March-April Neighbors of Batavia by Neighbors Media

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Magazine

March/April 2018

The only community magazine for all of Batavia

Protect your home from mice and men Sign up for the city-wide garage sale BHS/local businesses working together POSTAL CUSTOMER

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Neighbors Magazines and BATV share the news

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Library joins SWAN, expands services

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Neighbors Publications

Neighbors of Batavia Magazine

Inside Information

Keeping your home safe story begins on page

630-995-3482 KaneNeighbors.com Neighbors Staﬀ and Contributors Tim Sullivan & Kate Sullivan, Publishers Amber Johnson, Production Director Ben Scott, Community Editor Linnea Carlson, Creative Director John Masus, Columnist Roger Breisch, Columnist Michael Barton, Photography Contributor

Community Liaisons

Beginnings—The place to which God calls us ...........................................................6 Your ﬁnances—A belated happy new year… ..........................................................12 City of Batavia Currents—Make your yard environmentally friendly .......... 14 MainStreet—Hop on downtown ................................................................................. 19 Library—The Library joins SWAN ................................................................................. 20 Schools—Businesses and BHS students help each other ................................... 28 Park District—Plant a Victory Garden ....................................................................... 32 BATV—Call for interns and voluteers .......................................................................... 36 Chamber news—An evening to Inspire .................................................................... 37 Flag Day —You’re invited to participate .................................................................... 39

Departments

Holly Deitchman, Batavia Chamber of Commerce 630-879-7134 Michele Martzel, Batavia Public Library 630-879-1393 Sue Gillerlain, Batavia Public Schools 630-937-8824 Allison Niemela, Batavia Park District 630-879-5235 Jamie Saam, Batavia MainStreet, 630-761-3528 Christopher Cudworth, City of Batavia 630-454-2000 Stephan Perrault, BATV 630-879-9300

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

Mayor’s Letter............................................................................................................................4

See the online edition at KaneNeighbors.com.

Business Nuggets ................................................................................................................... 38

For calendar listings:

Around the Block ................................................................................................................... 39 Spotlight on the Arts.............................................................................................................. 42 March Calendar ..................................................................................................................... 45 April Calendar ........................................................................................................................ 46 Follow us on Twitter! “NeighborsMags”

About the cover:

When it comes to making your home safe and secure for your family, home security systems are right up there with roofs, foundations, siding, windows, HVAC and plumbing. Our feature story (page 8) focuses on the areas that are critical to your annual homeowner’s checklist.

Please submit your activity dates to newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com or add them to the Calendar at KaneNeighbors.com 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 editorial@ neighborsmagazines.com. Advertising deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication. ©2018 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.

Neighbors of Batavia Magazine

A message from our city Greetings, So I guess it can be said that as events continue to unfold in 2018 that we are realizing a mixed bag of news stories impacting our town. For the city government, a real downside came with the total surprise announcement by Sam’s Club that their Batavia location was included as one of over 60 stores throughout the U.S. targeted for a quick close. A talk with the folks at the Sam’s Club corporate office in Arkansas provided the insight that they had reached the opinion that the Batavia store could possibly be in line for a decline in business volume at some date in the future. Having knowledge as to all the development conversations that are occurring within a seven mile radius of Batavia’s Randall Rd. corridor that includes adjoining neighboring towns as well as our own local new construction tempo, a different out-come seems apparent. Put all together, the trend would seem to suggest that the number of potential shoppers to be added is going to experience a dynamic increase in the next few years. As reported in my last column, despite the Sam’s Club news, I can report that the city’s building department is overseeing the addition of at least five new businesses to the Randall Rd. corridor within Batavia. Thus, I guess it can be said that we gain some and lose some. Needless to say, the city will keep the idea that the now empty Sam’s Club store will be a high priority for revitalization as a retail business location. The theme of this edition of Neighbor’s Magazine is directed to home security and public safety. We enjoy a very proud record of providing public safety services. The Batavia Police and Fire Departments, backed up by our Emergency Services and Disaster Agency (ESDA), are very busy folks in dealing with a wide variety of emergencies, complaints and calls for service. The police handle a wide assortment of calls ranging from a wide range of crimes, traffic enforcement, and technology crime tricks to lost car keys and barking dogs just to name a couple regular responses. Of the fire and paramedic requests for services, last year our call volume rose to a new yearly record of 4,014 alarms. There were many requests for our ambulances coming in at a daily average of just shy of seven calls per day. On some days, the ambulance response call volume rose to between 15 and 25 calls for our paramedics. Our ESDA crew, which largely serves on a volunteer (non-paid) basis, is a critical provider of weather watch details along with support in the way of traffic control and crowd control in backing up both the fire and police services. Costs to provide quality public safety services is not cheap and take up a major portion of the city’s general fund budget, but there is no doubt in my mind that the 4 kaneneighbors.com

services we provide are a vital component to insure that we maintain a positive high quality of life in our town. We are looking for citizens who would be interested in volunteering a few hours of their time each year to assist some most worthwhile causes and events which illustrate the rich fiber of commitment towards quality living in our town. On Tues., March 13 at 7:30pm during the City Council’s Committee of the Whole session, time is being set aside to allow for brief presentations and conversations about where some truly inspirational and volunteerism can be given by citizens at large. Among those events looking for volunteer support is the Access Christmas Toy Drive for needy families, the annual 4th of July Fireworks Show, the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet, the June 14 Flag Day celebration, and public events scheduled by Batavia Chamber of Commerce and Batavia Main Street. If you are willing to give a few hours of time each year to one or more of these projects, mark your calendar for March 13 and come on down to the Batavia Government Center at 100 N. Island Ave. and learn more about just what’s going on and how you can help out. I will end this mayor’s column on a sad note in offering a few words of tribute to several Batavians who have passed away in the weeks around this New Year. Robert “Bob” Thomas, a man who truly loved our town, was always a most willing volunteer for a host of civic projects in the past. Among the most notable of Bob’s work was his multi-year commitment as one of the more active volunteers in constructing our downtown River Walk between 1990 and 1998. On several fronts, including the River Walk, Bob left a lasting mark of goodwill on the town which won his heart. Dick Lavoy, a downtown Batavia businessman for well over 50 years, his outstanding retail service style for his customers was his trademark. In the years since he started Reel Pro Video on W. Wilson St. scores of local residents have used his quality work to restore and copy literally thousands of old family photos and early camera films that leave a legacy of beautiful memories and history for future generations to cherish and enjoy. Joe Stephano, showed his appreciation for our town in many ways. He was a loud voice of concern and compassion during a variety of civic debates over the years. Most importantly to Joe, were all the activities that involved his family. For a number of years Joe was continued on page 38

Beginnings The place to which God calls us by Roger Breisch “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” Frederick Buechner

o matter how far we have journeyed, and regardless of age, each of us has many miles to go to fully uncover, and live into, our deep gladness. I am often asked how I am enjoying retirement. The word retire derives from the Middle French word retirer which means “to withdraw.” To withdraw from the place God is calling me, or to even slow the journey of discovery, just might be the ultimate blasphemy. 15 years ago, through a series of unanticipated events, I found myself answering calls on a suicide hotline. In the intervening years, my heart has been torn asunder thousands of times, and I have been blessed to be on the phone as callers choose life. In those moments, I can actually feel my deep gladness colliding with the world’s deep need. I frequently have tears in my eyes as proof. None of us ever knows the full extent of our gifts. I was 51 when I took my first call on the suicide hotline. When I was 49 I had no idea the capacity to help pull people off the ledge was within me. I hope, in whatever years I might have left, there are many more things for me to learn about who I am capable of being. However, this place to which God calls me can be a joyful but oft difficult and misunderstood place. Last year I spoke 58 times to more than 2200 people; most of them under the age of 25. I speak about what I have come to know about the human journey, and the value of human life. My goal is to, even in some microscopic way, slow the tragic epidemic of suicide, especially among youth. But there is little concrete, measurable evidence my efforts changed anything. I have kind words, some thoughtful emails, and a few, very few, dollars in our bank account. Does that matter? It shouldn’t, but we live in a culture driven by quantity, size and extent. My ego was born and raised in this milieu and often demands to be heard…and soothed! In moments when my ego feels slighted by the meagerness of quantifiable outcomes, I recall ancient wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita: Do your work and let go of results. When we find the place to which God calls us, why can’t that be enough? Why is it important to quantify the world’s great hunger and measure how much I might have lessened it? And, if we only follow paths hewn by quantity, size and extent, do we risk 6 kaneneighbors.com

reaching the end of our journey never having unlocked our deep gladness? So how do we find our deep gladness? First, we need to quiet an ego that demands traditional measures of success. Once relieved of the burden of outcomes, the journey will often lead us to unexpected destinations. We discover our capacities—our unique magnificence— when we venture into the world and allow it to tell us what makes us unique. Let the world rough you up. Let it break your heart. It will. It will make you cry. But that is how life is meant to be. The human journey is not easy. But when our hearts break, we learn more generosity, kindness, empathy and love. And when we do, the world holds up a mirror to tell us who we are and what we are capable of becoming. In those moments we are given a glimpse into our deep gladness. Only after we discover a self of extraordinary integrity and authenticity—our deep gladness—can our actions emerge from the fullness of our being and meet the world’s deep hunger. When we discover the magnificence of our life and live it into the world, we literally reweave the fabric of the Universe…and the results will take care of themselves.

Roger E. Breisch is a resident of Batavia and Speaker Provocateur REBreisch.com

His latest book, Questions That Matter, is available at Amazon.com

Making your home safe and secure for your family by Ben Scott

Just as important as projects which improve your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aesthetic (remodeling a basement, upgrading a kitchen) are those that make your house more secure for your family. Have you thought about installing a home security system? Is your basement at risk of flooding this spring? We tackle a few common safety issues homeowners run across, and some simple ways to avoid potentially big problems.

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Home security systems—make the right investment According to an article on securitytoday.com, it’s a good idea to create a game-plan and involve all members of your family in the discussion before installing a home security system. Make a list of your family’s home security needs and expectations, along with what you want the system to do and not do. When considering home security essentials, take into account the specific layout of your home and all of the areas you want secured (doors, garage doors, windows, etc.). You may also want to research the amount and type of crime in your neighborhood to determine which security system is best for you. Of course, in the age of smart home products, a sophisticated security setup will connect with your home Wi-Fi network and allow you to surveil your home remotely. Today, home security systems can interface with laptops, tablets and smartphones, and video cameras allow you to monitor and control your home in real time: “Entrylevel systems typically include a couple of door and window sensors, a motion detector and a hub that communicates with these devices using one or more wireless protocols.” (pcmag.com). If you live in an apartment or simply want to spend less money, you could choose to install a security camera in lieu of an integrated security system. Many of these standalone security cameras are also able to connect to your home’s Wi-Fi, allowing you to monitor activity with your phone or tablet.

House pests— spring is their time

Remember your first apartment? Chances are, at one point or another you lived in a space infested with some type of pest. From spiders,

ants and mosquitoes to cockroaches and mice, home pests are gross, unsettling and have the potential to carry disease. How can you prevent pests from showing up and keep them out of your home this spring? As it turns out, basic home maintenance goes a long way toward keeping most common pests at bay. Insects and smaller rodents can fit through tiny cracks and openings, so you should fix gaps or holes in broken screens, doors and cracks in your walls (brandpointcontent.com). Further deter pests by sanitizing any place food is stored; keep sinks clean to avoid attracting flies and wipe up all food residue to avoid attracting cockroaches and ants. It’s also a good idea to vigilantly monitor for droppings and other visual signs of infestation so that a potential issue can be cleared up quickly. When it comes to your yard, keep trees near your home trimmed so squirrels can’t access your home through your roof. You should also try to keep outdoor trash cans secured and yard clutter at a minimum to fend off a variety of rodents. Of course, mosquitoes are one of the worst warm weather pests, and also arguably one of the most difficult to defend against. “Mosquito treatment is a big thing in today’s world with the diseases they carry,” said Brittany Sigler, Mosquito Joe Operations Manager. Luckily, barrier treatments from pest control companies like Mosquito Joe of Tri-Cities can help keep your yard clear of mosquitoes this spring and summer. Barrier treatments only take around 15–25 minutes, are customized for the size of each yard, and last around three weeks.

Plumbing—avoid a spring basement flood

Unfortunately, spring basement flooding is an all-too common

occurrence that can accompany the more welcomed signs of warmer weather. Fortunately, you can substantially minimize your risk of flooding by taking preventative action before problems arise. Many spring flooding issues are due to faulty sump pumps (the pump used to remove water that accumulates in a water-collecting basin, usually in the basement of homes). If you have a below-grade sump pump, keep it free of debris, and if you have a portable sump pump position it in the lowest part of your basement connected to a power source (bobvila.com). “Make sure your sump pump is not more than seven years old,” added Douglas Saam, Bulldog Plumbing. “If you have a battery backup system, make sure it’s not more than five years old. Most backup systems have a way to test them, and it’s a good idea to test early before you have an issue.” Outdoors, keep gutters free of debris and position downspouts away from your foundation. You should also inspect your home’s exterior foundation and use epoxy to fill foundation cracks. Additionally, spring is a good time to have your sewer inspected and your septic tank cleaned; periods of heavy rainfall will tax septic tanks and clog sewers, which can cause flooding.

