November/December 2021 Neighbors of Batavia by Neighbors Media

Neighbors of ™

Magazine

November/December 2021

The only community magazine for all of Batavia

Holiday celebrations light up Batavia Don’t forget to shop local The Library is full of surprises New online community for Bulldog Alumni Celebration of Lights Festival schedule POSTAL CUSTOMER City of Batavia 100 North Island Ave. Batavia, Illinois 60510

PERMIT NO. 239 BATAVIA, IL 60510

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

Neighbors of Batavia Magazine

Inside Information

Neighbors Publications 630-995-3482 KaneNeighbors.com Neighbors Staff and Contributors Tim Sullivan, Publisher Linnea Carlson, Creative Director Roger Breisch, Columnist

Community Liaisons

Beginnings—A REmarkable pair of letters...................................................................6 City of Batavia Currents—Shop local this holiday season....................................8 MainStreet—Winterfest Art Market returns..............................................................13 Library—Surprising finds at the Library..................................................................... 14 Batavia Public Schools—Join the Bulldog Nation................................................ 22

Margaret Perreault, Batavia Chamber of Commerce 630-879-7134 Patricia Leonard, Batavia Public Library 630-879-1393 Holly Deitchman, Batavia Public Schools 630-937-8824 Allison Niemela, Batavia Park District 630-879-5235 Beth Walker, Batavia MainStreet, 630-761-3528 Griffin Price, City of Batavia 630-454-2000 Andrew VanMeter, BATV 630-879-9300

For advertising opportunities: Anita Malik, Account Executive 630-995-3482 info@neighborsmagazines.com

Park District—Celebration of Lights........................................................................... 26

See the online edition at KaneNeighbors.com.

BATV—Playoffs have begun............................................................................................ 30

For calendar listings:

Chamber news—Shop local with Holiday Bucks.................................................... 31 Community Above Self.................................................................................................... 34

Please submit your activity dates to newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com or add them to the Calendar at KaneNeighbors.com

Departments

Message from the Mayor.........................................................................................................4 Business Nuggets.................................................................................................................... 32 Around the Block.................................................................................................................... 35 November Calendar.............................................................................................................. 37 December Calendar............................................................................................................... 38

About the cover This holiday season, take advantage of the spirit of community that is unique to Batavia. Start by taking time to enjoy the pages of this issue that are filled with the promise of joy made possible through the devotion of thousands of your neighbors and friends who have worked hard to make their community, your community, the best that it can be for your family. And all you have to do is say “Thank You” to someone. Happy Holidays!

Neighbors is a Service Disabled Veteran owned small business. We are proud to offer special advertising discounts to all Veteran owned businesses. NEIGHBORS™ is published bimonthly. Editorial contributions are welcome. Send your information to newsroom@ neighborsmagazines.com. Advertising deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication. ©2021 Neighbors is published by Emerald Marketing, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

kaneneighbors.com 3

Neighbors of Batavia Magazine

A message from our city Greetings, It is part of Batavia’s history that we enjoy annual memorable moments when the calendar arrives at the November/December time frame. This is the part of each year where community spirits of worship, support, kindness and friendship all come together to express the true meanings of our annual holidays which soon will be within our civic circle of fond memories for all. First arrives Thanksgiving with the countless stories of family dinners that feature turkeys in the background all around town. Hopefully, the lessons of giving and sharing with each other come to the forefront as love for one another and acts of generosity are shared around the dinner table in the days surrounding the holiday. A quick review of Batavia history illustrates that our town clearly knows how to celebrate and express the Thanksgiving story. The Sunday night of Thanksgiving weekend we commence the start of the Christmas season with the Batavia Police and Fire Departments escorting Santa Claus to the Peg Bond Center. This is an exciting memory for young children to enjoy. Santa will assist me as mayor and local barber Craig Foltos, who is the long-standing civic emcee for this event each year, in the countdown and lighting of our city Christmas tree. The tree stands along the Riverwalk’s edge near Houston St. and is pre-decorated with lights and holiday expressions and put into place by the park district maintenance crews and the city’s public works staff. Other Christmas trees are decorated by various groups and individuals along the route of the Riverwalk, and downtown light poles are accented with Christmas ornaments and Christmas lights put up in the form of trees. One very notable tree is fondly named “the Charlie Tree” and features all red lights which pays tribute to Charlie Chemes, the city’s long-time water department foreman, who introduced this idea from his Mexican background. Given some of the history of unique holiday decorations that downtown Batavia offers, I would note that two of the most popular Christmas decorations are highlighted in the direct center of downtown. Viewable from the south side of the Wilson Street Bridge is the Clark Island Christmas tree display. This is created each year by the city public works members and is recognized as being a 100-year tradition thought to be started by the city public works crews to celebrate the end of World War 1 around 1918–1919. In more recent times a second decoration was created and is visible from the north side of the bridge. Barber Craig Foltos launched a campaign to letter up the bike bridge with the beloved message of “Peace on Earth.” Now often referred to as the “Peace Bridge,” the spectacular views 4 kaneneighbors.com

of these two treasured holiday sentiments have drawn Christmas lovers from throughout the area to view firsthand these amazing and inspiring Christmas displays. The historical story of these scenes will be carried forward to future generations of our town to enjoy and emulate. A review of Batavia history reveals that in the past another Christmas tribute was carried on by the Batavia Ministerial Association where they hosted a brief 12th Night Christmas Tree burning ceremony, usually at Quarry Park. Used Christmas trees were gathered up by the city public works crews and placed in a pile to be burned in a ceremony under the watchful eyes of the Batavia Fire Department. The Ministerial Association conducted a short religious service, including meaningful memories, to highlight the end of the 12 nights of Christmas. I have been in conversation with some of our Ministerial Association members with the hope that given all the complex problems our world faces at this time we might like to revive the 12th Night celebration in early 2022. I would certainly pledge the city’s support in trying to get this idea back into actual practice. Needless to say, a true blessing of the Christmas season that impacts our town in a positive way is the flow of generosity from the actions of the Batavia Access Toy Drive. The toy drive began about 1950 by our late Fire Chief F. C. Richter with the support of members of the Batavia Rotary Club. This year marks its 71st year of non-stop kindness. Currently organized by Roy and Jeanie Bailey, and their immediate family, along with Rudy and Marilyn Dubis, the toy distribution program reached over 700 Batavia-based kids last year who were found in need of Christmas gifts. The toy drive folks gather toys and financial contributions from a wide array of giving individuals and organizations who donate to this worthy cause. This past fall Batavia resident Dottie Fletcher organized a comedy night fundraiser with performances by professional comedians at the Batavia Moose Lodge. This event raised a healthy amount of cash that has been used to buy many toys that will be given out in December. Batavia United Methodist Church has graciously allowed toys that are collected to be housed in the former Hubbard Furniture Store that the church has recently purchased. The church plans to utilize the site in the future for further expansion of this very historic Batavia church on N. Batavia Ave. On yet another front of heartfelt generosity and community giving, we are the very proud home of the

Batavia Food Pantry and Clothes Closet, which is currently located to the west of the city Wastewater Treatment Plant near the corner of Shumway Ave. and Flinn St. in downtown. These two organizations are ever supportive and helpful in assisting those in need of food or clothing throughout each year. I sense that these two organizations are especially called upon for real support of our needy citizens at the holiday times of the year and would welcome any donations or food, clothing or financial assistance in getting their job done. In a final note of the year, it would appear that 2022 is going to see several new businesses opening up for operation in our town. Out on W. Main St., at the site of the current Mobil gas station, the city is working with the Casey Gas Station organization to redo the current site with a new Casey’s gas station and convenience center. It will feature a new redbrick building to be located on the south side of Main St. just to the east of the existing car wash and campus of Holy Cross Church. In other news which is still too premature to talk about in detail, we are in discussions with several new restaurant establishments who want to get themselves into business either in downtown Batavia or along the Randall Rd. corridor in 2022. There is “More to Come” as they say on TV and it looks like Batavia is about to be the home of several

P hoto courtesy Batavia Park District

new restaurants to choose from in the coming year. Let me close by wishing to each and every Batavia resident a very

MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR of 2022! Mayor Jeffery Schielke

kaneneighbors.com 5

Beginnings A RE-markable pair of letters by Roger Breisch

few years ago, a creative graphic designer fashioned the logo I use (displayed below) to represent my speaking career. I was amazed he found my first two initials, R & E, in my last name, and then stunned to realize that my initials, used as the prefix “re,” transform many common words whenever we are attempting to do something again, perhaps in a new way: retry, reattempt, or rebuild. There are more than four thousand words that begin with those two humble characters. Here are a few that can change lives. Readdress—It is not the mistakes I make that determine my character, it is how I respond to my errant ways; how I redress and repair damage left in my wake. Realign—In moments when I recognize I may be walking a wayward path, I need to slow down, remember the values I profess, reclaim them, and realign my priorities. Retry—Mary Anne Radmacher once wrote “Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying ‘I will try again tomorrow’.” Rebalance—When life feels out of control, I must find the strength to take a step back, reflect, rearrange my priorities, and regain balance. Rebuild—Relationships are too often torn asunder by selfish and careless acts. I must remind myself it is never too late to rectify errors, reestablish important connections, and return wholeness to the tribes and communities of which I am a part. Reclaim—When I speak to seniors about the wisdom they hold, I remind them of their importance to future generations. After one such engagement an elder looked at me and said, “At my age, I often feel it may be time for me to go. But listening to you, I remember I am the matriarch of this family. It is time for me to reassume that role.” Redefine—When my children completed their educational pursuits, I came to discover, that while I will always be their father, I had to be in relationship with them in wholly new ways. Reembrace—We are often admonished to stop and smell the flowers. Beauty is everywhere I look if I allow myself to see it. I simply need to reexamine, refocus, and reimagine where I am at every moment. Reframe—I once heard it said the nonsense is only 6 kaneneighbors.com

nonsense until you find the perspective from which it makes sense. Perhaps I need to recall this whenever I face anything my mind tells me is nonsense. Renew—Little benefit derives from spending moments regretting mistakes and missteps of yesterday. Today gives me an opportunity to reimagine the possibilities of the day, refresh my priorities, and reignite my passions for what the day might hold. Respect—The root of respect is the same as inspect and means to look. When we inspect, we look into. I most respect others when I am willing to look again even in moments we disagree. Repay—When I asked a friend recently how he was, he said simply, “I am more blessed than I deserve.” I want, every day, to pay the world back for the untold blessings I have been given. Replenish—Nature observes many periods of quiet during which flora and fauna refresh and refuel. Perhaps the same is true for me. Resolve—Whenever I fear being wrong, or am embarrassed when I am, I try to bear in mind Kathryn Schulz’s inspiring words: “As far as we know, then, error is uniquely ours. Our fallibility is what keeps us suspended between the kingdom of lesser animals and the kingdom of God.” Rethink—I don’t know who said this, but I use this often, “It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so.” Repack—Richard Leider and David Shapiro wrote a book called Repacking Your Bags, in which they ask if we have the work, relationships, and wisdom we need to take us where we wish to go with our lives, or are we burdened by many things we should jettison. If I remember these humble letters that reside in my name, and fight to keep these ideas in my life, goodness, joy, and beauty will always be abundant.

