The Batavian - July/August 2022

July August 2022

The

Batavian

Shop the BOARDWALK Batavia Boardwalk Shops open for the season

Gear up for the 2022 Windmill City Festival City of Batavia hosting stakeholder meetings Get your tickets for the BPS Hall of Honor Awards Activities for all ages at Batavia Public Library

St. Charles • Elgin • Hoffman Estates • Huntley • Roselle • Geneva

NOW OPEN IN THE FOX VALLEY ICE ARENA at 1996 S. Kirk Rd. in Geneva

DAILY SPECIALS DINE IN ONLY. NO COUPONS. BEVERAGE PURCHASE REQUIRED.

MONDAY Pizza 50% Off

FRIDAY All You Can Eat Fish Friday $15.99

TUESDAY Burgers 50% Off

SATURDAY RIBFEST Full Slab $19.99 • Half Slab $15.99

WEDNESDAY Gyro 50% Off THURSDAY Italian Beef 50% Off

SUNDAY RIBFEST Full Slab $19.99 • Half Slab $15.99

1996 S. Kirk Rd, Geneva | 630-402-0468 | www.rookiespub.com 2 n July/August 2022

COMMUNITY LIAISONS Holly Deitchman Batavia Public Schools 630-937-8824 Patricia Leonard Batavia Public Library 630-879-1393 Debbie Gentry Batavia Park District 630-879-5235 Margaret Perreault Batavia Chamber of Commerce 630-879-7134

Photo by Sandy Bressner

What’s Inside 4 5 12 16 20 22 30 34 35 36 37 38

Message from the City

City of Batavia Currents

Batavia Boardwalk Shops reopen for third year Batavia Public School District 101

Happening in Batavia | Events calendar Batavia Public Library Batavia Park District Batavia MainStreet

Batavia Chamber of Commerce

Lori Botterman City of Batavia 630-454-2000 Andrew Van Meter BATV 630-879-9300 Beth Walker Batavia MainStreet 630-761-3528

PUBLISHER Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Julie Barichello 815-431-4072 jbarichello@shawmedia.com ADVERTISING Tricia Walter 630-345-0066 twalter@shawmedia.com

BATV

Community Above Self

Batavia Resource Guide

ON THE COVER: The Batavia Boardwalk Shops are open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 18.

Photo by April Duda Photography

Published by Shaw Media ShawMediaMarketing.com

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Message from the City reetings,

I am excited to talk about a construction project that could have national impact over the next 50 years. The U.S. Department of Energy announced it has given the approval to build the Proton Improvement Plan II project, or PIP, at Batavia's Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.

Construction will stretch over a several years and is expected to start in the fall. When completed, the new lab will create scores of jobs and will be the ongoing visiting base for numerous scientists from around the world. Fermilab was built in our town back in December 1966 and with the construction of the new lab, I believe it will continue to be Batavia's neighbor for countless decades ahead.

From a local history view, the arrival of Fermilab brought with it a plan to keep much of the site in an undeveloped landscape with roaming buffalos, reduced traffic counts, and the employment of highly trained workers. These positive features made Fermilab a welcome new experience for Batavians in the mid 1970s. In my early years as Mayor, I was quoted in the Chicago Sun-Times as saying, "Fermilab is a special neighbor to have. It does not smoke, smell, pollute, make noise, generate traffic jams, turn on bright lights or do anything that endangers our community.” News reports about the new construction estimate the cost of the building the PIP- II linear accelerator at more than $1.28 billion. This is great news for our local businesses since many scientists from around the world who visit Fermilab will be dining and shopping in Batavia.

Several years ago, I was honored to be invited out to Fermilab by the International Association of Electrical Engineers. They were saluting the work of Fermi's staff who assisted in putting together technical data, calculations, and solutions which assisted the world of medical science in creating the MRI Medical Research device. This device is credited with allowing the medical world to look into the body of a patient and see clearly what is taking place. The positive impact of this effort is something all Batavians should be very proud of as taking place in a lab with an address in our town.

As Mayor, I just want to share my pride and admiration for all that Fermilab has already done to make our world a better place. I hold strong hope that many more positive steps will continue to come out of Fermilab to better our lives on this earth.

THANK YOU, BATAVIA POLICE

I’d like to commend for the Batavia Police Department for their hard work. They have been very active on a

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variety of fronts lately with a targeted focus on battling speeding and dangerous driving habits; and the annual compliance check of all liquor license holders in town.

The compliance checks ensure that establishments have processes in place to ensure those purchasing alcohol are 21 or older. Unfortunately, not all of our license holders have passed the compliance check this year, which has led to my office assessing a $500 violation fine on each business that failed. The city has a long-time policy of specifying all liquor license fine money be kept in a special account and spent on programs and activities that discourage liquor consumption by anyone under 21 years of age. One program that we have funded for many years is the Batavia High School Post Prom Party. The post prom event is held immediately after prom at Funway Recreation Center. The party is held from 11 p.m. until 4 a.m. and allows for the participants to utilize all the recreational facilities on site. At the end of the night a raffle drawing is held and to be eligible to win a prize each party attendee has be personally present to win.

WE’RE IN BUSINESS

In a final note, I am encouraged by the heavy volume of building permits and remodeling petitions that we have received. The new owners of the Randall Road movie theater have already started demo work inside the theater, and they are reporting more plans for upgrades are being prepared for our approval.

Across Randall Road, Walmart has submitted plans for a remodeling upgrade of the grocery department of their Batavia store. Down the street, Culver’s Restaurant has been given approval to commence construction of their new Batavia store. It will be situated on the large parking lot open area to the south of the adjacent newly opened Douglas Flooring store. Down a couple of blocks, we are in discussions with another new restaurant that wants to build an entirely new shop near the Randall Road/Main Street intersection. Along the north side of McKee Street, west of Trent Drive and Wolcott Lane construction of a new single family home subdivision has been approved that will feature 163 new homes. There is a lot of new development happening as we roll towards the summer season of 2022.

Jeffery Schielke JEFFERY SCHIELKE Mayor of Batavia

Batavia: Stories in Photographs

A LOOK AT CRESCENT CITY, ILLINOIS

Batavia Mayor Jeffrey Schielke features reports about other places far and wide where Batavia has a unique feature on display.

REMINDERS

Keeping up with the codes With summer in full swing and everyone enjoying the great outdoors the City of Batavia building and code compliance inspectors are reminding residents to maintain their property.

To be a good custodian of our community and avoid unwanted visits from code enforcement, please be sure to address some commonly found violations of the International Property Maintenance Code, the Batavia Zoning Code, or the Batavia Municipal Code.

Located in the small town of Crescent City, Illinois, is a fire department water tanker truck that has a memorable Batavia, Illinois, heritage associated with its creation. The tanker was originally built in the early 1950s at the Batavia Body Company previous known as the New Wagon Co. Factory, which was in business for over 100 years.

The complex was located along both sides of North Island Avenue between Wilson and Houston streets, but much was destroyed Jan. 26, 1977, when an adjacent empty building’s water sprinkler system sprung a leak that went unchecked for many hours, flooding the interior of the old Batavia Body Company.

Eventually, the entire complex was demolished.

A limited number of fire trucks were made at the Batavia truck plant, and one of those vehicles found itself within an emergency that was featured on news stories around the world. On June 21, 1970, a train derailed in Crescent City's downtown, and five gas tankers carrying 34,000 gallons of liquified propane exploded. The massive explosion destroyed 18 businesses and 24 houses. Though 67 people were injured, there were no fatalities.

A tanker made by Batavia Body Company was siting within the area of impact. Most of the original truck was eventually replaced but in memory of the event, the mud flaps in front of the rear tires which featured the Batavia Body Company logo were saved. The flaps made their way to a new truck, a powerful reminder of a moment in Crescent City's history.

A few code reminders: • Grass and weeds shall be maintained below 8 inches in height.

• Vehicles shall be operable and have current license plates.

• Vehicles, recreational vehicles, and utility trailers shall be kept entirely over a hard surface of asphalt, concrete, or pavers accessible by a continuous driveway to the curb or edge of street pavement.

• Signs in the right of way or on or attached to city property/ utility poles are prohibited and will be removed by staff.

• Outdoor storage is prohibited. Outdoor storage is defined as storage of materials, goods, vehicles, or equipment outside of a building that is not associated with an active building permit or an allowed temporary use.

• Garbage, rubbish and debris are not allowed to accumulate.

Please visit the cityofbatavia.net/zoningfaq for more information.

Lawn watering rules Even though it was a rainy spring, water use for lawn sprinkling is still restricted by city ordinance. Here are the days and times when lawn sprinkling is permitted:

• Even-numbered addresses on even-numbered calendar days.

• Odd-number address on odd-numbered calendar days.

• Watering must take place between the hours of 6-9 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. only.

Hand-held hose watering is permitted any time for flowers, gardens, lawns, trees and shrubs.

New sod or seeded lawn watering requires a permit. from the Community Development Department, 100 N. Island Ave. Please note: permits for sod/seed will not be issued during July and August.

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Currents

Batavia embarks on stakeholder meetings

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to direct economic development strategic plan

series of stakeholder engagement meetings are underway as part of the City of Batavia’s efforts to create its first economic development strategic plan.

City staff are holding focus group sessions with members of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Batavia MainStreet, businesses, residents and community leaders to collect feedback for the plan. During these engagement sessions, attendees participate in a SWOT analysis for the city of Batavia. SWOT analysis is a strategic management technique used to help organizations identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats existing in the current environment that affect the target strategic initiatives.

The information gathered during the engagement meetings will help the city create an economic development strategic plan with measurable objectives and action plans to achieve the objectives within an identified timeframe, said Batavia’s Economic Development Manager Shannon Malik Jarmusz.

“We are conducting these sessions to solicit feedback on Batavia’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats so we can find consensus on key items,” Jarmusz said. "The feedback will be delivered to city council for prioritization and refinement of business retention and recruitment practices in Batavia.”

The economic development strategic plan is one of the goals within the city’s 2021-2023 strategic action plan.

The global COVID-19 pandemic has affected many sectors of Batavia’s economy, particularly the Randall Road retail corridor which has seen vacancies rise. The city is making a concentrated effort to recruit new businesses to fill those vacancies, as well as promoting opportunities for growing businesses to move into larger locations within the city.

Your Elected Officials

Mayor Jeffery D. Schielke

Aldermen Serving until May 2023 Ward 1 Christopher Solfa • csolfa@cityofbatavia.net Ward 2 Alan P. Wolff • awolff@cityofbatavia.net Ward 3 Dan Chanzit • dchanzit@cityofbatavia.net Ward 4 Tom Connelly • tconnell@cityofbatavia.net Ward 5 Abby Beck • abeck@cityofbatavia.net Ward 6 Michael Russotto • mrussott@cityofbatavia.net Ward 7 Keenan Alexander Miller • kmiller@cityofbatavia.net

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The first stakeholder meeting held in May included the board members from the Batavia Chamber of Commerce.

Participants shared their ideas about what types of businesses they think would be a good fit for Batavia. They also completed an exercise to prioritize which challenges were the most pressing.

Margaret Perreault, president and CEO of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce participated in the first stakeholder meeting.