A/C—why you should get it checked

According to the Farmer’s Almanac, April and May will be warmer and drier than normal this year, and summer will be hotter and drier than normal—in short, you’ll want your A/C to be up and running. “Typically, everyone waits until the first hot day to inspect their air conditioner. That’s when they discover mice lived in there and chewed up all the wires,” said

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Neighbors of Batavia

Keeping your home safe Thomas Wangler Jr., owner and president of Confident Aire in Batavia. “Anyone who wants to inspect their unit themselves should turn off the breaker on the inside of the house (this breaker is usually twice as wide as a normal breaker). There’s also typically a service disconnect on the outside of the house they can pull out.” Wangler also urged homeowners to check and change their air filters on a regular basis. A clogged air filter causes ice to form on the air conditioner’s evaporator coils. When the ice melts, water will flood in the area around the furnace and inside the furnace itself. If you don’t feel comfortable inspecting your air conditioner yourself, consider scheduling an A/C tune up before you turn your unit on for the first time this

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spring. Among other things, a comprehensive tune up will involve an HVAC expert checking the filter, inspecting the thermostat mounting, inspecting the indoor blower and checking the unit’s electrical wiring.

Exterior home security— roofs, windows, doors and foundation

Everyone deserves a roof over their head. How do you know when yours is in trouble? “If your roof’s leaking, or if you see shingles or other materials in your yard it’s time to replace your roof,” said Brian Hunter, D-Wing Construction. “You may also need a roof replacement after a major storm if you see curling shingles or excess granules in your gutter.” Likewise, windows and doors can pose safety issues when they’re not

properly sealed and fog up or allow drafts into your home. And while window and door replacements might be far down on some homeowners’ to-do lists, most new windows are more durable and energy efficient, and new doors and windows will also increase your home value should you decide to sell. Finally, know how to spot the warning signs of home foundation problems before they create major issues down the road. Indoors,

watch for doors that begin to jam or fail to latch. You should also look out for cracks that appear in walls where the wall meets the ceiling. Additionally, windows that stick or fail to close completely can sometimes signal an issue with a home’s foundation. Outside, a curve or bulge in a block foundation or a poured concrete wall is a signal that the foundation has shifted, or that the soil around your foundation is expanding and contracting and putting pressure on the walls. (houselogic.com) If you think you might have an issue with your foundation, hire a structural engineer to provide an evaluation. Fixing your home’s foundation can be expensive, but as with most home projects it’s better not to wait. Ben Scott is the community editor of Neighbors Magazines.

When are building permits required for residential properties? According to the adopted residential building code for the city of Batavia: “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be done, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”

What types of projects require a building permit?

Beyond the obvious (new construction, additions, remodeling, etc.), some of these items include, fences, decks, pergolas, pools (temporary or permanent) over 24" in depth, driveways, sheds, roofs, PV (solar) systems, electric car chargers, replacement windows, exterior doors, furnace and central air conditioner replacement, water heater replacement, chicken coops, sport courts and flagpoles.

What types of activities DO NOT require a building permit?

• Landscaping walls not more than 3' in height, as long as these structures are not for the purpose of retaining

• •

• • • • •

dirt or affect the natural flow of storm water around the property. Private sidewalks and patios. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work. (Careful, if replacement of the countertop affects plumbing piping to a sink, a permit is required). Prefabricated kiddie-type pools or landscaping ponds LESS THAN 24" in depth. Swings and other playground equipment. Electrical: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps, switches, receptacles, light fixtures and cooking appliances. Gas: Portable appliances like a gas grill connected to a small LP tank, replacement of cooking appliances or clothes dryers. Plumbing: “Like for like,” replacement of toilets or faucets. The stopping of leaks in drain, water, soil, waste or vent piping AS LONG AS no replacement of piping occur.

If you’re not sure if your project requires a permit, call 630-454-2700. Toby Petrie City of Batavia Building Inspector

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Your ﬁnances

A belated Happy New Year—2018 by John Masus

t’s still the early part of the 21st Century, but a lot has the distribution stage (retirement) it’s important to reevaluate the portfolio to make sure the new objective happened in the last 19 years. Yes, it’s the beginning for income and growth is realistic. of the 19th year not the 18th year. I had to count on Because what all of this demonstrates is that these ups my fingers to confirm that. Thank goodness I have five and downs are part of the process. It’s not as scary if fingers on each hand and I went through them almost you have a long time horizon but if you are retired and twice. drawing income from the investments, it’s a different In any event, remember the Y2K scare in late 1999? That was when we thought that all computer data could situation entirely. So what caused all of this market turmoil and be lost when we rolled over to the 2000’s, because no upheaval. or was this just something unusual? I would computers had ever rolled over to a new century. So say that this is not unusual. There is always something on Jan. 1 when we were all still here with our bank and going on to spook the markets. investment accounts still intact we experienced relief. None of us will ever forget 9/11, but that wasn’t the But then along comes the technology crash. That saw only problem. We were the NASDAQ go from 5,000 plus to less than Some problems are so complex that you have already in a recession when happened. Then along 2,000 very quickly, then to be highly intelligent and well informed just to that came the Great Recession. bouncing around and be undecided about them. That was a man-made crisis taking until 2015 to hit Laurence J. Peter that was fueled by greed 5,000 again. Similar slides Writer and ignorance on Wall and rocket ships have taken Street and furthered fueled place with the Dow and by the easy money (low interest rate environment) the S&P 500 since the turn of the century. policy at the time as well as federal policy and banks The S&P 500 stood at 1,469 on Dec. 31, 1999 and on encouraging home ownership through relaxed financial Dec. 31, 2016 it was at 2,284. A 52% rise. That seems qualifications. to be pretty good, but if we divide that 52% by 17 years In other words, borrowing more money at low short we come up with an average of about 3% per year. term rates to buy bigger houses saddled with more debt. That’s why most financial planners will tell you that It’s always something. at retirement a draw of 3.5 to 4% annually on your So once again if you are in retirement or about retirement portfolio would be about right unless you are drawing only dividends and interest and those dividends to retire, protect yourself and take a look at your retirement portfolio to make sure it is now designed to and interest are actually paying more than that. complement your income and realistic objectives. If 2018 is a milestone year for you and you plan to retire or are already retired, this information is especially useful. In fact this kind of information is useful for everyone. John Masus is The moral of the story is, when an individual is going a partner in Masus Financial Group, Ltd. from the accumulation stage of their life (working) to 12 kaneneighbors.com

Currents Make your yard environmentally friendly Are you looking at a way to make your yard more environmentally friendly and attract butterflies? If so then come to the city hall on Wed., April 11 at 7pm to see The Conservation Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Conservation@ Home program, which encourages and recognizes property owners that protect and/or create yards that are environmentally friendly and conserve water. The Conservation@Home program can help you make your yard more attractive to wildlife and retain precious rainwater by planting native vegetation, creating butterfly and rain gardens, using rain barrels and removing exotic species of plants. The selection and use of native plants helps solve common yard problems such as wet spots, not enough variety of color, or grass wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t grow, etc. In addition, yards with native landscaping reduce local flooding and clean pollution from rainwater. Native planting can be incorporated into any landscape style and provides a healthier backyard environment for your family to enjoy. Some of the topics to be covered in this program are rain barrels, rain gardens and native plants. Rain barrels are simply large containers that capture rainwater at the end of your downspout, which you can then use to water plants, wash your car and further reduce your

Annual rain barrel sale is back in Batavia!

The city is hosting the 8th Annual Rain Barrel Sale with The Conservation Foundation and is currently taking orders now until 14

water bill while also reducing polluted runoff! Rain gardens are shallow depressions planted with native plants that are accustomed to wet conditions. Native plants grow naturally and need no watering or fertilizers once established. Participants receive a butterfly attraction and identification pamphlet, and native plant guide as well as other informational handouts. As a homeowner participating in Conservation@ Home, you can have a personal visit to your yard for specific advice. We have a number of helpful brochures, places to buy plants, as well as professional references. For $50 participants can become a C@H member and earn a yard sign and one year membership to The Conservation Foundation. Come to Batavia City Hall in the Council Chamber Wed., April 11 at 7pm to learn more. We hope to see you!

the end of the business day on Tues., April 24 for the local pick-up option. The orders placed online are for credit card purchases only. Cash or check purchases can be placed directly with the Conservation Foundation representative at the Conservation@Home program April 11. The Conservation Foundation rain barrels are 55 gallons each and made from recycled food grade plastic. The rain barrels come equipped with a spigot, garden hose threaded overflow, screw off lid with a screen to keep out bugs and debris and a one year warranty. There are two options for pricing and delivery: a barrel with standard pick-up ($60) or a barrel with home delivery ($65). The barrels are available in the following colors: black, blue, grey and terra cotta.

To place an order online go to cityofbatavia.net/rainbarrels anytime from now until April 24 and the orders will be delivered Sat., April 28, from 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;12pm to Clark Island Skate Park located along the Fox River off Route 25 at approximately 411 S. River St. If you choose to have home delivery you will be prompted to complete more information on the website and they can be delivered past April 28. The delivery date will be coordinated with the supplier when enough barrels are purchased in the area. If you cannot make the pick-up or have additional questions please contact Jim Kleinwacther with the Conservation Foundation at 630-553-0687 ext 302. Rain Barrels are sold year round at the Conservation Foundation website: theconservationfoundation.org.

630-454-2000 • cityofbatavia.net

Prescribed burns planned

Prescribed burning is a very important management tool for maintaining and enhancing grasslands. Fire was an important natural part in the development and maintenance of grasslands, forests, and wetlands, throughout history. For thousands of years, tall grass prairies were kept free of trees by the occasional wildfires that cleared the landscape every two to 50 years. These fires were many times caused by lightning. Present day research and experience have shown that prescribed burning can be an effective management tool. Prescribed burns are used most frequently to maintain and restore native grasslands. Prescribed burning can recycle nutrients tied up in old plant growth, control many woody plants and herbaceous weeds, improve poor quality forage, increase plant growth, reduce the risk of large wildfires, and improve certain wildlife habitat. To achieve the above benefits, fire must be used under very specific conditions, using very specific techniques. Weather has an overriding effect on a prescribed burn. It is very important to have the latest and most updated weather conditions available before starting the burn. When planning a prescribed burn, it is necessary to utilize a professional contractor who will obtain a permit from the EPA and who will obtain permission from the

Batavia Fire Department. Prescribed burning is planned this year within the City of Batavia, for the city’s maintained portion of the Braeburn Marsh (west side of Randall Rd., towards the Cambridge Development) in the later part of March through April. Signs will be posted along Randall Rd. to notify residents a few days to a week in advance, as in the past. Windmill Lakes Basin, on Main St. next to Holy Cross and Tower Car Wash, will be burned this spring too. Please contact the City of Batavia Engineering Department at 630-454-2750 with any questions.

Test your lawn sprinkler systems before starting up

Plumbing code and state regulations require that your backflow preventer be tested annually or when your lawn sprinkler system is put in service each spring. Federal, state, and local regulations require every municipal water supplier to implement and maintain a comprehensive cross connection control program designed to safeguard the public water supply. The contractor hired to administer and oversee your local backflow program is Aqua Backflow. They

specialize in cross connection control management. If you have or require backflow protection, you will be notified by them for compliance (testing, repairs, installations, inspections, or surveys). Aqua Backflow can be reached at 847-742-2296 with any questions. Aqua Backflow does not test, install, or repair backflow preventers. Remember that cross connection control programs are designed to safeguard public health. We ask for your cooperation with our program, its enforcement, and any requests

Your elected city oﬃcials

Mayor– Jeﬀery D . Schielke

City Clerk– Ellen Posledni

Aldermen Serving until May 2019 Ward 1 Scott Salvati ssalvati@cityofbatavia.net Ward 2 Alan P. Wolff awolff@cityofbatavia.net Ward 3 Dan Chanzit dchanzit@cityofbatavia.net Ward 4 Susan Stark sstark@cityofbatavia.net Ward 5 Lucy Thelin-Atac lthelina@cityofbatavia.net Ward 6 Michael Russotto mrussott@cityofbatavia.net Ward 7 David J. Brown dbrown@cityofbatavia.net

for information that come from Aqua Backflow or utility staff. If you decide you no longer want, or need, the irrigation system, you will be required to permanently disconnect the system from the public water supply. Without permanent disconnection, there are no guarantees the system will not be activated at some later date and the city would have no knowledge of the reactivation. A plumbing permit is required for inspection of the permanently disconnected system.

Treasurer– Gerald R . Miller Aldermen Serving until May 2021 Ward 1 Michael O’Brien mobrien@cityofbatavia.net Ward 2 Martin J. Callahan mcallahan@cityofbatavia.net Ward 3 Elliot Meitzler emeitzler@cityofbatavia.net Ward 4 Tony Malay tmalay@cityofbatavia.net Ward 5 Mark Uher muher@cityofbatavia.net Ward 6 Nicholas P. Cerone ncerone@cityofbatavia.net Ward 7 Drew McFadden dmcfadden@cityofbatavia.net

Currents What are the benefits of maintaining your property? By properly maintaining your property you will receive a multitude of benefits: high property values, reduced crime and vandalism, renewed pride of ownership, and example setting for the neighborhood.