Roger E. Breisch is a resident of Batavia and Speaker/Provocateur View his TEDxQuincy remarks on his website: REBreisch.com His latest book, Humanity’s Journey Home, is available at Amazon.com

Make the holidays perfect… Adopt a Family:

Every year, Batavia United Way partners with BPS101 to identify families in crisis or those who are otherwise struggling and in need of assistance to provide Christmas for their children. If you would like to adopt a family in its entirety, including gifts for all children and a gift certificate for a family outing to a restaurant, movie theater, Funway or your choice, please email adoptafamily@bataviaunitedway.org.

Batavia Access Toy Drive:

The 2021 Batavia Access Toy Committee is requesting help from Batavians for this year’s toy give-away. Donations of NEW unwrapped toys (for children ages 0 to 16) can be dropped off at either Batavia fire department station. Cash, gift cards or checks (made out to Batavia Access with “toy drive” on memo line) can be dropped off at the Batavia Police Dept. All donations will be accepted. The Toy Committee thanks you in advance.

Advertise with us in the NEW Neighbors of Batavia Business Directory is available to all Batavia businesses and Neighbors advertisers. The directory is published in the magazine six times a year and is always online at kaneneighbors.com. For a submission form, FREE online listing, and $75 advertising credit, please email info@neighborsmagazines.com.

Currents Don’t forget to Shop Local this holiday season! Batavia is fortunate to be home to both a wide variety of businesses that can help fulfill your holiday shopping needs and a culture of supportive residents that love to patronize their local businesses. This year marks the 11th anniversary of Small Business Saturday®, which will occur on Sat., Nov. 27. According to program founder American Express, it was created to “encourage people to Shop Small and bring more holiday shopping to small businesses”. According to the U.S. Small Business Association, ”77% of consumers said Small Business Saturday® inspires them to ‘Shop Small’ through the year and not just for the holidays. In addition, 66% of consumers state the main reason they support small businesses is because of their contributions to the community”. The spirit of supporting Batavia small business is alive and well in our community! When you choose to shop locally you are supporting entrepreneurs and innovators in your own backyard, creating jobs and keeping resources within your community.

When you are out and about selecting that perfect decorative item, bath and body product, art or music lessons gift certificate, vintage find, book, or great clothing and accessory item for your loved ones, be sure to fuel up on all of the great coffee, tea, meal, and sweets options in town, too! And don’t forget, a picture speaks a thousand words! Your indie minded Batavia small businesses gain exposure outside of the

community when you tell a friend about your great experience in person and even on social media. Don’t be afraid to share a picture of your best finds and give your favorite local businesses a shout out by tagging them on Instagram or Facebook using hashtags such as #smallbusinesssaturday, #shopbatavia, #shoplocal, #midwestisbest, etc. Happy shopping and holidays!

FVPO has holiday gifts Looking for a holiday gift that demonstrates your love for your family, your community and your country? The Fox Valley Patriotic Organization (FVPO) has the perfect present! FVPO is selling engraved bricks that will become part of the Flag Day Monument on the Riverwalk in downtown Batavia. Approximately 3/4 of the funds for the building of this monument have already been raised. It is the plan to break ground on Flag Day, June 14, 2022. The Flag Day Monument is dedicated to Dr. Bernard Cigrand, 8

a longtime dentist in Batavia who spent his life teaching others about the American flag and its history. This world-class monument will greet visitors to Batavia’s Riverwalk for decades to come. Please consider gifting a unique and long-lasting remembrance to a loved one this holiday season. There are different sizes of bricks with different amounts of letters and lines available. Prices range from $150 to $500, depending on size. Letters are lasered for clarity and endurance. FVPO is also selling a beautiful challenge coin with a picture of the monument on the red, white and blue enameled head. This would

make another outstanding gift for a loved one for only $20 per coin. Please go to flagdaymonument.com for details on how to order a brick or challenge coin. FVPO wishes all fellow Batavians a memorable holiday season, filled with love and cherished time with families and friends. May 2022 be a happy and healthy year for everyone!

630-454-2000 • cityofbatavia.net

Keeping Batavia‘s streets accessible during the winter season Batavia Public Works Department is responsible for ensuring that all city streets and facilities are accessible during the winter season. Snow removal and ice control are provided for 120 miles of streets, 168 culs-de-sac, two city cemeteries, 17 city-owned parking lots, and sidewalks in several locations of the downtown area. Please drive with caution during the winter season and adjust your speed accordingly since hazardous conditions may exist due to snow, wind, and freezing temperatures. Snow and ice control is considered emergency work in that pavement must be cleared any time of the day or night. Such factors as the rate and accumulation of snowfall, moisture content, temperature, time of day, wind direction, velocity, and duration are all taken into consideration in our approach to responding to each individual snowstorm. During snowfall events, the City of Batavia spreads deicing salt on primary streets. In most cases, salt will be applied continuously to secondary streets; however, the application rate of salt to secondary streets will be less than primary streets and, depending on the events, may not be done. After a snowfall has ended, secondary streets are plowed and deicers are applied mainly to intersections, hills, and curves. A salt brine solution may be applied prior to a snow event to prevent icy conditions. In addition, the city puts additives into the salt to accelerate the melting process. Best efforts will be made to clear all primary streets to bare pavement during the snowstorm. Secondary streets will be plowed following the end of a snowfall after primary streets are cleared. Depending upon variable conditions, some streets may remain snow packed after plowing operations have been completed. Courts and culs-de-sac will be plowed after primary and secondary streets are completed if snow accumulation is greater

Your elected city officials

Mayor—Jeffery D. Schielke

than 2". Culs-de-sac can take up to eight times longer to plow than a through street of a similar size. They are generally done during the day after the snow has stopped. Our crews will make best efforts to plow aisles of city-owned public parking lots during and after a storm to maintain access to the parking lots during business hours. The major clearing of these lots is performed during the early morning hours. The City of Batavia plows most streets within the city limits; however, there are several roads that are the responsibility of other government agencies. Kane County-maintained roadways include Kirk Rd., Randall Rd., Fabyan Pkwy., and Main St. (west of Randall Rd.). Please follow these regulations and guidelines to make your streets safer for travel during the winter season: Street regulations: Snowplows are designed to unload snow to the side, forming a windrow along the curb or edge of pavement. We understand that this leaves a windrow through driveways, but this process is the most efficient way to remove snow from our streets. Please do your part to help keep our town free of hazardous conditions. It is very important not to shovel, blow, or plow snow/ice onto the street at any time. This could create an unsafe driving surface. Property owners should notify their snow removal contractors that snow is not to be deposited on the public roadway, meaning it cannot be plowed across the street. Parking prohibited: Residents are advised that parking is not allowed on any street during or after a snowfall in which there is an accumulation of 2" or more of snow. This prohibition is in effect until 24 hours after the end of the snowfall or until the street is plowed and all snow is removed, whichever occurs first.

City Clerk—Kate Garrett

continued on page 12

Treasurer—Jennifer Fox

Aldermen Serving until May 2023 Aldermen Serving until May 2025 Ward 1 Christopher Solfa csolfa@cityofbatavia.net Ward 1 Jennifer Baerren jbaerren@cityofbatavia.net Ward 2 Alan P. Wolff awolff@cityofbatavia.net Ward 2 Leah Leman lleman@cityofbatavia.net Ward 3 Dan Chanzit dchanzit@cityofbatavia.net Ward 3 George Ajazi gajazi@cityofbatavia.net Ward 4 Tom Connelly tconnell@cityofbatavia.net Ward 4 Tony Malay tmalay@cityofbatavia.net Ward 5 Abby Beck abeck@cityofbatavia.net Ward 5 Mark Uher muher@cityofbatavia.net Ward 6 Michael Russotto mrussott@cityofbatavia.net Ward 6 Nicholas P. Cerone ncerone@cityofbatavia.net Ward 7 Keenan Alexander Miller kmiller@cityofbatavia.net Ward 7 Sarah Volgelsinger svogelsi@cityofbatavia.net

Currents Final citywide brush collection is week of Nov. 29 The final curbside residential brush collection for the season is scheduled to begin on Mon., Nov. 29, for both sides of town. The city’s contractor will go past each residence one time during the week, beginning on Monday. Residents who generate brush after the final collection has been completed will need to store the brush someplace other than the parkway until the program resumes next spring or they may contact a private service to have it removed at the resident’s expense. It is anticipated that this final collection will be completed by the end of the week of Nov. 29, weather permitting. Residents can view the status of the current brush collection cycle on an electronic map. Updates are posted on the city’s website by 9am on weekdays from Tuesday through Friday and will show all areas. If your brush was out at 7am on Monday and not collected by the end of the workday on Friday, please notify the Public Properties & Services Division at

630-454-2400 no later than Mon., Dec. 6. If yard waste items are mixed with your brush pile (twigs are permitted), it will not be collected. Waste Management will collect yard waste bags/containers with leaves, twigs, evergreen clippings, roots, stumps, ornamental grasses, and plants on your regular trash collection day, through Nov. 27. Maximum weight for yard waste is 50 pounds per bag/container; a refuse sticker should be attached to each bag/container. Yard waste containers should be clearly labeled “YARD WASTE” with the label facing towards the street. Please see the article on the Leaf Collection Program for information about leaf disposal. If you have any questions, please call the Public Properties & Services Division at 630-454-2400 weekdays from 7am–4pm or visit the website at cityofbatavia.net/brushcollection.

Waste Management schedules holiday pickups Thanksgiving Day Thurs., Nov. 25: No collection South (Wilson to the south between Kirk/Randall): Wed., Nov. 24 (no change) North (north of Wilson to Fabyan between Kirk/Randall): Fri., Nov. 26 Far West (Randall west to city limits): Sat., Nov. 27

Christmas Week South: Wed., Dec. 22 (no change) North: Thurs., Dec. 23 (no change) Far West: Fri., Dec. 24 (no change)

After Christmas Week South: Wed., Dec. 29 (no change) North: Thurs., Dec. 30 (no change) Far West: Fri., Dec. 31 (no change)

Christmas tree pickup scheduled

As part of the City of Batavia’s refuse contract, Waste Management will be picking up live Christmas trees on residents’ regular collection dates. Residents do not have to use a sticker for Christmas tree removal on these dates only. After these dates, residents should attach a refuse sticker to the tree and place it at the curb on their regular collection date. All materials such as plastic bags, ornaments, lights, nails, etc. should be removed from the trees. Live wreaths and garland should be placed in your regular refuse. Please use the following schedule: South Side (Wilson to the south between Kirk/Randall): Wed., Dec. 29 Wed., Jan. 5

North Side (north of Wilson to Fabyan between Kirk/Randall): Thurs., Dec. 30 Thurs., Jan. 6 Far West Side (Randall west to city limits): Fri., Dec. 31 Fri., Jan. 7

Main St. reconstruction complete

(Van Nortwick Ave. to Water St., Rt. 31—Elm St. to First St.) Apart from for a few remaining punch-list items to be wrapped-up this fall, this project is complete. The improvement was a $6.9 million joint federally and city funded project. With the completion of this work the area now has new roadway base and pavement, 10

curb, sidewalk, dedicated on-street parking, watermain, separated storm sewer, a new traffic signal at Rt. 31 and Main St. with decorative brick sidewalk and street lighting on Rt. 31.

