Neighbors of St. Charles Magazine

Transcription

St.Charles
Neighbors™of
neighborsofstcharles.com
August/September 2011
Your community magazine
We are the
BEST
COMMUNITY
in America
to raise
a family!
Be a financial
mentor
The war with the
ash borer
End the summer
on a healthy note
It’s back to school—
how to get kids ready
Wild times in the county:
St. Charles and Prohibition
POSTAL CUSTOMER
ST. CHARLES, IL 60174
PERMIT NO. 48
4739 Clearwater Lane
Naperville, Illinois 60564
PAID
PRSRT STD
ECRWSS
US POSTAGE
Inside Information
21
10
38
St. Charles is #1!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Your finances Be a money mentor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Good Neighbor The ripple effect. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chamber of Commerce Be a part of it. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Community News
City has a new way to report outages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Big trucks are coming!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Drum circle coming to the library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Bell-Graham has a new principal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Your Health—End summer on a healthy note. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Your Family—Getting into a routine for school. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
The Last Page—Going dry in St. Charles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Departments
Nuggets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Neighbors
Publications
630-995-3482
neighborsofstcharles.com
Neighbors Staff and Contributors:
Tim & Kate Sullivan, Publishers
Sharon Kassl, Production Director
Jamie Heflin, St. Charles Editor
Peggy Capper, Features Editor
Carrie Murphy Banas, Account Manager
Linnea Carlson, Creative Director
Colleen Zawarus, Graphic Artist
Photo Contributor:
Alex Claney
For calendar listings:
Please submit your activity dates to
[email protected]
For advertising opportunities:
[email protected]
630-995-3482
NEIGHBORS™ is published bimonthly.
Editorial contributions are welcome. Send your
information to [email protected].
Advertising deadline is the 10th of the month
preceding publication.
©2011 NEIGHBORS™ is published by Emerald
Marketing, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion
of this publication may be reproduced without
the written permission of the publisher.
Around the Block. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
August Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
September Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Important Contacts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
About the cover
Cover photo by Alex Claney. Andrew and Olivia Olson of St. Charles enjoy an ice
cream treat from Kimmer’s Ice Cream along the Fox River.
What’s that in the upper right hand corner on the cover? It’s a QR code. Take a picture of
it with your smart phone and watch what happens. You will be seeing more QR codes in
future issues.
TM
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Your Finances
Step up, parents: children
need money mentors
by Kyle D. Witt
O
ur children need money
mentors.
With consumer debt
skyrocketing and the cost of
housing, education, and health care
increasing, younger generations
face unprecedented challenges to
achieving economic security and
financial independence. Helping
our youth to learn effective money
management skills and to adopt
good financial habits and attitudes is
more important than ever.
So, what can you do to help
improve the financial future of your
children, grandchildren, nieces, and
nephews?
Here are some suggestions and
resources to get you started.
Set an example. First and
foremost, examine your own money
beliefs and behaviors and then
take action if necessary to get your
financial life in order. An excellent
handbook for reaching this goal
is You and Your Money, by Lois A.
Vitt and Karen L. Murrell. Always
remember that nothing is more
effective in guiding the younger
generation than a powerful role
model.
Be aware. Stay alert for teachable
moments to share your financial
expertise and wisdom. Very few
topics affect us on a day-to-day
basis like money does, so there are
endless opportunities to provide
mini financial lessons via word and
example. A wonderful resource for
parents (and other caring adults) is
The Financially Intelligent Parent: 8
Steps to Raising Successful, Generous,
Responsible Children, by Jon and
Eileen Gallo.
Put it on the calendar.
In addition to impromptu
conversations about money, William
Anthes, past president of the
National Endowment for Financial
Education (NEFE), recommends
establishing a new tradition—family
finance nights. He writes, “The idea
is for families to get together on
a regular basis to talk about how
money is earned, saved, and spent.
The financial topic du jour is up to
you, but the goal is always the same:
to give your children the invaluable
gift of a financial education.”
For tips on establishing a
regular family finance night, go to
smartaboutmoney.org and download
the article “Money Night with Kids
Instills Smart Financial Habits.”
Use tools. Many great resources
are available to help make financial
education fun and interesting
for children. One example is the
Moonjar, (moonjar.com) “a tool for
children and families to incorporate
strong financial values and practices
into their daily lives,” according to
its creator, Eulalie M. Scandiuzzi.
Even if your children are older,
many are seeking guidance and
advice. According to a recent New
York Times article, student loan debt
outpaced credit card debt for the
first time in 2010 and is likely to top
$1 trillion in 2011. More students
are going to college, and a growing
share is borrowing money to do so.
It pays to start teaching your
children early about money, but
recognize it is never too late. Our
children need money mentors.
Kyle D. Witt, MBA is a Managing
Partner with OnPath Financial, LLC in
St. Charles, IL.
Securities offered through LPL
Financial, member FINRA/SIPC.
[email protected]
The above material was prepared by
Peak Advisor Alliance.
The opinions voiced in this material
are for general information and not
intended to provide specific investment
advice for any individual.
Good Neighbor
The ripple
effect—
it’s no small
thing
by Peggy Capper
S
t. Charles resident Chris
Morrison is the perfect
example of someone making
what she perceives as small
everyday gestures that are having
a positive ripple effect on many
peoples’ lives in this community.
Chris owns a consignment store
in Geneva called Always in Style
where many of her good deeds
originate. She donates unused
clothes from her consignment store
to various charitable organizations
in the community. “People are in
need right here in St. Charles,” says
Chris. “You just don’t hear about it.”
One of these, Embrace the Family,
is a small, grass roots organization
based in St. Charles that aids
single mothers. A few times a year,
Chris invites the single mothers to
her store to pick out clothes and
accessories free of charge. “It is
women who are starting all over
and need a support network and
these are the most positive women
you ever want to meet,” she states.
Another organization that benefits
from Chris’ generosity is called
Reach for the Moon. The focus
of the foundation is to provide
basic needs for children and Chris
donates surplus clothes from her
store to help the organization
acquire critical items for those in
need. Chris also donates clothing
to help women who have recently
been released from prison and need
a helping hand. “It’s easy to think of
other charities, but we don’t think
about the woman who went to
prison who is being released in the
clothes she is wearing,” says Chris.
Chris is the type of person who
will help out anyone whenever
she is able. A few months ago, a
man whose wife had recently died
called Chris’ store and asked for
help in unloading his wife’s many
clothing items. Chris was starting
to tell him no because her store
was already full and he said, “Please
don’t tell me no. Everyone else has
told me no.” Chris not only agreed
to help the man, but she rented the
space next to her store and offered
to hold a weekend sale for him.
Chris shared her story with many
of her loyal customers and to her
delight, many offered to work at or
to donate items to the sale. “That
is what makes me happy because
if you give people the opportunity
to help you out, they really do.”
After the sale, Chris donated all the
proceeds to the husband so that he
could pay for needed expenses. “I
think we start to think we are the
only ones and there is no one out
there who cares and when you find
out someone else does care it feels
good,” she adds.
Perhaps one of her biggest
“small” gestures has literally helped
save one woman’s life. Chris is
a creature of habit and visits the
same convenience store every day
to purchase her favorite beverage.
As a result, she has cultivated a
friendship with the saleswoman
who works at the store. The
saleswoman confided in Chris that
she had a lump in her breast and
believed she could not afford to
have it examined. Chris was able to
explain to her friend that the State
of Illinois offers free mammograms
for women over 40 and offered to
get the saleswoman in touch with
medical care. “I told her I would do
anything she needed,” says Chris.
Upon hearing the news that it was
indeed cancer, Chris came through
with her promise to help and began
driving the woman to and from
her medical treatments in Aurora.
“It’s such a small thing,” she says.
She also added a personal touch
of warmth by packing her friend a
lunch, complete with inspirational
notes, after each visit.
