video gaming convention.

(Rated PG, 91 minutes). No registration required; children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

10a-11.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Jan.3 The Emoji Movie (2017) Gene, a multi-expressional emoji, sets out on a journey to become a normal emoji. (Rated PG, 86 minutes). No registration required; children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

10a-11.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 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. Please register at www.elginsymphony.org, or call 847888-0404 ext. 238 to reserve your seat. 1p-3p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Trivia Night Free to play .. win $$ of your tab and impress your friends!

Be there AND be square! 8p, Elgin Public Hosue, 219 E. Chicago Street 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com.

Free

Thu.Jan.4 Device Advice See 12/28. 9a-11.30a, Rakow Computer Cafe, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

Zumba for Kids Bring a friend and get movin’ to the beat during this dance-fitness class. Caregivers are welcome to join in on the fun.

Program for ages K-5. 1p-1.45p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Zumba for Kids See above. 2.15p-3p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Karen Maxwell 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Duct Tape + Paper Toys + You for Grades 6-8 Construct a duct-tape wallet, make a rose, or assemble a nifty paper toy. 3.30p-4.30p, GBPL Middle School Zone, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Creativity Lab See 12/28. 4p-5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info

FEED.colorcode

First Look Book Club for Grades 6-8 Drop by to browse newly-published and not-yet-published books - you might find a new favorite! 2.30p-3.30p, GBPL Middle School Zone, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Bands & Music

ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 12/27. 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Lectures & Learning

Antiques and Collectibles Auction

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

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BRAVO

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Green Room Improv Enjoy a fun, relaxing and carefree evening out with friends, family or just yourself and some strangers. It’ll be a fun night either way! There will be laughter, crazy antics, competing teams of improvisers, live music and a cash bar with their new show. It’ll be a fun night out that won’t break the bank! 100% clean. 99.27% hilarious.

90 minutes of complete improvisation a la “Whose Line Is It Anyway”.

Great fun for all ages! 8p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way 847.931.5900 greenroomimprov.com. $12-15 Piano Performance: Shirley Remes 4.30p-5.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Citizenship Conversation Group/ Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudadana 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.?Necesitas 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 del Literacy Connection y cualquiera puede asistir. No hace falta inscribirse. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: John LaBorn 7p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Fri.Jan.5 Interactive Movie: Beauty and the Beast A tale as old as time, true as it can be but...done in a whole new way. Join us as we come to LIFE in the enchanted Kingdom with Belle and her friends. Prop bags provided to interactive with the characters.

Costumes encouraged. Registration required. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Meadows Community Rooms. 10a-12.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Concert and Cookies! With Jeanie B. Concert and Cookies! With Jeanie B. Come out of the cold on this noschool day to listen to some rockin’ music! Award-winning musician Jeanie B. will engage us in dancing, singa-longs, and interactive music for the whole family! Cookies will be served after the show. Drop-in. 2.30p-3.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Sat.Jan.6 DNA Winter Market Mark your calendar for the 2018 Elgin Winter Market!

Come see what’s new at the market this year and explore the wonderful items for sale from our vendors. If you would like to be a vendor at the Winter Market please email us at harvest@downtownelgin.com or call 847488-1456. 9a, Elgin Artspace Lofts, 51 S. Spring Street 847.488.1456 downtownelgin.com Story Hour Saturday: Polar Bears Come visit the beautiful Elgin Public Museum for our brand new children’s program, held every first Saturday of the month. Kids will spend a fun and relaxing hour with our educators, listening to fantastic stories about animals- a different one every month! This month’s topic is the king of the Arctic- Polar Bears! There is no charge for this program, but donations are always welcome. We hope to see you there! 11a-12p, Elgin Public Museum, 225 Grand Blvd.

847.741.6655 elginpublicmuseum.org.

Free First Time Home Buyer Seminar Seats are limited. You must RSVP! Some of the subjects covered: Roles of the Lender/Mortgage Broker; Credit Pre-Approval; Roles of the Real Estate Agent Searching for Properties; Contracts Negotiation; Closing.

Repeats 1/13, 1/20, 1/27. 1p, Starbucks, 2480 N. Randall Road 847.975.4634 startingpointrealty.com. Free Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See 12/30. 1p-2p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Celebracion de Reyes / Three Kings Celebration Ven a conocer a Gaspar, Melchor y Baltazar, tomate una foto con ellos y disfruta de rosca y chocolate caliente. !Quedate para cuentos ymanualidades! En asociacion con la Organizacion Mexicana de Elgin (OME). Meet Gaspar, Melchor and Balthazar, the Three Kings, take your picture with them and enjoy a taste of traditional “rosca.” Stay for stories and crafts too! In partnership with the Mexican Organization of Elgin (OME). 2p-5p, GBPL Meadows

Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Die Fledermaus See 12/31. 2p, First United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland Ave. 847.741.0038 soireelyrique. org. $25-30 Three Kings storytime Three Kings storytime 2p-5p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See 12/30. 2p-3p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Live at the Blue Box: Chronicles of the Realm Join us for a special edition of Live at the Blue Box as we discuss the creation, planning and playing of Chronicles of The Realm, a new Live Action Role Playing game, created and produced by some of our friends at Otherworld Theatre Company, Mary-Kate Arnold and Tiffany Keane Schaefer! This amazing creation is a fully immersive game held quarterly at various location around the Chicago Area. Follow the intrigue as different houses and factions vie for supremacy of Isle of Amelor. Along your journey there will be intrigue, love, magic, battles, celebrations, quests and more. Form relationships (or break them) between different houses, forge long lasting friendships and help your house rule the world!!! 6p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago Street 847.697.2583 chroniclesoftherealm.com Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Hungarian Rhapsody With works by Dvorak and Liszt, and featuring guest violinist, Bulgarian Bella Hristova, these concerts have a distinct Slavic flair. The famous Hungarian Rhapsody has been used in countless Warner Brothers and Disney cartoons. This program also holds Dvorak’s Symphony No. 6, and the ESO premiere of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5.A cash bar will be available for this and every ESO concert. No ATM on site, so please plan accordingly. 7.30p-12p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way 847.888.4000 elginsymphony.org. $30 up Elvis Birthday Bash Break out your Blue Suede Shoes, Poodle Skirts & Oxfords! Featuring The Bob West Elvis Tribute show. First Set 8:30 pm. Free No Entry Fee ! Food & Drink Specials. Try the Blue Suede Shoes & Jail House Rock! It will be ‚ÄúBack too The Golden Days Of Rock N Roll.

Mc DJ Rudy K will be providing a pre-show of Videos taking you back to that time period and a post-performance Video Old School Rock A/B Dance Party. Non Stop Action. Awards for best Dancers and Period Dressed!

7.30p, Olde Towne Inn, 412 Bluff City Boulevard 847.608.1703. No Cover Gasoline Alley 8p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Avenue 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com.

4.1 No Cover D-Hangout 4 year Anniversary Party Come and celebrate 4 year Anniversary of the D-Hangout, along with the Loop and Loop Girl “April Rose”. We will also have Live Band “No Limits” on stage rocking the night away. Powered By Chicago Cycles Motorsports. 9p, D-Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Boulevard 847.717.0511 d-hangout.com

Sun.Jan.7 EYSO Faculty Recital EYSO faculty and staff take the stage for an exciting hour of chamber music in this annual performance. 2p, ECC Spartan Auditorium, 1700 Spartan Drive 847.841.7700 eyso.org. Free Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Hungarian Rhapsody With works by Dvorak and Liszt, and featuring guest violinist, Bulgarian Bella Hristova, these concerts have a distinct Slavic flair. The famous Hungarian Rhapsody has been used in countless Warner Brothers and Disney cartoons. This program also holds Dvorak’s Symphony No. 6, and the ESO premiere of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5.A cash bar will be available for this and every ESO concert. No ATM on site, so please plan accordingly. 2.30p-5p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way 847.888.4000 elginsymphony.org. $30 up Live Love, Stop Hate: “No Entiendo: Assimilating into Elgin” Featuring guest speaker Jaime Garcia, Executive Director, Centrao de Informacion.

5p-7p, First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago Street 847.741.4045 fcc-elgin.org. Donations welcome

Mon.Jan.8 Story Mix for Three to Six 30 minutes of stories, fingerplays, and songs. Parents must remain in the building but do not need to attend the class. This is the first on my own library experience for children.

9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

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January 2018

BRAVO

THANKS, Elgin...

2017 was a blast!

Come enjoy more great food, coffee and conversations in 2018!

Arabica Cafe 59 Douglas Ave 224-227-7192

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BRAVO Story Mix for Three to Six See above. 3.30p-4p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See above. 6p-6.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info

Baby Rhyme Time Join us for 15 minutes of singing, clapping, and simple stories followed by a 15-minute playtime.Birth - 11 months with an adult. Please register. 10a-10.30a, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Tiny Tutus Preschoolers will learn some basic ballet through imagination and creative movement in this interactive storytime and dance workshop. Registration required.