630-454-2000 • cityofbatavia.net

Residential leaf collection continues There are two leaf collection programs available to qualifying residents who pay the monthly leaf/brush fee on their utility bills:

• Rake leaves to the parkway by 6am on the Monday of your scheduled week. Leaves will be collected rain or shine. • Crews will make one pass by every qualifying residence during each collection period. Leaves that are placed out after the collection crew has passed by may not be picked up for another two weeks until the next scheduled pickup date.

• Leaves should be raked into piles no farther than 6' back from the curb. Raking leaves into a long windrow will expedite the process. Leaf piles should be in the parkway, as equipment cannot be used in alleys. • Leaves should not be raked into the street. This will obstruct the flow of storm water runoff during rain events and cause street flooding, as well as slippery streets. • Avoid placing leaves near obstacles such as parked vehicles, mailboxes, utility poles/boxes, hydrants, trees, or sign posts. • Avoid placing debris like sticks, bags, and plastic bottles in leaf piles, as this can cause injury to personnel, damage equipment, and cause delays. Foreign objects also contaminate the leaf material, which is taken to an agricultural site. • The program is intended to collect the majority of leaves residents may have during the curbside vacuum collection program time frame. Residents are encouraged to use other options for leaves that drop after the curbside vacuum collection program has finished for the season. • Various crews are working simultaneously during the program period. Trucks with large vacuum trailers are used for through streets, and a truck with a small trailer vacuum goes into areas where the larger equipment cannot navigate such as cul-de-sacs, “bubbles,” and dead ends. • Limbs/brush should be placed in a separate pile for collection and may not be combined with leaf piles. Limbs/brush should only be placed at the curb if there is a scheduled collection. The final citywide BRUSH collection will be done the week of Nov. 29 for both sides of town. • Ornamental grasses, plants, and corn stalks should be disposed of as yard waste.

Leaf bag collection program

Alternate options:

Curbside vacuum collection

Curbside vacuum collection provides every resident with up to three collection opportunities (weather permitting). • Updates showing daily progress will be posted online at cityofbatavia.net once the program is underway. • Dates may change due to the weather and volume of leaves put out for collection, although best efforts will be made to remain on schedule. Snow or freezing weather may significantly delay or permanently halt curbside leaf collection, since some of the equipment used to remove leaves is also used to handle deicing/ snowplowing operations. 2021 Collection Schedule

East Side of river

West Side of river

1st Pickup Begins

Oct. 18

Oct.25

2nd Pickup Begins

Nov. 1

Nov. 8

3rd Pickup Begins (will only be done weather permitting)

Nov. 15

Nov. 22

How the curbside vacuum collection program works:

From Dec. 1 through Dec. 31 residents may place leaves in brown Kraft yard waste bags and put them out for collection on their scheduled refuse collection day WITHOUT A STICKER. The refuse collection company will collect yard waste bags (no cans) weekly until Dec. 31. Only leaves may be placed in the yard waste bags. No grass or other yard waste can be mixed with the leaves. Please try to keep the yard waste bags as dry as possible.

• Use a mulching lawnmower and mulch leaves back into the lawn. This provides nutrients for the soil. • Place leaves around plant beds and under trees and shrubs. This enhances the soil and provides insulation for the plants. • Stickered yard waste bags/cans will be collected weekly through Nov. 27.

If you have any questions about the leaf programs, please call the Street Division of Batavia Public Works at 630-454-2400. Residents can also visit the city’s website at cityofbatavia.net for the latest updates to the schedule and to view a progress map that is updated daily. 11

Currents Keeping streets accessible continued from page 9

Sidewalk/Driveway snow removal: Clearing snow and ice from sidewalks and driveways is the responsibility of residents and property owners. The City of Batavia encourages citizens to clear sidewalks, especially for children walking to school. Mailboxes: Best efforts are made to plow as close to the curb as possible; however, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to clear snow away from their mailbox for curbside delivery. The City of Batavia is not responsible for repairing mailboxes damaged by snowplows if the face of the mailbox is less than 6" behind the back of curb or road edge and a height less than 42" above the road. It is the responsibility of individual homeowners to install and maintain their mailboxes properly. Properly installed mailboxes damaged by City of Batavia snow removal equipment will be repaired or replaced with a standard-type mailbox and post for a cost not to exceed $50 each. Refuse collection: If an accumulating snow occurs on

your refuse collection day or the night before, please remember to place garbage cans/carts and recycling carts away from the curbs or edge of road during the snow plowing operation. Garbage cans/carts and recycle carts should never be placed in roadway. Parkways: Occasionally, parkway damage may occur during the plowing process. It will be repaired in the spring when pulverized dirt is available. Please notify the Street Division to have your address placed on a restoration list. Plowing equipment: Allow plenty of space when following snow removal vehicles, as they must back up frequently. Do not attempt to pass a snowplow that is engaged in removal activities. If a street has been missed or there is a question or concern relating to the snow removal operations, please call the Street Division of Batavia Public Works at 630-454-2400 between the hours of 7am–4pm Monday through Friday.

Watershed plan to be discussed

The City of Batavia is in the process of developing a Watershed Based Plan for the Mahoney Creek Watershed. As part of this process, we will be hosting the first of three stake holder meetings for residents and interested parties on Nov. 16 from 5:30pm–7pm VIRTUALLY from Batavia City Hall in the council chambers. This meeting will discuss: • The process of watershed planning • Summarize the history of the watershed • Present a summary of the existing conditions and characteristics assessment • The next steps

Prairie St. and Wilson St. intersection improvements (Stage 2) design underway The City of Batavia has been awarded Federal (STP) and Illinois (ICC Grade Crossing Protection) funding for the design and construction phases of the Prairie Street and Wilson Street intersection improvements project (Stage 2). The engineering design of the proposed intersection improvements was started in late 2020 and will be completed in 2022. Construction is anticipated to begin during the spring of 2023. During the preliminary engineering phase, the project was split into two projects to maximize the funding available. The first project (Stage 1) consisted of the reconstruction of the roadway from Pine St. to the southern limits of the BNSF Railroad ROW and was completed in 2020. Early on it was determined that the Prairie Street/Wilson Street intersection warrants new traffic signals for existing and future traffic volumes. The Phase 1 design report included an intersection layout with exclusive left and thru lanes for all legs of this intersection. Prairie Street north of the intersection would also be widened and resurfaced. 12

The proposed design and engineering plans will include the improvements required to interconnect the new traffic signal to the existing traffic signal interconnect system located at Wilson St. and Rt. 25 and throughout the downtown Wilson St. corridor. The project will also include improvements to the storm sewer system and complete replacement of the water main within the construction limits. Part of the challenge to this project will be the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railway single track which crosses both Prairie and Wilson Street just east of Prairie Street. Because of the proposed traffic signal and BNSF track crossings railroad protective devices will need to be upgraded. In conjunction with the new traffic signal pre-signals will be installed south of the crossing on Prairie Street and east of the crossing on Wilson St. Roadway gates will be installed at all quadrants of the crossings in advance of the crossings in all directions. Follow updates on this project on the project website: cityofbatavia.net/794/Prairie-Street-Reconstruction.

Downtown Batavia

630-761-3528 • 5 E. Wilson St. • downtownbatavia.com

Downtown is Everyone’s Neighborhood!

The holiday shopping is upon us. Shopping local is what Batavia MainStreet is all about and the opportunities in Downtown Batavia are abundant. To keep up to date on what’s happening downtown this holiday season, check out our website downtownbatavia.com and sign up for our weekly e-news. You can also keep up with our downtown activities by following us on Facebook and Instagram. And remember to Shop Small, Shop Local, and enjoy fun holiday activities in Downtown Batavia! .

WinterFest Art Market— Dec. 10–12 The Artisan Collective has joined forces with Water Street Studios for a three-day art and fine craft sale! Join them for the ultimate winter celebration and local shopping experience, sponsored by All of Us Research Program. While you’re here, make it a day in Downtown Batavia. Pick up new outfit or find the perfect hostess gift at our downtown retail shops and grab a meal at one of our delicious dining establishments.

the word by using #ShopSmall on Facebook, Instagram, and all your social networks. See you on Sat., Nov. 27!

Small Business Saturday— Nov. 27 Downtown Batavia is the place to celebrate Small Business Saturday! Mark your calendars for Nov. 27— the Saturday after Thanksgiving and get ready to Shop Small. Grab a friend or family member and head down on the big day to take advantage of sales, promotions, and to celebrate Small Business Saturday! Help spread

Holiday Display Contest— Nov. 27–Dec. 17 Small Business Saturday is the kickoff to the holiday display contest. Participating businesses will be vying to win top spot in one of three categories: Holiday Classics, A Griswold Christmas, and Most Magical. Cast your vote via QRs located at each participating location. Watch our social media for more information—Instagram @downtownbatavia or Facebook @bataviamainstreet Indoor Market—Saturdays Downtown Batavia is still the place to get your eggs, honey, meats, breads, veggies, baked good, and more all winter long. November through mid-May, the Farmers’ Market moves indoors to 160 First St. from 9am–12pm. Thank you to BEI Properties for hosting the Indoor Market!

Batavia Public Library Surprising things you can find at the Library Lifelong learning

With a Batavia Public Library card, your opportunity to learn goes well beyond books. Our online databases can open new worlds for you in genealogy, history, literature, art, health, and business. The streaming video service, Kanopy, offers hundreds of titles from The Great Courses. These courses cover various subjects such as architecture, astronomy, literature, chemistry, career development, health, and more. Most of the lectures are less than an hour long. Learners of every age and background can acquire a new language confidently with the interactive Mango Languages software. Follow step-by-step lessons for any of 71 different languages. LinkedIn Learning’s online courses can help you get a new job or a promotion when you advance your work skills. The high-quality content includes over 5,700 courses (and over 180,000 videos) in popular fields like web design, IT, education/ instruction, media production, and business.

Legal information

While our librarians cannot help you write your will, they can help you navigate the Legal Information Reference Center Plus database. It offers assistance in legal matters, exclusive full text for many top The Library will be closed: Wed., Nov. 24, closing at 5pm Thurs., Nov. 25 Fri., Dec. 24 Sat., Dec. 25 Sun., Dec. 26 Fri., Dec. 31 Sat., Jan. 1 Library Hours Monday–Thursday: 9am–9pm Friday & Saturday: 9am–5pm Sunday: 12–5pm (Sept.–May) 14

consumer legal reference books, as well as thousands of legal forms.