Chris believes in sharing stories
with other people in the hope that
someone else may have a similar
experience or can lend a hand.
“The ripple effect is amazing. I see
it happen all the time. If you tell
somebody and they help a little
too, before you know it you have
a whole community of people
helping.” Chris shared her friend’s
cancer story with a customer
and the customer began making
bandanas and hats for Chris’ friend.
“She was sure she wasn’t going to
lose her hair, and then the next day
she stared losing it. It was so helpful
to have those bandanas and hats
on hand to give her. It made such a
difference.”
In addition to helping the many
people that touch Chris’ life, she
also participates in a cat rescue
program and fosters needy cats until
they can find a permanent home.
In commenting on her actions,
Chris feels that the people she helps
are more deserving of praise. “I’m
amazed by these women and their
strengths. There isn’t one of them
that isn’t positive,” she says. Chris is
continually on the lookout for those
in need. “I never know where a day
might take me and who I can help.”
Hopefully, others will follow Chris’
example and start a positive ripple
effect of their own.
P hoto by A lex Claney.
Family Circle names
St. Charles as the
Number One city
in the country for
families!
by Peggy Capper
St. Charles is proving in a number of ways how it has earned
the nickname, Pride of the Fox River. Family Circle magazine
recently crowned St. Charles as the BEST TOWN across the
country FOR FAMILIES.
E
ach year Family Circle evaluates communities
across the U.S. that combine affordable housing,
good neighbors, green spaces, strong public
school systems and giving spirits. St. Charles’ strong
ability to deliver on all criteria made it the number
one choice as the perfect place to call home. The
article was featured nationwide in Family Circle’s
August issue.
Kelly and Mike Olson love raising their two
children, Andrew and Olivia (pictured on the cover),
in St. Charles. “The schools are great and there is
always something going on for families. We love all
the festivals and the small-town feel.”
According to Family Circle, the magazine initially
assembled a list of 2,500 cities and towns in the
United States with populations between 15,000 and
150,000. The list was then narrowed down to nearly
1,000 localities, all of which had a high concentration
of households with median incomes between
$55,000 and $95,000. Family Circle then assessed
the places that best met their family-friendly criteria—
including affordable homes, quality schools, access to
health care, green space, low crime rate and financial
stability—and ranked them from top to bottom.
Finally, the 10 winners from among the highest-rated
towns were selected and not surprisingly, St. Charles
was chosen as the favorite among this elite group!
As Mayor Donald DeWitte says, “We are thrilled
to be included in Family Circle’s “Best Towns and
Cities” Survey and be ranked number one in the
country! Now everyone will know what we have
known all along—that St. Charles is a gem among
cities and a wonderful place to live. It is a great city,
with many opportunities to work or have fun. We
pride ourselves on maintaining a safe, affordable
community and a high quality of life.”
It is no surprise that St. Charles was awarded
this prestigious honor. Located west of downtown
Chicago, the community provides the perfect
combination of urban and rural conveniences.
St. Charles has sprawling parks and open spaces as
well as access to winding bike trails and walking
paths. “The diversity and uniqueness of our nationally
recognized parks and recreational opportunities are
qualities that draw people to this community,” says
Ray Ochromowicz, Director of Parks and Recreation.
St. Charles is unique in that it has multiple live
music and theatre venues in addition to a great
restaurant and retail scene which give visitors the
ability to frequent multiple places during one visit to
St. Charles. There are a variety of festivals and special
events throughout the year such as Sculpture in the
P hoto © A lex Claney, A lex Claney P hotography
10
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Park, The Fine Arts Show, Pride of
the Fox Riverfest, Scarecrow Festival
and the Holiday Homecoming and
Electric Christmas Parade, to name
a few. Also, Pheasant Run Resort
provides the perfect venue for
corporations to hold conventions
and business meetings and The Q
Center is recognized as one of the
premier corporate training facilities
12
need,” said Dr. Donald Schlomann,
Superintendent of Schools for
St. Charles Community Unit
School District 303. “The next step
to success is the parents in our
community who send their kids
to school prepared to learn. Then
you add quality staff such as ours
in St. Charles District 303 and
you have what it takes for success
in the classroom.” Dr. Schlomann
also points out the strong working
relationship among public bodies
in St. Charles. “We are in constant
communication with the City of
St. Charles, the St. Charles Park
District, the St. Charles Public
Library, Kane County government
and other agencies to make sure we
work together whenever possible
for the benefit of the community
members that we all serve.”
Lori Hewitt, St. Charles Chamber
of Commerce President and
CEO, touts the many reasons this
city was chosen by Family Circle
Magazine. “We are a large enough
community where we have all of
the amenities such as great schools,
wonderful parks and recreation,
hotels, riverside restaurants and
live theatre—but a small enough
community where we really care
about each other and give back. I
consider running the Chamber of
Commerce here a privilege and
a great way to help businesses
grow and prosper to make a better
community for everyone who lives
here. St. Charles is a wonderful
place to call home, work for a
business located here or open your
own business, and raise a family.”
“St. Charles is one of Illinois’ most
appealing tourism destinations,” says
Amy Egolf, Executive Director of
in the Midwest. Plus, St. Charles
is located approximately 40 miles
west of Chicago giving residents and
visitors easy access to all that a large
metropolis has to offer.
Jennifer Faivre, Executive Director
of the Downtown St. Charles
Partnership agrees with Family
Circle that St. Charles offers an
excellent place for families to live.
“Today, more and more people
are first choosing where they want
to live and then they look for a
job—place is more important than
ever. St. Charles has wide appeal
because it embraces its rich history
and it is progressive at the same
time. For example, there is ongoing
preservation of historic buildings
and there is a major new prime real
estate project on First Street. This
demonstrates a community with
a passion to create and sustain a
distinctive, vibrant place in which to
live, work and play.”
St. Charles’ strong schools were
also a factor in the city achieving
Family Circle’s award. “Our success
as a school district begins with
community members who know
the importance of education to
the future success of our kids and
provides us with the resources we
St. Charles is #1
the Greater St. Charles Convention
& Visitors Bureau. “64% of folks
who contact our bureau for
information convert into visitors,
and 83% of those visitors return
within three years. Family Circle’s
recognition supports what economic
development professionals recognize
as one of tourism’s significant
benefits: residents and business
owners who choose a particular
community often do so after first
experiencing that destination as a
visitor.”
The results of the comprehensive
survey appear in Family Circle’s
August 2011 issue.
According to Family Circle’s survey,
the “10 Best Towns” are:
1. St. Charles, Illinois
2. Peachtree City, Georgia
3. Liberty, Missouri
4. Fairhope, Alabama
5. Friendswood, Texas
6. Novi, Michigan
7. Trumbull, Connecticut
8. Germantown, Wisconsin
9. Oviedo, Florida
10. Maple Valley, Washington
13
St. Charles is #1
Redevelopment District,” says Chris.
The city is optimistic that the First
Street Redevelopment District will
continue to build-out in terms of
commercial and office space, as
well as the proposed riverfront,
above-ground residential units.
“Implementing the comprehensive,
mixed-use development strategy
will allow for synergies that are
so critical to any vital downtown
business district. Downtown
St. Charles remains, and continues
to grow as, the restaurant and
entertainment hub of the tri-cities,”
he adds.
While some retailers are thriving
others are still somewhat challenged
in the current economy. Chris
says that the city’s East Main
Street corridor has continued to
struggle since the onset of the
St. Charles has many reasons to
feel optimistic about its future. In
addition to the Family Circle award,
Christopher Aiston, Director of
Economic Development for the city
of St. Charles, says he is observing
many promising signs of life after
the recent economic downturn.
“It varies by geography but we are
seeing spaces that were previously
vacant, filling again. When
something does go vacant, it doesn’t
stay vacant as long as it did a year
ago,” says Chris.
The downtown area is an
especially vibrant part of St. Charles’
economy. “Our downtown
business district is doing very well.