What can you do to take pride in your neighborhood and be a good neighbor? • Keep your lawn mowed and property clean. • Keep the exterior of your home, garage, fence or shed painted and in good repair. • Be sure your address number is posted, well lit, 4" tall Arabic numerals and readable from the street with colors that contrast with the building. This is important should you need emergency personnel assistance. • Do not put your trash container out until the evening before pickup and remove container soon after pickup. • Make sure your vehicles have current license and registration and are capable of operating under its own motor power. • Trim your trees branches and shrubbery so they do not obstruct pedestrian or vehicle traffic. • Don’t allow your dogs to roam the neighbor or bark excessively. • Check the batteries in your smoke detectors.

• If you are planning to do any remodeling or installing a pool, fence, shed, deck, driveway, roof, siding, doors and or windows (this is not an inclusive list), please check with the building division 630-454-2700 for the required permits. • Garage sale signs must be placed on private property. Signs will be removed if they are placed on the parkways or utility poles. Why do we need to follow codes? Building codes are laws or ordinances adopted at the local or state level that set a minimum safety standard for the construction of residential, commercial and industrial buildings. Building codes regulate structural and fire safety; electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems; zoning and even energy conservation. The first and foremost reason the city enforces building codes is public safety. We also want to ensure the well being of properties in our jurisdiction by reducing the damage potential from fire and other hazards associated with substandard construction. Before beginning any building project, please contact the City of Batavia Building Division at 630-454-2700 for information. (See page 11 for information about building permits)

Frequently asked questions for detention pond maintenance Attention homeowners associations: as part of the city’s goal of maintaining an environmentally sustainable stormwater system, here are some answers to frequently asked questions.

Why does the City of Batavia require stormwater detention ponds? Stormwater detention ponds have been required for developments since 1973. Impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots and roofs increase stormwater runoff which ultimately drains to creeks and the Fox River. This increased runoff can cause erosion, water pollution and damage to waterways. To decrease flooding downstream, storm sewer systems collect and route stormwater to detention ponds which store and then slowly release the stormwater. Detention ponds must be maintained on a regular basis to function properly. 16

Who is responsible for maintaining detention ponds? When subdivisions are developed, provisions are included stating who owns and is responsible for maintaining detention ponds. In most developments built within the last 40 years, the detention ponds serving residential neighborhoods are owned and maintained by the homeowners association. There are currently 115 detention ponds within the corporate limits of the city. Each pond is inspected by city staff every two years. After staff performs the inspection, the homeowners association president may receive a report with items that need to be addressed. The letter gives a timeline for correcting the items. Also, the city is currently updating the HOA contact person database. Please contact the City of Batavia Engineering Division with any contact information updates. We encourage you to not wait to

receive this report before performing maintenance. It’s recommended that HOAs fully inspect detention ponds on a yearly basis. Who is responsible for maintaining storm sewer catch basins/inlets/ manholes on private property? The city cleans and maintains catch basins in the public right-ofway. Maintenance responsibility of catch basins located on private property such as common areas typically falls on the HOA. The basic guideline for maintaining a catch basin is to clean them when the sediment buildup reaches within 6 inches of the lowest pipe. How do I get technical assistance for maintaining my detention facility? If you have questions or need technical assistance please contact the City of Batavia Engineering Division at 630-454-2750.

630-454-2000 • cityofbatavia.net

Residential brush collection program resumes Curbside residential brush pickup resumes in May for residents that pay the monthly leaf/brush fee on their utility bill. Brush/limbs are to be at the curb for collection no later than 7am on Monday of your scheduled week, but no sooner than the weekend before that. Crews will make only one pass by each residence. Brush placed out after our crews have passed will not be collected until the next scheduled pickup date. The amount of brush that has been placed out citywide in any given month dictates how quickly your area will be reached, but each side of town is typically completed by Friday of the scheduled week. Major storms may affect the schedule, and notice of any special brush collection will be posted on the city’s website. The monthly collections are intended to handle most storm damage limbs that fall during the season, and special collections are done very rarely. If your

brush was out at 7am on Monday of your scheduled collection week and not collected by the end of the workday on Friday, please notify the street division at 630-454-2400 no later than the following Monday. If you have any questions, please call the street division at 630-454-2400 weekdays from 7am–4pm or visit the website at cityofbatavia.net/brushcollection.

2018 Brush Collection Schedule East Side Collection May 14 June 11 July 9 Aug. 13 Sept. 10 Oct. 8 Nov. 26—Citywide

West Side Collection May 21 June 18 July 16 Aug. 20 Sept. 17 Oct. 15 Nov. 26—Citywide

The following procedures must be followed to ensure the collection of your brush: • Maximum diameter is 6" (logs cannot be split); maximum length of limbs is 12'. • Brush should be stacked into one large pile in the front/side parkway with cut ends facing the curb, and placed away from parkway trees, mailboxes, utility poles/boxes, hydrants, and parked vehicles. Brush will not be collected from alleys or vacant lots. • Brush/limbs must not be tied, bundled, in containers, bagged, or put on the street. • Brush pile should contain only brush. Foreign objects will not be collected. • Program is for residentially-generated brush only, not contractor tree removals or trimming. • Brush left out on the parkway between collection dates is subject to a possible code violation citation.

2018 Parkway Tree Program begins

The City of Batavia provides residents with an opportunity to purchase a parkway tree, as part of its commitment to reforestation in Batavia. The available species are locally grown, quality trees that do well in city parkways. We offer a variety of species each year to provide a diversified parkway tree population. Residents pay one-half of the tree cost, which is posted on the city’s website. The cost covers the tree, planting, and mulch. Residents will be invoiced for their share of the tree cost after planting.

For materials that do not meet the specifications at left: • Advanced Disposal will collect yard waste bags/32gallon cans (not to exceed 50 pounds per bag/32gallon can) consisting of twigs, evergreen clippings, roots, stumps, and plants on your regular trash collection day, beginning in April. A refuse sticker should be attached to the yard waste bag or 32-gallon can. If a can is used, it should be clearly marked “yard waste” on the side facing the street. • Residents with limbs/brush exceeding the requirements for the program can contact a private service to have it removed at the resident’s expense. • Unincorporated residents should contact their township offices regarding brush collection services that may be available to them. To apply for a tree, please submit the online request form (available at cityofbatavia.net/ parkwaytree). We will accept requests until March 30 for spring trees or Sept. 15 for fall trees (or while supplies last). If you require a paper form or have any questions, call the Street Division at 630-454-2400.

Save the date: Come out and help the City of Batavia celebrate Public Works Week (May 20–26)

Batavia’s Director of Public Works, Gary Holm will be reading some stories with themes about public works and engineering on Tues., May 22 at 10am for children of all ages, in the Reading Garden at the Batavia Public Library (weather permitting). After story time Gary will let the children climb aboard one of the snowplows. Registration begins May 1 with Youth Services at the library, 630-879-4775. 17

Currents Safety first: staying safe when working at home If you are going to do home improvement projects yourself, be sure to take the following precautions and know when to call an expert. • Wear proper safety garb, including eye protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear. • Be sure to turn your power off before performing electrical work. • Tackle only those tasks that you feel safe handling. Leave major jobs involving electricity, gas lines, and roof work to the pros. • Keep a tidy work area to avoid creating your own hazards. Don’t allow power cords to tangle. Pick up and properly store power tools, sharp tools, or dangerous materials. • Keep tools and supplies away from the reach of small children. • When using power tools, be sure to follow all precautions stated in the manual. Always unplug the tool before servicing or adjusting it and when you’re finished with the task at hand. Be sure the tool works properly and is equipped with proper safety guards. • When working with corded power tools outdoors, be sure they’re plugged into a receptacle that is protected by a ground-fault-circuit interrupter (GFCI). In the

Helpful tips if your sewer backs up If your residence experiences a sewer back-up please consider these helpful tips. Call the city first at 630-454-2000. The problem might be in the city’s main line. By calling the city first, it could save you the price of hiring a private plumber. If the problem is in your own service line, the city can provide guidance in hiring a plumber. The city has emergency response personnel 24 hours per day. Check your insurance policy to determine if you are covered for sanitary sewer back-up and/or sump pump failure. Many homeowners’ policies do not cover sewer back-ups

event of a short, a GFCI will shut off the circuit instantaneously. • When using a ladder, position it on a flat, firm surface. Do not lean out to one side and never stand on the top two rungs. When using an extension ladder to reach the roof, extend at least two rungs above the eaves so you can hold onto the ladder as you step onto the roof. • Equip your garage or workshop and your home with fire extinguishers. Be sure they’re large enough to handle home fires; they need to be rated a minimum size of “2A10BC” on the label. Periodically check them to be sure they are fully charged. • Protect yourself against exposure to hazardous chemicals and materials. Many varnishes, strippers, solvents, preservatives, adhesives, and other products contain hazardous ingredients. Pay attention to all label warnings, including instructions about proper ventilation. When sanding wood or wallboard joint compound, wear a dust mask. • Know how to handle lead-based paint. Test surfaces before sanding or stripping. Test kits are available in most home-improvement centers. • Last but not least, keep a good first-aid kit on hand.

or water damage unless you have purchased a special provision for this purpose. If you experience a sewer back-up follow these guidelines for repairs and clean-up. 1. A lways call YOUR insurance company first to report any damage to your property or possessions. 2. T he City of Batavia’s insurance company will make a determination if the city is responsible for damages caused by a sewer backup.

3. Contact numbers for the City of Batavia: Water/Sewer Division— 630-454-2450 Finance Dept., Insurance Claim Questions—630-454-2000 As a precaution—Be safe when working in flooded areas which might be contaminated. Go the city website cityofbatavia.net to see “Cleaning Up After Flood and Sewer Overflows” from the Illinois Department of Public Health website for proper precautions. You will also find a copy of the city’s sewer back-up and cleaning policy on the website.

2018 Sidewalk removal and replacement program planned Each year the City of Batavia performs sidewalk maintenance to repair defects within the city sidewalk system. These repairs ensure pedestrian safety as well as reduce liability for the property owner and the City of Batavia. The city’s Sidewalk & Curb Replacement Program is comprised of walks that are sunken or risen more than 18

1" or more between sections, broken or separated into three or more pieces or 50% or more of the surface deteriorated. Construction will take place between April 15 and June 15. Residents whose driveway access will be affected will be notified by door hanger a few days prior. Please see the program’s webpage for more detailed information at cityofbatavia.net/projects.

Downtown Batavia Spring is on its way, so get out of the house and join us in Downtown Batavia for a great variety of fun for everyone! See you in downtown! Jamie Saam Executive Director, Batavia MainStreet

#DowntownBatavia

Batavia Restaurant Madness Week is your opportunity to get out and try something new and delicious! Present an ad/coupon at one of the participating restaurants March 25–29 and receive 20% off your bill.

It’s more than a hunt, it’s a hop! Come to the Downtown Egg Hop on March 31 and hop around our downtown businesses to find eggs for prizes. Tons of family fun that includes free entertainment, games and activities. Starting at the Peg Bond Center at 9:45am, pick up your egg hop map with participating businesses and a goodie bag for the first 500 kiddos! Save the date—June 2: Farmer’s Market, Race to Market, Well Batavia This year will mark the 23rd year of the Annual Batavia Farmers’ Market which takes place every Saturday from 8am to 12pm beginning June 2 through Oct. 27 on N. River St. between Wilson and State St. Come enjoy over 20 different vendors offering a variety of fresh vegetables, fruit, eggs, meat, cheese, herbs, flowers, music and more. Along with our weekly pop up vendors, check our website weekly for who will be in attendance. Third Saturdays will feature the Artisan Collective where you can enjoy living and shopping local. Shop for handmade items from your favorite artists and designers. WellBatavia is a health and wellness fair designed to showcase the health, wellness, and fitness resources our community has to offer. It will promote healthy living by directly increasing the health literacy of our community on an individual level with screenings, presentations and access to vendors. Race to Market 5K will be held in conjunction with WellBatavia and the 23rd Opening Day of the Batavia Farmer’s Market. Race to Market 5K will be run on a popular certified Fox River Prairie Path course starting at the Farmer’s Market and ending in beautiful downtown Batavia at the WellBatavia event. Registration is now open! Head to the downtownbatavia.com website to register for Race to Market, WellBatavia free fitness demos, and WellBatavia free health seminars. To learn more about what is happening in your downtown or to get involved, please contact the MainStreet office at 630-761-3528 and make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat!

Be entertained…Celebrate achievements…Get involved in your Downtown!

Batavia Public Library Batavia and 18 other Illinois libraries join consortium

or the past 24 years, Batavia Public Library has been a part of the Library Integrated Network Consortium (LINC), which at various times was comprised of 8–10 libraries. Due to financial constraints, LINC can no longer afford to exist as a consortium. Effective May 1, Batavia Public Library will become part of System Wide Automated Network (SWAN). The seven other LINC libraries, which include St. Charles and Geneva, are also joining SWAN. Several nearby MAGIC system libraries, including North Aurora, are joining as well. With an addition of 19 new libraries this year, the SWAN consortium will include 97 libraries. Two big advantages to joining SWAN—Batavia Public Library cardholders will have access to a catalog that will offer a 729% increase in the number of items available, and Batavia cardholders will be able to visit any of the 97 SWAN libraries to check out materials and to pick up reserved materials if another location is more convenient. Batavia Public Library cardholders can expect to see some changes; however, the basics of borrowing and placing holds on items will remain much the same.