10.15a-11.15a, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Brown Bag Lunch Classic Films Rebecca (1940, NR) Rebecca (1940, NR). A self-conscious bride (Joan Fontaine) is tormented by the memory of her husband’s (Laurence Olivier) dead first wife. This was Alfred Hitchcock’s first American project and his first film under contract with producer David O. Sleznick. Director: Alfred Hitchcock; Writers: Daphne Du Maurier (celebrated novel) Robert E. Sherwood and Joan Harrison (screen play); Stars: Laurence Olivier, Joan Fontaine, George Sanders, Judith Anderson. Time: 2 hours 10 minutesType: Drama, Mystery, Romance.

11a-2p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Tiny Tutus Preschoolers will learn some basic ballet through imagination and creative movement in this interactive storytime and dance workshop. Registration required.

11.30a-12.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info Family Tech Play Families will play and create with robots, stop motion animation, iPads and more. Children must be in Grades 1-5. No registration required. 1p-2.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Stop-Motion Animation Workshop Grades 6-8. Work alone or with a team to plan and film a stop-motion movie using paper, markers, office supplies,Lego bricks or small objects you want to bring home. 1p-3p, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info

The Gaming Event Players in grades 3-up are welcome to come to this monthly drop-in event. Play Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh and other role-playing games. Bring your cards to play or trade. Don’t know how to play? We will teach you and get you started. No registration required. 6p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 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 required.

Please 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.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Citizenship Conversation Group/ Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudadana See 1/4. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info 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 Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Cultural Arts Commission 7p-8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org 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 Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Planning and Zoning Commission 7p-8p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org Ready, Set, Sing! We are just a bunch of regular guys, of all ages, from all walks of life with one thing in common....the love of singing in the barbershop style. If you enjoy close harmony and good fellowship, you’ve come to the right place. Don’t worry if you don’t have a wonderful solo voice and have never sung with a group

before. Maybe you can’t even read music. Many of us are in the same boat. However if you can carry a tune and have a good ear for music, you’re sure to fit in just fine. One factor contributing to the (Barbershop Society’s) vast growth is the knowledge that a man does not need to have extensive musical training to enjoy singing. The Society welcomes into its membership good citizens from every walk of life, who get satisfaction from being the central part of a chord of music, whether it originates from the heart or from a musical arrangement.

The enjoyment of barbershop harmony knows no age boundaries. Our youngest members are in their teens (did you know the Osmond Brothers got their start barbershopping?) our oldest members are in their 70’s and 80’s. Come Sing With Us! 7p, First United Methodist Church, 216 E. Highland Ave. foxvalleymenofharmony. com What Will You Do with Tomorrow Have you ever found yourself wondering where the time has gone?

Do you put off taking steps in the direction of your goals, waiting until you’re ready, and then fail to take the steps, because you never feel ready?

Do you have any idea what you want your life to look like a year from now?

Three years from now? DreamBuilder Coach Tom Wendt will help you to utilize your time and money more effectively, remove self-doubts that impede your progress, create clear, concise, short and long-term meaningful goals, and implement strategic action plans to meet or exceed your goals. This seminar will provide you with the tools, awareness and inspiration to make significant changes to your life. Please register. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Board of Health 7.30p-8.30p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org

Tue.Jan.9 Wonderful Ones See 1/8. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Coffee with a Cop Meet Commander Ana Lalley and other officers,, learn what’s new at the Elgin Police Department and enjoy coffee and conversation. 10a-11a, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 1/8. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

4.1 1, 2, 3, Go! Families with 1, 2, and 3 year old’s are invited to share stories, rhymes, and musical activities together. No registration required.

10.15a-10.45a, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info Wonderful Ones See 1/8.

10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 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.

11a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Armchair Generals - Demystifying the Civil War - Part 1 of the Series A Brown Bag Civil War and Lincoln Interest Group. Commemorate events, share insights, and talk about books or experiences. “Demystifying the Civil War.” Start finding answers to your Civil War questions in this two-part series. Led by Armchair General Ken Gough. Submit questions in advance to bbahl@gailborden.info.

11.45a-1.15p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Job Search and Resume Help See 1/2. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Tech Take-Apart This event takes place at the Main Library Meadows Community Rooms for kids in grades K-8 with their families. This is a NoSchool Day. Families will discover the wonders of what makes gadgets run.

Tools will be provided so that you can dismantle our worn out mechanisms.

Looking for more #STEAM fun? Click here: 1.30p, GBPL Meadows Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info. Free Crazy 8s Math Club Series 2 Grades K-2. Join Bedtime Math’s Crazy 8s where you’ll build,run, jump and make a mess! Attendance at all 8 sessions is required. Please call 847-531-7271

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

January 2018 to register.*Priority registration for those who have already completed Series 1. Open registration starts January 3 for remaining spots. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Rakow Rooks Chess and Games Club See 1/2.

4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info South Elgin Sentinels Chess Club See 1/2.

4.30p-5.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Property Maintenance Board of Appeals 5p-6p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org Audio Lab Learn how to produce your own audio tracks. 6p-8p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Ave-

BRAVO nue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee 6p-7p, The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way 311 cityofelgin.org Elgin Heritage Design Review Subcommittee 6p7p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin. org Sustainabilty Commission 6.15p-7.15p, Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court 311 cityofelgin.org 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 required. Please 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

17 programming. 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 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. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Danny’s Open Mic See 1/2. 7p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin. com. No Cover Human Traffi cking: Prevention & Rescue with Kane Co. Sheriff Donald E. Kramer Kane County Sheriff Donald E. Kramer and a panel of community leaders address one of the most pressing international human rights issues, which affects us locally.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Library Board Meeting Monthly meeting of the Library Board which is generally held on the second Tuesday of the month. 7p-9p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Resume Series: Basics Learn how to create a basic functional or chronological resume and format it to best sell your skills and experience to potential employers in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8. 7p-7.30p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Jan.10 Terrifi c Twos See 1/9. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info 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 a partnership with the Kane County Department of Community Reinvestment. For more information, call 630-966-1435, ext. 40078.

9.30a-11a, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Terrifi c Twos See 1/9. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8. 10.30a-11a, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info According to the USDA, in 2014 the U.S. spent $10.9 million importing 9.6 thousand metric tons of fresh, frozen, dried, or preserved vegetables We at Shared Harvest, the Elgin Food Cooperative would like to offer a home-grown alternative to this reality.

We are a community owned grocery store in progress and invite you to join us as we return to the roots of our food system - local farms producing fresh foods for our communities. Let’s build a stronger and more sustainable local food system.

We believe that a Co-op should be more than a grocery store - it should be at the center of the community, a place for neighbors to come together in the name of food justice, economic development, and environmental safety to invest their dollars back into the place where they live. Will you join the movement?

Terrifi c Twos See 1/9. 10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 12/27. 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info STEAM Grades 1-5 please Register for each date:1/10 Tanagrams. 2/14 Candy Science. 4p5p, Rakow Corridor West, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Environmental Town Hall Join Rep. Moeller, Rep. Andersson and Sen. Castro for an informative Environmental Town Hall meeting. 6p-9p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue

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GREEDY MEDIA MOGUL TO HIKE RATES IN 2018 MARQUEE MEDIA is raising advertising rates 5-15% in 2018.

BRAVO advertising will cost as follows: EIGHTH PAGE ADS formerly $47

will cost $55 QUARTER PAGE ADS formerly $79

will cost $89 HALF PAGE ADS formerly $109

will cost $119 FULL PAGE ADS formerly $179

will cost $195 But you can beat the 2018 price increase!

Start a money-saving 12-month advertising contract in December ... and keep the lower 2017 rates, PLUS: Run 3-5 ads: 5% off Run 6-11 ads: 10% off Run 12+ ads: 15% off

Contact Your Sales Representative!

Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8. 10.15a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Listen, Learn and Lead Toastmasters Club #6974 See 12/28. 12p-1p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. A, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Ted Turner 1p2p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Futuros Bilingues/Go Bilingual Conversation Group Aprendices de todos los niveles participaran con otras personas que hablan espanol e Ingles como primer idioma. Learners of all levels participate in the sharing and exchanging of learning a new language with a native speaker. In English and Spanish. 6p7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info UnWINEd Wednesday It’s time for UnWINEd Wednesday at The Haight!