We’ve had good infill of former
vacancies and an especially strong
occupancy rate for new building
spaces, primarily the First Street
14
recession. However, there has
been some recent good news with
the reopening of the Buick/GMC
dealership and with the neartotal occupancy of the Foxfield
Commons Shopping Center. “There
are some holes but we are seeing
more interest in those spaces in the
last ten months. We’ve also seen
some new and heightened interest
in West Main Street and Randall
Road retail properties,” Chris
explains.
Several businesses are trying out
new strategies to be successful and
Chris indicates that they have seen
more cross-marketing initiatives
throughout the retail districts. “The
city initiated a Restaurant Week
marketing program last year that
proved to be very successful where
customers were given 25% off
their dining bill at 32 participating
restaurants throughout the city.
We’ve also seen this year that no
stone goes unturned when it comes
to local restaurants exploring ways
to create outdoor seating to take
advantage of late spring through
early fall weather.”
St. Charles is currently exploring
outside-of-the-box ways to maximize existing business retention
and new business attraction for the
critical commercial corridor, including the Charlestowne Mall property.
The city has had success by offering incentives to encourage some
businesses to locate in St. Charles.
Two recently approved economic
incentive packages resulted in the
franchise re-opening for Fox Valley
Buick/GMC dealership as well as
the Sears Hometown Appliance
Store in St. Charles. In addition,
Chris attributes St. Charles’ highly
competitive electric utility rates
and its speed in building plan and
permit review with helping to make
St. Charles the site selection of
choice by RR Donnelley.
Regarding manufacturing and
development, Chris feels the
outlook is fairly strong. “In terms of
interest in available building space,
we’ve probably seen more activity
in manufacturing than any other
sector over the past six months.” In
fact, there are two pending sales of
existing manufacturing buildings
within the city’s office and industrial
areas. “These are very good signs
that existing vacant building space
is getting some long and hard looks
for business relocation or planned
expansion within our region.” Furthermore, it appears that Lexington
Homes is moving forward in the
design and redevelopment of the
26-acre, former Applied Composites
property north of Dean Street and
west of Sixth Street. This proposed
new residential development of
approximately 150 units reflects
well on the development industry’s
optimism in viewing St. Charles.
As Chris says, “St. Charles is
an appealing location for visitors,
residents and businesses to enjoy.”
Many Family Circle readers will now
have the opportunity to learn more
about this fabulous community and
will no doubt agree that St. Charles
really is number one.
St. Charles Chamber of Commerce
stcharleschamber.com
3755 E. Main Street, Suite 140 • St. Charles, IL 60174 • 630-584-8384
The St. Charles Chamber of Commerce—be a part of it!
F
ounded in 1922, the St. Charles Chamber of
Commerce is the number one recognized name
denoting reliable community information and
dependable business referrals. The Chamber’s website
receives thousands of hits every week, allowing them
to enthusiastically market their member businesses.
Helping its members promote and grow their
business, their membership enjoys many benefits and
opportunities such as networking breakfasts, luncheons
and after hour events, being part of marketing and
promotional events, and awards at their Annual
Charlemagne Awards Dinner, and State of the Chamber
Membership Breakfast Meeting, just to name a few.
Here is an overview of what membership in the St.
Charles Chamber of Commerce encompasses.
Membership benefits include: Reputable Referral
Service; Priceless Contacts; Chamber Office Exposure
with your brochures and business cards; Website
Business Listing with a Link to your Business Website;
Member Login Section on Chamber Website; Monthly
Newsletter and Daily Broadcast E-mails to Chamber
Members; Business Greeter Program; Residential
Greeter Program; Chamber Community Map
Advertising; Chamber Member Directory Magazine
Advertising; Business of the Month (depending upon
membership level); Free Event Postings, Hot Deal and
Job Postings on the Chamber Website; Host After
Hours Event; Ribbon Cuttings for New Businesses;
Open House Packages; Gift Certificate Program; Leads
Groups; Chamber Name Badges; Notary Service; Use of
the Chamber Board Room and Equipment; Educational
Opportunities; Volunteer Opportunities.
Sponsorship Opportunities include:
Rolling Down the River Business to Business Expo in
late April—showcase your business in this multi-chamber
one day event held every spring at the Mega Center
at Pheasant Run Resort. A booth space is 8' x 10' and
includes a six foot table, two chairs, electricity, and pipe
and drape. Sponsorship includes a double booth and
free advertising. Open to the public.
Paddleboat Mixer in mid-June—Member businesses
sponsor this free event on the Fox River Queen and the
St. Charles Belle paddle wheel boats at Pottawatomie
Park on the Fox River which includes food, networking,
raffle prizes and fun.
St. Charles Cruise Nites in mid-July thru midAugust—Cruise Nites, held every Tuesday starting in
mid-July thru mid-August, is a fun-filled classic/vintage
car show featuring free entry to car show participants
and spectators, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Member businesses sponsor at three separate levels
from goodie bags to a weekly main sponsorship and
free advertising. Open to the public.
Annual Golf Outing in mid-September—this all day
event is held annually at a private golf course. The
Chamber’s only fundraiser offers brunch, goodie bags,
prizes, golf, dinner, a silent auction, raffles, and awards.
Tee-Box, Putting Green, and other sponsorships are
available as this event provides a great opportunity to
network with Chamber business owners.
Chamberland in mid-November—Chamber businesses
make up this game. Participants (open to the public)
visit designated locations during this one day event held
each November for discounts, appetizers, sweets, and
raffles. First 200 participants receive a holiday goodie
bag with items submitted by member businesses.
To learn more about joining the St. Charles Chamber
of Commerce, or to view all of our Chamber Events,
Networking and Marketing opportunities, go to our
website at stcharleschamber.com or call the Chamber at
630-584-8384. The St. Charles Chamber of Commerce
is managed by Lori Hewitt, President and CEO; Ann
Migatz, VP of Operations; and Christine Manisco, VP
of Communications; and operates solely through the
contributions of its members.
St. Charles First Street
Cruise Nites on Tuesdays in
August, 5:30–8pm,
Aug. 2, 9, 16. Free
Admission–bring the kids!
Chamber Open House
during Chamber of
Commerce Week,
Sept. 12–16.
Upcoming Events
Tuesday Nights, August 2, 9, 16, 5:30–8pm
2nd Annual St. Charles Downtown Cruise Nites!
On First Street Plaza, St. Charles
Sponsored by the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce,
this fun-filled vintage car show showcases vehicles older
than 1985, food & beverages, face painting, a 50/50 raffle
to benefit local charities, and music provided by Y103.9.
Call Lori Hewitt at 630-584-8384 or John Radman at
630-639-1187. (Open to the Public, Free Admission).
Wednesday, August 10, 11:30am–1:30pm
Legislative Committee “Federal Update”
Luncheon with Randy Hultgren
Prairie Landing Golf Club,
2325 Longest Dr., West Chicago
Rep. Hultgren addresses the importance of local input on
Federal decision making.
(Members $25/Non-Members $50 in advance).
Thursday, September 15, 9am–2pm
Chamber Open House & Luncheon
St. Charles Chamber of Commerce
3755 E. Main Street, Ste. 140, St. Charles
Sponsored by the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce,
enjoy lunch with the Chamber Staff and other members
of the Chamber. (Members & Non-Members).
August 18, 4:30–6pm
Business After Hours Event
St. Charles Public Library, 1 S. 6th Ave., St. Charles
Business After Hours Events are hosted by member businesses on the third Thursday of every month. Network
with other professionals and meet area business owners.
(Members & Non-Member Guests).
Thursday, September 15, 4:30–6pm
Business After Hours Event
Wilson Travel & Cruise, 203 E. Illinois Ave., St. Charles
Business After Hours Events are hosted by member businesses on the third Thursday of every month. Network
with other professionals and meet area business owners.