SWAN Q & A for Batavia cardholders Q. Will the catalog look different? A. The catalog will look similar and have an option of expanding to many libraries’ holdings.

The Library will be closed: Sun., April 1 Library Hours Monday–Thursday 9 am–9 pm Friday and Saturday 9 am–5 pm Sunday 12–5 pm (Sept.–May) Sunday 1–4pm (June–Aug.)

Q. Will there still be automatic renewals? A. Yes! But instead of receiving one email for items that were renewed and another email for items that were not renewed, this information will arrive in one email, if multiple items are involved. Q. How will I learn when materials I’ve reserved are available? A. Hold notices will be available by text, email, or phone message. However, notices will not list details about the item. If a patron wants to know which of their items are available, they can check their account online, call the Library, or visit the Library. Q. Will fines remain the same? A. Daily fines will remain the same, but the fine caps per item will change. Most items will have a maximum fine of $4.20 (previously $5.00). New DVDs and video games will have a maximum fine of $42.00. Q. Will I still get messages via Shoutbomb? A. No, Shoutbomb itself will no longer be available. However, in SWAN text messaging is an available option for hold notifications, courtesy (pre-overdue) notices, first and second overdue notices, and billing notices. This service is not interactive, so you cannot renew or query via text.

Telephone 630-879-1393 Fax: 630-879-9118 TTY: 630-879-8335 Home Delivery: 630-879-1393, ext. 290 Library Director George H. Scheetz

Library Trustees Andrew Deitchman, President Diane Blodgett, Vice President Jo Ann Smith, Secretary Jennifer Culotta, Treasurer Kate Garrett Richard Henders Michael MacKenzie

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org

Under the Cupola Speak Up! Batavia The Board of Library Trustees wants to hear from you, Batavia! A series of four town-hall style community engagement sessions called “Speak Up!” are now underway. Residents are encouraged to attend each session to share their thoughts on the future of the Library. Community Engagement Session #1 took place on Feb. 1 at the Batavia High School Cafeteria—the location for each session. A brief presentation on the “State of the Library” by Library Director George H. Scheetz was followed by small group discussions. To view the slides and listen to my presentation, “Your Library Today,” please visit the Library’s home page (at BataviaPublicLibrary.org) and click on the “Speak Up!” icon. Please send your comments to engage@BataviaPublicLibrary.org. The success of “Speak Up!” relies on participation from a broad-based representation of community members. The Board of Library Trustees wants to hear from as many people as possible, and we want residents to hear what other residents are saying. Information gathered from the workshops will serve as the basis for a community-wide collaborative vision that will inform the decisions for future Batavia Public Library programs and services. Community Engagement Session #2, “Focus on the Future: Trends in Libraries,” took place on March 1, and explored the future of libraries in terms of programs and services, space use, technology, and

more. If you missed it, the presentation by Lynn M. Elam, a professional librarian, Batavia resident, and former Library Trustee, will soon be available on the “Speak Up!” page. Community Engagement Session #3, “Stewards of the Public’s Investment,” is scheduled for Thurs., April 12. At this important session, we will share financial information about the Library, its operations and services, and its building and campus. The final town hall meeting, Community Engagement Session #4, is scheduled for Thursday, May 10, and will ask the key question, Did we hear you correctly? Join the conversation on April 12 and “Speak Up!” Batavia! George H. Scheetz Director

Q. Does my current PIN remain the same? A. Yes. Remember you can change your PIN whenever you like. Q. Will the Library remain open during the transition? A. Yes. There will be a three-day period, April 28–May 1, when self-check out machines will not be available for use and no returned materials will be removed from patron accounts. No items will be due during this period, so no fines will accrue. The system will modify due dates.

Coming up…

Prom Dress Giveaway—cosponsored by CHIP IN Batavia and the Library March 17, 9am—4pm National Library Week April 8–14 Library Community Engagement Sessions March 1, April 12, May 10 7–9pm, Batavia High School Cafeteria

2018 Summer Reading Club June 2–Aug . 2

Batavia Public Library Programs and activities for youth Registration Information: Stop by or call the Youth Services Desk at 630-879-1393, ext. 500, to register and for more information. Priority is given 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. Storytime registration begins Mar. 19. Patrons of all abilities are welcome at our programs. Please contact the Library regarding accommodations. Advance registration is required for programs designated

Spring Storytimes & Activities Stories in Motion

Sat., Mar. 3 & Apr. 7, 11am Ages 3–6 Books are great to listen to, but they really come alive when we add movement to them, too! We’ll act out stories, learn fun stretches, and practice lively movement rhymes and songs. Each program has a different theme.

Baby Play & Learn

Fri., Mar. 16, 10am Babies through 23 months Drop-in playtime for parents and babies. Please make alternate care arrangements for older siblings. Space is limited.

Book Character Visits Sat., Mar. 24, 1pm Clifford Fri., Apr. 20, 1pm Curious George

Family Storytime

Mon., Apr. 2–23, 7pm Families with children through age 7 are welcome.

Baby Storytime– Pre-Walkers

Tues., Apr. 3–24, 9:30am Babies 0–23 months with a caregiver Babies who are not yet walking can enjoy songs, nursery rhymes, lap games, and book-sharing. Please make alternate care arrangements for older siblings.

Toddler Time

Mon., Apr. 2–23, 10:30am Tues., Apr. 3–24, 10:30am Ages 2–3 with a caregiver Enjoy stories, rhymes, and more. Storytimes last approximately 25 minutes.

Drop-In Toddler Time

Tues., Apr. 3–24, 11:30am Ages 2–3 with a caregiver Toddlers can enjoy stories, rhymes, movement, and more. Storytimes last approximately 20 minutes and are followed by a short group play time. Space is limited. Entry tickets will be given out 20 minutes before the storytime until gone. Batavia Public Library card required.

ABC Storytime

Amy Lowe entertains families, May 7. See page 26 for details. 22

Wed., Apr. 4–25, 10am Wed., Apr. 4–25, 1pm Thurs., Apr. 5–26, 10am Ages 3–6 Activities, Books, and Craft program for children without a caregiver

Baby & Tot Storytime

Fri., Apr. 6–27, 10am Babies and tots through 35 months with a caregiver Drop in for songs, rhymes, and stories. We ask that alternate care arrangements be made for older siblings. Entry tickets will be given out 20 minutes before the storytime until gone. Batavia Public Library card required.

Baby Storytime– Walkers

Fri., Apr. 6–27, 11am Babies through 23 months with a caregiver Babies who are walking can enjoy songs, nursery rhymes, fingerplays, games, and book-sharing. Please make alternate care arrangements for older siblings.

Preschool Drop-In Storytime

Fri., Apr. 6–27, 1pm Ages 3–6 Children are invited, younger siblings welcome. An adult must accompany children under the age of 4 years.

For Students Minecrafternoon

Thurs., Mar. 1, 4:30pm Thurs., Apr. 5, 4:30pm Ages 6–14 Join your fellow Minecrafters for an hour of play on the Library’s Minecraft system. Entry tickets will be handed out beginning 15 minutes before the program until gone. Space is limited.

Coding for Kids

Mon., Mar. 5–26, 4:30pm Grades 4–6 Are you a computer fan? Computer science instructor Jo Ann Smith facilities this 4-week coding instruction program. Each week Smith will offer instruction and introduction to some basic tools, followed by time for self-directed coding work and skill building. Space is limited.

Kids Read

Tues., Mar. 6, 6:30pm The Artsy Mistake Mystery by Sylvia McNicoll Thurs., Apr. 12, 6:30pm Bird in a Box by Andrea Davis Pinkney Grades 4–8 Bring these books to life with refreshments, activities, and conversation. Reserve a copy of the book when registering.

Middle School Mystery Night

Fri., Mar. 9, 6:30–9pm Grades 6–8 Play a life-size game of Clue with characters and locations based on the magical world of Harry Potter. You’ll also eat pizza and try to unlock the secret in a challenge room to earn hints to solve the Clue mystery. Space is limited. A signed parental form and $3 per participant are due at registration.

Book Gems

Tues., Mar. 13, 6:30pm The Case from Outer Space by James Preller

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org Tues., Apr. 10, 7pm 8 Class Pets + 1 Squirrel [divided by] 1 Dog = Chaos by Vivian Vande Velde Grades 2–3 Registration begins Mar. 13; reserve a copy of the book when registering.

tactics. Basic knowledge of the game is required; however, all skill levels are welcome. A portion of the hour will be spent on strategy and a portion playing the game using what you have learned.

Curiosity Club

Dewey Club

Wed., Mar. 14, 4:30pm Wed., Apr. 25, 4:30pm Grades K–2 Through books, games, and experiments, participants will explore a variety of science and nature topics each month. Each participant will also receive a take-home activity.

Mad Scientists Club Thurs., Mar. 15, 4:30pm Magnets Mon., Apr. 30, 4:30pm Engineering Challenges Grades 3–5 Explore your inner scientist with activities, experiments, and games.

Chat & Chew

Thurs., Mar. 22, 4:30pm Under the Sea Tues., Apr. 17, 4:30pm Under My Feet Grades 2–4 Journey into the interesting topics and subjects found in nonfiction books through games and activities.

Duplo & Lego® Fun

Tues., Mar. 27, 10am Ages 4–11 Drop-in and build something with our Duplo and Lego bricks. Batavia Public Library card required. Space is limited. Children ages 4–6 must be accompanied by an adult.

Crafting with a Heart

Mon., Mar. 19, 6:30pm Mon., Apr. 16, 4:30pm Grades 6–8 Hang out with friends, eat pizza, and do creative projects. In March and April, we will film a promotional video for Summer Reading Club 2018.

Tues., Mar. 27, 2pm Grades 5–8 Help us make toys and comfort items for dogs and cats at the Naperville Human Society. We provide the supplies—you provide your time and crafting expertise.

Chess Club

Pet Safety & Care for Kids

Tues., Mar. 20, 4:30pm Tues., Apr. 24, 4:30pm Ages 6–14 Learn more about chess or improve your chess skills as we explore strategy and

Thurs., Mar. 29, 1pm Ages 5–12 Children are invited to learn about how to be safe around animals, what to

expect when adopting a pet, and what it takes to care for pets. This interactive program includes a visit from a therapy dog. Presented by the Naperville Area Humane Society.

For Families Observation Station

Drop by the Youth Services department each month to see what is being explored through our Observation Station.

Read Across America

Fri., Mar. 2, 1–2pm It’s Dr. Seuss’s birthday! Join us as we celebrate the fun of reading and honor Dr. Seuss. Enjoy stories and book-related activities and games.

Tournament of Picture Books

March 5–28 Take part in the Library’s

inaugural Tournament of Picture Books! The contenders are sixteen outstanding pictures books, all hoping to be first in your hearts and on your ballot. Beginning Mar. 5, young patrons will have a chance to choose their favorite picture book in playoff-style brackets. Winners advance to the next bracket through Mar. 30. Voting ends Mar. 28; winner announced Mar. 30. All nominated picture books are on display in the Youth Services department. Readers are invited to check them out, read them in the Library, or read them online using the Library’s BookFlix and Tumblebooks Library databases. Come in and vote! Youth Programs are continued on page 26

Student volunteers needed

The Youth Services department is seeking junior volunteers to help during the Summer Reading Club. Batavia students entering grades 6–9 are invited to apply. Junior volunteers may choose from three different opportunities. Weekly volunteers are scheduled for one hour per week from June 1 to Aug. 3, and may be asked to straighten shelves, make copies, and prepare craft projects, as well as other projects. Book Buddy volunteers will help beginning readers practice their reading skills; times and dates will vary during the summer. Special Event volunteers will be called as needed to help at special programs and with special projects. Volunteers may choose to volunteer in one, two, or all three of the opportunities. Students interested in volunteering should pick up an application at the Youth Services Desk or print a copy from the Library website. Application deadline is May 12. Scheduling will be based on the date the application is returned to the Youth Services Desk.

And Don’t Miss... Registration is not required for the following activities. Drop-In Craft Mon., Mar. 26, 10am–2pm Sat., Apr. 14, 10am–12pm All ages

Chess Knight

Tues., Mar. 27, 7pm Ages 8 and older Students, teens, and adults at all skill levels are welcome. Feel free to bring your favorite chess board.

Bingo

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

Movie at the Library

Fri., Mar. 30, 1pm All ages Call the Library for movie title, length, and rating. Reading Takes You Everywhere 23

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. Patrons of all abilities are welcome at our programs. Please contact the Library regarding accommodations. Advance registration is required for programs designated

Feature Programs

One Book, One Batavia

Tournament of Books

March 5–28 If you’re a fan of new fiction, take part in the Library’s third annual Tournament of Books! Sixteen of 2017’s best fiction books—chosen by Batavia readers and Library staff—will contend for Batavia’s fiction book of the year in playoffstyle brackets between March 5 and March 28. Vote online on the Library’s Facebook page or in person at the Library (near the Reference Desk). Pick up an annotated list of the Sweet Sixteen titles and a tournament bracket at the Reference Desk.

Party Like It’s 1818!

Mon., Apr. 9, 7pm Ellie Carlson takes you to a party in 1818 Illinois. Sample food, have your silhouette made, dance the dances, and hear the music that might have played as all 32,000 Illinoisans celebrated statehood. Period costumes welcome!