Cake pans, games, and musical instruments

Besides being a resource for information, the Library offers ways to have fun without spending any money. While we have plenty of video games for patrons, our newest collection—the Library of Things—lets you borrow oldfashioned board games as well as musical instruments and fancy cake pans. Need to bake a cake shaped like a dinosaur or a snowman? In our Library of Things, you will find a collection of over six dozen cake pans in different shapes and sizes, including Bundt pans. Telephone 630-879-1393 Fax: 630-879-9118 TTY: 630-879-8335 Home Delivery: 630-879-1393, ext. 290 Library Director George H. Scheetz

Passes to museums and cultural venues

The Library offers two ways to receive free admission or special discounts at participating cultural destinations. Patrons can borrow a Museum Adventure Pass and visit Chicago area cultural destinations. Or reserve through the Explore More Illinois cultural pass program and venture further from home for museums, park districts, historical societies, zoos, art centers, recreational facilities, and other Illinois attractions.

Library Trustees Daniel R. Russo, President Elizabeth P. Larson, Vice President Marianne E. Fasano, Secretary Jennifer M. Culotta, Treasurer Andrew R. Deitchman Christy L. Ford Kathryn L. Hubbard

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org

Under the Cupola

The lady in red

Sarah Malinda Gammon was born 9 Nov. 1849 at Lovell, Maine, and died at San Diego, California, on 3 Jan. 1881, at 31 years old. She was the second daughter of Elijah H. Gammon and Sarah J. Cutler, who died in 1855. She married Frederick J. Huse of Chicago in December 1873; they had Sarah three children. Both Sarah and her sister, Abbie Kimball (Gammon) Harvey, died before their father built the magnificent Queen Anne house that still stands across from the Library, now known as Gammon Corner, in 1885. Both women have living descendants. The oil-on-canvas portrait was done in 1876, when Sarah was 26 years old. It was discovered circa 1902 in the loft of the carriage house behind the Gammon house by Elizabeth P. Prindle, wife of James P. Prindle, Jr.; they were married in October 1901 and were living for a time with his parents. (His father was the brother of Elijah H. Gammon’s second wife, Jane C. Prindle; James the younger and Sarah were step-cousins. James the elder bought the home from the Gammon Theological Seminary in 1894.) Elizabeth gave the portrait to Dolores J. “Dee” Johnson, the wife of Carl A. “Pinoke” Johnson, in 1963. In 1998, Dean S. Johnson, executor of Dee’s estate, presented the painting to the Library, because his mother felt very strongly that the

portrait of Sarah should remain in Batavia, in a location where it could be viewed and appreciated. A matching portrait of Abbie—both young women are wearing the same brooch—is owned by the widow of her greatgrandson, James S. McChesney of Connecticut. The artist, Theodore E. Pine, a noted portrait artist, was active for a time in Illinois and known, as well, for figure and still life paintings. He moved to Chicago in 1866; his entire studio was destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In 1904, Pine, a great admirer of Robert E. Lee, painted a life-sized portrait of Lee, now known as the “Pine Portrait,” which hangs in the Lee Chapel at Washington and Lee University. Conservation work on the painting and its original, gilded frame—completed in June 2009 by The Chicago Conservation Center—was made possible by a gift from Pamela A. Larsen in memory of Dennis G. Larsen; and an Illinois Public Library Per Capita Grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a Department of the Office of Secretary of State. Come visit Sarah in the Library Leaders Reading Room and take time to enjoy “Chapter One,” “Wildly Happy Reading Together,” “Egghead,” and the many other works of art that grace the Library and its grounds. George H. Scheetz, Director Abbie

Flyleaf Bakery Café—a new chapter for the Library café Batavia Public Library is delighted to announce the reopening of its cafe space under its new name, Flyleaf Bakery Cafe. Formerly known as Chapters Coffeehouse and Cafe, the transition comes after the previous operator turned the page to more relaxing endeavors. Flyleaf Bakery Cafe features treats such as brownies, cookies, tarts, and more that are freshly baked by the new operators, Anne Fabing and her daughter Colleen Fabing. Striving to be a deliciously cozy corner of Batavia that nourishes the community, the Bakery Cafe also serves coffee and tea staples, as well as savory soups and sandwiches. Located inside the main entrance of the Batavia Public Library at 10 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia, Flyleaf Bakery Cafe invites you in to cozy up, indulge in a good book, and treat yourself to a scrumptious snack. For passersby that prefer grab-and-go style, portable options are available, so don’t hesitate to drop in as you pick up your holds.

Find them @FlyleafBakeryCafe on Facebook and Instagram to see what specials they are whipping up.

Batavia Public Library Programs and activities for youth Program Registration: For programs requiring telephone registration, please register at the Youth Services Desk, or call

603-879-1393 ext. 500. For all other programs, please register online using the events calendar at BataviaPublicLibrary.org. We give priority to Batavia Public Library cardholders for all programs requiring registration. Unless otherwise noted, registration for programs begins on the first of the month in which the program occurs. Patrons of all abilities are welcome at our programs. Please contact the Library regarding accommodations. Face coverings are required at children’s programs. We require advanced registration for programs designated . Pick up supplies at the Library during Library hours for programs designated .

For Babies, Tots, and Preschoolers

3D Pens

Tues., Dec. 28, 1 or 3pm Mon., Jan. 3, 1 or 3pm Grades 4–8 Love drawing and want to take it to the next level? Our new Mynt3d 3D pens are back! During this 45-minute program, you will complete a short tutorial followed by a drawing session where you can create something using a template or develop your own one-of-a-kind creation. Register for one session.

Saturday Storytimes Sat., Nov. 20, 10am Sat., Dec. 18, 10am Ages 2-6 with a caregiver

Holiday Storytime Specials Toddler Time Tues., Dec. 7, 10:30am Mon., Dec. 13, 10:30am Ages 2–3 with a caregiver

Preschool Storytime

Wed., Dec. 8, 10:30am Thurs., Dec. 16, 10:30am Ages 3–6 with a caregiver

Baby Storytime

Fri., Dec. 17, 10am Babies through 23 months with a caregiver

For Students

Fall Into Reading: A Reading Challenge

Now–Nov. 28 Grades K–8 There is still time to participate in the Fall Reading Challenge. Earn a free book by reading one book from each of three of the following categories: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Animals, Science Fiction, Realistic Fiction, or Humor. Then continue reading to complete all seven categories to earn a second book. Deadline Nov. 28. Register on Beanstack. 16

STEAM Lab-in-a-Bag

Mon., Nov. 15, All day Thurs., Dec. 16, All day Grades K–5 In November, stop in to pick up a balloon car kit. Learn about motion and kinetic energy as you experiment with the design of your car. In December, enjoy activities about color. Kits available all day while supplies last.

Homeschool Hangout

Tues., Nov. 16, 1pm Families with children in grades K–8 Whether you are new to homeschool or have a lot of homeschool experience, bring yourself and your homeschool learners for connection and fun during our monthly get-together.

Chess Knight

Tues., Nov. 23, 7pm Tues., Dec. 28, 7pm Ages 6–14 Participants must have a basic knowledge of the game of chess.

Fiber Arts Classes

Felted Bookmark: Mon., Dec. 27, 10:30am Ages 4–9 Felted Fox: Mon., Dec. 27, 1pm Ages 10–14 Join fiber artist Natasha Lehrer Lewis as she teaches classes on wet felting! Children ages 4–9 will make a colorful bookmark, and children ages 10–14 will create a cute fox. All supplies are included for this easy craft that uses wool to sculpt your creation. Children 6 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org

Perler Beads

Thurs., Dec. 30, 1 or 2:30pm Grades 4–8 Choose from an amazing assortment of bead colors and templates to develop your one-ofa-kind creation. Register for one 45-minute session.

Families Make It Monthly

November: Thankfulness Turkey December: Kindness Cards Drop by the Youth Services Department during November and December and participate in these children’s activities. Write something you are thankful for on a paper feather and add it to our turkey. In December, bring some cheer to someone in need by coloring one of our printed cards. Cards will be distributed locally and through “Cards for Hospitalized Kids.”

Children’s Book Week

Mon., Nov. 8–Sun., Nov. 14 Help us celebrate Children’s Book Week. Add the title of your favorite book to our special display. Then receive an entry into a drawing for an author or illustrator signed children’s book.

Read Together—Be Together Wed., Nov. 17, All day Thurs., Nov. 18, All day Celebrate Illinois Family Reading Night with this inviting take-home kit! Each kit will include materials for a DIY drink cozy, hot cocoa packets, and color-your-own bookmarks. Would you like some book suggestions to read together too? Themed mystery bag with two books and a DVD will be available

to check out and share with the entire family. Take-home kits will be available for pick up both dates.

Take-Home Craft Kit

Wed., Nov. 24 Thurs., Dec. 23 All ages Pick up a take-home craft activity in the Youth Services Department. One kit per child, while supplies last.

Bingo

Fri., Nov. 26, 11am Wed., Dec. 29, 11am Ages 3–14 Children age 5 and younger must be accompanied by an adult or older sibling.

Story Stroll

Sat., Nov. 27, 10am–4pm Tues., Dec. 28, 10am–4pm All ages What do you get when you combine exercise, fresh air, and a great story? A Story Stroll in the Library’s Reading Garden, of course! Bring the family to this fun activity!

Board Games

Dec. 20–Jan. 8 Are you visiting the Library during winter break? Stop by the Youth Services Desk and borrow one of our board games to play in the Library.

Movie at the Library

Fri., Jan. 7, 11am Call the Youth Services Desk for movie title, length, and rating.

Lego Building Challenge

Wed., Jan. 5, 4–7pm All ages Does your family love building with Legos? Register for a 30-minute time slot to work together to build with Legos. Families will be given a

Frosty Fun

Join us for these frosty-related activities at the Library for all ages

Find Frosty the Snowman and his Frozen Friend Olaf Dec. 1–15 Find a picture of Frosty or Olaf hiding in the Youth Services Department. Bring him to the Youth Service Desk for a treat.

Drop-in Craft

Mon., Dec. 6, 4–7pm Tues., Dec. 14, 10am–1pm Drop-in to make a Frosty Picture Frame.

Snowman Guessing Jar

Dec. 8–22 Correctly guess how many marshmallows are in the jar for a chance to win a prize. bag of library Legos to use, a space in the Youth Services Department to work, and 30 minutes to create. Lego Creations will remain on display in the Library for two weeks. Please call the Youth Services Desk to register.

Winter Library Club 2022 “I ♥ Batavia Public Library” Jan. 15–Feb. 28 17

Batavia Public Library Programs for adults and teens Registration Information: Registration is required for some programs; please call the Reference Desk, 630-879-1393, ext. 200, or register online at BataviaPublicLibrary.org. Advance registration is required for programs designated

Feature Programs New Lyceum Lecture Series The Batavia Public Library Foundation is the 2021–22 Season Sponsor Myth or Truth? Stories We’ve Heard About Early America Tues., Nov. 16, 7pm Online “This is a ‘Chippendale’ chair, named after the furniture maker who designed it.” “George Washington personally gave this set of china to this family.” Chances are, if you have visited a museum or historic house, you have heard one of these statements or something very similar. Jenny Warner will show how facts of history are tweaked, exaggerated, or enhanced to entertain museum visitors or while being passed down through family history.