We invite you to join us for a onehour yoga session instructed by a Core Power Yoga instructor followed by 30 minutes of relaxing with a glass of wine. 6p, The Haight, 166 Symphony Way 224.801.4166 thehaightelgin. com. $10 Cuentos para la familia/Spanish Family Storytime !30 minutos de cuentos, musica, rimas, manualidades y mucho mas para el disfrute de toda la familia! No necesita registrarse. 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs and fun for parents and children to enjoy together. No registration required. 6.30p-7p, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info QuickBooks Series: Basics Learn how QuickBooks’ accounting software allows businesses to manage finances by setting up a company, adjusting preferences, and working with accounts in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Trivia Night Free to play .. win $$ of your tab and impress your friends!

Be there AND be square! 8p, Elgin Public Hosue, 219 E. Chicago Street 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com.

Free

Thu.Jan.11 1, 2, 3, Go! See 1/9. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Device Advice See 12/28.

9.30a-11.30a, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Piano Performance: Karen Maxwell 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Creativity Lab See 12/28. 4p-5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Shirley Remes 4.30p-5.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Evening Chess Club See 12/28. 5p7p, GBPL 2nd Floor - Elevator Annex, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 1/11. 6.30p7p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Genealogy Writers’ Group Learn from others with a similar interest in writing their families’ history. 6.30p8p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Elgin 360 Photography Club - Camera Basics: Light Meter Photography enthusiasts of all skill levels are invited to learn, share, teach and photograph life in all of its 360-degree glory. Join us for a free presentation and discussion on a variety of photography topics. No experience necessary. Bring your camera if you have specific questions about your gear. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info For My Family: Screen Time For my family: workshops to help parents and caregivers navigate family life. Join us for discussion on children, screens, and learning. Dr. Navsaria, MPH, MSLIS, MD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health, will highlight research on electronic screen usage and give recommendations for families as they navigate this topic.

Registration Required 7p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info MS Excel Basics Learn how Excel’s cells, worksheets & workbooks easily allow users to manipulate, calculate, and format numbers and other types of data in this class. Registration required.# MicrosoftTools 7p-8.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room,

4.1 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Piano Performance: John LaBorn 7p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Screening of The Vietnam War Episode 5: “This Is What We Do” 1967 The Vietnam War, an immersive ten-part, eighteen hour documentary film series directed by acclaimed filmmakers Ken Burns and Lynn Novick, tells the epic story of one of the most divisive, consequential and misunderstood events in American history, as it has never before been told on film.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Fri.Jan.12 Baby Rhyme Time See 1/11.

9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info No-Shushing Film Series: Moana Come enjoy a movie in a family-friendly, casual setting. Chatting and snacks from home are welcome.

This program welcomes people of all abilities. Please contact the library one week in advance if you need accommodations. No registration.

10a-12.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Science Night Curious about the natural world around you? Bring your family to Elgin Public Museum’s Science Night! Different stations will be set up around the museum for kids and their parents to experience themed, hands-on demonstrations and scientific experiments. No registration necessary. Members free. 6p8p, Elgin Public Museum, 225 Grand Boulevard 847.741.6655 gailborden. info. $2 Acupuncture Gong Sound Bath Join Jennifer and I for our first joint venture of bring the healing benefits of acupuncture and the clearing vibrations of the gong together with an Acupuncture Gong Sound Bath at her location at Ben Shen Health

List your events for FREE

January 2018

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The Elgin Professional Building, 164 Division Street

COLOR MY CITY

Illustrations by Madeline Richmond

IDEA BOX

Are you coming to work here in the morning, or coming to watch a play in the evening?

What can be seen in the skies above Elgin?

Can you create a neat design for the banners on downtown street lamps?

Built in 1928 in the Gothic Style, the Professional Building was erected by and for business and professional men; today, it is home to artistic professionals.

The posh Union League Club occupied the 8th floor where, drinks in hand, the elite settled into squishy Art Deco styled sofas to warm themselves by the massive fireplace or to gaze out of the three walls of windows at the setting sun or to see a shooting star. Today, the Union League Club room serves as an arts venue called the Elgin Art Showcase. Š M.E. Richmond Art. All rights reserved. Used with permission.

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4.1

FEED.whereisbravo EAST SIDE Baker Hill Restaurant 1279 Dundee Ave. Beef Villa 1055 Dundee Avenue Blue Kangaroo Coin Laundry 464 Summit Street Elgin History Museum 360 Park Street Elgin Public Museum 225 Grand Ave Gail Borden Public Library 270 N. Grove Avenue Jewel-Osco 1040 Summit Street Olde Towne Inn 412 Bluff City Boulevard Superior Homes Team Realty 1173 Dundee Ave. Tri-City Animal Hospital 790 Summit St. Willow Lake Estates* 161 West River Road

Elgin Symphony Orchestra 20 Dupage Court

Holiday Inn Express 495 Airport Road

Stanley’s Ale House 335 N. McLean Boulevard

Funky Rooster Studios 73 S. Grove Avenue

In The Neighborhood Deli 185 Edison Avenue

Starbucks 338 S. Randall Road

Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way

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

EAST/WEST DUNDEE

Metra Rail Big Timber Station 2025 Big Timber Road

Courtyard by Marriott 2175 Marriott Drive, West Dundee

Paul’s Family Restaurant 1300 Lawrence Avenue

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

Presence St. Joseph Hospital 77 N. Airlite Street

East Dundee Village Hall 120 Barrington Ave., East Dundee

Sirin Dentistry 1 Crescent St.

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

State Street Market Shops 701 N. State St.

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

Walnut Speakeasy 214 Walnut Avenue

Midwest Retro 207 Barrington Ave., East Dundee

Kellenberger Auto Service 217 Symphony Way Law Offices of Shirley Sadjadi 169 E. Chicago St. Maiden Bedlam 166 E. Chicago St. Mama Lee’s Gourmet Popcorn 20 S. Spring St. Martini Room 161 E. Chicago St. Pastigel Bakery 154 E. Chicago St. Rediscover Records 9 S. Spring Street Side Street Studio Arts Gallery 15 Ziegler Court Soulful Sparrow 10 Douglas Avenue

DOWNTOWN Arabica Cafe* 59 Douglas Ave Art Area Studio 51 51 S. Spring Street at Fulton St. Associated Bank 16 N. Spring Street Blue Box Cafe 176 E. Chicago Street Central Barber Shop 172 E. Chicago St. Centre of Elgin 100 Symphony Way Danny’s on Douglas* 231 Douglas Avenue Domani Cafe 109 E. Highland Avenue Dog’s Paw Brewing Co. 74 S. Grove Avenue Downtown Neighborhood Association 10 N. Spring Street Elgin Antiques & Uniques 207 E. Chicago Street Elgin ArtSpace Lofts 51 S. Spring Street Elgin Art Showcase 164 Division Street Elgin Books & Coffee 66 S. Grove Ave. Elgin City Hall 150 Dexter Court Elgin Public House 219 E. Chicago Street

WEST SIDE Alexander’s Cafe 1725 N. State Street Bender Dental Care 217 N. McLean Blvd.

Big Skillet Restaurant 90 Tyler Creek Plaza Big Apple Bagels* 561 N. McLean Boulevard Clean Vistas Laundromat Tyler Creek Plaza Colonial Cafe 600 S. McLean Boulevard D Hangout Bar and Grill 550 S. McLean Boulevard Dutch Inn West 36W610 Foothill Road Elgin Community College 1700 Spartan Drive

RANDALL CORRIDOR 1600 Professional Building 1600 N. Randall Road 1710 Professional Building 1710 N. Randall Road Advocate Sherman Hospital 1425 N. Randall Road Candlewood Suites 1780 Capital Street Comfort Suites 2480 Bushwood Drive Elle Salon 2490 Bushwood Drive Jimmy’s Charhouse 2290 Point Boulevard Panera Bread 2484 North Randall Road Physician’s Immediate Care 2490 Bushwood Drive Porter’s Pub 1250 Bowes Creek Road Rakow Branch, Gail Borden Library 2751 W. Bowes Road

Elgin Shopping Mall 308 S. McLean Boulevard

Rookie’s All American Pub & Grill 2486 Bushwood Drive

Grumpy Goat Tavern 875 Sports Way

Starbucks 2480 North Randall Road

Habitat for Humanity ReStore 800 N. State Street

Village Pizza and Pub 2496 N. Randall Road

Hampton Inn 405 Airport Road

Woodman’s Market (C’Ville)* 2100 Randall Road

Hawthorne Hill Nature Center 28 Brookside Dr.

SOUTH ELGIN

Herb’s Bakery 1020 Larkin Ave. Highland Ave Church of the Brethren 783 W. Highland Ave.

Booker’s Bar & Grill 420 N. McLean Boulevard Cleveland Veterinary Clinic 400 N. McLean Boulevard

Pampered Pet Services 1050 Dundee Ave. The Uncommon Palate 316 N. River St., East Dundee *Preferred Pickup Location Supplies are limited at these locations and may run out early in the month. If you don’t see B RAVO Magazine on display, please let management know that you saw their location listed here, and came in for a free copy!