Questions & Ancestors Genealogy Series

Sponsored by the Friends of the Batavia Public Library

Oba William King, Storyteller

Sun., Mar. 4, 2pm Award-winning storyteller Oba William King captures the essence of The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, the One Book, One Batavia 2018 selection, sharing stories and folktales from Malawi. King offers an example of the traditional style of “Call and Response,” which is specific to the region where author William Kamkwamba is from, as well as “story with drum.”

William and the Windmill

Mon., Mar. 5, 7pm After William Kamkwamba succeeded at building a windmill for his village, he became known worldwide. This documentary shows the new challenges he faced as he shifted from inventor to leader. Winner of the South by Southwest Film Festival Grand Jury Award for Documentary Feature.

Stories and Songs of African People

Sun., Mar. 11, 2pm Master storyteller and musician Shanta Nurullah entertains, informs, and inspires with a blend of folktales, personal stories, and music. World traveler and storyteller Shanta Nurullah performs at the Library, Mar. 11.

Preserving Family Heirlooms

Mon., Apr. 23, 7pm Tina Beaird offers a step-by-step approach to saving family treasures, including documents, photos, fabrics,

and glass, using proper storage and simple preservation techniques. Participants will test-drive products and learn preservation do’s and don’ts for historic and modern scrapbooks.

Monthly Programs Book Discussions

Tues., Mar. 13, 7:30pm The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien The men of Alpha Company battle the enemy, miss the lives they left behind, and struggle with loneliness, rage, and fear in a testament to the devastating legacy of the Vietnam War. This modern classic is a painful, lyrical, and intensely personal account of the war. Tues., Apr. 10, 7:30pm West with the Night by Beryl Markham In this lyrical memoir, Markham vividly evokes her adventures as a groundbreaking pilot and horse trainer in Kenya in the early 20th century. 24

May book discussion selection: The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie

Books Between Bites

Thurs., Mar. 15, 12pm Arnie by Tom Callahan and Smart Baseball by Keith Law, presented by Lester Munson Thurs., Apr. 19, 12pm Remembering the Legendary Studs Terkel, presented by Rick Kogan

Adult Anime Club

Thurs., Mar. 22 and Apr. 26, 6:30pm Adults ages 18 and older are invited to watch anime and meet other adult anime and manga enthusiasts.

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org

Sundays on Stage The Batavia Public Library Foundation is the 2018 Season Sponsor.

Unforgettable

Sun., March 25, 2pm Matt and Cynthia Gruel of Nostalgia Entertainment perform popular songs of the 50s and share stories behind the music and the artists.

Cleopatra, Last Pharaoh of Egypt

Sun., Apr. 29, 2pm Cleopatra, one of the most famous female rulers in history, shares her astounding story, audacious spirit, and astonishing guile in this portrayal by Martina Mathisen. Martina Mathisen portrays Cleopatra, Apr. 29.

Teen Programs

Advance registration is required for programs designated

College Prep

Financial Aid Award Letters

Thurs., Apr. 5, 7pm Financial aid expert Meghan Chrum talks about how to understand and evaluate financial aid award letters. With the help of a worksheet, families can compare multiple financial aid award letters while getting one-onone help as needed.

Practice SAT

Sun., Apr. 8, 12:30pm Take a free practice SAT test, courtesy of Princeton Review. Bring water, #2 pencils, and an energy snack, as well as an SAT-approved calculator. Scores will be available online within a week of taking the test. To register, go to princetonreview.com/college/free-sat-practice-test and enter your zip code in the search box to find the practice test.

Fun Stuﬀ

Inclusion Game Night

Wed., Mar. 14 & Apr. 11, 6:30pm Teens and young adults of all abilities—and their families and friends— are invited to meet new people and try out a board game or card game in a relaxed setting. High school volunteers are welcome.

Technology Coaching

Anime Club

Thurs., Mar. 8 & Apr. 12, 6:30pm Teens ages 13 and older are invited to watch anime, play games, and meet other anime and manga enthusiasts.

Inclusion Movie Night

Tues., Mar. 27 & Apr. 24, 6:30pm Teens and young adults of all abilities—and their families and friends—

are welcome to meet new people and watch a movie in a relaxed setting.

Escape the Library!

Thurs., Mar. 29, 7pm Can you solve the puzzles and escape the Library before the hour is up? Sign up with a friend and find out!

Follow the Library on

Schedule an appointment with a technology assistant for a one-hour, one-on-one session based on your individual needs. Technology coaching includes instruction on computers, tablets, smartphones, and more. Available Monday–Thursday, 4–8pm. 25

Batavia Public Library Computer classes for adults Registration Information: One-hour, hands-on computer classes. Basic computer skills, including mouse & keyboard proficiency, are required. Registration is required; please call the Reference Desk, 630-879-1393, ext. 200. Advance registration is required for programs designated

Computer Classes Introduction to Microsoft Word 2016, Part 1

Thurs., Mar. 29, 9am Create documents and folders; edit; change font style and size, underline, italicize, make bold, and center text; and save. **Microsoft Word proficiency required:

Introduction to Microsoft Word 2016, Part 2**

Thurs., Apr. 5, 9am Font and background colors; text boxes, clip art, and photos; bulleted and numbered lists; tables; lines, arrows, and autoshapes; page numbers; and page setup

Introduction to Microsoft Word 2016, Part 3**

Introduction to Microsoft Excel 2016, Part 2**

Introduction to Microsoft Excel 2016, Part 1**

Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint 2016**

Thurs., Apr. 12, 9am Headers and footers, section breaks, WordArt, page borders, footnotes, endnotes, tables, charts, and mail merge

Tues., Apr. 24, 9am Summation; formulas; data entry; autofill; print

Tues., May 1, 9am Add and delete rows and columns; find and replace; sort; navigate workbooks; introduction to charts; security

Thurs., Apr. 26, 9am

Youth Programs continued from page 23

Author Amy Chally

Wed., Mar. 28, 7pm Amy Chally, author, motivational speaker, and disability awareness consultant, speaks about her book Making Independence Happen. She will be joined by her current service dog, Portland, and will demonstrate how he helps her in her daily routine. Witness the powerful bond that exists between a dog and his handler and gain understanding as to what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like to live with physical differences. After the presentation, Chally will answer questions. Copies of her book will be available for purchase with 15% of the proceeds benefiting Canine Companions for Independence. Recommended for school age children, teens, and adults. Doors to the Founders Room open at 6:45pm.

Stomp Your Feet

Mon., May 7, 10:30am Singer-songwriter Amy Lowe invites children to stomp their feet during this lively performance. Loweâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interactive songs and stories spark the imagination and encourage all to sing, clap, and move to the beat. Doors to the Founders Room open at 10:15am. 26

Author Amy Chally and her service dog Portland talk to families about living with physical differences, Mar. 28.

630-879-1393 • BataviaPublicLibrary.org

News from the Friends The Friends of the Batavia Public Library is dedicated to promoting, improving, and assisting the Library. You can support the Friends by purchasing books and other materials at the Friends’ monthly book sales (second Saturday of every month except June); the Friends’ Book Corner (whenever the Library is open); the annual Vintage Book Sale (November); the Holiday Book Sale (November and December); and the Educators’ Book Sale (August). The Friends sell All Hallows’ Read coupons in October (good for giving a book on Halloween), Book Lover’s Calendars, canvas book bags, and Honorary Friends memberships for the newborns in your life. Friends—please renew your memberships for 2018. If you are not a member and would like to join us, membership forms are available at the Batavia Public Library and online at BataviaPublicLibrary.org > Get Involved > Friends.

Save the dates Saturday book sales in the FriendSpace on the Library’s lower level are held on the second Saturday of every month except June. Book sale dates in 2018 are: Mar. 10, Apr. 14, May 12, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, and Dec. 8.

The Friends ongoing book sale is located on the Library’s upper level across from the Check Out Desk. Items in the Friends Book Corner can be purchased any time the Library is open. Bring items and money to the Check Out Desk.

Genealogy Research Whether you’re just starting or would like help overcoming obstacles, a librarian will guide you in your genealogy research during a one-hour, one-on-one session. Available Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm.

kaneneighbors.com 27

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

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

Community-based placement program helping BHS students and local businesses by Lucas Oswald An increasing number of local businesses have started displaying small BHS logos in their storefront windows. The decal features two hands clasping in a firm handshake, surrounded by the golden paw print of a Batavia Bulldog. Though a tiny sticker, the logo represents something huge, something with the power to have a profound impact on the community. The black text surrounding the paw print reads, “Proud supporter of the BHS Community-Based Placement Program.”

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 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 28

Batavia High School Transition Specialist Kimberly Garcia said she got the idea to create a sticker to publicly thank businesses for their help and participation in the BHS CommunityBased Placement Program from fellow colleagues. To bring the sticker to life, she reached out to BHS Graphic Arts Teacher Kathleen Tieri Ton. Mrs. Tieri Ton tapped one of her advanced graphic arts students, BHS junior Julian Davis, for the job. “The students who benefit the most from the Community-Based Placement Program [CBPP] are the students who are juniors and seniors in our Vocational Transition Program [VTP],” said Kimberly Garcia, BHS transition specialist and founder of the CBPP. The VTP

services students with intellectual disabilities, significant learning disabilities, or Autism. “Students who have shown us that they have achieved independence with jobs within the building by their junior or senior year are ready to transition out into a job in the community one day a week,” said Mrs. Garcia. Despite having only three students enrolled in the CBPP this year, Mrs. Garcia works closely with nearly ten local businesses, including Community Therapy Services in St. Charles, Trader Joe’s in Batavia, Ross Clothing in Geneva, the Batavia Public Library, Orange Theory Fitness in Geneva, Marklund Hyde Center in Geneva, and H.C. Storm Elementary School. “We have a great pool of businesses in the area that are interested and willing to participate,” said Mrs. Garcia. “But, something that I take into account are students’ abilities and interests. I know that GNC in Batavia is interested in partnering with us, but I want to be sure that I connect this business with a student who has an interest in the health field and has the skills that will make them successful in that type of work environment.” Ensuring that her students find themselves in positions that not only help them, but also the companies that they serve holds great importance to Mrs. Garcia. “A partnership isn’t effective unless all parties are benefitting, [and] my goal is never to send [in] a student and have them do things that are mundane and unhelpful to the business,” she said. Mrs. Garcia sits down with each of the companies personally to guarantee the achievement of this objective.

“When more accommodated job opportunities are available to individuals with disabilities, their dependency on government supports can be less and more of their time can be spent productively giving back to and interacting with their community,” she said. Changing the perceptions and stereotypes that many have toward those with cognitive disabilities remains one of Mrs. Garcia’s top priorities. The first and most important condition that she has for all of her partner businesses is that they foster tolerance within the company walls. “What I expect from businesses is that they are open and willing to have a student with disabilities, that they are going to create an environment of acceptance and tolerance and understanding, and that they are going to work to

help all of their patrons who come into their business gain that same mindset,” said Mrs. Garcia. Community Therapy Services, one of the supporters of Batavia High School’s Community Placement Program, became a participant in 2014 and, at the time, was paired with two VTP students. “As an organization that provides speech and occupational and physical therapy to children through adulthood, we’ve heard from parents first-hand there’s a strong need for vocational opportunities, and knew we wanted to be part of the solution,” said Brenda Borden, client support specialist at Community Therapy Services. “At our location, [VTP] students help prepare therapy materials for client sessions, keep our mail system organized, and help our practice run smoothly. We’ve loved

At the Centre…

Rhythm of the Dance

March 9–7:30pm This two-hour dance and music extravaganza contains a wealth of Irish talent. The show is an inspiring epic, reliving the journey of the Irish Celts throughout history. Using modern art forms of dance and music, this richly costumed show marries the contemporary and the ancient. Combining traditional dance and music with the most up-to-date stage technology, the show is a thousand-year-old story executed with all the advantages of the modern day stage show. Rhythm of the Dance has heralded a new era in Irish entertainment, internationally rated as one of the most popular and busiest Irish step dance shows in the world. Rhythm of the Dance aspires to a purity content, preserving the traditions of Irish step dancing, yet presenting it in a modern format. The show features a live band, three tenors, and more than 20 dancers. It’s a must-see!

Abba Fab

June 22–7:30pm ABBA’s record-breaking string of hits is timeless and continues to thrill audiences of all ages. There’s no generation gap here—just memorable music and memories—and ABBA FAB covers them all. This multimedia production is a tribute to some of the greatest music produced in the 1970s and 1980s, including monster hits like “Waterloo,” “Fernando,” “Honey Honey,” “Dancing Queen,” and countless others. From the earliest hits to “Mama Mia,” ABBA FAB will take you on an ABBA journey that is unmatched.

getting to know them and all the wonderful staff members involved in this program. Every high school in the country needs a program like this, and a person with Mrs. Garcia’s heart and dedication to lead it. Her commitment to the students and her enthusiasm for the program is evident.” As the fourth year of the program starts to wind down, Mrs. Garcia sees the program expanding to encompass more students and more businesses throughout the community. She remains passionate as she works to change the world— or at least Batavia—one business at a time. Lucas Oswald is a BPS101 Communications Department intern.