Surprise Me Bundles

Adults and teens—Do you need something new to read or watch, but you’re not sure what to choose from the Library’s collection right now? We can help! Fill out our online form, and librarians will find up to five items just for you to pick up later. Fill out the form here: https://tinyurl.com/yyxgy67h

The Food Mercenary Presents: Meat & Vegetarian Chili

Starting Nov. 1 YouTube online Something for everyone! Excellent high fiber, high protein, zero or little cholesterol, no sugar, no crazy hot spices, and is quickly cooked. Chef Niksic shares great insights into making a superior chili that is a meal unto itself.

Medicare Made Easy

Thurs., Nov. 4, 10am—Online Medicare can be confusing! Allow Hadia Bangash of CareFree Insurance Services to help you navigate the maze. No products will be sold at this informational session.

Self-Care for Busy People

Thurs., Nov. 11, 7pm—Online The time to practice self-care is now. Bring balance to the busyness with inspirational practices from Julie M. Gentile. You’ll learn how to start journaling and everyday meditation, a grounding breathing exercise, practical self-care practices for mind, body, and spirit—and how to stay motivated to make self-care a daily, lifelong habit. 18 kaneneighbors.com 18

Your Smart Home

Thurs., Dec. 2, 7pm—Online The future is now! Apple, Amazon, Google, and others have released products to help make your home smarter. Learn what’s available, what’s around the bend, and all the trends.

The Food Mercenary Presents: Uber-Cool Gingerbread Houses

Starting Dec. 1—YouTube online This comprehensive, detailed gingerbread housebuilding video opens the door to some of the most incredible and fun “builds” you will find anywhere. All skill levels can handle this style of building. Plus, the houses will last 3–5 years when stored well! You’ll even learn how to install miniature lights in strategic locations, turning them into spectacular night lights and centerpieces. Watch this video any time starting Dec. 1 on our YouTube channel!

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org

Sundays on Stage The Batavia Public Library Foundation is the 2021 Season Sponsor Sacagawea: Adventures with Lewis and Clark

Sun., Nov. 21, 2pm Online You’ve heard of Lewis and Clark—the men who explored the western half of the United States, the men who charted the uncharted. But how much do you know of their companion, Sacagawea? This incredible Lemhi Shoshone tribeswoman was an indispensable part of the most significant journey in U.S. history. Actress Martina Mathisen will immerse you in Sacagawea’s life, experiences, and incredible journey into the Louisiana Purchase.

My Childhood Christmas

Sun., Dec. 12, 2pm Online Reminisce about childhood Christmas music and your favorite childhood Christmas traditions and their history. Sing along with Heather Braoudakis on songs that include “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus,” “Nuttin’ for Christmas,” and “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.”

Follow the Library on

Community Check-in with Misty & Aimee Tues., Nov. 2, 9, 16, & 30, 6:30pm Tues., Dec. 7 & 14, 6:30pm Join Misty & Aimee from Adult Services for 30 minutes of local exploration and a chance to connect with your neighbors. You will laugh with and learn from the people who make this community great. No registration required, but you will need a personal

Instagram or Facebook account to interact with us. So follow us, and make sure to turn on notifications, so you don’t miss our livestreams! Instagram: instagram.com/bplbatavia Facebook: facebook.com/BataviaPublicLibrary

Monthly Programs Book Discussion

Tues., Nov. 9, 7:30pm In-person The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen A Viet Cong agent spies on a South Vietnamese army general and his compatriots as they start a new life in 1975 Los Angeles. A gripping spy novel, an astute exploration of extreme politics, and a moving love story, The Sympathizer explores a life between two worlds and examines the legacy of the Vietnam War.

Tues., Dec. 14, 7pm In-person Non-Discussion Book Discussion Share with the group the two favorite books—new or old—that you’ve read this year. January book selection: Hollow Kingdom by Kira Jane Buxton

Programs are continued on page 20

kaneneighbors.com 19 19

Batavia Public Library Teen Programs Advance registration is required for programs designated

Teen Do Something Volunteering Challenge On the Beanstack App through May 2022 Do something to help your community. Earn virtual badges, complete activities, and earn volunteer service hours by completing activities on the Beanstack app. Special badges are unlocked each month, so be sure to check each month for new opportunities. This program is open to grades 9–12 students who attend a school within the Batavia Public Library District service area. Please note: Be sure to ask your parent or caregiver for permission to participate in volunteer opportunity suggestions. Also, please take selfies completing or working on different volunteer projects throughout the year, as you might be asked to provide some proof of your service project completion.

Inclusion Game Night

Wed., Nov. 10 & Dec. 8, 6:30 to 8:30pm In-person We missed you! Teens and young adults of all abilities, their families, and friends are welcome to play board games and card games together in-person. However, we need to limit registration for safety, so please register for this program soon. Limit: 15. Volunteers, limit: 5.

FAFSA Workshop

Wed., Nov. 17, 7pm In-person Is your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form done? This program by Lauren Waitt and Martha Gutierrez from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission can help. You are welcome to bring a laptop and complete the FAFSA during the program. Registration required. Limit: 20.

Ugly Sweater Cookie Contest NaNoWriMo Virtual Write-In

Sun., Nov. 14, 6pm Are you doing NaNoWriMo online this year? Join us for a virtual write-in on Zoom to try some word wars and watch your word count grow! Sign up for the free challenge at nanowrimo.org. Register at https://tinyurl.com/bplvirtualnanowrimo.

International Games Week

Sun., Nov. 7, 7pm Online Celebrate International Games Week at the Library with some online Jackbox trivia games. In addition, board and card games are available to check out from our Library of Things for those who prefer to go oldschool. 20

Wed., Dec. 1, All day Kit pick-up Create your ugly holiday sweater cookies and enter your best? worst? in our contest! Register and pick up your cookie kit on Dec. 1. Send us a photo of your ugliest creation by Dec. 15. (Limit: 10)

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org

News from the Friends

Holiday shopping made easy Monthly Book Sales

Vintage Sale

FriendSpace on the lower level Founders Room off the lobby Sat., Nov. 13, 9:15am–1pm Sat., Dec. 11, 9:15am–1pm Sat., Dec. 11, 9:15am–1pm The Friends of the Batavia Public Library are hosting two special sales on Sat., Dec. 11, offering savvy shoppers the opportunity to buy great gifts at great prices. The Vintage Book Sale will be held upstairs in the Founders Room off the Library lobby. This sale will feature a selection of classics, sets, novels, and nonfiction. After shopping the Vintage Book Sale, continue shopping downstairs at the monthly used book sale in the FriendSpace.

Book Corner

Throughout December The Friends’ Holiday Sale runs throughout December in the Friends’ Book Corner across from the Check Out Desk. Gift-quality and holiday-themed books will be featured along with fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books— there will be something for everyone on your list. Every book purchased helps the Friends support the Library.

Happy Holidays to our friends and patrons! The Library will be closed:

Wed., Nov. 24, closing at 5pm Thurs., Nov. 25 Fri., Dec. 24 Sat., Dec. 25 Sun., Dec. 26 Fri., Dec. 31 Sat., Jan. 1 21

Batavia School District 101 News School Directory District 101 Offices Rosalie Jones Administration Center 335 W. Wilson St. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8800 • bps101.net

Bulldog Nation Alumni & Friends: a place for alumni and supporters to gather

High School Batavia High School 1201 Main St., Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8600 • bhs.bps101.net

Middle School Rotolo Middle School of Batavia 1501 South Raddant Rd. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8700 • rms.bps101.net

Elementary Schools Alice Gustafson School 905 Carlisle Rd. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8000 • ags.bps101.net Early Childhood Center 905 Carlisle Rd. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8000 • ags.bps101.net/ early-childhood Grace McWayne School 3501 Hapner Way Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8100 • gms.bps101.net H. C. Storm School 305 North Van Nortwick St. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8200 • hcs.bps101.net

BPS101 and the Batavia Foundation for Excellence are thrilled to announce our brand new online community, Bulldog Nation Alumni & Friends, which will allow them to establish greater connections with graduates and the community. They are very excited to get connected with alumni of all ages!. Through this new alumni network, all Batavia Public Schools alumni, supporters, and community members will be able to stay connected and receive regular updates and news articles, along with a wide variety of information on special events, mentoring, and volunteer opportunities. An Alumni Directory allows you to easily find and connect with other alumni, no matter where they’re located. Graduates of Batavia schools, former employees, supporters, and all local residents may sign up for the alumni network and receive regular news and updates. This includes information on district news and events, community points of pride, class reunions, and how alumni and residents can get more involved in Batavia schools. There will also be regular profiles of alumni who have gone on to serve their communities in notable ways. Join at bulldogalumni.nationbuilder.com and see all that this new online community has to offer. The alumni and friends look forward to connecting with you!

Class of 2021 by the numbers 449

Hoover-Wood School 1640 Wagner Rd., Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8300 • hws.bps101.net J. B. Nelson School Laurel & William Wood Ln. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8400 • jbn.bps101.net Louise White School 800 North Prairie St. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8500 • lws.bps101.net 22

Total number of graduates

100

Number of different colleges and universities that were sent graduate transcripts.

Top 10 schools

1. Waubonsee Community College 2. University of Illinois—Champaign 3. Illinois State University 4. Iowa State University 5. Purdue University

6. College of DuPage 7. University of Iowa 8. Northern Illinois University 9. DePaul University 10. (Tie) Marquette, Miami University (Ohio) 10. and Colorado State University

For daily posts on great things happening at BPS101, check us out at:

@bps101_batavia

@bps101

At the Centre…

BataviaFineArtsCentre.org • 630-937-8930

Buckets ‘N’ Boards

Feb. 11, 2022 Buckets ‘N’ Boards comedy percussion show is a spectacularly imaginative work brought to life by two prolific performers, musicians, and comedians. Witness this joyous charm as Matt and Gareth bring to life their characters with nonstop hilarious interplay. The intricate beats and stunning synchronicity are AWESOME to behold! The sheer variety of instruments and found objects they are able to manipulate is inspiring! The comedy centered on the improvisational interactions with the crowd is the driving force of the show. From their imaginative songs, beautiful harmonies, dazzling tap dancing, crisp beatboxing, body percussion, and bucket drumming, to a fresh and unique brand of clean comedy, Buckets ‘N’ Boards has crafted an original theatrical experience the entire family will enjoy!

What to get the family that has everything? The gift of time together! Buckets ‘N’ Boards makes the perfect family gift!