"I thought it was an excellent way for the city to learn what some of our business leaders in Batavia believe are the challenges we face in attracting and retaining businesses here. It was also interesting to discuss ideas for opportunities and ideas for attracting business that would make a great fit for our community," Perreault said.

Jarmusz said the results from the stakeholder meetings will be presented to the city council later this year.

City Clerk Kate Garrett

Treasurer Jennifer Fox

Aldermen Serving until May 2025 Ward 1 Jennifer Baerren • jbaerren@cityofbatavia.net Ward 2 Leah Leman • lleman@cityofbatavia.net Ward 3 George Ajazi • gajazi@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 Sarah Volgelsinger • svogelsi@cityofbatavia.net

Batavia seeking partnerships to redevelop

KEY DOWNTOWN PROPERTIES

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he City of Batavia is looking for qualified development partners to redevelop four city-owned downtown properties, including the properties currently housing the Boardwalk Shops, the former LarsonBecker sites, and the former First Baptist Church location.

In four Requests for Proposals, RFPs, posted this week, the City of Batavia’s Community and Economic Development Department is accepting sealed bids for the following properties: • The approximately 2.2-acre site on the corner of Wilson and Washington streets, formerly the site of the First Street Baptist Church, and the site of the withdrawn One Washington Place project.

• The approximately 1.6-acre site on the west side of North River Street, between State and Franklin streets, commonly known as the former site of the Larson-Becker factory, currently a parking lot.

• The approximately .68-acre site on the east side of North River Street, commonly known as the former LarsonBecker east property. An old tin shop building and a three-bay garage currently occupy the property.

• The approximately .64-acre site at the southeast corner of Washington (Rt. 25) and Wilson streets, commonly known as the Boardwalk Shops/Art Stop site.

The City of Batavia is requesting project proposals for all four sites that will establish public-private partnerships to create sustainable, private, mixed-use redevelopment with commercial uses on the first floor and preferring up to three additional stories with residential dwellings above, along with possible consideration of a public parking component.

“Batavia’s comprehensive plan goals for these properties include breathing new life into underperforming individual properties while supporting and enhancing our reputation for being a walkable, bikeable and thriving community with access to commerce, recreation, and the arts,” said Batavia City Administrator Laura Newman.

The city is seeking proposals from development partners who have demonstrated experience, strong financial backing, and a record of high-quality, economically viable development projects seen through from concept to completion.

“Batavia is interested in creating a partnership for imminent redevelopment, rather than selling the properties to a private entity that may hold them indefinitely,” said Batavia Economic Development Director Shannon Jarmusz.

All four sites fall within tax increment financing, or TIF districts. Depending on the scope and timing, proposed redevelopments may be eligible for economic development incentives.

Sealed bids are due to the city by noon on July 22. For RFP details, please visit cityofbatavia.net/downtownrfp.

Busy times in the permits and inspection offices As the weather warms and social activity increases, we’re all busier. The same goes the Batavia community and economic development department.

They’re the folks who process applications for building permits, driveway permits, zoning approvals, and schedule inspections.

They also respond to non-emergency

inquiries about properties in general like, “what’s going on over there” or “that property’s a mess.”

The staff is handling more applications and inquiries than they have had for several years. This uptick is adding to the department’s response time to inquiries and application reviews and/or approvals, including those that

require city council or commission/ board approvals.

When planning your projects that require city approvals, please account for extra time for city approvals.

Thank you for your patience. If you have questions, please call the Batavia community and economic Development Department at 630-454-2700.

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Currents

CITY OF BATAVIA NAMES NEW FIRE CHIEF In May, the Batavia City Council approved the appointment of Craig Hanson as the new Chief of the Batavia Fire Department.

spearheaded the department’s efforts to achieve Class 1 Insurance Services Organization Public Protection designation.

Hanson has been the interim fire department chief since the January 2022 retirement of Chief Randy Deicke.

A firefighter and paramedic with over 40 years of experience, Craig Hanson Hanson joined the Batavia Fire Department in 2017 as a deputy chief.

His previous additional leadership roles include serving as the assistant fire chief for the Elburn & Countryside Fire Protection District, as battalion chief for the City of St. Charles, and as a shift commander for the City of Geneva.

Hanson has been instrumental in ensuring Batavia continues to be recognized for providing the highest standards of public safety and he

“The citizens and businesses of Batavia are extremely fortunate to have Chief Hanson’s wealth of experience working for them. His extensive background in emergency service leadership can only enhance our already excellent fire department,” said Batavia Mayor Jeff Schielke.

Hanson will lead a combination fire department of full-time, paid-oncall firefighters, paramedics, and

administrative personnel.

Hanson holds degrees from Waubonsee Community College, Northern Illinois University, and Benedictine University where he earned his Master of Business Administration. Having grown up in Geneva and raising his family in St. Charles, Hanson is excited to continue as an instrumental part of the Tri-Cities serving Batavia.

Making a difference in people’s lives is what drew him to fire service, Hanson said.

“I feel a great personal satisfaction when I can enjoy a sense of community by working to provide a quality of life for others and contributing to a hometown atmosphere,” Hanson said.

“I look forward to serving as this city’s fire chief and leading this exceptional department.”

BATAVIA CITY EMPLOYEE PROFILE: Tricia Ordaz, Human Resources Specialist

HONORING HER LATE HUSBAND BY HELPING FIREFIGHTERS When new City of Batavia employees arrive for their first day of work, they are greeted by Tricia Ordaz’s friendly face. She’s the HR specialist who patiently walks new staffers through the maze of benefits information and details of how to work for Batavia.

It’s evident Ordaz is an organized, cheerfully get-it-done person.

It wasn’t always that way. In 2006 her life was turned upside down when her 26-year-old husband of just three months was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Marco Ordaz, a former Batavia paramedic and fulltime firefighter/paramedic for the North Aurora Fire Protection District, battled the disease for two years.

“We were shocked at the diagnosis,” Ordaz said. “It was absolutely devastating.”

Marco Ordaz

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Marco was unable to

work and the loss of income, coupled with medical and travel costs to and from Chicago where he was being treated, left the young couple financially strapped.

“We were blessed to have the North Aurora Fire Protection District, friends, family, and community rally around us with love and support,” Tricia said.

While hospitalized, Marco developed his idea to help other firefighters: To start a foundation that would assist other firefighters stricken with cancer and in financial need.

“He didn’t want any other firefighter to go through what we went through,” she said.

After Marco died in 2008 from complications from a stem cell transplant, Tricia made his wish to help other firefighters a reality by founding Budda’s Brotherhood.

Illinois firefighters battling cancer are eligible to apply for assistance. Funds have been given in the past to help pay for living and travel expenses, as well as funding family expenses.

Tricia and the late Marco Ordaz on their wedding day.

“Our hope is that more firefighters take advantage of anything that makes their struggle easier,” Tricia said.

Budda’s Brotherhood, a non-profit 501(C)(3) raises funds through events and donations.

The organization’s main event is the Cinco de Marco 5k run/walk along the Fox River in Batavia. This year’s 5K will be Sept. 11. Visit Buddabrotherhood. org or the BuddasBrotherhood Facebook page for donation details.

BATAVIA IS A SUPER

BICYCLE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY

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rom having an official Bicycle Commission, to hosting a bike share program, to distributing free bikes to anyone in need, Batavia has earned its status as a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists. Here’s how we roll:

BATAVIA POLICE DEPARTMENT BICYCLE PATROL The Batavia Police Department is now patrolling the city on two wheels: The Bicycle Patrol Unit has officially begun serving the community.

Sporting special uniforms and riding bicycles specifically made for law enforcement, officers are tooling around town promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety, as well as encouraging adherence to local rules and regulations in Batavia’s heavily trafficked downtown. They are wheeling out some goodwill, too.

“One primary goal of the bicycle patrol unit is increased community interaction and engagement to build trust and strengthen relationships with local residents,” said Batavia Deputy Police Chief Eric Blowers.

In addition to educating fellow bicyclists and motorists on the rules of the road, bicycle patrol has been shown to be an effective way to BATAVIA POLICE DEPARTMENT

increase officer visibility in congested areas. Officers on a bicycle can also provide a tactical approach to crimes in progress, Blowers said.

Batavia Patrol Officers Jamie Goschey and Bryan Lorden are the first to patrol the city on the new bicycles this summer. Both have received special training in law enforcement bicycle patrolling, and both are bicycle enthusiasts off duty as well.

REGISTER YOUR BIKE FOR FREE The Batavia Police Department encourages residents to register their bicycles with the department with the hopes of being able to return lost or stolen bicycles to their owners. Each year, the Batavia Police Department recovers dozens of bicycles – most of which go unclaimed. Registering your bicycle with the city increases your chances of recovering your bike.

The registration form is now online, but printed forms may still be submitted to the police department.

Registrants will receive a sticker with their registration number for their bicycle (via mail for online registration). Visit cityofbatavia.net/ bikeregistration to register your bicycle.

NEED A BIKE TEMPORARILY? THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT

Batavia hosts three locations for the Fox Valley Bike Share program that allows riders to use an app to rent bikes by the hour. This program was so popular in years past that this year an additional rack has been added to River Street in downtown Batavia.

The other locations are at the Batavia City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave., and the Batavia Depot Museum along the bicycle path.

To use the bikes, riders first download the Koloni app, create an account, scan the QR code and you’re off. You return the bike to any Koloni hub. Visit an app store to download the Kolni app for more information.

FOX VALLEY BIKE SHARE PROGRAM

BIKES FOR BATAVIA

Bikes for Batavia distributes donated bicycles to local students, adults and families in need. Volunteers with the bike commission inspect, repair and fit each bike to its intended recipient. Bike recipients also receive a helmet and a bike lock. Currently, the Bikes for Batavia program has a surplus of 90 bikes to distribute. If you or someone you know needs a bicycle, contact Bikes for Batavia at bikesforbatavia@gmail.com.

GET INVOLVED WITH THE BATAVIA BICYCLE COMMISSION The Batavia Bicycle Commission, established in 2009, is a group of Batavia volunteers who advocate for the city government on bicycling and pedestrian issues. The commission also acts as a resource to the city government as it approves and evaluates policies and standards regarding implementing the City of Batavia’s Bicycle Plan adopted in 2007. Visit bikingbatavia.org to learn more.

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Currents

Sewer backup?

What to do

If your residence experiences a sewer backup call the City of Batavia (630454-2000). The city has emergency response personnel 24 hours a day.

The problem you are experiencing could be with the city’s main line. If it’s not an issue with the city’s line, then the city can provide you guidance in hiring a plumber.

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 or water damage unless you have purchased a special provision for this purpose.

If you experience a sewer backup, call your insurance company first to report any damage to your property or possessions. The City of Batavia’s insurance company will make a determination if the city is responsible for damages caused by a sewer backup.

The Illinois Association for Floodplain and Stormwater Management has a guide which includes tips for cleaning up after a flood or sewer overflow.

Visit illinoisfloods.org or cityofbatavia.net for the guide.

CONTACT THE CITY OF BATAVIA Water/Sewer Division: 630-454-2450

Finance Dept., Insurance Claim Questions: 630-454-2000

Please don’t flush….