Coming Up at The Centre March 1—GMS Grades 1 and 2 Music Concert 2–4—Applause Talent Dance Competition 7—Batavia Park District Dance Recital 8—Music In Our School Month Concert - RMS 7th and 8th Grade Bands 9—Rhythm of the Dance 10—Elevations Studio Company Showcase 11—Yes, And…Fest 14—BHS/RMS Showtime 16—BHS Rock the Runway 17—Batavia Elementary Choral Festival 18—Dance Quest 19—RMS March Choral Concert 21—HWS 4th and 5th Grade Musical 22— BHS Fine Arts Fest 23–25—International Dance Challenge April 6–8—Spotlight Dance Competition 19–21—BHS Presents: Letters to Sala 26—AGS Spring Musical–2 27–29—Beyond the Stars Competition Order your tickets today!

630-937-8930

BataviaFineArtsCentre.org

Batavia School District 101 News Annual Hoagie Sales begin March 12 Place your order, feed your family, and support music in Batavia! The Music Buffs’ hoagie sale includes a selection of sandwiches made fresh and freeze well. This long-standing tradition at Batavia High School (circa 1982) not only provides funds for the program, but students are able to apply a percentage of their sales to the cost of music trips and fees. Learn more at BataviaMusicBuffs.org or facebook.com//BPS101MusicBoosters.

STAGE - Supporting Theatre Arts for a Greater Education was formed in 2005. We support, encourage, maintain and promote Rotolo Middle School and Batavia High School theatrical productions. Last year we provided over $30,000 to help produce shows at BHS and RMS. There are several different membership levels available. For more information visit stagebatavia.org Like us on Facebook—facebook.com/StageBatavia and follow us on Twitter—twitter.com/STAGE_Batavia

Upcoming Batavia High School Performances

March 11 Yes and…Fest Improv Shows But Seriously, Folks…Improv Troupe, 6:15pm Chicago Improv Productions, 6:45–8:15pm One ticket gets you into both shows: $15/adults and $10/students with an ID. April 19–21, 7:30pm Letters to Sala Batavia High School productions are performed in the Batavia Fine Arts Centre. Tickets for BHS performances can be purchased at bataviaﬁneartscentre.org or by calling 630-937-8930. 30

SAVE THE DATE

Friday, April 20 New Location—Pipers Banquets Dinner • Raﬄes • Live Auction Silent Auction

Get your tickets at BataviaBulldogBoosters.org

News to bark about

The Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence, Batavia Public Library Foundation, Batavia Parks Foundation, Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Batavia MainStreet and Water Street Studios are back in the dog house together to bring the beloved painted bulldog statues back to the streets of Batavia! Keep up with all things Bulldogs Unleashed this spring, summer, and fall at bulldogsunleashed.org, Facebook.com/bataviabulldogsunleashed, Twitter.com/ bulldogsun, and Instagram.com/bulldogsun.

Upcoming Events Bulldog Jog 3K

Thurs., April 26, 6–8pm Grab your best furry, four-legged friend and head to West Main Community Park to participate in a fun and scenic 3K walk or jog. Learn more about the Bulldogs Unleashed public art project and browse a variety of pet vendors. The first 50 dogs receive a special gift! Presented by Batavia Park District. For more information, visit bataviaparks.org.

Bulldogs hit the streets

Look for 26 Bulldogs Unleashed painted dogs to adorn the streets of Batavia this summer! Pick up a map of their locations at the Batavia Public Library, Batavia Park District, Batavia School District, and Foster Dog participating businesses. A special “Dog Walk” is featured as part of Batavia’s Second Fridays on June 8.

Bulldog Foster Dog Campaign

Painted 17-inch bulldog statues are being fostered by Batavia businesses for a special promotional campaign coming in May through the summer. Participating businesses will be announced on National Pet day, April 11. Stop by the foster locations for Bulldogs Unleashed in-store promotions and to purchase raffle tickets to win that bulldog. For more information, visit bulldogsunleashed.org and come to the Bulldogs Unleashed tent at Windmill City Fest .

Paint Your Pup at Water Street Studios

Sat., May 5, 3–4:30pm Calling all puppy owners! It’s time to design and paint your pup, then enter the Bulldogs Unleashed art show at Windmill City Fest. Register today at waterstreetstudios. org/bulldog-puppypainting-class.

Windmill City Festival, Fri . to Sun ., July 13-15

Let your bulldog pup strut his or her stuff at Windmill City Festival! Walk your dog in the Pet Parade on Sat., July 14. Enter your painted puppy in a special Bulldogs Unleashed art show and let the public vote for “Best in show” in two categories: kids and adults. Free to enter! Contest winners will be announced on the Peg Bond Center stage on Sun., July 15. Visit the Bulldogs Unleashed tent in the south plaza for merchandise, maps, and more!

SAVE THE DATE: Bulldogs Auction - Sat ., Sept . 15

This is your one chance in a dog year (seven human years) to purchase a painted bulldog treasure for your home or work place … and enter a raffle drawing for a bulldog. But you can’t get your forever dog if you aren’t there, so circle this date! More details to come this summer. 31

Batavia Park District News Batavia Depot Museum

Spring exhibit Community Above Self: Service Organizations March 5–July 23 Featuring artifacts and photos of the many service organizations that help make Batavia the great place it is to live today.

Victory Garden Seed Swap

Sat., March 17, 10am–12pm, $5 (All Ages) The Lodge at Laurelwood, 800 N. River St. Join the Batavia Depot Museum as we get a start on our 2018 Victory Garden with a seed swap! Bring your excess seeds, clean pots, and garden supplies to swap, and enjoy a nice morning with others who can’t wait to start on their gardens! There will be a free exchange of seeds, and we will also have a seed starting station. Proceeds will benefit the Victory Garden Exhibit and the Batavia Environmental Council. Sponsored by Menards. P hoto : Batavia Community Garden—M ichael Barton, M ichael Barton A rt

630-879-5235 bataviaparks.org

Carry Nation Temperance Rally & Bar Smashing

Thurs., March 29, 6–9pm Eastside Community Center, 14 N. Van Buren St. Reg. $25; Hatchetation Bundle $75 Roll the clock back to 1905 and meet Carry A. Nation, the infamous bar smasher, as she spreads the word about her crusade against the terrible influence of alcohol. The evening will start out with a Temperance Rally at Shannon Hall, complete with prohibitionistapproved Ellie Carlson of Ellie Presents portrays Carry Nation on March 29 refreshments, where Carry (Ellie Carlson) will tell you about her life’s work. Once riled up, the rally will progress to Pal Joey’s bar, which sells the “Demon Rum.” Mrs. Nation, with her ever-ready hatchet, will show everyone how she earned the title of “Bar-Room Smasher.” One drink ticket is included in the regular admission fee, cash bar is also available. Hatchetation Bundle includes regular admission benefits, plus a personalized smash-able bottle and a photo opportunity with Mrs. Nation. Doors open at 6pm, program starts at 7pm.

Preservation Week, April 22–28

Join us as Batavia celebrates National Preservation Week 2018! Preservation Week is your time to reflect on what memories and treasures we, both personally and culturally, would like saved for the future. Programming provided by Batavia’s abundant cultural organizations will give you tools for saving your own history, teach a little about what has been saved, learn what these organizations do and give you a chance to add your voice to Batavia’s story. Visit bataviahistoricalsociety.org/preservation-week-2018 for a full schedule of daily events hosted by the Batavia Historical Society, Batavia Public Library, Batavia Depot Museum, Batavia Park District, Batavia MainStreet, Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley, and Burnham Creative Group.

Batavia Memories Preservation Project

Sat., April 28, 10am–1pm, FREE CC Bart Room 327 W. Wilson St. For Preservation Week 2018, make it a goal to get your photos and memories preserved in the Batavia Historical Society collection and the Batavia Depot Museum. Choose up to three of your favorite photos taken in Batavia—they could be of your home, your family, your favorite building, where you work; the possibilities are endless! We will scan them for the Depot Museum’s collection, along with your memories of it. You’ll get a keepsake digital photo of you and your photograph, and the opportunity to tell all of Batavia about it on BATV. Come share your memories! To reserve your time slot ahead of time to minimize wait, please visit the Batavia Historical Society’s website, bataviahistoricalsociety.org

Dating photographs through clothing

Tues., April 24, 6–7pm, $10 CC Bart Room at 327 W. Wilson St. Using clues from clothing and hairstyles, learn how to date photographs like the experts! This is an informative and interactive program presented by Ellie Carlson. If you have your own photographs you would like more information on (up to 3), you may scan and email those to Jennifer at jenniferp@bataviaparks.org to be discussed during the workshop. Bringing photo examples to this program is also acceptable.

Batavia Park District News Easter Egg Hunt

(Ages 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8) Sat., March 24, 10am, FREE West Main Park Shelter All little bunnies are invited to hop on over for the annual Easter Egg Hunt! Be sure to see the Easter Bunny. Everyone should meet at the pavilion by 9:45am. Group leaders will divide children into age groups and take them to their separate hunt areas. At 10am the hunt will begin! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to bring a basket to hold all those goodies. In the spirit of the event, participants are asked to please bring a non-perishable food item or paper product to be donated to the Batavia Food Pantry. Please carpool. Parking space is limited.

Doggie Easter Egg Hunt

Sat., March 24, 11:30am, $10 per dog Bark Park, 40W101 W. Main St. Join us at the Bark Park as your dog(s) hunts for Easter eggs filled with doggie treats. All dogs must be leashed during the event! Pre-registration is requested, but we will accept registration at the gate to the Bark Park starting at 11am. Registration fee is per dog. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Anderson Animal Shelter. Hunt will begin at 11:30am SHARP!

Sponsored by Batavia Animal Clinic and Rover.com

630-879-5235 bataviaparks.org

Thank you!

Thanks to all who provided feedback about the Batavia Park District by responding to the community needs assessment survey which was sent to Batavia residents in Fall 2017. Be on the lookout for the results which will be published on the Park District website bataviaparks.org and also in the Park District Annual Report, coming this spring.

Bulldog Jog 3K

Thurs., April 26, 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;8pm, $10 per dog West Main Community Park Grab your best furry, four-legged friend and head to West Main Community Park to participate in a fun and scenic 3K walk or jog. Learn more about the Bulldogs Unleashed public art project and browse a variety of pet vendors. The first 50 dogs will receive a special gift! Presented in cooperation with Bulldogs Unleashed

BATV BATV is your community access television station! We provide award-winning government access and local community programming to all residents, both through cable television providers (Comcast channels 17 and 10, plus AT&T U-Verse channel 99) and online as well (at

MyBatv.com MyBatv.com or YouTube.com/BATV1017). Our mission is to educate, entertain, engage and inspire residents through programming that enhances the quality of life for us all. Visit our website or call 630-937-5413 to learn more!

Programming • Batavia City Council Understand the direction of the city council, listen to feedback from the community, and find ways to get involved. If you are an informed citizen of our community, then you should attend City Council meetings or watch them on BATV! • Batavia Park District Follow the decisions that impact our local parks and recreational facilities, as well as the many local programs and events that are sponsored by the Park District. Find out how this organization works to preserve and enhance our community. • Batavia Public Library Discover more about learning resources, seminars and events that are available through the local library, and how library programming is designed for your entertainment, education and enlightenment! There is something for every age.

Ways to watch

Comcast channel 10 Comcast channel 17 AT&T U-Verse channel 99 YouTube.com/BATV1017 (streaming and on-demand) MyBatv.com (streaming, on-demand and podcasts) iTunes podcast (BATV1017)

• Batavia Public Schools Learn more about your local school board and what decisions are being made to help students learn and grow in all aspects of development. • Community events Watch high school sports on BATV—plus the many government programming options outlined on this page. Tune in to find out about individual businesses that are shaping the community, learn about news and current events pertaining to Batavia, and listen to in-depth panel discussions about important topics. It’s all right here on your community access television station! • News from Neighbors Magazines Wherever you see the BATV logo on the pages of Neighbors of Batavia, it means you can see the story broadcast on BATV! Feature stories and event info from the magazine will be broadcast on “It’s News to Me” and other feature productions. Look for the “See it on BATV” icon—and stay tuned!

Coming up on BATV:

Wed., Mar. 7 at 6–8pm— Batavia Park Districts Spring Dance Recital Wed., Mar. 14 at 6–8pm—Batavia High School Showtime Fri., Mar. 16 at 7:30pm— Batavia High Schools Rock the Runway

BATV original series

It’s News to Me! is Batavia’s news show. The show is hosted by Batavia High School sophomore Sophie Chahmirzadi, and features news and events about the schools and community. The program has segments dedicated to the city’s park district, school district and public library. Our newest segment partners with Batavia Main Street to bring you information about commerce in the city. Also this year, we are excited to bring back the Municipal Minute segment from the city. Watch episodes of It’s News to Me! at mybatv.com. Batavia Spotlight is another BATV original series. This show is hosted by Batavia resident and business consultant, Ellen Huxtable. Ellen sits down with local nonprofits and local businesses to chat about their services. Check out Batavia Spotlight at mybatv.com, and find previous episodes highlighting interesting organizations in your community.

A call for college interns and volunteers BATV is always looking for college interns! We accept interns year-round from local community colleges and any university. “Why BATV,” you ask? At BATV you are the camera person, the producer, the editor and maybe even the on-air talent! BATV has flexible schedules and allows you to create amazing programming for Batavia and for your demo reel. While you are at BATV, we will work with you on sharpening your skills before you take that next step with your professional career. Contact us today to learn more about interning or volunteering at BATV!