Call

Coming Up at The Centre November 4 —Tri-M Induction 11 –14 —CYT Presents: Aladdin Jr. 16 —Grace McWayne Concert 17 —But Seriously, Folks…Improv Show 18 —H.C. Storm Concert 19 —The 4 C Notes 27–28 —The Fox Valley Nutcracker December 1 —BHS Music Concert 3 —B2wins: Sounds of the Season 4 —Fox Valley Orchestra Performance 6 —Football Awards Night 7 —RMS 7th/8th Grade Band Concert 8 —Kane County Regional Office Student Photography Exhibition 9 —Louise White School concert 11–12 —DancEncounter Presents: The Nutcracker Ballet 13 —5th Grade Band Concert 14 —5th Grade Orchestra Concert 15 —AP Art show 16 —But Seriously, Folks… Improv Show 17 —Dance Dynamics December Show 18 —AKA Dance December Show

630-937-8930 or visit BataviaFineArtsCentre.org for tickets and information

Batavia School District 101 News

Tee off for Turf!

Whether you’re an experienced golfer or first-time player, the Topgolf in Naperville experience is 100% fun. Sharpen your skills for the coming season.

Save the date: January 16, 2022

Join the Bulldog Boosters for this annual winter fundraiser and support the student athletes of Batavia High and Rotolo Middle School.

What is the Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence? The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization with the goal of supporting the Batavia Public School District, its teachers and students. The foundation (BFEE) has a volunteer board of directors comprised of private local citizens. BFEE works directly with BPS101.

How can you help support BFEE?

While we will not be having a major in person fundraiser this year, there are many quick and easy ways you can support BFEE: • AmazonSmile—Choose Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence as your preferred AmazonSmile Charity. A small portion of your AmazonSmile purchases go directly back to BFEE. • Talk with your employer about payroll deductions or corporate matching. You may be able to donate a set dollar amount from your pretax income to BFEE every pay period and/or your employer may match your donation. • Direct donations—You can donate directly to BFEE. More information can be found on our website, batavafoundation.org.

• Sign up for the KCT Affinity Card—Give back every time you shop. Plus, you will get an attractive Batavia Bulldog card to show off your school spirit! Already a member? It is super easy to switch over to the Bulldog Affinity Card! Visit bataviafoundation.org and follow us on Facebook to learn more!

yourself and family, while supporting Batavia High School and Rotolo Middle School STAGE and our local merchants for just $25. There are lots of new businesses along with returning favorites. Visit stagebatavia.org to purchase Cash Books!

Supporting Theater Arts for A Greater Education Batavia has a long and highly respected reputation of excellence in the performing arts. We invite you to be a part of that tradition! Your STAGE membership helps us more than ever as we rebound from the pandemic and get underway with a full year of outstanding drama in Batavia! It is a very busy year for our drama production actors and crew, and this year your support is needed more than ever! Your membership in STAGE benefits both Rotolo and BHS productions. Any amount you are able to contribute is a huge help and will make a difference in the lives of our students! Visit stagebatavia.org for more information or to become a member.

The 2021–2022 STAGE Cash Books are here!

What are Cash Books? A remarkable collection of valuable “Gift-checks” (same as cash) from great local restaurants and merchants worth over $300! Treat

STAGE was formed in 2005 and supports, encourages, maintains and promotes theatrical productions at Batavia High School and Rotolo Middle School. Participation in theatrical productions is an integral part of the educational system that stimulates confidence, teamwork, a positive work ethic and showmanship - all important characteristics necessary for success in life. Make sure to follow us on Facebook at STAGE Batavia!

Batavia Park District News

Celebration of Lights Festival Sun., Nov. 28

from 5pm–7pm Batavia Riverwalk & Peg Bond Center, 151 N. Island Ave. FREE!

Experience the magic of Batavia with the Celebration of Lights Festival! Let the wonder of the season wash over you and your family as we celebrate the beginning of the holiday season! There will be hayrides, holiday craft activities, old-fashioned ornament-making, a community sing-a-long, the ceremonial tree lighting, a visit with Santa, story hour and the ever-popular Christmas Tree Lane! The festival is presented by the Batavia Park District in partnership with Batavia MainStreet, the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, the City of Batavia, and the Batavia Police Department. Schedule 5–7pm ❄ Free hayrides with food or $1 cash donation (proceeds directly benefit the Batavia Food Pantry) ❄ Free treat ❄ Family photo opportunity at the Peg Bond Center’s main stage ❄ Hot chocolate for sale ❄ Holiday craft activities inside City Council Chambers ❄ Old-fashioned ornament-making for all ages at the Depot Museum, main level ❄ The Batavia Community Band performs ❄ Christmas Tree Lane—Featuring 25 holiday trees decorated by local organizations and businesses 5:15pm ❄ Community sing-a-long led by Craig Foltos, of Foltos Tonsorial Parlor 26

5:30pm ❄ Arrival of Santa ❄ Welcome by Mayor Schielke & Ceremonial Tree Lighting 5:45pm ❄ Santa’s Warming House: Visit Santa at the Peg Bond Center warming house and receive a treat from Kris Kringle himself (for children younger than 10, while supplies last) ❄ Announcement of Christmas Tree Lane winner 6:15–7pm ❄ Story Hour hosted by the Batavia Public Library at the Gustafson Research Center, located in the lower level of the Batavia Depot Museum

630-879-5235 bataviaparks.org

Holiday gifting made effortless at Batavia Depot Museum Open: Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 2pm to 4pm. Saturdays 10am to 4pm 155 Houston St. or online at bataviaparks.org/shop It’s never too early to begin your holiday shopping! Avoid all the stress and frustration of those nasty supply chain issues, and feel a warm glow inside, by shopping local at the Batavia Depot Museum’s gift shop! After a nerveracking day at work, battling traffic and chasing after the children, you deserve to treat yourself, too! Pick up our Batavia wine tumblers, cuddle up on the sofa with your favorite vintage, and make time for you. An added bonus is that special feeling you’ll gain by supporting the Depot Museum and local history. Shop in person or from the comfort of your cozy couch at bataviaparks.org/shop.

Batavia Park District News Breakfast with Santa Sat., Dec. 11, 8:30am–11am Shannon Hall, 14 N. Van Buren $10 per person

Ho! Ho! Ho! Here comes Santa and Mrs. Claus! Families will be able to see Santa and take a picture with him and Mrs. Claus. Santa will spend time talking to each boy and girl, then give them a special present. There will be plenty of time for a little nosh, too. A light breakfast will include doughnuts, fruit, yogurt, coffee, juice and milk. You may take home your picture with Santa and a fun craft that will be waiting for you at your table. Children ages 2 and older must register. Easily register at bataviaparks.org/special-events.

630-879-5235 bataviaparks.org

Online Holiday House Decorating Contest Photo submission deadline: Mon., Dec. 13, by 4pm. Judging: Wed., Dec. 15, through online voting on the Batavia Park District Facebook page *Register at bataviaparks.org/special-events Show off your holly jolly holiday spirit and enter Batavia's Online Holiday House Decorating Contest! It’s that special time of year when homes are aglow in twinkle lights, festive inflatables, golden menorahs, and vibrant and regal Kente wreaths. Share your holiday spirit, and awe-inspiring decorating talents, with our community! We will award prizes in four categories:

• Most Original • Best Theme • Best Use of Lights • People's Choice

All displays will be judged through online voting via the Batavia Park District Facebook page on Wed., Dec. 15. Winners will receive a Batavia Park District prize package. This contest is for Batavia Park District residents only. Addresses of all entries will be published in local media unless otherwise specified at the time of registration. Photos must be submitted by 4pm on Mon., Dec. 13. Please submit all photos to bethanneg@bataviaparks.org. Winners will be announced on Fri., Dec. 17.

BATV

MyBatv.com

Batavia football playoffs have begun BATV will strive to provide full LIVE coverage of each round of the playoffs with IHSA permission, otherwise we will provide highlights of each game! If you enjoy our coverage of Batavia Football, and

would like to see more, you can donate to BATV through the website at mybatv.com! Just click the “Donate Today” button!

P hoto courtesy Batavia Park District

As winter returns to Batavia, so do all your favorite winter events! Stay tuned to BATV for coverage of these events, including Celebration of Lights, Kaleidoscope Concert and more!

Tune in to your community information station throughout 2021 Like and follow us on Facebook, FOOTBALL • GRADUATION • CITY COUNCIL

For more information, contact BATV at: 630-937-5413 or email info@mybatv.com

BATV1017 facebook.com/batv1017 630-937-5413 • info@myBATV.com

106 West Wilson St., Batavia 630-879-7134 • bataviachamber.org

Shop local for gifts this year—Holiday Bucks are back! We greatly encourage you to keep your gift-shopping dollars in the community. One option, Batavia Chamber Bucks, are available to purchase by stopping by our office at 106 W. Wilson St., Ste. 15. The $10 certificates are used like cash at more than 75 local businesses. We are excited to announce

that a limited-time Holiday Bucks promotion begins Mon., Nov. 15. Inperson purchasers will receive a free match by the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, up to $50 per residence. In other words, the first $50 worth of Chamber Bucks purchased receive $50 Holiday Bucks for free. Holiday Bucks expire at the end of March, while there is no expiration date for regular Chamber Bucks. In support of our community’s businesses, the $5,000 promotion is a donation from the chamber to inject money into the local economy. Last year, around $20,000 worth of Chamber Bucks went out of our office in November and December. Can we beat that this year?

Still available to purchase is the limited-edition model of the historical Batavia United Methodist Church. It costs $50 each and is approximately 9" x 5" x 5." Batavia United Methodist Church receives 25% of the net proceeds. We also have Batavia-Opoly games for $25 each. Stop by the chamber office or call to reserve yours!

Last call for nominations for 2021 Batavia Citizen of the Year!

The Citizen of the Year Award is given to a local • The nominee does not need to be a member of the resident whose service and dedication have made a Batavia Chamber of Commerce. significant contribution to the community. Criteria for • The contributions of the nominee to the community the award are: should be of an extraordinary nature. • The nominee must reside, or have their business, in Nominations should be made in the form of a letter Batavia or Batavia Township. of recommendation to the Chamber of Commerce, • The nominee must have assisted in an improvement no later than Fri., Nov. 12, stating the reasons why the or program of significant value to the Batavia individual being nominated is worthy of this honor. community. Citizen of the Year is selected from the nominations • The improvement must be made as a result of a by a panel of previous Citizen of the Year honorees personal commitment and not substantially as a result in late November and announced in December. The of their primary employment or public responsibilities. winner will be honored at the Inspire Celebration • The nominee may not currently be on the Board of on Jan. 27, 2022. Directors of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce. The past 10 Citizens of the Year: 2020 Bob Hansen 2016 Ed & Nancy Weiss 2013 James Hanson 2019 Nanette (Nan) Phillips 2015 Joanne Spitz 2012 Britta & Steven McKenna 2018 Georgene Kauth O’Dwyer 2014 J. Thomas “Tom” Von Lunen 2011 Robert & Suzanne Peterson 2017 Marcia Boyce

Upcoming Events

Annual Breakfast with Mayor Jeffery Schielke* Thurs., Nov. 4, 7:30am Lincoln Inn Banquets, Batavia.

Net-Working-It! Wednesdays, Nov. 17 & Dec. 15, 4:30pm Location to be decided

Batavia Chamber Breakfast Club* Wednesdays, Nov. 10 & Dec. 8, 7:30am Comfort Inn & Suites, Geneva.