(Members & Non-Member Guests).
Thursday, August 25, 11:30am–1:30pm
Women’s Business Council
“Creating a Positive Mindset in Business”
Hilton Garden Inn, 4070 E. Main St., St. Charles
Speaker: Deborah Todd from NOVO
What would be possible with a winning attitude? Identify
negative beliefs that keep you from moving forward.
Learn transformational techniques to push away barriers
and put you in the flow of a Gold Medalist Mindset.
(RSVP, Members Only $25).
Tuesday, September 20, 8–10am
Speed Networking Breakfast
Sponsored by the St. Charles Chamber
Pheasant Run Resort & Spa, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles
Enjoy this speed networking opportunity to meet other
chamber members, and have fun in the process!
Wednesday, September 7, 11:30am–1:30pm
Legislative Committee Luncheon
“Library, Parks & Schools…Oh, My!”
Hilton Garden Inn, 4070 E. Main St., St. Charles
Panel presentation with School District 303
superintendent, Dr. Donald Schlomann; St. Charles
Public Library director, Diana Brown; and St. Charles
Park District executive director, Ray Ochromowicz.
(Members $25/Non-Members $50 in advance).
The St. Charles Chamber of Commerce’s 36th Annual Golf Outing will be held at the Pheasant Run Resort & Spa
in St. Charles, Mon., Sept. 12. This is the Chamber’s only fundraiser of the year!
16
Monday, September 12, All Day Event
The St. Charles Chamber of Commerce’s
36th Annual Golf Outing
Pheasant Run Resort & Spa, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles
Enjoy 18 holes of golf on a resort golf course, green fees,
cart, continental breakfast, lunch and beverages on the
course, 19th Hole cocktail party (cash bar) and plated
dinner. Cocktail party (cash bar) and dinner only reservations are also available. (RSVP/Members & Guests/Golfer
Package $180/person; $40/person Dinner Only).
Thursday, September 22, 11:30am–1:30pm
Women’s Business Council
“Memory Workshop”
Prairie Landing Golf Club,
2325 Longest Drive, West Chicago
Speaker: Tom Weber
Learn to remember names and faces, presentations,
to-do lists, key client information, and important details
from books, meetings, and conversations. There will be
interactive demonstrations that will blow your mind!
Monday–Friday, September 12–16
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WEEK
17
Community
For more, visit neighborsofstcharles.com
City launches new automated reporting system
Red Gate Bridge construction moves forward
The City of St. Charles Electric
Utility has launched an automated
telephone notification system to
streamline the reporting process
when an electric outage occurs.
With the new system, customers
can call 866-444-0016 to report
emergency electric outages 24
hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. The
new system can handle heavy call
volumes often associated with an
outage and will be able to distribute
outage information faster to reduce
crew response times.
“Customer service and electric
reliability are very important
to the City of St. Charles,” said
The Government Services Committee of the St. Charles City Council unanimously endorsed the letting
of bids for the first phase of the Red
Gate Bridge construction. The Red
Gate Bridge will help knit the east
Glynn Amburgey, Electric and
Communications Manager.
“Currently, if customers call to
report a wide-scale outage, the
phones could get tied up from
everyone calling in at once. This
new notification system will change
that and get outage information to
crews faster for quicker repairs.”
One of the most helpful features
of the new system is the caller I.D.
technology,” said Amburgey. “When
customers register their phone
number with us, it will be linked to
their account so an outage location
automatically can be identified
when they call to report an issue.
It also allows customers to receive
updates about the outage and
get a call back to confirm power
restoration.”
Residents are advised to register
their phone number (up to three
phone numbers) to have access to
all of the system features. Doing
so will allow the system to utilize
caller I.D. recognition to identify
an outage location, and offer
an optional customer call back
feature to confirm power has been
restored. Residents can register at
stcharlesil.gov or by calling utility
billing at 630-377-4426.
City participates in program to protect ash trees
For the second year in a row, the
City of St. Charles is participating
in the Legacy Tree Project (LTP),
a five-year program in partnership
with Valent Professional Products,
to prevent tree loss from the
destructive emerald ash borer.
The project is designed to
protect ash trees from the metallic
green beetle, while raising
public awareness and motivating
homeowners to take action before
their ash trees succumb to emerald
ash borer infestation. St. Charles
is one of 12 communities selected
from across the country to
participate in this innovative, nocost program.
Through the Legacy Tree Project,
Valent is providing the City of
St. Charles sufficient quantity
of Safari® insecticide to treat
up to 200 parkway ash trees.
Safari® is registered by the U. S.
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Environmental Protection
Agency for emerald ash borer
control. It is injected into the
soil at the base of the ash
trees, resulting in no exposure
to humans or pets. The 200
LTP trees located throughout
St. Charles will be treated
annually during the five-year
program. Conservation of
ash canopy conserves dollars
in terms of storm water
management, decreased
energy demands and improved
air quality.
There are approximately
4,000 ash trees located in
city parkways in St. Charles, with
approximately another 10,00015,000 located on private property.
Emerald ash borer was first detected
in 2008 in a parkway tree on
14th Street, south of Prairie Street.
Since that time, the invasive beetle
has been found in all areas of St.
Charles. The city has implemented
a proactive program to combat the
spread of the infestation. To date,
nearly 1,500 affected ash trees
have been removed and preventive
treatment has been applied to
approximately 500 trees.
and west sides of St. Charles and
will reduce traffic on Main Street.
This first advanced construction
phase is estimated to cost approximately $2 million of the total $30
million project budget. Funding will
come from grants, monies already
set aside for the project, and a bond
issuance. No new taxes are needed
to fund this project. More information about the project can be found
at redgatebridge.org.
Welcome to new businesses
West Gateway
The Baker’s Basket Wholesale
Bakery
615 S. Randall Rd., 815-498-2854
Fox River Harley-Davidson
Motorcycle Dealership
131 S. Randall Rd., 630-584-8000
NBP Graphics, Inc. Decal
Installation & Removal
1500 Foundry St. , 773-541-1781
Santonio’s Mexican Restaurant
1910 Lincoln Hwy., 630-513-6909
Sarpino’s Pizza Delivery/Carry-out
1850 W. Main St., 630-513-4500
St. Charles Florists
2702 W. Main St., 630-377-1122
Downtown
Energy Marketing Services Doorto-Door Marketing
504 E. Main St., 630-797-5544
Genova Group, LLC Medical
Equipment Sales
214 W. Main St., 630-427-4000
Nuova Italia Restaurant
18 N. 4th St., 630-584-4040
East Gateway
Dr. Suds Car Wash
1639 E. Main St., 847-567-6532
Fox Valley GMC-Buick
1421 E. Main St., 630-584-6400
Jersey Mike’s Subs
2540 E. Main St., 630-443-1300
Kanute Real Estate, LLC
1424 E. Main St., 630-377-6100
Kumon Math & Reading Center
Children’s Tutoring
582 N. Kirk Rd., 630-262-2004
Sears Optical
3833 E. Main St., 630-513-6551
“Along with the city’s efforts,
homeowners can help slow the
spread of the emerald ash borer,”
said Ben Deutsch, arborist for the
City of St. Charles. “Residents who
want to conserve their ash trees are
encouraged to seek professional
assessment of tree health and
suitability for treatment.”
For more information on the
emerald ash borer program
residents can contact Ben
Deutsch at 630-584-5353, or
[email protected].
19
Community
Park District events
FREE Concerts in the Park
The Concerts is the Park series is the perfect excuse to get out and
enjoy a summer evening with family and friends while listening to great
music. Held on Thursday evenings at 7pm at the Lincoln Park Gazebo, all
ages will enjoy dancing the night away under the tree tops. Concert goers
are encouraged to bring a picnic or enjoy dinner from one of the vendors
at the park. Lincoln Park has two playground areas for younger and older
children where they can play safely.