Would you like a supply of B RAVO Magazine at your office or place of business? Let us know!

Contact us at: bravo@marqueemedia.net

BRAVO

January 2018 in Elgin. Participants will have a choice between 5 needles or 3, as guided by Jennifer. Once needles are in place, participants will bathe in the vibrations and sounds of the gong for a 30 minute deep relaxation and meditation. Afterwards participants are invited to join us for tea and sharing. 6.30p, Ben Shen Health, 162 E. Chicago Street 224.407.2027 benshenhealth.com. $20 RISE 8p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Avenue

847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com. No Cover

Sat.Jan.13 Coding Series: HTML Basics Learn about the basic page structure and formatting of HTML, the programming language that powers the web, in this class. 10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

21 Crochet a Market Bag Series Complete a crochet market bag with a rosette attached over two sessions. Please register once for a series. Attendance at both sessions is required. 1p-3p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden. info First Time Home Buyer Seminar See 1/6. 1p, Starbucks, 2480 N. Randall Road 847.975.4634 startingpointrealty.com. Free Introduction to 3D Design Are you interested in 3D printing? Come learn how to make your own 3D designs and leave with a 3D printing object. Please bring an active email address to the program, or set up a Tinkercad.com account before the program. Must be between grades 3-5. 1.30p-3p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Puzzle Club Drop-in and join us for word puzzles, Sudoko, kids floor puzzles and adult jigsaw puzzles.

2p-3.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden. info Intermediate 3D Design Ready to take the next step in 3D printing? This is your opportunity to create your own designs. Please have youremail address or your login for Tinkercad.com ready before this class begins. Projects created will be printed forlater pick up. *You must have completed Intro to 3D printing in order to attend this class. Grades 4-8.

Registration required 3.30p-5p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

ELGIN WINTER MARKET

OPEN TODAY

DeCEMBER 2 - WINTER MARKET PREMIER - 2PM TO 6PM

WINTER MARKET 2018 DATES JANUARY 6 JANUARY 20 FEBRUARY 3 FEBRUARY 17 MARCH 17 MARCH 3 2018 MARKET HOURS APRIL 21 APRIL 7 9AM TO 1PM FOLLOW THE ELGIN DNA Facebook.com/ElginHarvestMarket Facebook.com/DowntownElgin www.DowntownElgin.com

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR www.ChiroOne.net

This Week in Geek Awards: Live at the Blue Box 6p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago Street 847.697.2583 theblueboxcafe.com Crazy X Come and celebrate 4 year Anniversary of the D-Hangout, along with the Loop and Loop Girl “April Rose” We will also have Live Band Crazy X on stage rocking the night away. 9p, D-Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Boulevard 847.717.0511 d-hangout.com. No Cover

Sun.Jan.14 Jeep and Greet Rebirth Upon popular request we are testing out bringing the Jeep and Greets back!

All Jeeps come out for some great food and hang out with other jeep enthusiasts. 1p, Jester’s Fast Food, 96 Tyler Creek Plaza 847.622.0749 jestersfastfood.com Sunday Afternoon Concert: Sarah Kropski, Soprano Join soprano Sarah Kropski and pianist Anca Apetean as they explore the lessons and triumphs of love through song. From opera and piano classics of the 18th and 19th centuries, to pop standards and Broadway favorites of the 20th and 21st centuries, this concert will fill your heart and keep you humming all the way through the Valentine season.

2p-3p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Tea & Scones with Herstory: Stories of Elgin Women Enjoy a four course afternoon tea with scones, finger sandwiches, savories and desserts while you listen to Linda Rock dressed in character intrigue you with the stories of four historical women from Elgin. Only 24 seats available so RSVP quickly to reserve your spot. 2p, State Street Market Shops, 701 N. State Street 847.695.3066 statestreetmarketshops.com. $35 Live Love, Stop Hate: “Civil Rights in America: Where Do We Go From Here?” Featuring guest speaker Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Edmond, Second Baptist

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local and national organizations. All ages with caregivers. 10.30a-1p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Church of Elgin. 5p-7p, First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago Street 847.741.4045 fcc-elgin.org.

Donations welcome

Mon.Jan.15 Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 1/11.

10a-10.30a, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 fcc-elgin. org Elgin Families Volunteer Join us for 20 minutes or join us all day to make the most of this no-school day and volunteer together! We will complete different volunteer activities for many

No-School Day Move: Akeelah and the Bee Join us on this No-School Day at the South Elgin Branch Hoffer Meeting Room for a movie! No registration. Summary: Akeelah Anderson (Keke Palmer), from south Los Angeles, has a talent for words. In spite of the objections of her mother Wanda (Angela Bassett), Keke enters a spelling contest. Her gift takes her to compete in the National Spelling Bee, the most famous competition of its kind in the world. On the way, she is helped by a forthright, mysterious teacher, Dr. Larabee (Laurence Fishburne) and a cast of colorful characters from the community. 11a, South Elgin Branch Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info. Free

4.1

Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Homework Heroes Students in grades K-8 who need help with homework assignments can meet one-onone on a first come, first served basis with a helpful volunteer. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult. 3p-5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

3.30p-4p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

6p-6.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 1/8.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Spanish Cafe/Cafe en Espanol Intermediate-level participants will practice structured and spontaneous conversations in Spanish. Participants also will learn vocabulary. Participantes de nivel intermedio practican respondiendo o empezando conversaciones en espanol con fluidez y hablando con gente que hablan espanol como primer idioma. 12p-1p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove

French Conversation Group Do you enjoy the French language and Francophone culture? Come join our monthly French conversation group!

In a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with fellow francophones of all ability levels, you will enjoy presentations, songs, videos and conversation en francais. No registration required.

6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Tue.Jan.16 Wonderful Ones See 1/8. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Panera Milk & Cookie Storytime See 1/2. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Library On The Go at Restaurant, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 1/8. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info 1, 2, 3, Go! See 1/9. 10.15a-10.45a, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 1/8.

10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Pediatric Therapeutic Playgroup See 1/9. 11a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Job Search and Resume Help See 1/2. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

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January 2018 Crazy 8s Math Club Series 2 See 1/16. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Rakow Rooks Chess and Games Club See 1/2. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info South Elgin Sentinels Chess Club See 1/2. 4.30p-5.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Homework Heroes See 1/15. 6p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Literacy Connection Tutor Training Become a Literacy Connection Volunteer Tutor in this 12-hour training workshop. Help to make a change in someone’s life and become a Volunteer Literacy Tutor! The Literacy Connection has over 70 adult learners in our community waiting to be matched with a tutor like you! Would you like to help? Our Tutors help other adults with their English literacy skills, at a time and place convenient for both tutor and learner. NO PRIOR TEACHING OR TUTORING EXPERIENCE IS NEEDED! We’ll train and guide you through the tutoring process. Join us at one of our upcoming Tutor Orientations to learn more! Must be at least 18 years old. Not sure if tutoring is for you? Join us for “Introduction to The Literacy Connection & Tutoring” to learn more. Training will start after the intro and there is no obligation to stay if you feel our program is not for you. Training continues on Thursday, January 18, and Monday, January 29 and Wednesday, January 31, 2018 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Call 847-742-6565 or email info@elginliteracy.org for more information or to register. Course Structure This is an instructor-led, 12-hour course, with some online and out of classroom assignments. Online options are available to complete missed material, if necessary. Tutor trainees participate in discussion, role playing and interactive activities as they learn strategies and background information necessary to tutor adults.

Course Materials and Cost of Tutor training is free, but there is a $35 fee to cover the textbook, LITSTART: Strategies for Adult Literacy and ESL Tutors, and other handouts. Cash or a check made payable to The Literacy Connection is collected at the end of the first course meeting. Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Call 847-742-6565 or email info@elginliteracy.org for more information or to register. 6p-9p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. A, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Terrific Twos See 1/9. 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N.

Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group See 1/9.

6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 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.

6.30p-8p, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Danny’s Open Mic See 1/2. 7p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com.

No Cover Resume Series: Customizing Your Resume 1 Learn how to select the appropriate resume type and adjust formatting, language, headings, and craft a strong resume profile or in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

7p-7.30p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Walt Disney World with Kids Get all the information you need to plan a memorable trip with kids ages 10 and under. Attend this program for tips on kid-friendly attractions, dining recommendations, itinerary planning and much more! Please register.