The City of Batavia asks that you do not flush wipes – disinfecting wipes, baby wipes, personal wipes – down the toilet. Wipes can snag on any imperfection in the sewer pipes, catch passing debris and create a ball that will plug the sewer line. They can also get drawn into wastewater treatment plants and lift station pumps, causing clogs and severe, expensive damages. Also, please don’t flush paper towels, feminine hygiene products, plastic or latex items.

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BRUSH COLLECTION resumes in August

Curbside residential brush collection is available to residents who pay the monthly leaf/brush fee on their utility bill.

Brush collection occurs about every five weeks, with seven collections per season. Here is the schedule:

2022 BRUSH COLLECTION SCHEDULE East Side Collection Aug. 1 Sept.12 Oct. 17

West Side Collection Aug. 8 Sept. 19 Oct. 24

Nov. 28 – Citywide

Brush/limbs must be at the curb for collection by 7 a.m. the Monday of your scheduled week, but no sooner than the weekend before that. If a resident misses this deadline, brush will not be picked up by the city until the next scheduled pickup date.

The brush volume citywide determines how quickly your area is reached. Typically, each side of town is reached by Friday of the scheduled week.

Special collections are only performed in response to a major storm event and done very rarely.

Brush/limbs that are generated by a private service must be removed by that service and may not be put out for brush collection. Major storms may affect the schedule, and a notice of any special brush collection will be posted on cityofbatavia.net.

If your brush/limbs were out at 7 a.m. on Monday of your scheduled collection week and not collected by the end your scheduled week, please notify the Public Properties & Services Division at 630-4542400 no later than the following Monday.

The following procedures must be followed to ensure the collection of your brush/limbs: • 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.

For materials that do not meet the above specifications: • Twigs, shrub/evergreen clippings, roots, stumps, and plants are considered yard waste. Refer to the article on page 11 for the details regarding yard waste for disposal details.

• Residents with brush/limbs 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.

If you have any questions, please call the Public Properties & Services Division at 630-454-2400 weekdays from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. or visit cityofbatavia.net/ brushcollection.

LET’S TRASH TALK

REFUSE, RECYCLING AND YARD WASTE COLLECTION

Depending on where you live in Batavia, refuse, recycling, and yard waste are typically collected by Waste Management Wednesdays, Thursdays or Fridays. A map is available online at cityofbatavia/garbagedayschedule.

Residents have two options, pay-as-you-go or subscription cart services.

REFUSE AND YARD WASTE STICKERS FOR PAY-AS-YOU-GO As of July 1, 2022, the pay-as-you-go for refuse or yard waste stickers are $3.28 each (red, 50 lb. bag/can limit); $2.23 for half-refuse bag (yellow, 20 lb. bag limit).

required for collection. For a complete list of recyclable items visit ciytofbatavia.net/recyclables Carts are available in 35, 65, and 95-gallon sizes; contact Waste Management to order a cart or change a size, 630587-8282.

Fireworks Safety

Stickers can be purchased at local Batavia retailers Ace Hardware, Jewel, and Menards along with other vendors listed on the City’s website. Please note vendors may add up to a 2% service fee.

REFUSE AND YARD WASTE SUBSCRIPTION CART SERVICES As of July 1, 2022, the fees to rent these refuse carts from Waste Management are:

YARD WASTE COLLECTION From April 1-Nov. 30, residents may use yard waste kraft bags, 32-gallon can labeled "yard waste" with a disposal sticker attached to each bag or item. Residents can rent a 65-gallon yard waste cart through Waste Management for $32.27 per month.

Grass clippings, leaves, branches, brush, yard and garden trimmings, vines, garden plants, flowers, weeds; tree droppings (pinecones, seed pods, crab apples); and other similar organic waste materials are all considered to be yard waste.

Sod, wreaths, or garlands are not acceptable.

Upcoming holidays with no refuse/recycling/yard waste collection that shift to the collections a day: • Independence Day (July 4) Fireworks are often used to mark special events and holidays.

The only safe way • $23.81 per month for a 35-gallon cart • Labor Day (first Monday in September) • $25.17 per month for a 65-gallon cart is to attend a professional to view fireworks show. with many professional firework • Thanksgiving Day (third Thursday in November) • $27.06 per month for a 95-gallon shows being cart canceled this year, it is•important to know that fireworks are not safe Christmas Day (Dec. 25)

in the hands of consumers. Fireworks causeorthousands of injuries each year.

For details questions please visit cityofbatavia.net, RECYCLING COLLECTION or call Waste Management customer service, 630-587Curbside recycling isAoffered free to Batavia residents, with few ideas to get into the patriotic spirit, without fireworks: 8282 theaCity Batavia Public and for Services service provided by Waste Management.

1. Use glow sticks, Recycling they glowcarts in the dark andorare safeofalternative to aProperties sparkler. Fun Division, 630-454-2400. are provided to residentsallatages. no charge and a sticker is not 2. Loud and proud. Noise makers are sure to make a statement. They can be found at local party supply stores or make your own.

3. Outdoor movie night. Set up a screen and projector.

Don’t forget the bugspray! ! More than 19,500 reported fires Brought to you by the Fire and Protection Association • nfpa.org/education 4. National Red, white blue silly string…fun for all ages. are started by fireworks annually.

5. Make a patriotic craft with the family. ! Burns account for 44% of ireworks are often used to mark special events and holidays.

6. Throw a birthday party for the USA, and don’t forget the 9,100 injuries treated in The only safe way to view fireworks is to attend a professional the cake. emergency rooms seen in the

FIREWORKS SAFETY

F

show. With many professional firework shows being canceled this year, it is important to know that fireworks are not safe in the hands of consumers. Fireworks cause1200 thousands ofSparklers injuries each year. °F 1100 °F

A few ideas to get into the patriotic spirit, without fireworks:

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700 °F 1. Use glow sticks, they glow in the 4. Red, and blue silly string… dark and are a safe alternative to 600white °F Wood burns at 575 °F fun500 for°Fall ages. a sparkler. Fun for all ages.

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does

5. Make 400 a °F patriotic craft with the 2. Loud and proud. Noise makers a Cakes bake at 350 °F family.

300 °F are sure to make a statement. sparkler Water boils at 212 °F They can be found at local party 6. Throw a birthday party for the 200 °F burn? supply stores or make your own.

USA, and don’t forget the cake.

100 °F 0 °F

NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION The leading information and knowledge resource

• • • !

• !

• !

FACTS

month around July 4.

Half of the fireworks injuries seen at emergency rooms were extremities: hand, finger, or leg.

One-third were to the eye or other parts of the head.

Children ages 10–14 had the highest rate of fireworks injury, with more than one-third (36%) of the victims of fireworks injuries under age 15.

Sparklers account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) 2018 Fireworks Annual Report

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Batavia Boardwalk Shops Return for Third Year

By Hannah Hoffmeister Photos by April Duda Photography

Browse the 10 storefronts every weekend through Dec. 18

12 n July/August 2022

lay Dirty C . o &C

N

ext time you find yourself with some free time on a weekend, stop by the Batavia Boardwalk Shops, located at the corner of Wilson Street and Route 25 on the east side of the river. These 10 incubator shops give local businesses the chance to have a storefront, with the goal of moving into a brick-and-mortar space afterward.

The 2022 Boardwalk Shops are open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 18, providing plenty of time for you to snag baked goods, holiday gifts and everything in between. Also take time to get to know the businesses!

Opposite page, clockwise from top: Batavia Boardwalk Shops; Batavia Boardwalk Shops wayfinder sign; Charcuterie Studio; Arlo Hendrix Baby Outfitters; Magnolia Soap and Bath Co.; Earth Knots; The Candy Shop.

The Batavian n

13

This year, the shops are home to: • Arlo Hendrix: locally sourced

children’s clothing

ey Fox Vall y Galler of Wood

• Charcuterie Studio: gourmet

charcuterie boards

• Dirty Clay & Co.: handmade pottery • Earth Knots: macrame goods • Fox Valley Gallery of Wood: artisan

woodworking

ie Charcuter io Stud

• Hazelry: women’s clothing • Magnolia Soap and Bath Co:

handmade, plant-based soap products

• The Candy Stop: vast array of sweets • Wild West Baked Goods: Scandinavian-

inspired breads and more

• Wonder & Wander: children’s toys for

imaginative play

Batavia MainStreet coordinates the shops; learn more at www.downtownbatavia.com or at Batavia Boardwalk Shops on Facebook. The inaugural year of the Batavia Boardwalk Shops was 2020; each of the previous two years brought new brick-and-mortar businesses to the downtown area. Don’t hesitate to get to know this year’s businesses!

WE OFFER ALLERGY-FRIENDLY FOODS

(INCLUDING GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS), ORGANIC PRODUCE, SUPPLEMENTS, ESSENTIAL OILS AND NATURAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS IN-STORE COUPON

ENTER for a chance to win a Summer Care Package drawing valued at $100+ Winners to be drawn on 8/31/22 **Details: Enter in-store. No purchase necessary to win. Winners will be chosen at random from all entries. No photocopies accepted. Cannot be applied to online orders. Pickup Orders, previous purchases or gift card purchases.

IN-STORE COUPON - EXP. 8/31/22

$5 off $30 IN-STORE PURCHASE

**Coupon Details: Enter in-store. Get $5.00 off any in-store purchase of $30.00 or more. Coupon must be surrendered at redemption. No photocopies accepted. Cannot not applied to online orders, Pickup Orders, previous purchases or gift card purchases.

155 N. Randall Road, Batavia

(630) 454-4088

Located on Randall Rd. between Wilson & McKee, next to Chic-Fil-A Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm | Sat 9am-7pm | Sun 10am-5pm

14 n July/August 2022

Wonder & Wander

est Wild W oods Baked G

Painting Classes for All - No Experience Required!

• Canvas Painting Classes Daily • Family Fun Kids Classes every weekend • Painting on optional surfaces (bottles, glasses, wood trays, tote bags) • Chunky Knit Blanket Classes

Private Party Room available for your Special Event - Birthdays, Fundraisers, Team Building, Showers, Scouts, Networking...

Bar on premises, no BYOB allowed

15% OFF

any Class with coupon, valid thru 9/30/22 with code

Batavia15

For Details see www.pintospalette.com/stcharles

Project Pet - Paint your pet’s portrait on a digitally printed canvas from your photograph and we will donate $15 from each painting you make.

Paint at Home - Options with pre-recorded classes on our website or pickup a Paint at Home Kit with printed instructions

3823 E. Main St., St. Charles • 630-338-0278 www.pinotspalette.com/stcharles/events The Batavian n

15

Batavia Public School District 101 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

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

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Alice Gustafson School 905 Carlisle Rd. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8000 • ags.bps101.net Early Childhood Center 905 Carlisle Rd. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8000 ags.bps101.net/early-childhood Grace McWayne School 3501 Hapner Way Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8100 • gms.bps101.net H. C. Storm School 305 North Van Nortwick St. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8200 • hcs.bps101.net Hoover-Wood School 1640 Wagner Rd. Batavia, IL 60510 630-937-8300 • hws.bps101.net J. B. Nelson School 334 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

16 n July/August 2022

What is the

Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence

The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization with the goal of supporting the Batavia Public School District, its teachers, and students. The Foundation (BFEE) has a volunteer Board of Directors of local citizens who work directly with BPS101 to further the education of its students.