Hey Jimmy
Howard and the White Boys
7pm, Thurs., Aug. 4
7pm, Thurs., Aug. 18
Hey Jimmy plays music from the
Howard and the White Boys will
50’s to today’s dance, pop, rock
perform blues with a funky groove.
and R&B.
The Crown Vics
7pm, Thurs., Aug. 11
An authentic early 50’s rock n’ roll band with an upright slap bass, drums,
guitar, and rhythm section.
Leave no child inside this
summer
3–4pm,. Sun. Aug. 7
Ages 5-10
Kids can get outside and have
some good, old fashioned free
fun at Munhall School, 1400
S. 13th Ave. The St. Charles
Park District will organize
kickball and dodgeball games,
Frisbee soccer and relay races.
Registration is required at
stcparks.org.
FREE Big Truck Show
Primrose Farm Frolic
10am–12pm, Sat., Aug. 13
There’s just something about big
trucks that fascinates children,
and kids of all ages will have
the opportunity to get up close
and personal with some of the
biggest trucks and other working
vehicles around when the park
district hosts its annual Big Truck
at James O. Breen Community
Park located off Peck Road just
south of Campton Hills Road. Kids
will have the chance to view the
inner workings of the trucks, cars,
and tractors that are usually only
viewed from a distance. A garbage
truck, street sweeper, tractor, dump
truck, and crane will be among
the many workhorses on display.
Advance registration is required at
stcparks.org.
STC Underground’s 100th
Anniversary Concert
7–10pm, Sat., Aug. 20
The STC Underground Teen Center
is helping celebrate the St. Charles
Park District’s 100 anniversary with
a special concert featuring local
teen bands. Hot dogs and popcorn
will be provided. Teens are invited
to come out to the Underground,
101 S. Second St. in the lower level
of the Baker Community Center,
for a night of music and dancing for
just $5.
11am–3pm, Sun. Sept., 18
The annual Primrose Farm Frolic
offers traditional folk music,
pumpkin painting, make-yourown caramel apples, horse-drawn
hayrides, a straw maze, petting
zoo, face painting and more. The
admission fee of $8 for ages 12+
and $4 for ages 2–11 includes all
activities. Refreshments will be
made available from the organic,
home-cooked kitchen of Inglenook
Pantry. The entrance to Primrose
Farm for this special event is located
off Bolcum Road just west of Crane
Road near the ball fields at Primrose
Farm Park.
Men’s Senior Golf
Tournament
Sat., Sept. 10 and Sun., Sept. 11
This tournament at the Pottawatomie Golf Course, 845 N. Second
Ave., will play nine holes each day
on Sept. 10 and 11 for an 18 hole
total. Gift certificates awarded to
over half the players in each group.
Eligibility: Open to all men 50 years
and older, who have a St. Charles
mailing address, live in the
St. Charles Park District boundaries
or have a season pass. Register at
the Pro Shop or call 630-584-8356
for information. Registration deadline is Sept. 4. Fee is $34.
Tiny Tots Track Meet
10am, Sat., Sept. 17
Ages 3–6
Tots 3–6 will have a chance to use
all that energy they have at the
Tiny Tots Track Meet at the East
Side Sports Complex, 3565 Legacy
Blvd. off Kirk Rd. Organized by age,
tots will participate in four running
events and one field event. While
this track meet is semi-competitive,
all the contenders are winners.
Senior Breakfast
7:15–8:45am, Tues., Sept. 20
Persons 50+
Sponsored by the St. Charles Park
District, St. Charles Breakfast Rotary
and Blue Goose Super Market, all
persons, ages 50+, are invited to a
delicious meal of omelets, donuts,
coffee, juice and raffle prizes.
Breakfast will be served at the
Pottawatomie Community Center,
8 North Ave. and is free for Adult
Activity Center members and $0.75
for non-members.
21
Community
At the Library…
Live Homework Help
Selected Library programs
Have Gardening Questions? Ask an Expert
Sat., Aug. 19, 9am–12pm,
Residents are invited to stop by the library and talk to
a University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener about
gardening issues. From what plant to buy for a particular
spot, when and how to control dandelions or crabgrass,
how to prepare soil for a new garden or grass seeding,
when and what vegetables to plant for families, and so
much more, these experts have the answers.
Welcome to Kindergarten
Drum Circle & World Music Concert
Sun., Sept. 18, 2–4pm,
A drum circle is any group of people gathered into a
circle for the purpose of making music with percussion
instruments. Participants are welcome to bring a drum
if they have one. The drum circle will be followed by
Tom Sharpe’s World Music Concert at 3pm. No preregistration is necessary.
Friends of St. Charles Public Library Soup &
Salad Supper
Mon., Sept. 26, 6pm,
The Friends are a group interested in supporting programs to supplement the library’s budget. Anyone interested is welcome to come and enjoy a supper and learn
more about the Friends group. They will be discussing
their upcoming October 21-23 Used Book Sale.
Wed., Aug. 17, 10–11:30am, or 1:30–3pm,
Students entering Kindergarten and a parent are
invited to learn what to expect when school starts.
Stories, songs, and creative activities will get kids ready
for that first day. Other arrangements should be made
for siblings.
Home School Workshop
Tues., Aug. 30, 10–11:15am,
An overview of the services and resources the
library provides for families that home school: online
resources, Internet access, Live Homework Help,
research strategies, literature programs, and more. An
open forum will provide an opportunity to network
with other parents from 11:15–11:45am. Everyone who
will be attending must register by Aug. 26. Supervised
activities for children will be available from 10–11:15am.
Bell-Graham Elementary School welcomes new principal
When school starts on August 24, students at BellGraham Elementary School will see many new faces in
halls, including a new principal. Mrs. Patti Palagi will be
replacing Mrs. Ruth Ann Dunton as principal of BellGraham following Mrs. Dunton’s retirement at the end
of the 2010–2011 school year.
Mrs. Palagi says “The thing I’m excited about is
having the opportunity to work with a larger group of
professionals. When you have three to four classes per
grade level there’s some really interesting work that can
take place. I’m really excited to learn what they’ve been
doing and then I have some thoughts of things that I
would like to see happen.”
Mrs. Palagi was previously a principal in Winfield
District 34 and has three daughters ages 23, 21 and 17.
St. Charles North Drill Team holds summer dance clinic
St. Charles North Drill Team will hold their summer
dance clinic for dancers in grades 1–8 (2011–-2012
school year) August 15–18 at Bell-Graham Elementary
22
School. The fee is $75 per dancer. Those interested
should call 847-695-9223 for more information.
Students can get help with
homework, studying, projects,
essay writing and test prep in every
subject. All sessions are online and
one-to-one with a live, professional
tutor. Seven days a week from
10am–12am. (Tutor de la lengua
Española está disponible en persona
de Domingo a Jueves de 10am a
medianoche.)
The library is on Facebook
The St. Charles Public Library
has Facebook pages for Youth,
Young Adults, and Adults that are
frequently updated with interesting
tidbits of information, program
updates, and more. They can all be
found at stcharleslibrary.org.
For Youth and Families
The library’s website,
stcharleslibrary.org, lists programs
and events for everyone in the
family, infants through middle
school students. Various story time
options are available for preschool
children. Residents can also enjoy
a variety of special events such as
family story time, book discussion
groups, visits from book characters,
Book Magic and Kids Corner,
family gaming, movie nights, and
much more. Registration for fall
Youth Services programs begins on
Sat., Sept. 10.
Your Health
End the season on a healthy note
by Heather Cunningham
B
ug bites, stings and scrapes, oh
my! As summer winds down
and back to school planning
begins, make sure that the last days
of the season are safe and healthy
for the entire family. Local physician
experts offer tips on everything
from dealing with pesky mosquito
bites and bee stings, to staying safe
on those family bike rides, and
stress the importance of making
sure annual physicals are already
penciled in on your calendar.