Tues., Dec. 14, 11:30am Enticing Cuisine Banquets, Batavia.

Save the date for 2022 Annual Inspire Batavia Women in Business Holiday Awards* - Thurs., Jan. 27 Event to benefit Batavia United Way More details to come. Adopt A Family and *Registration required, please visit bataviachamber.org. Batavia Access Toy Drive* Check the website for updates and other events.

Welcome New Chamber Members The Batavia Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome our newest members! • Ameriprise Financial, Turner & • Country Financial – Tyler Munoz • Riverside Pizza & Pub Associates • Fox Valley Hands of Hope • Selga’s All Home Services • BOJ-E-BIKES • Ginger Blue Boutique 518 • The Batavia 12 Step Club • Chamber Associate Lisa Foydel • Happy Hooves Therapeutic Farm • VoyagerNetz

Business Nuggets

™

An eclectic collection of what’s happening in Batavia

If your business is working to be more “green,” the Batavia Environmental Commission (BEC), in partnership with the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, wants to recognize you. Nominations are now open for the Batavia Green Business Ole award. The award recognizes businesses that are engaging in environmentally friendly practices and taking on some “green” initiatives such as energy conservation, promoting healthy ecology, education, improving water quality and conservation etc. Visit bit.ly/BataviaGreenBusinessOle21 to apply. Applications must be received by Nov. 9. Congratulations to Debbie Gurley, named managing broker of Miscella Real Estate. For the past 15 years Debbie has grown her career as a real estate broker throughout the Fox Valley area and beyond. Over 95% of Debbie’s clients come from referrals and both she and Miscella are proud of this ongoing legacy. She is a CNE, Certified Negotiation Expert, helping on both sides of the sale or purchase of homes. She is also certified in Interior Redesign & Home Staging. Debbie’s guiding principle in real estate and in life is: “treat others with the respect, service, and integrity they deserve. My focus is on you—because it’s your home!” Miscella Real Estate has been the Fox Valley’s premier boutique real estate firm for nearly 50 years, providing a high level of service to customers from the first-time buyers to new construction, moving up or downsizing. miscella.com. The Batavia Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated new Batavia business and chamber member BOJ-E-BIKES with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The event took place on Fri., Oct. 1 at the bike showroom, 60 N. Island Ave. Steve Boje, his family, and staff strive to help customers (and E-bike community) have great

32 kaneneighbors.com

E-biking experiences and feel the positive effects riding can have. Multiple bike brands are represented at the BOJ-E-BIKES showroom, so you can learn, touch and drive before you buy. Store hours are Thursday– Saturday, 12 to 8pm, Sunday, 12 to 4pm. Other hours by appointment. For more information about e-bikes, contact Steve at 630-777-4220. Visit their website at boj-e-bikes.com. The Just Food Initiative of the Fox Valley announced the addition of Kelly Rhodes of Aurora to their leadership team. Rhodes has more than two decades worth of experience in the corporate travel industry, working for a Fortune 100 company. She will serve as the new coordinator of operational support. The Just Food Initiative of the Fox Valley is a nonprofit organization based in Batavia that offers alternatives to the mass manufactured, over produced food products of large corporations. Learn more at facebook.com/JFIFoxValley. Support local Batavia businesses! If you need to purchase a gift, but are unsure what to give them— how about Batavia Chamber Bucks? They are gift certificates that are redeemable at any participating Batavia business. They are available in denominations of $10 and can be used like cash. Easy to use, simply write in the business name on the line provided and apply it toward your purchase. Businesses will drop by our office with the redeemed Chamber Bucks and we reimburse the business. It’s that simple! You can stop by the Chamber office at 106 W. Wilson St., Ste. 15 to purchase. Or, call us at 630-879-7134 with a credit card and we will mail them to you, along with the list of over 60 participating businesses.

Neighbors of Batavia

Batavia Business Directory FREE $75 advertising credit

The NEW Neighbors of Batavia Business Directory is available to all Batavia businesses and Neighbors advertisers. For a submission form, FREE online listing, and $75 advertising credit, please email info@neighborsmagazines.com.

kaneneighbors.com

Accucare Physical Therapy and Sports Rehab 1001 E. Wilson St., Batavia | 630-761-0900 accucarerehab.com

K. Hollis Jewelers 147 S. Randall Rd., Batavia | 630-879-8003 khollisjewelers.com

Advance Design Studio 30 Railroad St., Gilberts | 847-836-2600 advancedesignstudio.com

Kane County Forest Preserve District 1996 S. Kirk Rd., Suite 320, Geneva | 630-232-3955 kaneforest.com

Align Dentistry 1001 E. Wilson St., Batavia | 630-406-6140 aligndentistry.com

Keller Williams-Eric Klein 407 S. Third St., Geneva | 630-781-4054 foxvalleyhomes.kw.com

Aurora Downtown 43 W. Galena Blvd., Aurora | 630-256-3363 auroradowntown.org

Marmion Academy 1000 Butterfield Rd., Aurora | 630-966-7674 marmion.org

Batavia Creamery 4 N. Island Ave., Batavia | 630-482-3729 bataviacreamery.com

Masus Financial Group 515 N. River St., #100, Batavia | 630-879-8464 masusfinancial.com

Batavia Plain Dirt Gardeners 2S965 Shagbark, Batavia | 630-404-9471 facebook.com/BataviaPlainDirtGardeners

Miscella Real Estate 150 First St., Suite A, Batavia | 630-232-1570 miscella.com

BEI Batavia Enterprises, Inc. 140 First St., Batavia | 630-879-3680 beiproperties.net

Neighbors Magazines 28 S. Water St., Batavia | 630-995-3482 kaneneighbors.com

Boyce Body Werks 1240 Nagel Blvd., Batavia | 630-879-9575 boycebodywerks.com

Patriot Heating and Cooling Services 8S692 Marie St., Big Rock | 331-229-0212 patriothvacservices.com

Carlson’s Flooring 728 W. State St., Geneva | 630-232-4964 carlsonsfloors.com

PechaKucha 10 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia | 630-879-1393 pechakucha.com/cities/batavia

Ciaccio Wealth Management, Ltd. 232 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia | 630-454-4599 CiaccioWealth.com Crabby Boil 220 S. Randall Rd., Batavia | 630-454-4392 crabbyboil.com DME Heating and Cooling 1183 Pierson, Unit 107, Batavia | 815-756-6528 dekalbmechanical.com Dollar and Sense Bookkeeping 321 E. Wilson St., Batavia | 630-765-1581 dollarandsensebookkeeping.net Elderday Center, Inc. 328 W. Wilson St., Batavia | 630-761-9750 elderdaycenter.org Funway Entertainment Center 1335 S. River St., Batavia | 630-879-8717 funway.com Harvey’s Tales 216 James St., Geneva | 630-232-2991 harveystales.com Holy Cross Catholic Church 2300 Main St., Batavia | 630-879-4750 holycross-batavia.org Journey to Present 28 S. Fifth St., Geneva | 847-287-0916 journeytopresent.com

Prairie Wellness Counseling Center, P.C. 12 W. Wilson St., Batavia | 630-715-5740 prairiewellness.org Rosati’s Pizza 334 E Wilson St., Batavia | 630-879-2992 rosatispizzabatavia.com Schingoethe Center of Aurora University 1315 Prairie St., Aurora | 630-844-7844 aurora.edu/museum Shannon’s House Cleaning 923 S. Jackson St., Batavia | 630-486-4438 Spring Valley Lodges 1023 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia | 630-879-1739 springvalleylodges.com Tanna Landscape Services 42W855 Main Street Rd., Elburn | 630-844-6984 tannalandscapeservices.com The Davey Tree Expert Company 395 Industrial Dr., West Chicago | 630-293-9336 davey.com The Tea Tree 29 N. River St., Batavia | 630-425-3340 theteatreeshop.com Tower Car Wash 2120 W. Main St., Batavia | 630-406-1099 towercarwashbatavia.com

kaneneighbors.com 33

Community Above Self letters of recommendation, complete essay questions, and more. For more information on the program, please visit cffrv.org/scholarship-program.

The Rotary Club of Batavia supports many

P hoto : A pril Duda, A pril Duda P hotography

Batavia United Way hosts holiday Adopt-A-Family

In keeping with tradition, BUW will again partner with the community to provide Christmas to Batavia families in need. Last year, they recruited over 100 sponsors to provide gifts to 140 families. They expect the need to be just as great this year. BPS101 staff identify the families who are in need of help, and sponsors shop from wish lists completed by the family. BUW also partners with area clubs who provide supplemental items such as gift cards, groceries, Christmas stockings, and more. For information on sponsoring a family or other opportunities to make the season bright, visit bataviaunitedway.org/adopt-family.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley offers scholarships

Exciting news for high school students! Applications for the 2022 Scholarship Program will be available soon. Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited postsecondary institution within the United States on a full-time basis. The scholarship program consists of separate scholarship funds created by individual donors who establish specific criteria for the administration of their scholarships. Students only need to complete one universal application to be considered for multiple awards. This year alone, more than 300 area students received crucial college scholarships! Applications are due in January, and students are encouraged to plan ahead as they will need to request

34 kaneneighbors.com

The club is a part of Rotary International with 1.2 million members worldwide. While the majority of the club’s support and service is local, the following seven areas of focus are supported by global grants from Rotary International: Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention; Disease Prevention and Treatment; Water, Sanitation and Hygiene; Maternal and Child Health; Basic Education and Literacy; Community Economic Development; and Supporting the Environment. On the international stage, the Batavia club has supported the Hearten Haiti Project, ShelterBox, and End Polio Now. Visit the website, BataviaRotaryClub.org, for more information. Don’t forget to purchase Corvette raffle tickets at BataviaRotaryCharities.com. Meet your neighbors, make an impact, and Do Something Really Great!

The Batavia Masonic Lodge 404 has a long history of service

The first Masonic lodge in Batavia was chartered in October of 1849. Lodge 73 met Wednesday evenings preceding and succeeding the full moon so members could see to get home after dark. Many prominent citizens of Batavia belonged to Lodge 73. Disbanded in October 1859, Batavia Lodge 404 (the successor to lodge 73) was chartered in October of 1864 during the Civil War. On Oct. 8, 1973, Batavia Lodge moved to its current one story lodge building at 28 Van Nortwick in Batavia. For further information on Batavia Lodge or to become a member email batavialodge404@gmail.com.

Lions take action!

During October and November, look for Lions doing service projects around town! Lions solicited donations for vision and hearing programs for the Lions Annual Candy Day collection on Oct. 9. On Oct. 13, Lions hosted a family BINGO night fundraiser for the Batavia High School Ecology Club’s Serenity Garden project at Pal Joey’s Restaurant. Nov. 18, Lions are hosting the 5th Annual Underwear Party for United Way’s AdoptA-Family Program at Bar Evolution. Plan to join them for this event. Event details can be found on their website. Help serve Batavia! Become a Lion/Donate: batavialionsclub.org.