How can you help support BFEE? While we will not be having a major in-person fundraiser this year, there are many quick and easy ways you can support BFEE:

• AmazonSmile – Choose Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence as your preferred AmazonSmile Charity. A small portion of your AmazonSmile purchases goes directly back to BFEE.

• Honor a Teacher - Donate to BFEE in honor of a teacher and we will send them a certificate to show the support and appreciation they have from their families!

• Direct Donations – You can donate directly to BFEE. More information can be found on our website, www. batavafoundation.org • Sign up for the KCT Affinity Card – Give back every time you shop.

Plus, you will get an attractive Batavia Bulldog card to show off your school spirit! Already a member? It is super easy to switch over to the Bulldog Affinity Card!

Visit www.bataviafoundation.org and follow us on Facebook to learn more!

• Talk with your employer about payroll deductions or corporate matching - You may be able to donate a set dollar amount from your pre-tax income to BFEE every pay period and/or your employer may match your donation.

As part of the Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence’s efforts to form greater connections with our graduates and the community, we are thrilled to launch the Bulldog Nation Alumni and Friends – a free way for alumni and community supporters to stay connected and engaged in activities that strengthen our schools, and each other.

Join today to: • Reconnect with old classmates and friends • Stay up to date with district and Foundation news

• Gain inspiration through alumni stories • Find meaningful ways to support your alma mater • Help develop future graduates of Batavia’s public schools through equitable resources & opportunities

By engaging in this network, you will help to ensure a lasting legacy for BPS101 and the students it serves— both now and in the future!

Sign up for free now at bulldogalumni.nationbuilder.com!

SUPPORTING THEATER ARTS FOR A GREATER EDUCATION Batavia has a long and highly respected reputation for excellence in the performing arts. We invite you to be a part of that tradition! This year alone, STAGE funded over $20,000 for productions at both Rotolo Middle School and Batavia High School!

on you for your support!

As recognition of your support, your name will be listed in the programs that are distributed at all drama productions throughout the school year, and other membership benefits are in the works and will be announced soon!

We invite you to be a supporter of STAGE, and we hope we can count

Visit stagebatavia.org for more information or to become a member.

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Batavia Public School District 101

The Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience Sept. 9 • 7:30 p.m.

The Shaun Johnson Big Band Experience is a rare newcomer to traditional pop – fusing a big band spirit with an inventive edge – and garnering a top 5 Billboard spot with the release of their first album. Shaun, an Emmy award-winning crooner (and lead singer of the internationally known vocal group, Tonic Sol-fa) indelibly stamps vocal jazz and swing with a contemporary punch – to the delight of both traditionalists and newcomers – emerging as an original voice in the continuing tradition of the American vocalist.

The new season has been announced! See the lineup and order season tickets at www.bataviafineartscentre.org.

A Tribute to Kool & the Gang and Earth, Wind & Fire Aug. 19 • 7:30 p.m.

Kool & the Gang and Earth, Wind & Fire span a combined career of over a century and ushered in the sound of a generation. This show’s playlist has been hailed as the definitive collection of top-charting hits, and includes, Shining Star, September, Celebration, Cherish, Jungle Boogie, and more, this night of funk and soul puts two of the greatest groups of the '70s and '80s side by side. Get ready to party through the '70s and '80s as we combine the excitement of a live show with a super-charged dance party to remember!

Coming up at the Centre July

7-8 10 12-17 24

August 7 11 & 13 19

Bharatnatyam Arangetram Fox Valley Orchestra Calypso Summer The Merry Wives of Windsor Fox Valley Orchestra Presents: Broadway in Love

Fox Valley Orchestra Presents: Rhapsody in Pops Rangapravesam A Tribute to Kool & the Gang, Earth, Wind & Fire

SUPPORT THE ARTS in Batavia Public School District 101 The purpose of Studio: Batavia Visual Arts Boosters, is to encourage and promote an enthusiastic interest in and appreciation for the various activities connected with the Batavia High School and Rotolo Middle School Visual Arts

18 n July/August 2022

Departments. Studio lends all possible support, both educationally and financially, to the art students. Studio is a notfor-profit organization.

n To join, please visit: www.studiobatavia.org

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Happening in Batavia SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

JULY 2022 WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

JULY 5-28

Drop-In Craft 10 a.m. | Library

Six County Senior Games Times and locations TBA

3

Taste of Batavia 6 p.m.

Batavia History Trolley Tour 6-7 p.m. | Depot Museum

4

Batavia Community Band Concert 8:30 p.m. | Engstrom Park Sky Concert Fireworks Show 9:30 p.m. | Engstrom Park

10

Windmill City Festival noon-6 p.m.

Peg Bond Center Main Stage & Riverwalk

17

11

Historic Preservation Com. 5:30 p.m. | City Hall

Bicycle Commission 7 p.m. | City Hall

18

City Council 7:30 p.m. | City Hall

5

Games Galore 10:30 a.m. | Library Fire & Police Com. 4 p.m. | City Hall

Architectural Tour of the World 2 p.m. | Library

31

20 n July/August 2022

25

Historic Preservation Com. 5:30 p.m. | City Hall

Plan Com. & Zoning Board 7 p.m. | City Hall

6

7

Classroom Kitchen 6:30 p.m.

Library Online

8

Windmill City Festival 5-11 p.m.

Peg Bond Center Main Stage & Riverwalk

City Council 7:30 p.m. | City Hall

12

Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall

Book Discussion 7:30 p.m. | Library

19

Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall

BPS 101 Board of Ed. 7 p.m. | Admin Offices Batavia Park Board 7 p.m. | Civic Center

24

1

26

Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall

Teen Customize Your Space 7 p.m. | Library

13

Teen Inclusion Game Night 6:30 p.m. | Library

Environmental Com. 7 p.m. | City Hall

14

15

21

22

Storytime at the Caboose 10 a.m. | Depot Museum

River Rhapsody concert 7-8:30 p.m.

Peg Bond Center Stage

20

Craft at Engstrom 10 a.m.| Engstrom Park Plan Com. & Zoning Board 7 p.m. | City Hall Things To Do Under $30 7 p.m. | Library River Rhapsody concert 7 p.m. | Peg Bond Center Movie in the Park 8:45 p.m. | Peg Bond Center

27

River Rhapsody concert 7-8:30 p.m.

Peg Bond Center Stage

How Money Works: Part 3: Protection 7 p.m. | Library

Cómo Funciona Dinero: 3era ClaseProtección 7:45 p.m. | Library

28

Immigration After the Civil War 7 p.m. | Library Online

SATURDAY

Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon North River Street

2

Teen Yarn Bomb 10 a.m.

Library Reading Garden

9

Book Sale 9:15 a.m. | Library Speed Dating with Books 10 a.m.

Library Reading Garden Windmill City Festival noon-11 p.m.

Peg Bond Center Main Stage & Riverwalk

16

Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon North River Street

23

Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon North River Street

Story Stroll 10 a.m.

Library Reading Garden

29

30

Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon North River Street

AUGUST 2022 SUNDAY

MONDAY Drop-In Craft 10 a.m. | Library

1

City Council 7:30 p.m. | City Hall

7

14

21

28

Sundays on Stage 2 p.m. | Library

WEDNESDAY

2

Fire & Police Com. 4 p.m. | City Hall Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall

East Side Brush Collection | Aug. 1-5

8

Historic Preservation Com. 5:30 p.m. | City Hall

Bicycle Commission 7 p.m. | City Hall

Batavia History Trolley Tour 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Batavia Depot Museum

TUESDAY

Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall

10

15

City Council 7:30 p.m. | City Hall

22

Historic Preservation Com. 5:30 p.m. | City Hall

29

16

BPS 101 First Day of School

Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall Batavia Park Board 7 p.m. | Civic Center

23

Telephone & Online Interviews 2 p.m. | Library

4

11

Teen Inclusion Game Night 6:30 p.m. | Library

Environmental Com. 7 p.m. | City Hall

West Side Brush Collection | Aug. 8-12 Family Movie 11 a.m. | Library

3

THURSDAY

17

Batavia Senior Citizens Club Noon | Shannon Hall Plan Com. & Zoning Board 7 p.m. | City Hall

18

How Money Works: Class 4: Short Term 7 p.m. | Library Cómo Funciona Dinero: 4ta Clase: A Corto Plazo 7:45 p.m. | Library

24

25

30

Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall

5

12

So Long Summer Swim 6-8 p.m.

Hall Quarry Beach

SATURDAY

6

Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon North River Street Educators Sale 9:15 a.m.

Library

13

Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon North River Street Book Sale 9:15 a.m. | Library

19

20 Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon North River Street

26

Batavia Farmers Market 8 a.m.-noon

27

Story Stroll 10 a.m.

Library Reading Garden

Committee of the Whole 7 p.m. | City Hall BPS 101 Board of Ed. 7 p.m. | Admin Offices

FRIDAY

Storytime at Games Galore the Caboose 10:30 a.m. | Library Batavia History 10 a.m. | Depot Museum Classroom Kitchen Trolley Tour Plan Com. & Zoning Board 6:30 p.m. | Library Online 6-7 p.m. | Depot Museum 7 p.m. | City Hall Smartphone River Rhapsody concert Photography 101 7 p.m. | Peg Bond Center 7 p.m. | Library Movie in the Park 8:45 p.m. | Peg Bond Center

9

Book Discussion 7:30 p.m. | Library

Happening in Batavia

ACT Practice Test 1p.m. | Library

31 Please check organization websites for venue changes or cancellations.

climate-controlled playrooms supervised open play trained canine coaches live webcams SM-CL1969159 SM-CL1984717

630-283-1700 | dogtopia.com/geneva The Batavian n

21

Batavia Public Library This Summer,

Read Beyond the Beaten Path

A

re you a big reader, or do you hardly ever pick up a book? Why not enjoy the lazy days of summer by taking a reading break? This year’s Summer Reading Club encourages you to be adventurous and Read Beyond the Beaten Path. You can do this by changing up your usual reading genre: your reading adventure could have you diving into the latest bestseller, losing yourself in a romance, scaring yourself silly with a thriller, or exploring the ocean depths with nonfiction.

You can also go beyond your usual by trying a different reading mode — experience a graphic novel, an audiobook, or an eBook on your mobile device.

There is still time to sign up for the Summer Reading Club. All ages can explore outside their usual boundaries and earn rewards this summer when they join the Library’s Summer Reading Club (now through Aug. 8). Register online using the Beanstack app or pick up a log in the Library. Then start reading and earning rewards plus a chance at winning an end-ofsummer prize. You’ll find the complete information on our website at BataviaPublicLibrary.org.

Whether you are just joining the Summer Reading Club or have already filled a log, these Reading suggestions can help you find your next read.

The Library will be closed: Monday, July 4 Library Hours Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–9 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday: 12–5 p.m.

22 n July/August 2022

Kids’ reading recommendations: • You can call us! 630–879-1393 ext. 500.

• Check our website: bataviapubliclibrary.org/ youth-book-lists • Kids' Book Lists – whether you have a reluctant reader or a budding bookworm, check out these surefire, kid-tested titles.