“This is the time of year when
biting insects like mosquitoes
become more of a nuisance,”
says Nick Tapas, M.D., FAAP, a
pediatrician with Central DuPage
Physician Group in St. Charles. “And
unfortunately, children have a high
incidence of becoming secondarily
infected when they do get a bug
bite.”
Dr. Tapas says that avoidance is
key. “Try to limit your time outside
at dusk, don’t dress in bright colors
and flowery prints and avoid using
scented soaps and hair products
on children, all of which attract
mosquitoes.”
While many parents are reluctant
to use insect repellents containing
DEET on children, he says that the
products are safe if used correctly.
“Those that contain between 10 and
30 percent DEET can be used on
children older than two months of
age,” says Tapas. “But it is important
that parents realize that unlike
sunscreen, insect repellent should
be applied just once a day. It can be
just as effective when sprayed on
clothing if they are concerned about
applying it to their child’s skin.”
If your child does come home
with a few insect bites this time of
year, however, Delnor emergency
room physician Jeff Boemer, M.D.
says don’t panic. “While mosquitoes
that carry the West Nile virus are
24
more common at summer’s
end and early fall, the risk
of contracting the disease is
still very, very low,” he says.
More important is to monitor
bites for signs of infection,
including excessive
swelling, redness
or discharge. If
this occurs,
Dr. Tapas suggests a
visit to your physician to determine
if the bite is infected and to get the
appropriate treatment.
Bees are another insect that
become more aggressive as summer
draws to a close. “At this time of
year people become a substitution
for their food source,” says Dr.
Tapas. He says that if you or your
child gets a bee sting and the stinger
remains, avoid removing it with
tweezers which can release more
venom under the skin.
“Instead, carefully scrape out
the stinger with a credit card,”
he advises. It is also important to
monitor children for signs of bee
sting allergy if it is their first sting:
while a local skin reaction is normal,
reactions that include coughing
or difficulty breathing require
immediate emergency medical
attention.
Dr. Boemer says that he sees
many children coming to the
Delnor Hospital ER this time of year
with injuries that could have been
avoided with the proper footwear.
“I advise parents to make sure
that every family member wears
shoes tied with laces when riding
a bike, skateboard or scooter,” he
says. “Flip-flops aren’t adequate
protection, and we see many
significant injuries from those that
ride with bare feet.”
Making sure that the entire family
wears helmets when they ride offers
further important protection. “We
wear seat belts in the car because
we can’t anticipate what will happen
when we are on the road with other
drivers,” says Dr. Tapas. “I tell my
patients that are reluctant to wear
them that wearing a helmet when
you ride a bike offers the same
assurance as a seat belt in a car.”
And as that first day of school
draws near, making sure that all
family members have an annual
physical with their regular physician
is an important part of ensuring that
everyone stays healthy. “The annual
physical exam is essential, because it
is a hallmark of continuity of care,”
says Dr. Tapas. “Any changes from
visit to visit tell us a lot about a
patient’s overall physical health, but
also about their emotional health
and development.”
Making sure that children and
teens have one medical home for
all of their immunization records
can also make school registration
easier. “Your child’s primary
physician should keep track of what
immunizations they have already
received and what they still need,
and be a good source of information
for any questions you might have
along the way,” says Dr. Tapas.
Heather Cunningham is
a local health care writer and
communications consultant.
Nuggets
An eclectic collection of what’s happening in the St. Charles area
Purchase a piece
of St. Charles
The River Corridor
Foundation of St.
Charles is offering
supporters the
opportunity to
become a lasting part
of the Bob Leonard
Walkway. Residents
can purchase 4" x 8"
brick pavers to be laid
along the riverfront
walkway in downtown
St. Charles. The River
Corridor Foundation
of St. Charles oversees
the management and
fulfillment of the River
Corridor Project. With
the Fox River as its focus, the River Corridor’s mission is
to create “a lively downtown riverfront environment—a
community centerpiece—where residents can live,
work, shop and play.” For more information, visit
stcrivercorridor.org.
Consignment Gallery is on the move
Consignment Gallery recently celebrated the grand
opening of their new location at 309 N. Second St.
in St. Charles. The Consignment Gallery combines
furniture sales and consignment opportunities. They
offer quality furniture, home artwork, antiques, and
home accents at affordable prices. Consignment
Gallery’s new location is within walking distance
of their previous space. For more information visit
consignmentgallery309.com
End of summer celebration
The Goddard School in St. Charles is celebrating
the end of summer with a Summer Carnival on
Aug. 12, 5:30–7:30pm. This is a great opportunity to
visit the school and learn about Goddard School’s early
childhood programs for children 6 weeks to 8 years old.
William O. Morrison, Jr. named
a top financial advisor
William O. Morrison, Jr. was named a Top
Financial Advisor at Genworth Financial’s 13th
annual national training and education conference.
This designation places Morrison among the top
of his industry peers and confirms his dedication
to clients and client service. “As a Top Financial
Advisor, William Morrison is committed to helping his
clients address a wide spectrum of financial needs,”
said Enrique M. Vasquez, President and CEO of
Genworth Financial Investment Services. For more
information, visit genworthfinancialsecurities.com or
contact: William O. Morrison, Jr. CPA 630-762-8600;
[email protected].
Diane Gibson passes the gavel to Jim DiClaula at TriCity
Family Services
Jim DiCiaula becomes board president of
TriCity Family Services
TriCity Family Services recently appointed Jim
DiCiaula, of St. Charles, as the new president of the
agency’s governing Board of Directors. Jim is succeeding
Diane Gibson who served as board president since
2009. Jim states, “I personally believe in volunteerism
and community and I am fortunate to work for BMO
Financial Group, who like myself, feels strongly about
active community engagement and volunteerism.” Jim
is Director of Retail Strategy, Planning & Integrated
Customer Experience, for Harris Bank, a part of BMO
Financial Group, where he has worked for over 20
years. He has also been involved with Lazarus House,
Steel Beam Theatre and St. John Neumann church. Jim
has one daughter and has been a St. Charles resident for
over three years.
Comedy Shrine in Aurora has relocated
The Comedy Shrine in Aurora has relocated to
Plaza Square at 4034 Fox Valley Center Dr. and has
renovated its space to create dedicated areas for improv
and stand-up performances. For more information visit
comedyshrine.com or call 630-585-0300.
Nuggets
An eclectic collection of what’s happening in the St. Charles area
St. Charles Florists
opens doors
William Turner
recently revitalized the
building formerly known
as Fifth Avenue Flowers
to house his new
business, St. Charles
Florists. Turner spent
two years delivering
for Fifth Avenue and
when the flower shop
closed, he decided to
reopen the shop with
the stipulation that he
could get the former
staff back including long
time office manager
Marissa Walker and
designer Debi McGlinn. St. Charles Florist opened
its doors at 2701 W. Main St. and sells premium,
wedding grade flowers as their shop’s standard flower,
while keeping their prices low. They deliver to the
tri-cities, Elgin, Maple Park and far west Kane County.
For more information call 630-443-4770 or visit
flowersbystcharlesflorist.com
Party Animals are here!
St. Charles welcomes Party Animals to
11 N. Third St. Kids can choose from 19 different
themes for their birthday party celebration. Party
Animals also teaches craft classes such as sewing,
candy making, cake decorating, pie making, ceramics
and fabric painting. The new store has a variety of
other activities including Day at the Spa, Doll & Me
Play Dates, and Fancy Nancy Day, to name just a
few. There is also a retail toy and candy section at
28
store. For information call 630-377-3300 or go to
partyanimalsforkids.com.