BATV Fun Fact: BATV began as Batavia Community TV (BCTV) in 1990, which evolved out of Batavia Social Services Corp. (BSSC), founded in 1981. We have existed as BATV for 22 years. 36

106 West Wilson St., Batavia

630-879-7134 • bataviachamber.org

P hoto : a leX Claney, a leX Claney P hotoGraPhy

A wonderful evening was had by all at the Batavia Chamber of Commerce annual Inspire Event on Thurs., Jan. 25. The Nagel Emporium at Abbey Farms was decorated beautifully, the food was amazing and the beverages were flowing! We were so fortunate to celebrate our 2017 Citizen of the Year, Marcia Boyce, our 2017 Spirit of Batavia winner, the Batavia Rotary Club, our Chamber Ambassador of the Year, Jessica McGrail and our multiple Ole Award Winners: Aldi, Batavia Family Dental, Briana’s Pancake House, Gaetano’s, Goodwill, Moline Bearing, Salsa Verde and Suncast. One change in this year’s event was the addition of a live auction and a playing card raffle! Between our emcee Scott Salvati and auctioneer Peter Burchard, they entertained, informed and helped the Chamber accomplish fundraising records! Of course, none of this would have been accomplished if it weren’t for all of the generosity of our amazing donors to the event. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success!

Upcoming Events Eggs Beneﬁt* Fri., March 2, 8–9:30am Water Street Studios 160 S. Water St.

2018 Human Resources Programming*

Free to attend for all Chamber members! Join us for an informational gathering to roll out all of the great things that are available to you through your Batavia Chamber membership. We are going to show you how to get the most out of your investment in the Batavia Chamber of Commerce.

Batavia Women in Business Luncheon* Tues., April 10, 11:30am–1pm Eagle Brook Country Club, Geneva,

through the Chamber’s partnership with Valley Industrial Association all classes conducted at 2000 S. Batavia Ave. Geneva (Package pricing available): Thurs., March 22, 7:30–9am: Writing Good Job Descriptions (Breakfast Included) Thurs., April 26, 3–4:30pm: Compensation Strategies

“Embracing Life’s Journey,” presented by Dale Spencer. *Registration required, please visit bataviachamber.org

Welcome New Chamber Members

The Batavia Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome our newest members! • AccuCare Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab • Apex CPA’s & Consultants • April Marie Photography • Batavia Academy of Dance • Button Man Printing

• • • •

Diamond Rigging Corp. Fast Color IN2 Justin Smitherman/ American Family Insurance • Moline Bearing Company

• • • • •

Overtake Digital Ltd. Prairie Gymnastics Club Resolution Creative Suburban Real Estate Services, Inc. WoofBeach

Business Nuggets

™

See it on

An eclectic collection of what’s happening in Batavia Recently, the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Mayor Jeffery Schielke and Batavia representatives celebrated the one year anniversary of Salsa Verde Restaurant. Located at 107 North Batavia Ave., Salsa Verde serves delicious dishes prepared from authentic Mexican recipes in a friendly and vibrant environment. 630-425-3521, salsaverderestaurant.com The Batavia Women in Business (BWIB) will hold a luncheon on Tues., April 10, 11:30am–1pm at Eagle Brook Country Club, 2288 Fargo Blvd., Geneva. Dale Spencer will present on the topic “Embracing Life’s Journey.” BWIB luncheons cost $35 for prospective members and guests, and $25 for Chamber members. Call 630-879-7134 or visit bataviachamber.org/programs no later than the Friday before the luncheon date to make reservations. BEI Properties, 140 First St., Batavia and Batavia Enterprises Real Estate (BERE) recently announced the newest broker to join their team, Inger Britt. After less than a week working for BERE, Britt was able to help Anderson Animal Shelter find a new home and extra space for their

administrative operations in the Cedar Avenue Business Center in St. Charles. 100 Women Who Care Fox Valley will hold their next meeting on Mon., April 9 at the Arcada Theater in St. Charles. The meeting starts at 7pm with a 30 minute networking session starting at 6:30pm. 100 Women Who Care is a nonprofit organization that meets four times a year. During each meeting, more than $10,000 is raised and donated to a Kane County organization in need. 630-849-3344, 100womenwhocarefoxvalley.org On Sat., March 17, 6–11pm, the Batavia Woman’s Club will hold a St. Patrick’s Day event at Island View Banquets, 645 S. River St., Batavia. This party will include music, dancing, games, 50/50 raffles, a cash bar and a corned beef and cabbage dinner. Tickets are $50 with proceeds benefiting the Batavia Depot Museum expansion project. To purchase tickets, call Sue Lusted at 630-306-5638 or visit bataviawomansclub.org. The Kane County Cougars charitable foundation supported the community through cash and inkind donations that exceeded $950,000 dollars in 2017, bringing their three year cumulative total to over $2,200,000 dollars. The Cougars are located at 34W002 Cherry Ln., Geneva. 630-232-8811, milb.com Inger Britt has joined BEI Properties.

Message from the Mayor continued from page 4

the man behind the camera capturing photos of his kids in action. He was one of the leading picture takers of the now legendary Batavia Bulldog teams and BHS musical programs from the 1960’s and 70’s. Greg Cryer, one the truly friendly memorable faces of Batavia’s Avenue Chevrolet where he managed the service department, could be described as the man who understood and set the example for quality customer service management. Customers always appreciated that Greg knew what he was talking about, and his solutions always seemed to solve the problems at hand. He held a big place in his heart for all things Batavia and he was never afraid to cheer or applaud the successes and nice things that were happening around Batavia. Karl Holzl, a familiar face at many events around town, was always willing to share his viewpoints on anything involving Batavia or the greater world around us. He served for a number of years as a member of the Batavia Plan Commission where he readily jumped into 38

kaneneighbors.com

debate over the pros and cons of any proposal before that body. He was always known to state his mind and hold his ground but was always respected for the fact that he held a strong love in his heart for Batavia. Thad Tousana, one of the truly legendary basketball players who won the admiration and cheers of fans from Batavia High School for his talents on the hard wood floor, is best remembered for his play during the 1985 and l986 basketball seasons where he served as captain of the team. After graduating, he never forget his high school days and often could be found in the bleachers cheering loudly and with passion for the team program of which he was so much a proud part. May each of these beloved Batavians REST IN PEACE. Jeffery D. Schielke, Mayor

Around the Block™

for more, visit KaneNeighbors.com

Perform for the 4th annual Flag Day Ice Cream Social on June 10 Once again the Batavia Fireworks Committee and the Batavia Flag Day Committee are working hard to put together the 4th annual Flag Day Ice Cream Social. This event will be held on the Riverwalk on Sun., June 10. This celebration is one of two fundraising events for the July 4th Fireworks Sky Concert (the May 4–5 Garage Sales is the other event). The Ice Cream Social is also a time when the Flag Day Committee raises funds for the building of the Flag Day Memorial in salute to Dr. Bernard Cigrand, the Father of Flag Day, who was a dentist in Batavia for many years. The goal of both committees is the same: to honor our town and country, past and present, on two of the most patriotic days of the year, Flag Day and the 4th of July. These committees would like to invite student groups to perform on June 10 on the Riverwalk. Dance or cheerleading teams, musical groups or soloists, science or technology demonstrations, Scout presentations, etc…all are invited to demonstrate your talents and share your passion for performance with Batavia! This ice cream social is all about families enjoying the Riverwalk, supporting Flag Day and the 4th of July, and

The Batavia Patriotic Pop-Up Chorus sang a medley of patriotic favorites at the 100th anniversary in 2016.

P hoto : Shirley K linSKy mott

celebrating our youngest members of the community and all of their many talents. Please consider registering your group by May 25 for the June 10 Flag Day Ice Cream Social by contacting Batavia City Hall through the following email address: bataviacommunityband@gmail.com

kaneneighbors.com 39

Around the Block™ Don’t miss the 25th annual Batavia city-wide garage sale The Batavia City-Wide Garage Sale is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and it will be biggest one yet. What once started with 25 sales has now blossomed into a yearly tradition where the residents of Batavia come together to spring clean and sell their stuff on the first weekend in May (May 4–5). This fundraiser is one of the biggest events that the volunteers of the Batavia Fireworks Committee host each year to help raise funds to put on Batavia’s 4th of July Sky Concert in Engstrom Park. To host a garage/yard sale, register by April 25 at BataviaFireworks.org and pay the $35 registration fee. All proceeds go to the Batavia Fireworks Fund. (See page 13)

Batavia United Way celebrates 90 years Batavia United Way evolved from the community based organization Batavia Community Chest. In the late 1930’s concerned citizens of Batavia organized to raise dollars for charitable giving. Every year this group would organize volunteers to canvass every person in the community in order to support the agencies in existence at that time; Valley Sheltered Workshop, Salvation Army, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and the USO. From 1981- 2017 Batavia United Way/Batavia Community Chest raised and granted $3,510,740 to 50 area non-profits needing support. This does not include three years of funding for the Success By 6 Kindergarten Enrichment and Pre-School Scholarships or funds raised for the annual Adopt A Family Holiday Giving Program. If you are a former Batavia Community Chest or Batavia United Way Board Member, please check in at info@bataviaunitedway.org. The Batavia United Way is planning to honor those who built this organization at a celebration later this year.

Celebrate Earth Day at Peck Farm Park Bring the entire family out to Peck Farm Park Sat., April 21, 11am–3pm to celebrate Earth Day! Enjoy a variety of activities including: bicycle tune-ups, free paper shredding, food and green vendors, children’s games and activities, chair massages and more. This event is sponsored by CIBC. For more information, visit genevaparks.org.

Valley Sheltered Workshop holds annual Pancake Breakfast Valley Sheltered Workshop will hold its annual Pancake Breakfast on Sun., May 6 from 7:30am–12pm. Pancakes, sausage, strawberries/blueberries, coffee, orange juice and apple juice will be served. Tickets can 40

kaneneighbors.com

The Batavia Mother’s Club Foundation holds the 18th Annual Fox Trot April 28. be purchased at the door for $7 per person (children three and under are free). There will also be raffle baskets, a silent auction and a cash drawing raffle. Valley Sheltered Workshop is located at 325 Main St. in Batavia. Stop by for some good food and a little fun that helps support a great cause! 630-879-2359, valleyshelteredworkshop.org

Spring and summer clothing and toy sale The Western Avenue School PTO will be holding its spring and summer clothing and toy sale on Fri., March 9, 6–9pm and Sat., March 10, 8am–12pm. The sale will feature spring and summer clothing along with maternity clothes, toys, bikes, books, etc. No children under the age of 10 or strollers will be allowed Friday night. Sellers and volunteers are always welcome. Western Avenue Elementary School is located at 1500 Western Ave., Geneva. geneva304.org/ westernavenueelementaryschool_home.aspx

Chris Patterson Memorial Foundation Red Tie Gala is March 10 The Chris Patterson Memorial Foundation will be holding their Red Tie Gala Sat., March 10, 6–10pm at Lincoln Inn Banquets, 1345 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia. The Foundation gives out $1000 cash awards to seniors at both West Aurora High and Batavia High Schools that participate in the performing arts. chrispattersonmemorial.org

Fox Valley Hands of Hope to hold spectacular ”Garden Party“ Fox Valley Hands of Hope—an organization that provides critical support to adults, children and families experiencing grief and loss—will hold its annual Garden Party fundraising event on Fri., May 25, at the Q Center in St. Charles. The event will feature silent and live auctions, a bevy of showcase raffles, a fashion show and a full luncheon. The Garden Party will be emceed by St. Charles Mayor Ray Rogina. Area businesses and organizations are lining up to

See it on sponsor the 2018 Garden Party, and are led by the The Hoffer Foundation, EFS Foundation, Batavia Enterprises Inc. and Miscella Real Estate. A range of sponsorship packages and benefits are available; contact Mary Green at 630-232-2233 or at mgreen@fvhh.net for information and options. Tickets to attend the 2018 Garden Party go on sale April 18. fvhh.net

Healing Gardens opens April 8 Healing Gardens at Stone Hill Farm is two acres of perennial gardens in a beautiful wooded setting in St. Charles. The gardens are open to the public on the second Sunday of each month from April through October. This year’s opening date is Sun., April 8 from 11am–4pm. The admission cost is $5 per person and $10 per family. In solidarity with the journey, cancer survivors are free. Healing Gardens is located at 37W249 Dean St., St. Charles. For more information and to learn about other events at Healing Gardens, visit healinggardensatstonehillfarm.com.

Kiwanis sponsors annual spaghetti dinner For 32 years, the Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser has been the Kiwanis Club of Batavia’s way to support and provide funding for various programs they bring to the children of Batavia and BPS 101. Currently, the Batavia Kiwanis sponsors five Youth Service Leadership Programs ranging from elementary age children to the high school. The club’s scholarship program assists in continuing education—in April three graduating seniors from Key Club will be selected from applications for a scholarship that will be presented at the annual Kiwanis Family Appreciation Night. This annual event takes place at Riverview Banquets in

for more, visit KaneNeighbors.com Batavia on Thurs., April 19 from 4:30–7:30pm. It is an all you can eat affair with a 50/50 Raffle, Gift Card Wall and more! The cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children (6–12) and free for children under six.