7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Jan.17 Terrific Twos See 1/9. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info 3D Printing Basics for Adults Are you curious about the new wave of 3D printing? Join us to learn about the basics of this exciting technology and get some hands on experience by creating your own object for printing! 10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer

23

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tax liability that could increase your refund. Presented in partnership with Fox Valley SCORE. Registration required.Harry Eng is a principal partner at Fox Valley Tax Solutions in Saint Charles and a Certified SCORE mentor. 6.30p-8p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Mini-Media Guide: FEED 411

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

What We Don’t Want Commercial messages, like “$9.99 Friday Fish Fry” belong in your ad, not in the FEED. Since BRAVO is freely distributed to the general public, private events should not be listed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Google Calendar If you have a Google account, you have free access to a suite of useful tools, including a calendar that can be accessed as an RSS feed.

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

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

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

4.1

Contemporary Fiction Book Group Book discussion. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Smart Strategies for 50+ Job Seekers Are You 50+ and Looking for Full-Time Work? You have the experience. Now regain the confidence. If you are having a tough time navigating today’s job market, this program can help point you in the right direction. Learn strategies that will help you compete for full-time, in-demand jobs. Explore tools and resources that will help you update your personal marketing tools and networking strategies, target your job search, get job leads, and find resources and individual coaching to help you look for and find your next job. In partnership with Elgin Community College.

Registration required. 10a-12p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Terrific Twos See 1/9. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

10.30a-11a, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 gailborden.info Terrific Twos See 1/9. 10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Homework Heroes See 1/15. 3p5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 12/27. 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

QuickBooks Series: Working with Items Learn how to work with QuickBooks’ Items module as well as how to define, set up, edit and delete items in this class 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Trivia Night Free to play .. win $$ of your tab and impress your friends!

Be there AND be square! 8p, Elgin Public Hosue, 219 E. Chicago Street 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com.

Free

Thu.Jan.18 1, 2, 3, Go! See 1/9. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Device Advice See 12/28.

9.30a-11.30a, Rakow Computer Cafe, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8. 10.15a-10.45a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Ted Turner 1p2p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Karen Maxwell 3p-4p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Creativity Lab See 12/28. 4p-5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Piano Performance: Shirley Remes 4.30p-5.30p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Cuentos para la familia/Spanish Family Storytime See 1/10. 6.30p7p, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Kids Explore: Printmaking For Grades 1-5. Explore a new topic each week! This week, learn about different print making and create some prints of your own. Dress for mess. Please register here: http://bit. ly/2l099dp. Please note, each week has individual registration. 5p, GBPL Story Room South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info.

Free

The Tax Man Cometh - Are You Ready? Harry Eng will discuss IRS and congressional tax changes that may affect your small business and discover strategies for lowering your

Kids Explore: Winter Let’s learn about winter and make winter art together! 5p-6p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Grupo de Futuros Bilingues/Go Bilingual Conversation Group See 1/10. 6p-7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

January 2018 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. 5p-6.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 1/11. 6.30p-7p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Citizenship Conversation Group/Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudadana See 1/4. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Elgin Genealogical Society Monthly meeting of the Elgin Genealogical Society. 7p-8.45p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue

BRAVO 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

25 tip

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.

Registration required. #MicrosoftTools 7p-8.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info

Baby Rhyme Time See 1/11. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Piano Performance: John LaBorn 7p-8p, GBPL Lobby, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See 12/30. 1p-1.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Three Course Thursday: Whiskey and Beer Dinner Featuring Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ales, Bourbon and Rye paired with appetizer, main course and dessert. Reception at 7p. Reservations required.

7p, Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago Street 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com. $40 + tax and

Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See 12/30. 3p-3.30p, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

This ad is an ISLAND 6.125 x 8”

Fri.Jan.19

Sat.Jan.20 DNA Winter Market Mark your calendar for the 2018 Elgin Winter Market! Come see what’s new at the market this year and explore the wonderful items for sale from our vendors. If you would like to be a vendor at the Winter Market please email us at harvest@downtownelgin.com or call 847-4881456. 9a, Elgin Artspace Lofts, 51 S. Spring Street 847.488.1456 downtownelgin.com Welcome Baby! Baby’s First Library Visit See 12/30. 9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Cocoa & Cookies Open house at State Street Market Shops. 10a-5p, Free State Street Market Shops, 701 N. State Street 847.695.3066 statestreetmarketshops.com Coding Series: CSS Basics Learn how to link pages and create menus using a pre-structured set of HTML pages and start styling page elements with CSS in this class. 10a-11.30a, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Government 101 How does our government ‚Äî local, state, and national ‚Äî work? Find out each month on Civic Saturday how different elected offices function, and what they can do for you. Elgin Township Supervisor Franklin Ramirez is your guide for this non-partisan, educational, and fun-filled series. 10a-11.30a, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

• It gets a whole page to itself • Same proportions as 8.5 x 11 • Design and layout included • Full color included • ONLY $119 Or send in your ready-to-print 8.5 x 11” Flyer or Poster in PDF format and SAVE 15%

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Preschool & Childcare Information Fair Representatives from area preschools, daycare centers and licensed homes will be available talk about their childcare services and answer questions. 10a-12p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Bienvenido Bebe!/Welcome Baby! BabyFirst Library Visit Bienvenido Bebe! Llevan a su bebe y bebes nueva tarjeta de la biblioteca a esta clase es disenado especialmente para bebes primer titular de la tarjeta de la biblioteca. aprenda acerca de los programas y recursos para apoyar el desarrollo de alfabetismo temprano de su bebe y recibir un regalo especial! Para los bebes sies meses y abrriba con sus padres. Registrados preferidos. Presentado en espanol. Welcome Baby! Bring baby and baby’s new library card to this class designed especially for Baby’s First Library Card holders. Learn about programs and resources to support your baby’s early literacy development and receive a special gift! For babies up to six months old and their parents. Registration preferred. Presented in Spanish.

10.30a-11a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Crochet a Market Bag Series See 1/20. 1p-3p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271

BRAVO

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4.1 Meet three artists! One award-winning artist from South Bend, IN and two local favorites of Art Area Studio 51. Live music from 7-10p. 6.30p, Art Area Studio 51, Corner of S. Spring St. and Fulton Street 224.356.0686.

Free

First Time Home Buyer Seminar See 1/6. 1p, Starbucks, 2480 N. Randall Road 847.975.4634 startingpointrealty.com. Free Social Issues Book Group Interested in reading about and discussing social issues? Join fellow readers on Civic Saturday, the 3rd Saturday of each month, for lively, probing discussions that will widen your perspective and deepen your understanding.

1p-2.30p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Tiempo de Prica Salones abiertos con asistencia individual en espanol.

No tienes que registrate para pasar y recibir ayuda. 1.30p-2p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

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Manga and Anime Club for Grades 6-8 Are you a fan of Attack on Titan, One-Punch Man, or My Neighbor Totoro? Come watch anime, share fan art, and enjoy Japanese snacks.

New members are welcome - bring a friend! 2p-3.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Eleanor Roosevelt Dinner Annual fundraiser for Elgin Township Democrats. Cash bar and seven course buffet dinner. 5.30p, Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Avenue 847.741.6769 elgindems.org. $55 each/$400 table of eight James Wylder’s Tales by the Blue Light Prairie Home Companion meets The Hive meets the Twilght Zone in this amazing show, now entering it’s second season, at The BBC!! Author James Wylder (10,00 Dawns and An Eloquance of Time and Space) hosts, writes and performs the show that will incorporate sketch comedy and dramatic performance along with guest interviews and more!!! The theme will stretch the lines of Sci-Fi, Horror and Fantasy to entertainment. The event is free and usually runs from 6 pm to 8pm on the third Saturday of every month. Produced

by Arc Beetle Press, Southgate Media Group and The Blue Box Cafe. 6p, Blue Box Cafe, 176 E. Chicago Street 847.697.2583 theblueboxcafe.com.

No Cover Third Saturday Artist Reception

Blindsight: A Live Poetry Event No matter how you look at it, scenes and images are just a state of mind, and your eyes only give you one kind of impression. The impressions you can’t capture with a camera are often much more vivid: dreams, fantasies, memories, visions. What do you see when your eyes are closed? Area poets will paint with words in front of a live audience, accompanied by mood-enhancing live jazz by Accidentally on Purpose. 8.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way facebook.com/ElginLiteraryFestival.

Free Six Easy Payments 9p, D-Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Boulevard 847.717.0511 d-hangout.com. No Cover

Sun.Jan.21 Who Am I to Judge? Responding to Relativism with Logic and Love What is “right” and “wrong”? Is what’s right for you right for me? Is there a right and wrong for everyone, all the time? These are difficult questions to discuss in our culture. We live in a society that supports the opinion that each person should make up his or her own morality‚Äîthat there is no moral truth that applies to everyone.