Around the Block™

for more, visit KaneNeighbors.com Win a new Corvette There’s still time to get your tickets for the Batavia Rotary Club’s 33rd Annual Corvette Raffle. Win either a 2022 Corvette Coupe 1LT or $50,000 in cash. There are also eight additional cash prizes of $500. The proceeds of the annual raffle benefit local charities and Rotary International Programs. The grand prize drawing is Nov. 20, held at The Wine Bar @ K. Hollis Jewelers. Tickets are $100 and available at BataviaRotaryCharities.com.

Candlelight Carols returns with world premier

Celebrate the season with fresh cut greens Batavia Boy Scout Troop 12 will open their annual holiday Christmas tree sale Sun., Nov. 21 at 1pm. For over 60 years Batavia Troop 12 has been selling freshcut Christmas trees, wreaths and roping to support their scouting program. All proceeds stay local. Scouts will be on duty to assist customers with selection, baling and tying down trees. The tree lot is located on Rt. 15, adjacent to the Batavia Skate Park (411 S. River St.). Sales continue through Dec. 18 or until sold out. Hours are Mon.–Thurs. 5–8pm; Fri. 5–9pm; Sat. 9am–9pm; and Sun. 9am–8pm. Cash, checks or credit cards are welcome. For more information, visit bataviatroop12.org.

Sing in the holidays Join the 10th annual “Sing-Along” performance of Handel’s Messiah (including the famous “Hallelujah Chorus”) at Marmion Abbey on Dec. 19 at 2pm. The program is sponsored by the Fox Valley Orchestra and Chorus. All are welcome whether you wish to sing along or just listen. The event features a full baroque orchestra and chorus members will mingle with the audience. Guest artists Erica Schuller, soprano; Eunice Ayodele, alto; Cornelius Johnson III, tenor; and Aaron Wardell, bass, will sing the solo portions. The chorus, orchestra, soloists and audience will be under the direction of Chorus Master Lisa Fredenburgh. Tickets are $10 when purchased online; $12 at the door. For those who need one, music scores will be available for purchase in the lobby. All proceeds benefit the many orchestra and chorus programs for the community. The Fox Valley Orchestra is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization. For more information visit foxvalleyorchestra.org/messiah.

The St. Charles Singers present their signature mix of Christmas favorites and lesser-known seasonal songs at its 2021 Candlelight Carols concerts, continuing a Yuletide tradition that began with the choir’s founding in 1984. The program is scheduled for Fri., Dec. 3, 7:30pm and Sun., Dec. 5, 3pm at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles. An additional performance will be Sat., Dec. 4, 7:30pm at Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. Among songs to be heard for the first time is a new work by multifaceted musician Scott Stevenson of Downers Grove. Tickets are $40 adults, $35 seniors 65 and older, and $10 students. Group discounts are available. For tickets and more information, visit stcharlessingers.com.

Mooseheart lights up for the holidays The 12th Annual Holiday Lights display opens on Fri., Nov. 26 and runs through Dec. 31. The show is open from 5–9pm nightly. Holiday Lights at Mooseheart is one of Chicagoland’s largest light displays. The lighted route is approximately 1.8 miles and has more than 80 lighted displays to view. A suggested donation of $20 per car is requested, but visitors are encouraged to come, enjoy the show and give what they can. All proceeds benefit Mooseheart. mooseheart.org.

kaneneighbors.com 35

Neighbors of Batavia

Batavia Resources

If you would like your club or organization listed, forward contact information to: info@neighborsmagazines.com

Community organizations 100 Women Who Care Fox Valley . . . . . . . . . . 100womenwhocarefoxvalley.org Alcoholics Anonymous. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-377-6610, aadistrict61.org Batavia 12 Step Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-318-0323 Batavia American Legion Post 504. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviapost504.org Batavia Arts Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BataviaArtsCouncil.org BATV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . mybatv.com Batavia Boosters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviabulldogboosters.org Batavia Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviachamber.org Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence. . . . . . bataviafoundation.org Batavia Historical Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviahistoricalsociety.org Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviafoodpantry.org Batavia Lions Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . batavialionsclub.org Batavia MainStreet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . downtownbatavia.com Batavia Masonic Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . batavialodge404.blogspot.com Batavia Mothers’ Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviamothersclub.org Batavia Music Buffs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviamusicbuffs.org Batavia Park District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviaparks.org Batavia Public Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviapubliclibrary.org Batavia Public Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bps101.net Batavia RSVP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviarsvp.org Batavia Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviatownship.com Batavia United Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviaunitedway.org Batavia VFW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviavfw.org Batavia Woman’s Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviawomansclub.org

Quick phone guide: Emergency Batavia. . . . . . . . 911

City Hall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-454-2000 Police (Non-Emergency). . 630-454-2500 Fire (Non-Emergency) . . . . . 630-454-2100 Chamber of Commerce. . . . 630-879-7134 Batavia Park District. . . . . . . . 630-879-5235 School District 101. . . . . . . . . 630-937-8800 Batavia Public Library. . . . . . 630-879-1393 Batavia Township. . . . . . . . . . 630-879-1392 MainStreet.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-761-3528

Utilities

Batavia Women in Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviawib.com Boy Scouts of America, Three Fires Council. . . . . . . . . . . . threefirescouncil.org CASA Kane County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . casakanecounty.org CHIP IN Batavia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . chipinbatavia.org Elderday Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . elderdaycenter.org Fermilab (Public Affairs). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fnal.gov Fox Valley Hands of Hope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fvhh.net Fox Valley Special Rec Assoc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fvsra.org Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .girlscoutsni.org Kane County Health Department. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . kanehealth.com Kane County Veteran’s Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-232-3550 Kiwanis Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-879-2281 League of Women Voters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . lwvckc.org LivingWell Cancer Resource Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . livingwellcrc.org Lutheran Social Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . lssi.org Mutual Ground.Domestic Violence Hotline 630-897-0080, mutualground.org Rotary Club of Batavia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviarotaryclub.org St. Vincent de Paul Society. . . . . . . . . holycross-batavia.org/st-vincent-de-paul Tri City Family Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tricityfamilyservices.org Tri City Health Partnership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tchpfreeclinic.org Valley Sheltered Workshop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . valleyshelteredworkshop.org Water Street Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . waterstreetstudios.org Waubonsee Community College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . waubonsee.edu Zonta Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . zontawest-sgb.org

J.U.L.I.E. . . . . . . . . . . . . .811 or 800-892-0123 (call 48 hours before you dig) Water Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-454-2450 Electric Utility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-454-2350 NICOR GAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-642-6748 Advanced Disposal . . . . . . . . 630-587-8282 (garbage pick up)

Kane County

County Clerk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-232-5950 Sheriff (Non-Emergency). . 630-232-6840 Voter Registration . . . . . . . . . 630-232-5990 Kane County Forest Preserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-232-5980

Other

Aurora Secretary of State Facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 312-793-1010 U.S. Post Office (Batavia) . . . 630-879-1483

B A T A V I A SUNDAY

Reach every home and Now you can add your own business for just events to the Events Calendar at pennies each! KaneNeighbors.com 630-995-3482

N O V E M B E R 2021

MONDAY

TUESDAY

1 Meat & Vegetarian Chili All month Library Online City Council 7:30pm City Hall

WEDNESDAY

Fire & Police Com. 4pm, Police Dept Community Check-in 6:30 pm Library online

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Plan Com. & Zoning Board 7pm City Hal

6 Indoor Market 9am-12pm 160 First St.

Committee of the Whole 7pm City Hall

East Side Leaf Collection Nov. 1–Nov. 5

7 Batavia United Way Day of Caring

8 Historic Preservation Com. 5:30pm City Hall Bicycle Com. 7pm City Hall

9 Community Check-in 6:30 pm Library online

10 Environmental Com. 7pm City Hall

Committee of the Whole 7pm City Hall

Veterans Day

13 Indoor Market 9am-12pm 160 First St.

City offices closed

West Side Leaf Collection Nov. 8–Nov. 12

STEAM Lab-ina-Bag All day Library

Community Check-in 6:30 pm Library online

City Council 7:30pm City Hall

Committee of the Whole 7pm City Hall

Plan Com. & Zoning Board 7pm City Hall

20 Indoor Market 9am-12pm 160 First St.

East Side Leaf Collection Nov. 15–Nov. 19 (weather permitting)

22 Historic Preservation Com. 5:30pm City Hal

Committee of the Whole 7pm City Hall

Take-Home Craft Kit All day Library

25 Happy Thanksgiving

26 City offices closed

City offices closed

Indoor Market 9am-12pm 160 First St.

West Side Leaf Collection Nov. 22–Nov. 26 (weather permitting)

Small Business Saturday

30 Community Check-in 6:30 pm Library online Committee of the Whole 7pm City Hall

Story Stroll 10 am, Library

Send us your event information! newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com Deadline for the January/February 2022 issue is December 1, 2021

Please note: Some programs listed may require registration and/or fees. Please check with individual organizations.

Final City-wide Brush Collection Nov. 29–Dec. 3

B A T A V I A SUNDAY

Reach every home and Now you can add your own business for just events to the Events Calendar at pennies each! KaneNeighbors.com 630-995-3482

D E C E M B E R 2021

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Send us your event information!

newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com Deadline for the January/February 2022 issue is December 1, 2021 Please note: Some programs listed may require registration and/or fees. Please check with individual organizations.

6 Drop-in Craft 4 pm Library City Council 7:30pm City Hall

THURSDAY

7 Fire & Police Com. 4pm, Police Dept. Community Check-in 6:30 pm Library online

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Uber-Cool Gingerbread Houses All month Library online Plan Com. & Zoning Board 7pm City Hall

Environmental Com. 7pm City Hal

10 Winterfest Art Market 6-9pm Water Street Studios

Committee of the Whole 7pm, City Hall

12 Winterfest Art Market 10am-2pm Water Street Studios

13 Historic Preservation Com. 5:30pm City Hall Bicycle Commission 7pm City Hall

20 City Council 7:30pm City Hall

14 Drop-in Craft 10am, Library Community Check-in 6:30 pm Library online

15 Plan Com.& Zoning Board 7pm City Hall

STEAM Lab-ina-Bag All day Library

27 City offices closed Historic Preservation Com. 5:30pm City Hall

11 Indoor Market 9am-12pm 160 First St Winterfest Art Market 10am-5pm Water Street Studios

18 Indoor Market 9am-12pm 160 First St

Committee of the Whole 7pm, City Hall

Committee of the Whole 7pm City Hall

23 Take-Home Craft Kit All day Library

24 Christmas Eve

City offices closed

4 Indoor Market 9am-12pm 160 First St.

28 Story Stroll 10 am Library Committee of the Whole 7pm City Hall

31 Happy New Year

Merry Christmas

City Offices closed

November/December 2021 Neighbors of Batavia

Articles inside

Community Above Self

MainStreet—Winterfest Art Market returns

BATV—Playoffs have begun

City of Batavia Currents—Shop local this holiday season

Library—Surprising finds at the Library

Beginnings—A REmarkable pair of letters

Batavia Public Schools—Join the Bulldog Nation