• Surprise Me! Bundle - let us know what you like to read, and we'll match you up with some terrific books, movies, video games, or other materials.

• New Books in Youth Services reviews picture books, early readers, nonfiction, and fiction.

• Book Gems in July - where young readers enjoy a book discussion and activities. Register through the event calendar.

Adults and Teen reading recommendations: • You can call us! 630–879-1393 ext. 200.

• Check our website: bataviapubliclibrary.org/ all-about-books • Surprise Me! Bundle – let us know what you like, and we will select a personalized bag full of materials for you.

• Good Reads blog gives you longer book reviews plus read-alikes.

• My Librarian pages on our website list the types of books each of our Adult Services librarians like to read—plus their suggestions.

• Your Next Read – answer a few questions online about your reading likes and dislikes, and our librarians will respond with a reading list chosen just for you.

• Register for a summer book discussion – Hollow Kingdom by Kira Jane Buxton in July or Leaving Atlanta by Tayari Jones in August.

• Try some of the books that made the final round of this year’s Tournament of Books.

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

630-879-1393 | BataviaPublicLibrary.org

Under the Cupola

“Whence Batavia? Part 1, Fair Meadows”

Once upon a time, when Jeffery D. Schielke was not yet mayor, but rather a member of the Fourth Estate, he wrote a newspaper column called “Batavia’s Fair Meadows.” Whence “Fair Meadows”?

In March 1956, Miriam H. Johnson, Batavia’s librarian, published a query in “On the Shelf,” her own newspaper column. “On the debit side,” wrote Johnson, “we have been unable to answer the request for the meaning of the name ‘Batavia.’

Since Batavia, Java, was settled by the Dutch, we surmise that the word might have a meaning in that language, but so far we have been unsuccessful in our search. Can anyone help us?”

Batavia, Java — established in 1619 as the capital of the Netherlands (or Dutch) East Indies by the United East India Company of the Netherlands — is better known today as Jakarta, Indonesia.

Lo and behold! “Batavia does have a meaning!” exclaimed Johnson in April 1956. “And a beautiful meaning it is — Fair Meadows. This information came to us from John Gustafson, Batavia’s No. 1 local historian. Mr. Gustafson located this unusual fact in An American Doctor’s Odyssey, by Victor Heiser, page 462. Dr. Heiser describes his visit to Java for the

Rockefeller Foundation and tells about visiting the old capital, Batavia.”

“In Batavia,” according to Heiser, “which ironically enough means Fair Meadows,” the 17th century Dutch colonists “clung intrepidly to the homes they had erected there,” despite the heat and insect life of the tidal flats.

“It would seem that our Batavia,” concluded Johnson, “unlike the old Batavia, is appropriately named, for we are truly surrounded by ‘Fair Meadows.’ Thanks to John Gustafson for this interesting and little-known information.”

Schielke confirmed the origin of his column’s title in June 1976. “Batavia is the old Dutch word that describes a fair meadow,” he explained, as he described the Batavia area in 1833 as “far from a fair meadow.”

Look for the conclusion (Part 2) and learn about the “Batavian identity” in the next issue of The Batavian.

In the meantime, visit www.BataviaHistory.org to learn more about Batavia’s history.

GEORGE H. SCHEETZ Director

NEWS FROM THE FRIENDS Stock Your Classroom Sale!

Book Sale!

• Open to all teachers – including preschool teachers, daycare workers, home educators, and those who teach and mentor kids • Books for kids, teens, and adults • Most books half price—prices start at $0.25 for paperbacks and $.50 for hardcovers • The price for all educator materials is $0.25

Saturday, July 9, 9:15 a.m.-1 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 6, 9:15 a.m.–1 p.m., in the FriendSpace

Looking to purchase books at bargain prices?

Sales in the FriendSpace on the lower level.

Saturday, Aug. 13, 9:15 a.m.-1 p.m.

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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. Please check our online calendar for program additions and changes.

Advance registration is required for programs designated R.

HOW-TO COMMUNITY

Not Your Grandmother's Polish Side Dishes Watch online anytime July 1-31 Great for year-round meals.

Plucked from Chef Michael Niksic's eBook Hearty & Healthy Polish Cooking, these are definitely not your grandmother's recipes!

However, the vodka vegetables are a favorite and were featured on several local network TV stations. tinyurl.com/HowToCommunity

Classroom Kitchen: Thai-Inspired Grilling R Thursday, July 7, 6:30 p.m.

Online Grilling doesn't just have to be about burgers and hot dogs. This summer, impress your friends and family with some Thai-inspired grilling: kebobs and flatbread pizzas. The flavors are bright and vibrant, just like the feel of summer!

30 Things Under $30 to Do in Chicago R Wednesday, July 20, 7 p.m.

In-person From prominent museums to littleknown attractions, make the most of your weekend or staycation by learning how to take advantage of everything Chicago offers—without breaking the bank. In this presentation, Jez Layman highlights 30 deals and free options ranging from history and culture to green spaces to quirky sites off the beaten path.

24 n July/August 2022

How Money Works: Part 3: Protection R Thursday, July 21, 7 p.m.

In-person In the third of a monthly series of bite-sized programs, discover the importance of protecting yourself and your family from life's unexpected events before charting the rest of your journey!

Cómo Funciona Dinero: 3era Clase- Protección R Thursday, July 21, 7:45 p.m.

En persona ¡Parte de una serie de programas informativos en trozos pequeños, descubra la importancia de protegerse a sí mismo y a su familia de los eventos inesperados de la vida antes de trazar el resto de su camino financiero!

How Money Works: Class 4: Short Term R Thursday, Aug. 18, 7 p.m.

In-person In the fourth of a monthly series of bite-sized programs, learn how you can get your financial affairs in order so you can live in confidence.

The time to act is NOW!

Smartphone Photography 101 R Thursday, Aug. 4, 7 p.m.

In-person They say your "best camera" is the one you have with you. So how can you make the most of the incredible tool you carry around every day if that's true? Learn mobile photography tips and tricks, explore options for editing your creations, and begin to transition from taking pictures to making pictures.

Telephone & Online Interviews R Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2 p.m. | In-person Many employers turn to technology to interview candidates using video platforms, screening by phone call, or requiring a pre-recorded interview. Unfortunately, for the interviewee, this method of interviewing involves preparation and a solid impression to be successful.

Come learn from workNet Batavia how to position yourself for success on your next virtual/phone interview!

Classroom Kitchen: Farmer's Market Homemade Ravioli R Thursday, Aug. 4, 6:30 p.m.

Online A sun-inspired class focused on fresh seasonal veggies, whether from the produce aisle or your summer garden, combined with the art of homemade ravioli.

Cómo Funciona Dinero: 4ta Clase: A Corto Plazo R Thursday, Aug. 18, 7:45 p.m.

En persona Parte de una serie de programas informativos en trozos pequeños, aprenda cómo puede poner en orden sus asuntos financieros para que pueda vivir con confianza. ¡El momento de actuar es AHORA!

630-879-1393 | BataviaPublicLibrary.org

MONTHLY PROGRAMS

Book Discussion R Tuesday, July 12, 7:30 p.m.

Hollow Kingdom by Kira Jane Buxton In-person The apocalypse is coming.

Humans are becoming shells of their former selves, nature is taking over, and the animals band together. S.T., a crow, raised by a human in Seattle, must learn to adjust to the new world order. A finalist for the 2020 Thurber Prize for American Humor.

Tuesday, Aug. 9, 7:30 p.m.

Leaving Atlanta

by Tayari Jones In-person Set during the Atlanta child murders, this lyrical and poignant story is told through multiple viewpoints.

September book selection: Mary Coin by Marisa Silver

FEATURE PROGRAMS

Community Check-In with Misty & Aimee Get to know more about Batavia and the people who make it great with Misty and Aimee.

Catch a Community Check-In livestream or a 15(ish) Minutes of Fun video on our Facebook or Instagram accounts. You are guaranteed to laugh and to learn something about our great town.

No registration is required, but you will need a personal Instagram or Facebook account to interact with us. Follow us and turn on notifications, so you don't miss our videos! #bplcommunitycheckin #bpl15minoffun • Instagram: www.instagram.com/ bataviapubliclibrary • Facebook: www.facebook.com/ BataviaPublicLibrary

QUESTIONS & ANCESTORS GENEALOGY SERIES Through the Golden Door: Immigration After the Civil War R Thursday, July 28, 7 p.m. | Online via Zoom Before the Civil War, America's doors were open to all, with few restrictions. Afterward, the laws tightened, with exclusions, quotas, and even required visas. So how did the immigration laws affect your ancestors who immigrated after the Civil War? What hoops did they jump through to enter America's "golden door?"

Register at tinyurl.com/4j9e4yxb

Speed Dating with Books Saturday, July 9, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Reading Garden Are you a book lover looking for your next good read? Join us for this fun event for adults during Windmill City Festival, where Library trustees and librarians will introduce you to the books we can't stop talking about. One of these books might be the perfect match for your reading tastes.

No registration is required; drop by the Library Reading Garden.

(Rain location: Founders Room.)

Offered in partnership with Batavia Park District.

Themed Surprise Me Bundle— Mountains/Beaches/Forest July/August There's no mountain high enough to keep us from getting books to you! The July/August Themed Surprise Me Bundle will take you to the mountains, the forest, or the beach for a great escape.

Are you looking for a fun beach read or a gripping tale of survival on an icy mountainside? Then fill out the online form for the Mountains/ Beach/Forest Surprise Me Bundle during July and August. Librarians will select up to three special items and set them aside for you to pick up. Fill out the form here: https://tinyurl.com/rsvb3nbe Coming up in September/ October—Get Outdoors Themed Surprise Me Bundle.

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Batavia Public Library SUNDAYS ON STAGE

TEEN PROGRAMS

The Future is Now: Architectural Tour of the World R Sunday, July 31, 2 p.m.

In-person Buckle your seat belts and get ready for a surprising tour right from your seat. The international traveler, Jasmine Blaze (as played by educational entertainer Martina Mathisen), takes you around the globe to discover the fantastic superstructures that have stunned the world.

Volunteer Opportunities V Ongoing Are you looking to earn volunteer hours? The Library needs you!

• Inclusion Game Night is still going on, and volunteers are welcome to join in the fun (see below).

• We also have free tug toy craft kits you can make and return to the Library for volunteer credit.

Visit the Reference Desk for a kit or ask for a kit to be held for curbside pickup.

The Batavia Public Library Foundation is the 2022 Season Sponsor

The Music & Influence of Peter, Paul & Mary and the Kingston Trio Sunday, Aug. 28, 2 p.m.

In-person Join musician and historian Steve Justman for the story and songs of Peter, Paul & Mary, and the Kingston Trio.

These influential folk music groups put guitars and banjos into the hands of millions and taught them the songs to sing and play.

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Advance registration is required for programs designated R. For volunteer opportunities, look for the V.

Inclusion Game Night R V Wednesday, July 13 & Aug. 10, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

In-person Teens and young adults of all abilities, their families, and friends are welcome to play board games and card games together in person. However, we need to limit registration for safety, so please register for this program. Limit: 15.

Volunteers, limit: 5.