Many of us have been affected by the relativistic outlook that pervades the modern world. Maybe some of us wonder whether there really is an absolute right and wrong for everyone. Or maybe we accept that there is a moral standard for all, but we don‚Äôt know how to explain our moral convictions in a convincing way. Maybe some of us are afraid of saying something is immoral because we‚Äôre afraid of offending others or of being labeled intolerant. How do we talk about morality in a relativistic world? In this small group study program featuring Edward Sri, we’ll explore the classical view of morality and find that it‚Äôs not merely a set of guiding principles for theoretical situations‚Äîit is an entire way of life.

Join Fr. Andrew and Briana Collins for this 8-week series. 12p, St. Laurence Church, 572 Jewett Street 847.468.6900 stlaurencechurchelgin. com Featured Author Series Stop by for storytime fun featuring books by favorite children’s authors followed by a craft to-go. This month it is Judy Schachner! 2p-2.45p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Live Love, Stop Hate: “Anti-Semi-

BRAVO

January 2018 tism Increases in 2017” Featuring guest speaker Rabbi Margaret Frisch Klein, Congregation Kneseth Israel.

5p-7p, First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago Street 847.741.4045 fcc-elgin.org. Donations welcome

Mon.Jan.22 Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

9.30a-10a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Baby Rhyme Time See 1/11.

10a-10.30a, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 Rakow Readers The Handmaid’s Tale

by Margaret Atwood. 1.30p-2.30p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 Homework Heroes See 1/15. 3p5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

3.30p-4p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info STEAM for Grades K-2 - Amazing Art-Science Monday, January 22 - Amazing Art-ScienceExplore the wonders of the universe through STEAM in a fun, hands-on way.*Check out our STEAM Blog for more ideas: #spurious

the

http://gbplsteam.blogspot.com 4p5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Teen Writers Club Join other teen writers to share what you’re writing and help you through the creative writing process. 4p-6p, GBPL Studio 270, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info STEAM for Grades 3-5 - Amazing Art-Science Monday, January 22 - Amazing Art-ScienceExplore the wonders of the universe through STEAM in a fun, hands-on way. 5p6p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

6p-6.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 1/8.

6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Citizenship Conversation Group/ Grupo de Conversacion para la Ciudadana See 1/4. 6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info *NEW* MS Access Series: Basics Learn the basics of using and creating an Access database in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer

27

Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Rep. Anna Moeller presents: A Discussion on Cyber Security State Rep. Moeller and staff from the Attorney General’s office will give a presentation highlighting a variety of tips to help you stay safe online.

Topics will include: data breaches, knowing when a website is secure, phising emails, safe shopping guide and EMV (credit card chip) technology. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm.

Rms. A-B-C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Writers on the Fox Reading Special Event Celebrate National Creativity Month with a reading by the creative writing group The Writers on the Fox. Come hear program members read their works followed by a meet-and-greet with the authors and light refreshments. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 1/8. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info 1, 2, 3, Go! See 1/9. 10.15a-10.45a, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Wonderful Ones See 1/8.

10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Pediatric Therapeutic Playgroup See 1/9. 11a-11.45a, GBPL Story Room - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Tue.Jan.23 Wonderful Ones See 1/8. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

10a-10.30a, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411

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BRAVO

28

How to Share

#BRAVOmag using Social Media

1. Find something Job Search and Resume Help See 1/2. 1p-4p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Crazy 8s Math Club Series 2 See 1/23. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Living Room, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 Rakow Rooks Chess and Games Club See 1/2. 4.30p-5.30p, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271

2. Take a picture

3. Post or Tweet it

South Elgin Sentinels Chess Club See 1/2. 4.30p-5.30p, South Elgin Hoffer Room, 127 S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info Homework Heroes See 1/15. 6p-8p, GBPL Youth Center - South, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Reel Women for Real Women The Glass Castle (2017, PG-13) Co-sponsored by the AAUW Elgin Area Branch. A film and discussion focused on women’s issues. No registration. A young girl comes of age in a dysfunctional family of nonconformist nomads with a mother who’s an eccentric artist and an alcoholic father who would stir the children’s imagination with hope as a distraction to their poverty.Director: Destin Daniel Cretton. Writers: Destin Daniel Cretton and Andrew Lanham (screenplay). Writer: Jeannette Walls (based upon her book). Stars: Brie Larson, Woody Harrelson, Naomi Watts. Time: 2 hours 7 minutes. Type: Biography, Drama 6p-8.30p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Terrific Twos See 1/9. 6.15p-6.45p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Conversacion en Ingles/ English Conversation Group See 1/9.

6.30p-7.30p, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Puberty & Your Special Needs Teen/Pubertad & su Adolescente con Necesidades Learn how to talk to your Special Needs teen about puberty. This presentation is intended for parents and caregivers only. Presented by Dr. Timothy J. Wahlberg,

4.1 Ph.D. Prairie Clinic, Geneva, IL. Hosted by: The Citizens’ Advisory Council, School District U-46. Presented in English with interpretation in Spanish. Pubertad y su Adolescente con Necesidades Especiales: Un Recurso para Padres. Aprenda como hablar con su adolescente con necesidades especiales sobre la pubertad. Esta presentacion es dirigida solamente a padres y cuidadores. Presentado por: El Concilio Asesor de la Comunidad, Distrito Escolar U-46. Presentacion en ingles con interpretacion al espanol. Speaker: Dr. Timothy J. Walhberg, Ph.D Prairie Clinic, Geneva IL Dr. Tim Wahlberg is a licensed clinical psychologist and a certified school psychologist. He earned his Ph.D. at Northern Illinois University. Dr. Wahlberg has experience in a school and university setting, psychiatric facility and community mental health center as well as private practice. Dr. Wahlberg has published extensively on the subjects of autism and neurological impairments and is involved in several ongoing research projects of related topics. He has spoken at local and national levels on autism and reflex-delay syndrome and has conducted a number of training seminars in these areas. Dr. Wahlberg is a member of the American Psychological Association. 6.30p-8.30p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rms. A-B, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Danny’s Open Mic See 1/2. 7p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com.

No Cover Illinois Speaks! Current Issues Discussion Group public discussion 7p-8.30p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info JLI: Communication -- Its Art & Soul Can you express yourself effectively in 140 characters or less?

Should you? The rise of the internet, mobile phones, and social media has completely changed the way we relate, interact, and communicate with one another‚Äîand it‚Äôs high time we reclaim this lost art. In Jewish philosophy, communication is more than just a tool: it is who we are. Humans are defined as communicative beings with a communicative soul, and aligning ourselves with this soul is our raison d‚Äô√™tre. In Communication - Its Art and Soul, we contrast Jewish thought with scientific discovery to unearth the essence of communication and how to utilize its powers to better ourselves, our relationships, and all of society. We hope you’ll consider joining us for this exciting course! Want to check it out? Join the first class free of charge. 7p, Chabad Jewish Center of Elgin, 30W509 Shoe Factory Road 847.440.4486 elginchabad.com Resume Series: Customizing Your

BRAVO

January 2018 Resume 2 Learn how to highlight transferable skills, summarize essential work experience, outline education, and when to add additional sections to a resume in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

7p-7.30p, GBPL Story Room - North, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info

Wed.Jan.24 Terrific Twos See 1/9. 9.15a-9.45a, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Job Training Information Session See 1/10. 9.30a-11a, GBPL Conference Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Terrific Twos See 1/9. 10a-10.30a, GBPL Main Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Story Mix for Three to Six See 1/8.

10.30a-11a, Rakow Children’s Area, 2751 Bowes Road 847.531.7271 Terrific Twos See 1/9. 10.45a-11.15a, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Homework Heroes See 1/15. 3p5p, GBPL South Elgin Branch, 127

S. McLean Boulevard, South Elgin 847.931.2090 gailborden.info ChessMaster Junior Chess Club See 12/27. 4p-5p, GBPL Meadows Comm. Rm. C, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Grupo de Futuros Bilingues/Go Bilingual Conversation Group See 1/10. 6p-7p, GBPL Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Video Lab: Green Screen Learn how to add green screen effects to your videos. 6p-8p, GBPL Studio 270 Digital Media Lab, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Cuentos para la familia/Spanish Family Storytime See 1/17. 6.30p-7p, GBPL Story Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info German Conversation Group Looking to refresh and even enhance that German you once knew? Join the German Conversation Group, led by John Schwartz, who has lived and traveled extensively in Germany and taught German and other languages.

John will present articles and videos about Germany and German-speaking Europe to be viewed and discussed auf Deutsch in a friendly atmosphere.

No registration. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Grove Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info QuickBooks Series: All About Cus-

tomers Learn how to add, edit, delete, and credit customers as well as how to work with invoices and receive payments in this class. 7p-8.30p, GBPL Computer Training Room, 270 N. Grove Avenue 847.742.2411 gailborden.info Trivia Night Free to play .. win $$ of your tab and impress your friends!