The Dailey Method is coming to St. Charles
Opening this fall at 9 N. Second St., The Dailey
Method promises to lengthen, tone and strengthen the
entire body with ballet barre work, core conditioning,
stretching and orthopedic exercises. The new 3,000
square foot facility features two studio rooms, a staffed
on site kids’ room, fully equipped locker rooms,
convenient parking and a large retail selection of the
latest fitness apparel. “Our studio in St. Charles will help
people achieve the longer, leaner and more fit bodies
they seek—in a caring, encouraging and non-competitive
atmosphere. We are so excited to be opening this fall
in this beautiful community!” says Aimee Higgs coowner of The Dailey Method. For more information
visit thedaileymethod.com
Little party goers share a good time with best doll friends.
Send your business news and photos to [email protected].
Fox Valley Rep’s production of Around the World in
80 Days helps fight polio
Fox Valley Repertory paired up with the two
St. Charles Rotary Clubs to help fight polio
worldwide during the
July performances
of Around the World
in 80 Days. The St.
Charles Breakfast
Rotary Club and The
Noon Rotary Club
of St. Charles came
together to publicize
the need to help
fund the eradication
of polio around the
world. Patrons had
the opportunity to contribute to the cause after
each performance. Pheasant Run Resort is located
at 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. For tickets, call
the Pheasant Run Box Office at 630-584-6342 or
ticketmaster.com.
Save the date—
Water Street Studios celebrates second
anniversary
On Fri., Sept.30 at 6pm, Water Street Studios
will celebrate its second anniversary with a gallery
opening and wine and cheese reception. The special
guest juror will be Corey Postiglione, Associate
Professor of Art History & Fine Art from Columbia
College. In addition, visitors can visit the artists’ studios
and see a special show featuring students from the
WSS school of art in the second floor gallery. More
information at waterstreetstudios.com or at 630-761-9977.
Winners announced!
Congratulations to Valerie Hitz of St. Charles and
Alina Sutterlin of Geneva, winners of the June 30
drawing for an iPad in the “Where’s Charlie?” contest
sponsored by St. Charles Bank & Trust Company.
Stop by their St. Charles or Geneva locations to receive
“Charlie” for your very own. For a chance to win
another FREE iPad, visit bankstcharles.com/whereischarlie
for complete rules. See the back cover for an entry
blank.
Riverside Insurance Associates opens
Debra Tucholski and Cliff Hime have
announced the opening of Riverside Insurance
Associates, LLC, a full-service independent agency
providing personal and business insurance through
several top-rated carriers. Riverside Insurance is
located in the former COUNTRY Financial office
at 12 S. Riverside Ave., Suite A on the first floor of
the Arcada Theatre Building. For information call
630-797-3700 or visit riverside-ins.com.
29
Around the Block
Aug. 5 and 8am-3pm on Sat.,
Aug. 6 at 1110 Union Street
in Geneva. Lazarus House is
a shelter that serves persons
who are homeless or at risk of
homelessness and connected
to mid Kane County.
lazarushouseonline.com
Run and walk for
river projects
The River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles is hosting the Bob Leonard 5K Run
and Walk-A-Thon on Sat.,
Aug. 6 at 8am at Pottawatomie Park. Families with pets
and strollers can participate
in a 2 and a half mile route
at 9:30am. The course is
USTAF-certified and medals will be awarded to the
top three finishers in each
age group. Participants are
invited to the grand pavilion
following the walk for live
music, food and prizes.
stcrivercorridor.org
Free Friday concerts
at local church
All are welcome to attend
the free concert series at
Baker Memor ial United
Methodist Church every
Friday now through Aug.
26 at 12pm. The 30 minute
concerts feature a variety
of instruments, genres and
styles. Performers range
from high school students
to professional musicians
and vocalists. The Church
is located at Fourth and East
Main Streets, St. Charles.
630-584-6680
for more, visit neighborsofstcharles.com
Exciting Fall
Programs for Kids
from Fox Valley
Robotics
Heirloom Garden
Show offers rare
items
Rare and specialty fruits,
vegetables, flowers and herbs
will be on display and for
sale at the Heirloom Garden Show at Garfield Farm
Museum in LaFox on Sun.,
Aug. 28 from 11am–4pm.
garfieldfarm.org
Garage Sale to benefit
Lazarus House
Ellen’s Excellent Garage
sale is one of the biggest and
best garage sales of the season
and it is all for the benefit of
Lazarus House. The sale will
be held 8am-4pm on Fri.,
The competition season
will be starting up at the
end of August for Fox Valley
Robotics. For 5th–8th graders, the Lego Dogs Division
will build and compete with
LEGO robots with the challenge known as “Food Factor”. For the Coyotes Division
of 8th–12th graders, two new
and exciting competitions
will be released. The Wolves
Division of 10th–12th graders will start preparing for the
January competition. For info
meeting times and dates visit
foxvalleyrobotics.com
Preservation Partners
offers kids activities
in August
Kids of all ages are invited
to a Pickling Party on Sun.,
Aug. 7 and Sun., Aug. 28
at Durant House located in
LeRoy Oaks Forest Preserve
in St. Charles from 1–4pm.
On Thurs., Aug. 4 at 2pm
kids 5–12 can explore Japanese culture at Fabyan Villa
and on Thurs., Aug. 18 they
can break codes like Fabyan’s
researchers did in World War
Kids enjoy the
monkey cage
at Fabyan Villa
Museum
P hoto courtesy P reservation Partners Fox Valley
II. Participation fee is $3, no
reservations necessary.
ppfv.org, 630-377-6424
Bicyclists enjoy the
42nd Annual Swedish
Days Ride
725 bicyclists attended
the 42nd Annual Swedish
Days Ride sponsored by
the Fox Valley Bicycle & Ski
Club (FVBSC). Participants
ranged from young families
and casual cyclists to experienced cyclists and racers.
Proceeds from the Swedish
Days Ride allow F VBSC
to donate to a variety of
cycling-related causes each
year, including bicycle advocacy, trail improvements,
bicycle rodeos for children
and similar causes. FVBSC
invites area cyclists to attend
its rides, programs and other
events throughout the year.
fvbsc.org
Pumpkin Pedal
Bike Ride to benefit
Special Olympics
Illinois
The Pumpkin Pedal Bike
Ride will be held on Sat., Oct.
2 to benefit Special Olympics
Illinois. The ride will begin
and end at LeRoy Oaks For30
est Preserve, St. Charles and
offer 10, 20, and 28 mile trail
rides. In addition to rest stops
along the routes, lunch will be
provided.
activeusa.com, 630-377-7250
Zonta Club opens
doors to networking
and friendship
Zonta Club St. CharlesGeneva-Batavia enhances
the status of women worldwide, provides community
service to individuals and
their families and raises funds
to support local and international service projects. Members meet wonderful people
while getting involved in the
community. Zonta meets the
first Tuesday of the month
at Urban Grille, Geneva
at 6pm. zontawest-sgb.org,
847-931-2292
Around the Block
for more, visit neighborsofstcharles.com
Sunday from 10am-5pm.
FLCAC is located at 6n158
Crane Road, St. Charles.
fineline.org, 630-584-9443
Anderson Animal
Shelter wins Toyota
Hybrid
Arts classes and
exhibits at Fine Line
Fine Line Creative Arts
Center ( FLCAC) is now
enrolling for fall classes and
workshops in a variety of
media including ceramics,
textiles, jewelry, glass, metals,
painting and more. Classes
are available for beginner and
advanced students.