Fox Trot returns April 28 The Batavia Mothers’ Club Foundation invites you to participate in its 18th annual Fox Trot 5K and 10K race on Sat., April 28 at the Batavia Riverwalk (Island Ave. and Houston St. in downtown Batavia). Both the 5K and 10K start at 8am and feature courses along the beautiful Fox River. Following the race is an award presentation for the winners of both races. The Fox Trot also features two non-competitive races designed especially for children. Pre-registration for all events is encouraged. Visit the Mothers’ Club website at bataviamothersclub.org to register and find more information about this fun event.

Fox Valley Robotics challenges kids at summer workshops Fox Valley Robotics will offer summer challenges for kids with all new and exciting programs. Lego eXplorer Camp will test the design and building talents of young innovators in the 1st–3rd grades. For 4th–8th graders, take Legos to the next level with sensors, motors, electronics, and a robot with programs that students write to solve a series of missions designed by the expert staff in the Lego Workshop. For 8th–12th graders, the metal workshops will focus on operator controlled steel/ aluminum robots and programming. Summer registrations open in March and fill up fast. Fill in the “contact us” form for early notification, and do something fun and challenging this summer. For more info visit foxvalleyrobotics.com or email info@foxvalleyrobotics.com.

Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation presents “Superheroes” fundraiser

Check out BATV’s “It’s News to Me” for these events and more!

On Sat., April 21, Changing Children’s Worlds Foundation will hold their annual fundraising event “Superheroes Stand Up for Kids—Be a Superhero!” from 5:30–8:30pm at the Mill Creek Golf Club in Geneva. Enjoy the spring evening with heavy hors d’oeuvres, a complimentary drink, live music, an array of silent auction items, and special guest speakers. Proceeds support Changing Children’s World Foundation(CCWF) empathy-based parenting and family learning programs held throughout Kane County, provided at no cost for participating families. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit changingchildrensworlds.org/fundraising-events.

kaneneighbors.com 41

Spotlight on Arts

theatre, dance, music, fine arts, photography, galleries, events— See it on

Acappellago concert at the Congregational Church of Batavia Join Acappellago as they sing you a rainbow! Colors have inspired many a song, from “Black is the Color of My True Love’s Hair” to “The Green Leaves of Summer” to “Blue Moon.” Acappellago will render the full spectrum in musical form, including folk, jazz and pop favorites and new compositions from one of its patron composers, former Chicagoan Robert Applebaum. Acappellago, now in its 16th season, is the western suburbs’ leading volunteer a cappella chorus, and is known for its eclectic programming that spans

Immanuel-Batavia presents The Lion King, Jr.

Immanuel Lutheran School-Batavia presents Disney’s The Lion King, Jr. on Fri., Apr. 20 at 6:30pm and Sun., Apr. 22 at 2pm. Tickets for the performances are $2 each. This is a wonderful, wallet-friendly event for the whole family. The Lion King, Jr. is based on the Broadway production directed by Julie Traymor and the animated feature film released in 1994. The production being presented by Immanuel has been adapted for students, but features classic songs from the 1994 film such as “HakunaMatata” and the Academy Award®-winning “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” as well as additional songs penned for the Broadway production. Immanuel Lutheran Church and School is located at 950 Hart Rd., Batavia. immanuelbatavia.org

See Barefoot in the Park at Playhouse 38

The Geneva Park District’s Playhouse 38 Theater invites you to enjoy their production of Neil Simon’s classic romantic comedy Barefoot in the Park. Neil Simon’s play follows Paul, a straight-as-an-arrow lawyer, and Corie, his free-spirited wife. Chaos ensues as Paul attempts to get her to settle down, and Corie attempts to convince him to go with the flow. Performances are March 1 at 7pm, March 2 at 7pm, March 3 at 7pm, and March 4 at 5pm. Tickets are $15 if purchased in advance at genevaparks.org, Sunset Community Center (710 Western Ave.), or Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center (3507 Kaneville Rd.). Tickets may also be purchased for $20 at the door. Playhouse 38 is located at 321 Stevens St., Suite P in Geneva. 630-232-4542, genevaparks.org

The Gene Simmons Band comes to the Arcada Gene Simmons is famous worldwide for his on and offstage antics as a member of KISS. Now out of makeup, Simmons is embarking on his first-ever solo tour with a red-hot backing band to perform some high-octane rock hits. The Gene Simmons Band will perform at the Arcada Thurs., May 3 at 7:30pm. The 42 kaneneighbors.com

classical music, jazz, pop, and gospel. Led by Music Director Dennis R. Smith, Acappellago will present music spanning the entire prism including premieres by ensemble members Victoria Linich of Batavia and Lorinda Guenther-Wright of Clarendon Hills. Acappellago will perform on Sun., March 18, 4pm at the Congregational Church of Batavia, 21 S. Batavia Ave. Tickets are $17 ($15 for students and seniors) and are available at Acappellago.org or by phone at 708-484-3797. Arcada Theatre is located at 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. 630-962-7000, arcadalive.com

Axiom Brass perform at Fermilab

The award-winning Axiom Brass Quintet has quickly established itself as one of the major art music groups in brass chamber music. On Sun., March 11 at 2:30pm, Axiom Brass will perform Celestial Suite by Chicago area composer James Stephenson. The performance takes place in the Fermilab Art Gallery. Tickets are $18. For more information, visit events.fnal.gov/arts-lectureseries/events/event/axiom-brass.

The Orion Ensemble performs world premier

Founded in 1992, The Orion Ensemble features a roster of four superb musicians—Kathryne Pirtle (clarinet), Florentina Ramniceanu (violin), Diana Schmück (piano) and Judy Stone (cello)—who have performed throughout North America, Europe and Asia, as an ensemble and individually in solo, orchestral and other chamber music roles. As a special tribute for its 25th anniversary, The Orion Ensemble performs a world premiere of Sebastian Huydts new work on the season’s third program, “Old Meets New,” featuring guest violist Stephen Boe on Sun., March 4 at 7pm, First Baptist Church of GenevaChapel Street Church, 2300 South St., Geneva

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra features cellist Thomas Mesa

The ESO is a world-class, professional orchestra providing outstanding music and conveniently located close to home in the western suburbs. Performances take place at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Beethoven Piano Concerto No.2 & Shastakovich Symphony No. 22—Sat., March 3 at 7:30pm and Sun., March 4 at 2:30pm Brahms Haydn Variations & Elgar Enigma Variations with Thomas Mesa, cello—Sat., March 24 at 7:30pm and Sun., March 25 at 2:30pm,

Neighbors of Batavia

Batavia Resources

Alcoholics Anonymous. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-377-6610 aadistrict61.org American Cancer Society (Batavia). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . cancer.org Batavia American Legion Post 504. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviapost504.org Batavia Arts Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BataviaArtsCouncil.org BATV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . batv.us Batavia Boosters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviabulldogboosters.org Batavia Cares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bataviacares.org Batavians for Clean Energy and Conservation (BCEC). . . . . greenbatavia.org Batavia Chamber of Commerce. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviachamber.org Batavia Enterprises (communications). . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviaenterprises.com Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence . . . . . bataviafoundation.org Batavia Historical Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviahistoricalsociety.org Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviafoodpantry.org Batavia Lions Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . e-clubhouse.org/sites/bataviail Batavia MainStreet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . downtownbatavia.com Batavia Masonic Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-879-9672 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 Renaissance Project. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviarenaissanceproject.org Batavia RSVP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-406-9993 Batavia Triathlon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . triatholon@cityofbatavia.net Batavia Township . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviatownship.com Batavia United Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviaunitedway.org Batavia VFW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-879-9630 Batavia Woman’s Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviawomansclub.org

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 Park District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-879-5235 Public School, Admin.. . . . . . 630-937-8800 Public Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-879-1393 Township. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-879-1392 MainStreet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .630-761-3528

Utilities

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

Community clubs & organizations Batavia Women in Business. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . bataviachamber.org Boy Scouts of America, Three Fires Council. . . . . . . . . . . . threefirescouncil.org CASA Kane County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . casakanecounty.org CHIP IN Batavia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . chipinbatavia.org Delnor Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . delnor.com Elderday Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . elderdaycenter.org Fermilab (Public Affairs). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fnal.gov Forest Preserve District of Kane County. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . kaneforest.com Fox Valley Hands of Hope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fvhh.net Fox Valley Special Rec Assoc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . fvsra.org Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . girlscoutsni.org Kane County Cougars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . kccougars.com 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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-879-4750 x307 Tri City Family Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tricityfamilyservices.org Tri City Health Partnership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . tchpfreeclinic.com United Way. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BataviaUnitedWay.org Valley Sheltered Workshop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . valleyshelteredworkshop.com Water Street Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . waterstreetstudios.com 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 Comcast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-266-2278 NICOR GAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-642-6748 Advanced Disposal . . . . . . . . 630-587-8282 (garbage pick up) AT & T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-244-4444

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 Driver’s License Bureau . . . . . . . . . . 630-896-1911 U.S. Post Office (Batavia) . . . 630-879-1483

BATAVIA SUNDAY

M A R C H 2018 MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Send us your event information!

newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com Deadline for May/June 2018 issue is April 1, 2018

3 Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s

Dr. Seuss Celebration 1-2pm Library

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

Watch Batavia City Council meetings on

4 One Book, One Batavia Program 2pm Library

Board of Fire & Police Comm. 5pm Police Dept.t

Plan Comm, & Zoning Board 7pm City Hall

City Council 7:30pm City Hall

Committee of the Whole 7:30pm City Council

Batavia VFW 7pm VFW Hall

One Book, One Batavia Program 2pm Library

25 Songs of the 50s 2pm Library

13 Kiwanis 12pm Andre’s Committee of the Whole 7:30pm City Council

19 City Council 7:30pm City Hall

26 Drop In Craft 10am-2pm Library Historic Preservation Comm. 5:30pm City Hall

Kiwanis 6:30pm Pal Joey’s

RESTAURANT MADNESS

Adjudication Hearing All Day City Hall

American Legion Post 504 7pm VFW Canteen

Committee of the Whole 7:30pm, City Hall

29 Children’s Bingo 11am Library Carrie Nation’s Temperance Rally 6-9pm Eastside Com. Center

March 25–29

Happy St. Patrick’s Day Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s Victory Garden Seed Swap 10am-12pm Laurelwood

Adult Anime Club 6:30pm Library

28 Author Amy Chally & her Service Dog 7pm Library

Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s

Chris Patterson Memorial Foundation Red Tie Gala 6-10pm Lincoln Inn Banquets

Books Between Bites 12pm Library

Plan Comm, & Zoning Board 7pm City Hall

Teen Anime Club 6:30pm Library

14 Inclusion Game Night 6:30pm Library

Committee of the Whole 7:30pm City Hall

Inclusion Movie Night 6:30pm Chess Knight 7pm, LIbrary

One Book, One Batavia Film 7pm Library

Daylight Savings Time begins

Acappellago Concert 4pm Congregational Church of Batavia

30 Children’s Movie 1pm Library

Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s Easter Egg Hunt 10am West Main Park Doggie Egg Hunt 11:30am Bark Park Clifford Visits 1pm, Library

31 Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s Downtown Egg Hop 9:45am Peg Bond Center

BATAVIA SUNDAY

A P R I L 2018 MONDAY

TUESDAY

1 Happy Easter

2 Family Storytime 7pm Library City Council 7:30pm City Hall

Illinois in 1818 7pm Library

Earth Day 29 Cleopatra 2pm Library

Committee of the Whole 7:30pm City Hall

Batavia VFW 7pm VFW Hall

10 Kiwanis 12pm Andre’s Committee of the Whole 7:30pm City Hall

17 Committee of the Whole 7:30pm City Hall

23 Historic Preservation Comm. 5:30pm, City Hall Family Storytime 7pm Genealogy Program 7pm Library

4 Plan Comm. & Zoning Board 7pm City Hall

Family Storytime 7pm Library City Council 7:30pm City Hall

THURSDAY

Board of Fire & Police Comm. 5pm Police Dept.

9 Family Storytime 7pm

WEDNESDAY

American Legion Post 504 7pm VFW Canteen

Dating Photographs 6-7pm Park District Inclusion Movie Night 6:30pm, Library Committee of the Whole 7:30pm, City Hall

11 Inclusion Game Night 6:30pm Library

18 Kiwanis 6:30pm Pal Joey’s Plan Comm. & Zoning Board 7pm City Hall

FRIDAY

5 College Financial Aid 7pm Library

6 Storytime 1pm, Ages 3-6 Library

12 Teen Anime Club 6:30pm Library

SATURDAY

7 Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s

13 Storytime 1pm, Ages 3-6 Library

14 Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s Drop-In Craft 10am-12pm Library

19 Adjudication Hearing All Day City Hall

20 Storytime 1pm, Ages 3-6 Library

21 Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s

Books Between Bites 12pm Library

26 Bulldog Jog 3K 6-8pm West Main Park

27 Storytime 1pm, Ages 3-6 Library

Adult Anime Club 6:30pm Library

28 Fox Trot 8am Riverwalk Indoor Market 9am-12pm Gaetano’s Batavia Memories Preservation Project 10am-1pm Park District

Watch Batavia City Council meetings on

Send us your event information! newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com Deadline for the May/June 2018 issue is April 1, 2018

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