Be there AND be square! 8p, Elgin Public Hosue, 219 E. Chicago Street 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com.

Free

Fri.Jan.26 Elgin Literary Festival Author talks, workshops, panel discussions and book signings featuring accomplished authors from Chicagoland and beyond. Complete program included in select copies of this January edition of BRAVO. 4p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way facebook. com/ElginLiteraryFestival. Free John Williams Scores for Spielberg Movies A program of John Williams’s film scores from Steven Spielberg movies conducted by ESO Music Director Andrew Grams. With music from E.T., Jaws, Close Encounters and more, this evening is sure to entertain. 7.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way 847.888.4000 elginsymphony.org. $30-65

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Sat.Jan.27 Bison Feeding in Lords Park Join us for an up close and personal look at the bison, deer and elk at the Lords Park Zoo. Meet at the Museum for a short introduction after which we head for the zoo to assist the zookeeper in feeding these magnificent creatures. Space is limited to 12 people, so please register early! Members free. 7a-8.30a, Elgin Public Museum, 225 Grand Boulevard 847.741.6655 elginpublicmuseum.org. $1-2 First Time Home Buyer Seminar See 1/6. 1p, Starbucks, 2480 N. Randall Road 847.975.4634 startingpointrealty.com. Free Elgin Literary Festival Author talks,

FEED.colorcode Bands & Music

Theater & Dance

Exhibits & Film

Causes & Community

Kids & Families

Lectures & Learning Wellness & Nature Creativity Other

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Live Love, Stop Hate: “Antibullying and Online Civility for Adults” Featuring guest speaker Lark Cowart, Kane County Juvenile Council Committee 5p-7p, First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago Street 847.741.4045 fcc-elgin.org. Donations welcome

Mon.Jan.29

workshops, panel discussions and book signings featuring accomplished authors from Chicagoland and beyond. Complete program included in select copies of this January edition of BRAVO. 4p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way facebook. com/ElginLiteraryFestival. Free Above and Beyond 9p, D-Hangout Bar & Grill, 550 S. McLean Boulevard 847.717.0511 d-hangout.com. No Cover

Sun.Jan.28

Pahl-Olsen Project 7p, Jimmy’s Charhouse, 2290 Point Boulevard 847.783.0200 jimmyscharhouseelgin. com. No Cover

Wed.Jan.31 Trivia Night Free to play .. win $$ of your tab and impress your friends!

Be there AND be square! 8p, Elgin Public Hosue, 219 E. Chicago Street 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com.

Free Full Moon Ride It’s the monthly Elgin full moon ride. This will be a moderate pace ride for a few miles throughout the core neighborhoods of Elgin. This one has a chance of being a #frostbike. Reminder: Illinois State law requires bike riders to have a clear light on the front and a red reflector on the back for night time riding. That would be the minimum attempt for safety, so let’s all be easy to see on the street. 9p, Advocate Park, 179 E. Chicago Street elginbikehub.com. Free

Tue.Jan.30 Keep the Pint Night: Alter Brewing Giveaways, tastings and free stuff.

6p-8p, Elgin Public Hosue, 219 E. Chicago Street 847.468.8810 elginpublichouse.com Danny’s Open Mic See 1/2. 7p, Danny’s on Douglas, 231 Douglas Ave 847.742.5400 dannyspizzaelgin.com.

No Cover

* Price and theme subject to change.

John Williams Scores for Spielberg Movies See 1/27. 2.30p, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way 847.888.4000. $30-65

Drop-in Small Wonders Back by popular demand, Side Street Studio Arts will be hosting another Drop-In Small Wonders! Some of our amazing summer artist-educators, Kelly Hicks and Valerie Elise, along with Berto Martinez, will be leading the creative visual and performing arts activities that evening. Interested young artists, aged 4-12, are welcome to attend for a $5 donation at the door. DROP OFF/PICK UP: You can start dropping children off at 4:10pm. Please try not to arrive any earlier, as we are putting final touches on the evening’s activities. When dropping off, DO NOT park in the gravel lot in front of Side Street Studio Arts. This is not our lot. Also, do not park in the bank lot across the street. They will tow.

You are welcome to pull into the alley next to the building for a quick drop off, or park on the street, if you need to come in. Same parking rules apply for pick up. You are always welcome to come in and check out what we are

working on at any time. DRESS FOR A MESS: While we don’t try to get messy, we will be using messy paints and other materials. Be sure to send your young artist in clothing they (or you) won’t be sad to get paint on.

Most of our supplies are washable, but‚Ķwell, you know kids! While we don’t anticipate filling up, there is limited space available. First come, first served. And, as we expand our LAB in order to expand our arts education programming, starting February of 2018, we will be offering monthly Friday Friday Drop-In Small Wonders for make ups or just for fun! Mark those calendars. 4.15p, Side Street Studio Arts Theater, 15 1/2 Ziegerl Court 847.429.2276 sidestreetstudioarts. org. $5 donation

4.1

2015 WINNER 161 E. Chicago St. Elgin, IL 847-741-0349 WWW.MARTINIROOMELGIN.COM

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

January 2018

31

From This River Town

Gifts in Three Lines

by Mary Ellen Goodwill

Moonlight on the plum, what is it?

Am I supposed to steal a blossom?

One hundred and ninety-eight years ago, in 1819, Issa wrote that haiku.

One hundred and ninety-eight years later, we get to imagine the moonlight on the plum tree.

Sweet imaginings. We get to contemplate who or what might be encouraging the poet to “steal a blossom”.

Sigh.

Here’s another by Issa ( rather appropriate for this January issue ):

New Year’s morning: the ducks on the pond quack and quack.

Sigh and smile.

Haiku, haiku, I love you, I do.

A very fine gift is a paperback copy of The Essential HAIKU, edited by Robert Hass, Harper Collins publishers. I have given copies to high school graduates and I have encouraged college students to purchase copies. A

haiku nestled between the title and the first line of a persuasive or expository paper can be just the trick.

“What books are currently on your nightstand?” is a question posed to well-known writers and other famous people in the “By the Book” section of The New York Times. Learning what our favorite writers read leads to endless numbers of authors and titles for us to investigate.

The Essential HAIKU is not on my nightstand; instead, it is on my writing table. Always. It is dog-eared and dotted and underlined. The spine has become comfortably supple. Pick it up, open to any page of poems, read, reflect and move on.

Who doesn’t have time for a haiku.

Three little bitty lines but what a surprise they can provide. Here is Issa once again:

That gorgeous kite rising from the beggar’s shack.

Only eight words in that one. Hard to believe when you

Don’t worry, spiders I keep house casually.

–Issa

contemplate the breadth of the imagery.

Grade school kids are good at writing haiku and they take to it quickly—pencils in hand, heads bowed, their fingers busy counting the syllables, their lips mouthing the words. Then to make a change or two and then to write them on special paper with a bright marker!

5-7-5, a season stated or implied, and a change-up at the end—voila!

Writing haiku can become habitual, the syllabic structure a song caught in your head.

Very quickly you realize that the material is everywhere and ever present: flowered pillow cases on the clothes line, a single strand of cobweb hanging from your cat’s ear, bananas in a blue glass bowl ...

Celebrating the simple and the profound. Celebrating the instant and the infinite.

Haiku rhymes with ah choo but haiku need not rhyme. They need not lack humor and they can be liberating:

The Most Amazing Show on the Radio!

A simple meditation technique is to breathe slowly through the nose, hold the breath and exhale (through the nose). In her marvelously uplifting book, Fulfilled, Anna Yusim, MD, suggests we inhale to the count of four, hold for the count of four and exhale to the count of six.

Simple, free and very relaxing. A quiet state of contemplation. So, too, the haiku. Read the poem, think about it and walk away in a different and very possibly improved frame of mind. This gift by Basho is beautifully inscrutable:

While they are away Leaves pile up In the gardens of the gods.

Miss Goodwill’s novels are available at Gail Borden and ECC libraries, Town House Books in St. Charles and through Amazon.

Save 40%, 50%, 60% or even more on travel destinations, dining, entertainment, home and auto services, supplies and thousands of other items!

Find out more at www.WRMN1410.com

AM Radio 1410 WRMN-AM 1410 news/talk radio has a proud history of providing new and informational programming to Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs for over 60 years.

We are the “Conscience of the Community.”

Radio Shopping Show (847) 741-7700 x126 22 Douglas Avenue • Downtown Elgin Business Office (847) 741-7700 Broadcast Studio (847) 931-1410 14 Douglas Avenue • Downtown Elgin

BRAVO

32

4.1

Expression: Songs about Good News

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Prophet Sharing Artists can be moody. It’s a side effect of their sensitivity — the quality that enables them to observe life in subtle and unique ways and express ideas that exceed language, defy logic or challenge convention. Elgin singer and songwriter CHAR can attest to this.