Yarn Bomb the Reading Garden Saturday, July 2, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

In-person Bring your family and friends to the Library Reading Garden for a yarn bomb! Not sure what that is?

We will be wrapping yarn around tree limbs, benches, light posts, and anything else within the Reading Garden outside of Youth Services. Yarn will be provided.

Prior knowledge of knitting, crocheting, braiding, or knotting is not required. Registration is not required.

Customize Your Space R Tuesday, July 26, 7 p.m.

In-person Are you heading off to college this fall? Or maybe you're looking to give your living space a facelift?

Please stop by the Library, where we'll have an assortment of items and supplies to help you bring personality to otherwise drab things. Registration required.

Limit: 15 ACT Practice Test R Saturday, Aug. 27, 1-4 p.m.

In-person Back by popular demand (from your parents), take an ACT practice test in the library meeting room.

Sponsored by C2 Education.

Registration required. Limit: 12 ACT/SAT prep Tutor.com provides ondemand tutoring, homework help, test preparation, and writing assistance in over 60 subjects seven days a week, noon to midnight. You can also use their drop-off reviews, practice quizzes, video lessons, and The Princeton Review SAT®/ ACT® Essentials. For practice tests, visit Testing & Education Reference Center to practice taking the ACT, SAT, GED, AP placement exams, and more.

This database also provides information about scholarships and colleges.

630-879-1393 | BataviaPublicLibrary.org

PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES FOR YOUTH

Program Registration: For programs requiring telephone registration, please call the Youth Services Desk, 630-879-1393 ext. 500. For all other programs, please register using the online events calendar at BataviaPublicLibrary.org. Unless otherwise noted, July and August program registration begins June 27.

Priority is given to Batavia Public Library cardholders for all programs requiring registration. Patrons of all abilities are welcome at our programs. Please contact the Library regarding accommodations.

Advanced registration is required for programs designated R. Batavia Park District co-sponsored events are marked with *.

FOR BABIES, TOTS, AND PRESCHOOLERS

Storytime at the Caboose * Thursday, July 14, 10 a.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 3, 10 a.m.

Ages 2–6 Weather permitting, come for Storytime at the Depot Museum.

Enjoy your favorite books, rhymes, and songs. Co-sponsored by Batavia Depot Museum and Batavia Park District.

Signing Fun R Friday, July 15, 10 a.m.

Ages 0–18 months with a caregiver Friday, July 15, 11 a.m.

Ages 18–36 months with a caregiver Licensed sign language interpreter, Sheryl Ebersold, will show how to incorporate sign language into daily activities with signs, songs, and more.

Toddler Time R Monday, July 25, 10 a.m.

Ages 2–3 Stories and more for toddlers.

Baby Storytime R Tuesday, July 26, 10 a.m.

Babies through 23 months with a caregiver Enjoy interactive songs, rhymes, and stories.

Toddler Art R Tuesday, Aug. 2, 10:30 a.m.

Ages 2–3 Toddlers will create show-stopping art at this fun event for budding artists. Enjoy stations that include stickers, coloring, and vegetable stamping.

Baby Play & Learn R Friday, Aug. 19, 10 a.m.

Babies through 23 months with a caregiver Meet other caregivers, enjoy playtime with your baby and see examples of early literacy activities.

We ask that you make alternate care arrangements for older siblings.

FOR STUDENTS

Yarn & Tale R Continues Tuesdays, July 5–19, 4-5:15 p.m.

Ages 8–14 Please call for space availability.

Students and student/caregiver teams are invited to knit or crochet while listening to a story. All knitting and crochet experience levels welcome. Please bring your own knitting needles (size 10) or crochet hook (size G/H).

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Batavia Public Library Off Beat Duct Tape DIY R Wednesday, July 6, 11 a.m.

Ages 8–14 Are you traveling off the beaten path this summer? Use duct tape to make your own handy water bottle holder and sit-upon.

Paws for Tales R Saturday, July 9, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Grades 1–4 Children will practice their reading skills by reading aloud to a specially trained therapy dog or cat. The goal of Paws for Tales is to create a positive, non-threatening, and fun environment to enjoy reading aloud. Register for a 15-minute time slot. Presented by the Naperville Area Humane Society.

Passport Club R Monday, July 11, 10:30 a.m.

Thursday, July 28, 1 p.m.

Grades 1–4 Discover the art, music, food, and stories from Africa, South America, Asia, and Europe. Please register for each date individually.

American Red Cross Babysitter’s Training Course R Thursday, July 14, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Ages 11–15 A 7.5-hour training course in which students learn basic babysitting skills and how to deal with emergencies. Participants must attend the entire session. Due to the popularity of this program, we will hold a lottery drawing on July 7.

Registration for the lottery drawing is already in progress. Priority is given to Batavia Public Library cardholders. Sponsored by the Batavia Public Library Foundation.

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Calligraphy Camp R Tuesday, July 19, 2 p.m.

Thursday., July 21, 2 p.m.

Grades 5–8 Do you enjoy being creative and trying new things? Are you interested in learning calligraphy using ink? Then register for a two-day calligraphy camp with Miss Rachel, a Youth Services staff member and calligraphy enthusiast.

You’ll learn how to use a nib and ink, practice basic strokes, and create a set of personalized cards to give to your friends and family.

No prior experience is needed!

Participants must attend both classes.

Book Gems R Friday, July 22, 2 p.m.

Bad Kitty: Camp Daze

by Nick Bruel Grades 2–3 Young readers will talk about this title and enjoy activities based on this title.

Reserve a copy of the book when registering.

Get Certified: Button Maker R Friday, July 29, 10, 10:30, 11, 11:30 a.m. or 12 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 25, 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30 p.m.

Grades 5–8 Don’t have button envy! Create buttons using the Library’s miniature button maker. During

this 30-minute class, you will learn the ins and outs of using the button maker and get certified so you can use the button maker any time the Library is open. Please note supplies for this program are free. However, there will be a small supply fee for future personal button-making sessions. Please register for only one class.

Perler Beads R Wednesday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m. or 1 p.m.

Grades 4–8 Perler Beads are back by popular demand! Choose from a fantastic assortment of bead colors and templates. Then develop your own one-of-a-kind creation. Register for one 45-minute session.

FAMILIES

Camp BPL Activities All Ages Stop by Camp Batavia Library often this summer for special activities featuring crafts, scavenger hunts, and more.

Camp activities will be available Monday–Saturday.

Drop-In Craft Friday, July 1, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Monday, Aug. 1, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

All ages Drop-in craft activities.

Children aged 6 and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

630-879-1393 | BataviaPublicLibrary.org Games Galore Tuesday, July 5, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 4, 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m.

All Ages Stop by Youth Services to play a variety of games for all ages inside the Library and outdoors in the Library Reading Garden.

Chess Night R Tuesdays, July 5–Aug. 9, 7 p.m.

Age 6–14 Participants should have a basic knowledge of the game of chess.

Stuffed Animal Campout R Thursday, July 7, 3–6 p.m. drop off Friday, July 8, 10:15 a.m. pick-up, photo reveal, and Stuffed Animal Picnic Ages 4–8 Is your favorite stuffed animal begging to go to sleepaway camp this summer? Sign them up for a night of silly fun at our Stuffed Animal Campout. Your animal friend will spend the night exploring the Library, meeting other stuffed animals, and having the best time of their lives! Then, the following day, see photos of stuffed animal mischief at their campout. Bring your blanket or chair and join us for a stuffed animal picnic in the Library Reading Garden following the photo reveal.

Lego Building Challenge R Tuesday, July 12, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 5, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

All Ages Are you looking for something fun for the family?

Register for a 30-minute time slot to work together to build with Legos. We will give families a

bag of Library Legos to use, a space in the Youth Services Department to work, and 30 minutes to create. Lego Creations will remain on display in the Library for one week. Register by calling the Youth Services Desk at 630-879-1393 x500.

Nature Bingo R Wednesday, July 13, 11 a.m.

Ages 3–14 Create your Nature Bingo card with Stampin’ Up demonstrator Heather Wnek. We’ll play several rounds of Nature Bingo and then move on to traditional Bingo.

Story Stroll at the Library Reading Garden Saturdays, July 23 & Aug. 27 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

All ages When you combine fresh air, light exercise, and an enjoyable book, what do you get? A Story Stroll, of course! Enjoy a Story Stroll in the Library Reading Garden.

Bingo R Wednesday, July 27, 11 a.m. @ Big Woods Park * Friday, Aug. 12, 11 a.m. @ the Library Ages 3–14 We will meet for Bingo at the pavilion at Big Woods Park in July! (weather permitting) Bring a blanket or lawn chair. In August, come to the Library for indoor Bingo. We’ll provide the Bingo cards and fun. A caregiver must accompany children.

Movie Monday, Aug. 15, 11 a.m.

All Ages Call Youth Services for the movie title.

Miss Jaime’s Farmyard Field Trip* R Monday, July 18, 10:30 a.m.

Families with children 2–8 Children’s musician Miss Jaime will take us on a farmyard field trip involving interactive singing and dancing songs, funny farm puppets, and imaginative play. Children and grownups alike will love singing and dancing with their friends down on Miss Jamie’s farm. Meet at the Peg Bond Center pavilion. In case of rain, priority is given to Batavia Public Library cardholders for an indoor location.

Craft at Engstrom* Wednesday, July 20, 10–11 a.m.

Ages 3–14 Weather permitting, drop in for an easy craft at Engstrom Park with Library Youth Services staff.

*Thank you to the Batavia Park District for co-sponsoring these events.

THANK YOU TO OUR SUMMER READING CLUB SPONSORS

Abbey Farms, Batavia Creamery, Batavia Park District, Brookfield Zoo, Bulldog’s Red Hots, ChickFil-A, Chuck E. Cheese, Classic Cinemas, Colonial Café, Culver’s North Aurora, Fermilab Arts and Lecture Series, Flyleaf Bakery & Café, Friends of the Batavia Public Library, Funway Ultimate Entertainment Center, Kane County Cougars, Keller’s Farmstand, Kimmer’s Ice Cream, Kuiper’s Family Farm, Learning Express Toys, Limestone Coffee & Tea, McAlister’s Deli, McDonald’s, Naper Settlement, Oberweis, Portillo’s, Raising Cane’s, Trader Joe’s, Wal-Mart, Wendy’s, Windmill Grille & Pizzeria The Batavian n

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Batavia Park District WINDMILL CITY FESTIVAL BLOWS INTO TOWN ON JULY 8-10

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on’t miss Batavia’s biggest event of the summer for families, visitors and friends of all ages!

Head to the Batavia Riverwalk for a weekend celebration of entertainment, including a carnival, a wide variety of live music, games, a community bike wash, a charming pet competition, great food and beverages, and more! For full details, visit windmillcityfest.org.

2022 WINDMILL CITY FESTIVAL SCHEDULE SATURDAY, JULY 9

Batavia Public Library Reading Garden, 10 S. Batavia Ave. • 10 a.m.-Noon - Speed Dating with Books Are you a book lover looking for your next good read? Attend this fun, free event for adults, where Batavia Public Library trustees and librarians will introduce you to books we can’t stop talking about!

(Hosted by the Batavia Public Library.

Rain location: Library Founders Room.)