“This big voice came out of me like out of nowhere, and that’s when it all started for me.” It was just the first of many affirmations she would eventually receive from teachers, artists, and audiences during the years she spent as a teen in New York City, then Pittsburgh.

“I struggled with depression most of my life, and I don’t turn to medication. I turn to music, and music heals me.”

For CHAR, it’s not merely a stress-relieving pastime or occupational therapy. “My past is pretty dark,” she says. “Music is my lifeline. It’s not just my passion, I believe it’s my purpose.”

But along with the talent came anxiety. After succeeding with a few weeks of piano lessons, she panicked at the prospect of a recital and dropped out. At a junior high Christmas concert, her stage fright got the best of her. “I was so nervous, I was shaking so hard, my voice was quivering ... that solo was so bad.”

Called Out

Her first hour in a college classroom ended with an anxiety attack and she didn’t go back.

Born fatherless and unwanted in Jamaica, West Indies, she inherited a gift for singing from her mother, the lead soloist in the church choir. But she grew up feeling like she didn’t belong anywhere or to anyone.

Among family, she felt “there was this constant void, this constant emptiness.”

“I had no one to talk to, to say ‘I really want to do this but I’m really scared,’ and nobody to come alongside me and say ‘You’re going to be fine, you can do it.’”

Over and over she turned to God to ask, “Why am I here? Why did You allow me to be born into such chaos?”

But she also had a gift for prayer, and Photo by Maria Mola Photography. she filled And she that emotiondreamed. al void with an ongoing dia“I used to stand in a window logue with God. It’s an inward and imagine that I would be the connection that stayed with her next Annie on Broadway.” for the rest of her life.

Needing a place to hide, she Shy and nervous, CHAR married a musician at age didn’t yet know the strength nineteen, a partnership that of her voice or how it could be produced two children as well as used until a children’s minisa fruitful collaboration in music. ter called her up to sing a solo.

“When I was going through a

BRAVO

January 2018

33

DISCOGRAPHY

Photo by Michelle Lytle Photography.

depression after I was married, that’s when most of my music really started coming. It was coming so fast ... I would sing a melody and Jonathan would interpret it, he would just play it. We really connected on that level.”

lines lit up,” she marveled. People loved CHAR’s combination of Christian song lyrics set to soulful R&B music. The low budget project was such a huge success that she once again had to put her education on hold.

CHAR was writing so much at that time, that she always had paper and pen ready. With her journal practically filled with inspirational song lyrics, she experienced a revelation.

“We toured for three years with that CD, and opened for Vickie Winans, Commissioned, and M.C. Hammer.” The international exposure led to a Christmas concert TV special (which aired on BET and the Inspiration Network), Pittsburgh’s 1999 Best Gospel Performer award, and a partnership with a Chicago-based company that convinced CHAR and her family to relocate to the Windy City.

“I thought the writing was just for me, to help me out of depression,” she recalls. Then one day, “I was having this conversation with God, it was like, I heard an audible voice: Now I have need of you. You’re going to go the studio and record. It was one of those Moses moments, you know?”

Divine Intervention “We were so broke then,” she wondered, “How is this even gonna happen?” Handling their own musical arrangements, backing vocals, and most of the instrumentals, CHAR and her family completed the project with the help of studios miraculously willing to work with them on payment terms. The result was an 11-track CD titled Chosen to Be Blessed, released in 1998.

Operating as their own independent record label, Jonathan (“JMAC”) and his brother shopped the new album around to Pittsburgh music stores and were immediately discovered by a prominent local deejay in a serendiptous meeting.

“He started playing it on the radio that day and the phone

She recorded another complete project, but business issues broke up the partnership and prevented the music from ever being released. It brought her career to an abrupt stop, and the family left Chicago for Kenosha, where she went through crippling cycles of depression.

“I realized God was up to something else because I wasn’t living in truth,” CHAR reflected.

“I was using music to mask what was really going on inside. I had found validation in my music so I didn’t have to deal with real issues. Had I continued on the path I was on, it would have been terrible. My fall would have been pretty bad.” She looks back on it as a blessing in disguise.

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Exile “I was used to being up and about, singing, and doing things,” she recalled. Emotion-

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BRAVO

ally, “I was at the mountaintop, and then it’s like I’m in hell.”

When not writing or performing, CHAR is constantly improving her craft and laying plans for her next studio project. She has enough new and loyal fans to crowdsource the funds to produce another CD of music that’s “not your typical or traditional gospel sound ... It’s more R&B, pop, jazz ... I’m Jamaican so I’ve got to put a little reggae in there.”

Depression affects a whole family, not just the one who’s sick. With her spending most of her time in bed for months on end, CHAR’s family grew weary and it often brought out the worst in them. In Autumn 2010, her daughter told her what she needed to hear: “Mom, you have to go.”

“I didn’t know where I was gonna go,” CHAR admitted. “That’s when I packed my suitcase and I made a call to woman I had just met, and kinda briefly told her my situation. And I landed in Elgin.”

For the next two months she survived on the charity of people she didn’t know, moving from home to home with nothing to offer in return.

“I didn’t have a job, I didn’t have money, I had no car, I had nothing. Just my suitcase and a dream.”

In the meantime, a west side Elgin couple had been praying for an opportunity to open their home to someone in need. CHAR was the answer to that prayer. It was the start of a slow and steady return to health, and a chance to complete unfinished business.

Equipped with a bus pass provided by a local church outreach program, she trudged through knee-deep snow to enroll in the music program at Elgin Community College.

She found a home at Elgin Artspace Lofts,

4.1

Benediction

CHAR appears in a 2012 video spot for Elgin Community College. Source: youtube.com and sought counseling to maintain emotional balance.

In 2017, she released a five song CD, named for her deliverance into Elgin — “Suitcase and a Dream” — that wrapped up a twenty-year collaboration with her now ex-husband.

With academic honors and an ECC music on her resume, CHAR is aiming higher than ever, writing all new material (on her phone these days, no more notebooks) and working with some of Chicago’s finest musicians.

“Some people get to my age and they give up, but I’m not going to quit,” she insists.

“There’s a purpose for my existence and that’s what keeps me going.”

Small acts of kindness or gifts of wisdom can change lives. CHAR’s story is a testimony to other people’s patience and compassion — two of the finer qualities of humanity.

But it’s also a story that’s hard to explain as a series of random human interactions.

Even the worst setbacks helped her out of circumstances that prevented her from fulfilling her purpose. There’s a continuity to her story, even though she often had little control over her life or made choices contrary to her own will.

Some believe that people are brought into our lives to deliver good news or perform small miracles. If you don’t recognize these everyday prophets and angels, maybe it’s because you are one of them. —JP Follow CHAR on social media and the web: Facebook: CHAR or @chardreams Instagram: @chardreamsmusic Website: chardreams.com Next project: chardreams.com/crowdfunding

ELGIN A Coloring Book

Ten illustrations of landmark buildings by artist

Madeline Richmond

on acid-free 67# bristol

$15 order by email bravo@marqueemedia.net allow one week for delivery

January 2018

BRAVO

35

ASSIGNMENT BOARD

ADVERTISE WITH US

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

2018 Advertising Rates

BRAVO 4.2: Book Clubs and the The Light and Dark of Valentines Fantasy, history, biography or mystery. We love books and that’s why we meet up and talk about them. Is it literary?

Or is it literally an excuse to hang out and drink wine?

About 1,500 words should be enough to clear this up.

Also: let’s examine the holiday with the most unrealistic expectations, but in the most thoughtful and loving way.

BRAVO 4.3: A Case for Localism and Comic Illustration We celebrate local culture, history and identity in this magazine, but can “hometown pride” go too far? Who wants to write a 1500-word think piece? Also: where there’s art, there’s comic art. Find out who’s reponsible!

Submit to: bravo@marqueemedia.net

Full Page $195 • Half Page $119 Quarter Page $89 • Eighth Page $55 Standard rates include design & layout.

15% Discount for ready-to-print digital artwork.

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

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

Ad Production Complete specifications are given on our website http://www.marqueemedia.net/Advertise For full details and personalized service, contact Sales Representative Dean Tripp.

(847) 702-2888 or dtripp@marqueemedia.net Next ad deadline: Weds. Jan. 17th, 5:00 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

B R A V O Magazine is published by

MARQUEE MEDIA P.O. Box 1551 Elgin, IL 60121-1551 (224) 513-1220 bravo@marqueemedia.net Publisher: Jeffrey R. Pierce Contributors: Laura Wasilowski, Dorothy Turay, Sara Sitzer, Madeline Richmond, Michelle Lytle, Lisa-marie Mazzucco, Maria Mola.

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