FRIDAY, JULY 8

Batavia Depot Museum, 155 Houston St. • 2-7 p.m. - The Depot Museum will be open during the festival.

Visit us to take in some history and shop for unique Batavia merchandise!

Batavia Depot Museum, 155 Houston St. • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. - Stop in to cool off, browse the historic exhibits and pick up some Batavia swag!

Main Stage, Peg Bond Center (The Riverwalk - 151 N. Island Ave.) • 5-8 p.m. - Golf Challenge • 5-10:30 p.m. - Food & Beer Garden Open • 5-10 p.m. - Carnival on Houston Street • 6-8 p.m. - Band: Radio Gaga • 9-11 p.m. - Band: 7th Heaven *Coordinated by the Batavia Park District, The Depot Museum and the City of Batavia.

OFFICES Civic Center 327 W. Wilson St. 630-879-5235

30 n July/August 2022

Eastside Community Center 14 N. Van Buren St. 630-406-5282

Main Stage, Peg Bond Center (The Riverwalk - 151 N. Island Ave.) • Noon-8 p.m. - Golf Challenge • Noon-10:30 p.m. - Food & Beer Garden Open • Noon - Pet Competition at Main Stage Invite your furry or not-so-furry friends to this unique competition!

The first 50 registered participants will receive a complimentary “doggie bag” to take home. Interested participants must register near the Main Stage. Pets can win ‘best overall’ in five categories: Best Kisser, Best Trick, Highest Jump, Best Costume, and Most Unusual.

• Noon-10 p.m. - Carnival on Houston Street • 1:30 p.m. - Performance by The Frog Lady (Near Main Stage) • 2:30-4:30 p.m. - Unplug Illinois Day Sidewalk Chalk Contest All Ages Welcome (South Riverwalk Plaza)

Ditch your electronics for fun and recreation. Join us and draw what you love about Batavia! All ages are welcome to show off their artistic talents and compete to win the People’s Choice Contest for “Most Uplifting” and “Best of Batavia.”

• 3-4:30 p.m. - Family Fun Yard Games • 3-5 p.m. - Paul & Jay Band • 6-8 p.m. - Band: Generation • 9-11 p.m. - Band: Lounge Puppets

HOURS: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Mondays through Fridays, excluding holidays

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Allison Niemela

Dance over to River Rhapsody 7-8:30 p.m. | Peg Bond Center at the Batavia Riverwalk | (Come early to eat!)

Wednesdays: July 13, 20 & 27; Aug. 3

SUNDAY, JULY 10

Batavia Depot Museum, 155 Houston St. • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. - Duck in to see some of Batavia's finest treasures in our historic exhibits and our gift shop!

Main stage, Peg Bond Center (The Riverwalk - 151 N. Island Ave.) • Noon-6 p.m. - Food, Beer Garden, Golf Challenge • Noon-6 p.m. - Carnival on Houston Street • Noon-12:45 p.m. - Miss Jamie (Songtime for Children) • 1-2:30 p.m. - Community Bike Wash (Held in the Parking Lot of 150 Houston St.) Bring your bikes and scooters for a free bike wash. We will host a decoration contest and feature fun games for families and children.

(Sponsored by the Batavia Bicycle Commission!)

• 1-3 p.m. - Band: The Wayouts • 3-4 p.m. - Diaper Derby (Main Stage) Enter your little one in this exciting “crawling race” for babies ages 6-15 months. Participants and their enthusiastic supporters must register near the Main Stage between 2:302:45 pm. (Presented by the Batavia Mother’s Club Foundation.)

• 4-6 p.m. - Band: Back Country Roads

Bring your friends and family for a delightful, ever-changing musical celebration on the Batavia Riverwalk!

Set up your blankets or lawn chairs early and grab a bite to eat! Delicious red and white wine from Acquaviva will be sold at the concerts, along with tasty treats from Fernando's Street Kitchen and Koconuts Shave Ice! (Movies in the Park will follow the concerts on July 20 and Aug. 3, so enjoy some snacks before they start, too!)

2022 CONCERT LINEUP

Jam with some of the best bands in the Chicago area! For more details, visit bataviaparks.org/special-events.

July 13 – Serendipity July 20 – Second Hand Soul Band July 27 – Nashville Electric Company Aug. 3 – Feel Good Party Band

Enjoy lively musical acts from country, pop and reggae, to Top '40s and good ol' rock 'n' roll.

Singers and dancers are welcome!

Sponsored by the Batavia Parks Foundation, DePaw Canine Campus and First Student, these concerts are fun for the whole family!

A FINAL SPLASH BASH each!

at Hall Quarry B

We’re halfway through the summer and it certainly has been memorable! So many new visitors are heading to Hall Quarry Beach this summer, and we know you’re having so much fun. We love seeing our returning families, too, and enjoy catching up with you and seeing how much your kiddos have grown.

The Quarry’s last day is Sunday, Aug. 14.

Before we say farewell to summer, kick off the final Quarry weekend with a special finale event. So Long Summer Swim will be from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 12, at the Quarry. We’ll feature extended hours, family games and so much more! Make time for extra family fun before it’s backto-school time.

OPERATING HOURS

• Daily: Opens for season pass holders at 11:30 a.m.

• Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays: Noon-7 p.m.

• Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays: Noon-6 p.m.

• Twilight hours on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 5-7 p.m.

LOCATION

400 S. Water St., Batavia

DAILY ADMISSION RATES • Residents: $10 • Nonresidents: $13 • Twilight Hours, residents: $4 • Twilight Hours, nonresidents: $6

For Punch Pass Rates, please see our website at bit.ly/3tCIKpK. The Batavian n

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Batavia Park District

WIND, WATER AND STEAM, oh my!

Power and movement have fascinated individuals since the dawn of time. Our history is filled with the stories of men and women who harnessed the power of wind, water and steam to build Batavia into the beautiful city it is today.

Batavia Depot Museum staff will open a remarkable exhibit in August focusing on the City of Energy –The Forces that Built Batavia. This fall exhibit, which will be open through December, explores the natural forces that have built Batavia, from windmills and

steam engines, to dams and particle accelerators. Explore the work of our community’s early engineers and inventors, and the contributions made by their modern-day counterparts.

Depot Museum is located at 155 Houston St. In July and August, it will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 2-4 p.m., and by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Contact Museum staff at 630-406-5274.

Help make PEACE ON EARTH permanent art in Batavia!

In May, Batavia Parks Foundation launched a fundraising campaign, "Pay it Forward," for the Peace on Earth project, to help the Foundation replace the seasonal wooden letters — currently hanging on the bicycle-pedestrian

32 n July/August 2022

bridge — with permanent letters featuring LED lights to shine all year long. Only1,000 raffle tickets will be sold, and they feature exciting prizes and discounts from many community businesses, or "play partners." Purchase your

ticket today at any River Rhapsody concert, from Parks Foundation board members, or daily at Foltos Tonsorial Parlor! Or find them online at bataviaparksfoundation. rallyup.com/peaceonearth/ Campaign/Details.

Have a pint by the pond!

NEW Batavia Craft Beer Festival coming soon!

September truly is a golden kind of month. Nestled between the long, hot days of summer, and the cool nights and crisp days of autumn, it’s practically the perfect time of year.

Almost. The one addition to make it truly spectacular is coming to Batavia!

Raise a pint of golden lager along the beautiful Riverwalk during Pints by the Pond, a Craft Beer Festival, on Sept. 24. This new event is designed for individuals with discerning tastes.

For those who appreciate the fine craftsmanship in every glorious glass of the golden brew. Celebrate with

fellow connoisseurs from 2-5 p.m. at the Peg Bond Center, 151 N. Island Ave. A special VIP Hour will be hosted from 1-2 p.m. for this 21 and older event. This will be a ticketed event; visit bataviaparks.org.

Join the Batavia Senior Citizens Club The Batavia Senior Citizens Club is a fun and caring group of active adults who meet on the third Wednesday of each month. Our meetings include a general business portion of the meeting, followed by lunch, entertainment and raffle prizes.

New members are invited to join at any time. Annual membership dues are $15 and provide free access to The Batavia Bulletin, the club's monthly newsletter.

Membership also means that seniors have access to free or reduced-rate programs throughout the year.

Our next meetings are at noon on Wednesday, July 20, and Wednesday, Aug. 17, at Shannon Hall, 14 N. Van Buren St.

Rent a slice of

To join the BSCC, call the Civic Center at 630-879-5235 or Eastside Community Center at 630-406-5282 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Simply ask to join the BSCC and pay the annual dues. Or you may email registrations@bataviaparks.org.

SERENITY! If you’re looking for some peace and tranquility on the water, but don’t necessarily want to take a dip, rent a kayak or paddleboat this summer.

You can slice through the water, surrounded by nature and the Batavia Riverwalk, while in a paddleboat or a single- or two-person kayak. Rentals are available along the Riverwalk near the Peg Bond Center.

DATES & HOURS OF OPERATION RATES • One-person kayak: Now – Aug. 15: $10 for a 30-minute rental Monday-Friday, 5-8 p.m.

• Two-person kayak: Saturday and Sunday, 1-6 p.m. $20 for a 30-minute rental Aug. 21 – Sept 25: • Up to four-person paddleboat: Saturday and Sunday, 1-6 p.m. $15 for a 30-minute rental Sept. 5, Labor Day: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. *Participants must be at least 16 years old and have a state-issued ID to operate kayaks.

KIM'S

TIPS & TRICKS

According to Worldwildlife.org: Use less hot water. Washing your clothes in cold or warm instead of hot water can save as much as 500 pounds of carbon dioxide per year.

A leaky faucet that fills a coffee cup in 10 minutes will waste an estimated 3,000 gallons of water per year.

— Kim Hansen, Director of Parks The Batavian n

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Downtown Batavia

DOWNTOWN is Everyone’s Neighborhood!

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here is no shortage of reasons to bring your family downtown this summer. The Farmers’ Market is in full swing Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon on North River Street, and the Boardwalk Shops are open Friday–Sunday on the corner of Wilson Street and Route 25. We’ll be hosting our annual fundraiser, Cocktails in the Park, Block Party, and we’re excited to bring back Dinner Table!

Photos by April Duda Photography

Dinner Table

In June, we welcomed new board member Suzy Ray, Light & Pine Collective who will be a phenomenal addition to our team. We also welcomed Grace Rosati as our summer intern. She will be working hard to help make our events amazing.

Our Batavia MainStreet Family and community volunteers have been planning and prepping for you to create many memories Downtown.

Summer also means that there are a lot of volunteer opportunities both for the day of the events and to help in the planning! Visit

Cocktails in the Park 34 n July/August 2022

downtownbatavia.com/volunteer or call us 630-761-3528 for all the details.

We’re thrilled to bring Dinner Table back! Join us Sunday, Aug. 7, for a shared table experience where you will dine and mingle with your Join us for Cocktails in the Park neighbors at one loooooong table.

Saturday, July 23, at 7 p.m. in The food is farm to table, Appleton Park sourcing as much as of (behind City Hall, 100 Appleton Park the ingredients from our N. Island Ave). Enjoy Saturday July 23, 2022 Batavia Farmers’ Market an evening on the 7pm-10pm vendors to be prepared by riverbanks of the Fox our downtown restaurants River with live music, and chefs for your dining drinks, small plates, experience. Funds raised by and more. Take this event are donated to advantage of your the Batavia Interfaith Food chance to “Win the Pantry. This event requires Bar” with a $20 raffle lots of volunteers, so please ticket where you get consider joining the team to an opportunity to win help execute this special event. a selection of cocktail mixers, spirits, barware, and more. We welcome Block Party and Taste of Batavia you to join us for this beautiful and is a great way to celebrate Labor unique event that helps raise funds Day weekend. Enjoy a variety of for Batavia MainStreet’s revitalization downtown restaurants with “Taste efforts. Ticket price includes small of Batavia” with live music, activities, plates from local restaurants, a and dancing. The Block Party will take collectible cocktail glass (first come, place at Peg Bond Center and North first served), and entry to the event. A River Street. And it will include kids' cash/credit bar is available. Tickets are activities hosted by River City Church, on sale at downtownbatavia.com for a Car Show, a Pie Bake Off and more! $40 in advance, $45 at the door.

Sunday, Sept. 5, from 4-9 p.m.

BataviaChamber.org

GROW YOUR BUSINESS SCHOLARSHIP OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS

UPCOMING Grow Your Business Scholarship, contact Margaret Perreault by calling 630-879-7134, or email margaret@bataviachamber.org.

You can also text 478-CHAMBER.

Congratulations

TO OUR SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS! Four members of the 2022 graduating class of Batavia Public School District 101 are winners of Inspire Scholarships. The four scholarship categories are motivated by the makeup of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce membership. The financial award of $750 will be paid directly to the institute the recipient will be attending.

This year's awards go to:

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS n AIM Physical Therapy n Air Choice Heating & Cooling n Bardwell Residences n Batavia Auto Service n Caring Transitions of Saint Charles n Even Flow Mechanical Services n Julie Bletzinger, REALTOR®, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group n RMS Enterprises n Select Health Chiropractic n Shell Batavia n Weston Bridges

Applications are open to Batavia Chamber members for a mentoring scholarship designed to bolster a business’s acumen across all areas of operation. Because one of the roles of the Batavia Chamber is to be a catalyst for business prosperity, the scholarship aims to assist businesses in developing the skills they need to thrive in all environments.

To ensure a successful program, the Batavia Chamber is partnering with the Fox Valley Entrepreneurial Center (FVEC). The FVEC will assist in vetting eligible businesses, providing expert advice and will contribute monies to the Grow Your Business Scholarship fund. The Batavia Chamber of Commerce has donated $10,000 and the FVEC is donating the remaining amount to provide two scholarships into the program. To apply, submit the form by scanning the QR code or visit www.fvec.org/bcoc-form.

For more information about the

Welcome

• Inspiring Entrepreneurship: Corey Berg, Illinois State University • Inspiring Women in Business: Sofia Johnson, Samford University • Inspiring Career & Technical Achievers: Bradley Beilfuss, Waubonsee Community College • Inspiring Contributors to a Batavia Chamber Business: Aisling McGrath, Bucknell University Applications will open to 2023 seniors of BPS 101 in January 2023 for the Inspire Scholarships. Donations to this fund are always welcome, contact the Chamber office at (630) 879-7134 for more information.

Events

Batavia Chamber Breakfast Club* Wednesdays, July 13 & Aug. 10, 7:30 a.m.

Comfort Inn & Suites, Geneva.

It’s structured networking to build your business.

Net-Working-It! Wednesdays, July 20 & Aug. 17, 4:30 p.m.

Watch our website for locations and join us for relaxed after-hours networking.

Batavia Women in Business Progressive Networking Luncheon* Tuesday, Aug. 9, 11:30 a.m.

Prairie Landing Golf Club, West Chicago.

Multi-chamber networking opportunity! *Registration required, please visit bataviachamber.org.

Check our website for updates and additional events.

For all the latest event updates and other news, follow Batavia Chamber on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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BATV

Summer

Stay up-to-date on your local government with BATV's coverage and re-airing of Batavia government meetings!

is in full swing!

While enjoying the warm rays of the summer sun, you can catch the broadcasts of your favorite events right here on BATV!

BATV has relocated!

We are now in the heart of Batavia at 150 Houston St. If you would like to learn more about BATV, please go to our website at mybatv.com!

River Rhapsody concerts continue throughout July and into August! You can enjoy our re-airing of each performance the weekend after the event!

Football season is just around the corner!

If you are a local business and would like to be a sponsor for one of our LIVE broadcasts, reach out to Andrew Van Meter at info@mybatv.com for more information!

Stay tuned to BATV's Facebook page @batv1017 to keep up-to-date on us and what's happening around Batavia!

If you enjoy our coverage of special events, meetings and community activities and would like to see more, you can donate to BATV through our website at mybatv.com!

Just click the "Donate Today" button!

For more information, please contact BATV at 630-454-4584 or email info@mybatv.com.

TUNE IN TO YOUR COMMUNITY INFORMATION STATION

PUBLIC ACCESS CHANNEL 17 | GOVERNMENT ACCESS CHANNEL 10 630-454-4584 | Like and follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/batv1017 Like and subscribe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/BATV1017

36 n July/August 2022

Community Above Self

Fox Valley Special Recreation Association is launching a new movement to empower people with disabilities Attending community events can be overwhelming – especially for people with disabilities. Imagine navigating the busy and noisy surroundings of a local outdoor festival or special event without having access to a space that promotes sensory regulation.

movement, SootheSpace, to empower individuals with disabilities to be part of all aspects of the community.

SHOW UP FOR A CHILD.

Fox Valley Special Recreation Association (FVSRA) is launching a new

common as first aid tents or kits, so With SootheSpace, people with people of all abilities can maximize disabilities – and their family and their enjoyment and attendance at friends – will have a safe space where community events without getting light, texture and sound create an overstimulated or having to leave early. ideal environment for recentering. OurVolunteer hope is that SootheSpaces will be as Training soothespace.org starts virtually or in

CASA Kane County gives a voice to children who face abuse

Please be a voice for a child. Change Kane County. Find out how you can her/his story. Court Appointed make a difference. Come to one of our Special Advocates (CASA)s are general information meetings, email us trained volunteers who become at info@casakanecounty.org or a call a voice for children in abuse and 630-232-4484. You can also donate neglect situations. Kane County CASA to help ensure all children receive a is among the best in training and CASA/GAL Volunteer and/or invite us volunteer opportunities. Be essential to your business or events to to our community and the life of the spread the word. Follow us C A S A K A N E C O U N T Y. O R G children in it. There are currently over on Facebook, Instagram, (630) 232-4484 650 children needing assistance in Twitter and Linkedin!

person July 12! Be there for a foster child.

Batavia United Way offers

Donate Employee Giving program To ensure 100% of children receive a CASA/GAL volunteer.

Batavia United Way’s Employee

Win $50K or a Corvette in annual Batavia Rotary Club drawing Tickets are now on sale for the Batavia Rotary Club’s 34th Annual Corvette Drawing. This year’s grand prize is a new 2023 Corvette Convertible or $50,000 cash. There are also five other cash prizes of $500 to be given away plus three Early Bird drawings of $500 on July 19, Aug. 19 and Sept. 19.

Only 1200 tickets will be issued.

Ticket donation is $100. The drawing will take place 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, at K Hollis Jewelry in Batavia.

All proceeds benefit local charities

Giving program enables businesses

Connect to provide employees with an Invite us to speak your opportunity toatgive to their local business, attend our events or community follow us on social media. through a

and Rotary International programs.

Tickets are available online at www.

BataviaRotaryCharities.com. Tickets also may be requested by mail at: Rotary Club of Batavia, P.O. Box 111, Batavia, IL 60510. Checks payable to: Rotary Club of Batavia.

monthly payroll deduction.

Essentially 100% of donations fund grants for local nonprofit organizations that provide critical services and programs to Batavians. Ask us how you can start an employee giving program at your business!

Grab your costumes and join us on Oct. 29 for the 2022 Bat Race as we try to reach our goal of raising $125,000 to support 19 nonprofit agencies serving Batavia in the areas of health, education, and financial stability. Visit our website, www.bataviaunitedway.org, for more information, to register, to donate, or to volunteer!

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley can help you fulfill all of your philanthropic goals Whether you’re planning your estate or simply looking to give back in a meaningful way, the Community Foundation is here to serve you.

With wise and careful investments, thoughtful oversight and donor-driven policies, the Community Foundation of

the Fox River Valley exists to help fulfill philanthropic goals both short-term and for perpetuity.

The Community Foundation: • Has a strong partnership with trusted financial advisors, money managers and estate planning attorneys

• Can create a planned giving approach that will allow you to support your favorite charities, in your family’s name, to continue for perpetuity

We invite you to learn more by visiting cffrv.org.

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Batavia Resource Guide

Photo provided by Batavia Park District

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS n Batavia American Legion Post 504 bataviapost504.org n Batavia Arts Council BataviaArtsCouncil.org n BATV mybatv.com n Batavia Boosters bataviabulldogboosters.org n Batavia Chamber of Commerce bataviachamber.org n Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence bataviafoundation.org n Batavia Historical Society bataviahistoricalsociety.org n Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry bataviafoodpantry.org n Batavia Lions Club batavialionsclub.org n Batavia MainStreet downtownbatavia.com n Batavia Park District bataviaparks.org n Batavia Public Library bataviapubliclibrary.org n Batavia Public Schools bps101.net n Batavia Retired Senior Volunteer Program Bataviarsvp.org

n Batavia Township bataviatownship.com n Batavia United Way bataviaunitedway.org n Batavia VFW bataviavfw.org n Batavia Woman’s Club bataviawomansclub.org n CASA Kane County casakanecounty.org n Fox Valley Hands of Hope fvhh.net n Fox Valley Special Rec Association fvsra.org n Kane County Health Department kanehealth.com n Kane County Veterans Assistance 630-232-3550 n Kiwanis Club 630-879-2281 n Rotary Club of Batavia bataviarotaryclub.org n Tri City Family Services tricityfamilyservices.org n Tri City Health Partnership tchpfreeclinic.org n Water Street Studios waterstreetstudios.org

PHONE GUIDE

Emergency – Dial 911 City Hall 630-454-2000 Police (Non-Emergency) 630-454-2500 Fire (Non-Emergency) 630-454-2100 Chamber of Commerce 630-879-7134 Batavia Park District 630-879-5235 School District 101 630-937-8800 Batavia Public Library 630-879-1393 Batavia Township 630-879-1392 MainStreet 630-761-3528 UTILITIES/SERVICES J.U.L.I.E. 811 or 800-892-0123 (call 48 hours before you dig) Water Utility 630-454-2450 Electric Utility 630-454-2350 NICOR GAS 888-642-6748 Waste Management 630-587-8282 (garbage pick up) Utility Billing 630-454-2020 KANE COUNTY County Clerk 630-232-5950 Sheriff (Non-Emergency) 630-232-6840 Voter Registration 630-232-5990 Kane County Forest Preserve 630-232-5980 OTHER Aurora Secretary of State Facility 312-793-1010 U.S. Post Office (Batavia) 630-879-1483

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