F LC AC i s hos t i n g a n
exhibit featuring contemporary, one of a kind works in
acrylic now through August
12 in the Kavanagh Gallery which is open Monday-
In June, Anderson Animal
Shelter (AAS) won a Toyota
Highlander Hybrid through
the Toyota 100 Cars for
Good Program. The vehicle
will allow AAS to transport
animals for veterinary care
and animal rescues, pick-up
needed donations and assist
with fundraising efforts.
andersonanimalshelter.com
5th annual Sacred
Harp singing event
The Unitarian Universalist
Society of Geneva is hosting
the fifth annual Sacred Harp
Sing, on Sat., Aug. 13 from
10am-3:30pm, 110 S. 2nd
St., Geneva. Beginners and
newcomers are invited to
participate, and no religious
affiliation or musical experience is required. A potluck
lunch will be served at 12pm
and participants are encouraged to bring a dish to share.
fasola.org
Geneva Concours
d’Elegance returns to
Third Street
ily event with something for
everyone to enjoy and marvel. The beneficiary of the
2011 event is the Living Well
Cancer Resource Center.
genevaconcours.net
Golf outing for
literacy and tutor
workshops
Literacy Volunteers Fox
Valley’s (LVFV) golf outing
is Thurs., Sept. 8 at Tanna
Farms in Geneva. The event
includes lunch, golf and a pig
roast dinner including awards
and an auction. LVFV will be
offering training workshops
for volunteers in August.
Each trained volunteer will
be matched with one adult
learner who they will meet
with for one hour each week
at a time and location that is
convenient. lvfv.org.
Elderday Center
offers Caregiver and
Parkinson’s Support
Groups
Elderday Center offers a
free caregiver support group
every third Thursday from
5:30–7pm (respite available with registration) and
Spouses Who Are Caregivers is held every second
Thursday from 1:30–3pm at
Elderday Center, 8 S. Lincoln
P hoto courtesy P reservation Partners Fox Valley
Preservation Partners’ Beith House museum is a limestone
house dating from 1850 on the Fox River in St. Charles.
St., Batavia. Parkinson’s Support Groups are offered on
the second Wednesday from
1–2:30pm at South Elgin
Village Hall, 10 N. Water St.,
and at Delnor, 300 Randall
Rd., Geneva every third Saturday from 10:30–12pm.
630-761-9750
Treasures of the TriCities highlights river
stone buildings
Preservation Partners Fox
Valley is sponsoring the fifth
annual Treasures of the TriCities Sept. 17–18. This year’s
theme is “Cottages to CastlesRiver Stone Buildings in the
Fox Valley.” Events include a
bus tour of commercial and
residential buildings and a
wine and cheese fundraiser at
a notable historic stone building on Sat., Sept. 17 and a cottage walk of six stone homes
on Sun., Sept. 18. ppfv.org
Classic Car enthusiasts will
gather along Third Street
in downtown Geneva to
view a beautiful collection of
antique, classic and modern
automobiles on Sun., Aug.
28. Participants from all over
the country will display their
prized automobiles, hoping
to be awarded one of the
coveted ‘Benz’ Trophies. This
free event is a wonderful fam32
33
Your Family
Getting your
child back into
the routine
Call 630-995-3482
[email protected]
S T. C H A R L E S
SUNDAY
by Anisa Ali
B
ack-to-school season is here
and St. Charles children are
getting excited about shopping
for new clothes and being able to
see their school friends. St. Charles
School District 303 heads back to
school on Wednesday, August 24
which is just around the corner.
While education is an essential
part of growing up other factors like
waking up earlier in the morning,
brushing teeth and packing a school
lunch are also important, as it helps
develop an organized lifestyle and
further a child’s growth.
Summer in St. Charles was filled
with wonderful events like visiting
Otter Cove, Pottawatomie Park, and
concerts in Lincoln Park; however
now that back to school time is here
it’s time to get back to routines. It
is important for children to get into
the routine of going to sleep at a
reasonable time, knowing what
daily morning chores they need
to accomplish each day and other
similar activities. The school year is
great because it allows children to
be around their peers more often
throughout the day, and this promotes social stability. Parents are encouraged to get the ball rolling and
start implementing these routines
before the school year begins.
Routine establishes many as-
Reach every home and business
in the tri-cities
A U G U S T 2011
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
1
City Council
Meeting
7pm
pects of healthy living, good habits
and good behavior that even the
slightest structure can make a huge
difference in a child’s day-to-day life.
This structure helps prepare your
child to be on a schedule when they
return to the classroom. The following ideas can help parents save time
and institute organization skills for
their kids:
• Be sure to discuss the highlights
and events that happened at
school with your child each day.
• Help your child prepare for
school the night before, including
assisting your child in selecting
clothes to wear for school. After
a while, he or she will be able to
do this without your assistance.
• Designate a time each night that
your child should go to sleep.
Adjust your child’s sleep schedule
a few weeks in advance to help
avoid struggling to get them out
of bed for school. Children need
9 to 11 hours of sleep each night,
depending on their age.
• Eat a healthy breakfast each day
before school. A daily diet of
junk food is not compatible with
learning. It can cause listlessness
and hyperactivity which can
impair a child’s ability to learn
Skipping breakfast especially is a
detriment to a child’s education.
• Choose an area in the home,
such as near the front door, to
store your child’s school bag and
any supplies he or she may need
for school
• Have a daily to-do list posted in
an area your child will see each
day.
If the child will be going to a new
school, parents may want to schedule a visit with their child before the
first day.
Regular schedules create a day
with structure. The repetition of
routines encourages your child’s
memory development, and the
consistency helps him or her adjust
to a regular schedule.
Anisa Ali is owner of
The Goddard School in St. Charles
[email protected]
7
Leave No Child
Inside This
Summer, 3-4pm,
Munhall School
Pickling Party,
1-4pm,
LeRoy Oaks
Forest Preserve
14
2
4
Hey Jimmy, 7pm,
Lincoln Park
Cruise Nights,
5:30-8pm,
1st St. at Main
Stories Live!,
9:30am, 10:30am,
1:30pm, SCPL
9
10
Cruise Nights,
5:30-8pm,
1st St. at Main
11
The Crown Vics,
7pm,
Lincoln Park
CUSD 303 Board
of Education
Meeting,
7pm
SATURDAY
5
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
Free concert,
12pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
12
6
Bob Leonard 5K
Run/Walk,
8am,
Pottawatomie
Park
13
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
Big Truck Show,
10am-12pm,
James O. Breen
Community Park
Free concert,
12pm, Baker
Methodist Church
Gardening
Experts,
9am, SCPL
Movie Nights,
4:30pm, SCPL
15
City Council
Meeting
7pm
16
Cruise Nights,
5:30-8pm,
1st St. at Main
Plan Commission
Meeting,
7pm
21
3
FRIDAY
Plan Commission
Meeting, 7pm
8
Family Story Time,
7pm,
SCPL
THURSDAY
22
23
Girls Night Out,
Hotel Baker
17
Welcome to
Kindergarten,
SCPL,
10am and 1:30pm
18
Howard and the
White Boys,
7pm,
Lincoln Park
19
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
Free concert,
12pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
24
FIRST DAY OF
SCHOOL
25
26
20
STC
Underground’s
100th Anniversary
Concert,
7-10pm
Don Rickles,
Arcada Theatre,
8pm
27
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
Free concert,
12pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
28
Heirloom Garden
Show,
11am-4pm,
Garfield Farm
Pickling Party,
1-4pm,
LeRoy Oaks Forest
Preserve
29
30
Home School
Workshop,
10am,
SCPL
31
Send us your event information
[email protected]
The best way to reach every
home and business
in the tri-cities
Call 630-995-3482
[email protected]
S T. C H A R L E S
SUNDAY
S E P T E M B E R 2011
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1
Send us your event
information.
Fox Valley Folk
Music and
Storytelling
Festival,
Island Park,
Geneva
11
Men’s Senior Golf
Tournament,
Pottawatomie
Golf Course
5
Labor Day
Fox Valley Folk
Music and
Storytelling
Festival,
Island Park,
Geneva
12
6
7
8
City Council
Meeting,
7pm
Plan Commission
Meeting,
7pm
13
14
15
CUSD 303 Board
of Education
Meeting,
7pm
18
19
City Council
Meeting,
7pm
26
Friends of SCPL
Supper,
6pm,
SCPL
20
21
22
Men’s Senior Golf
Tournament,
Pottawatomie
Golf Course
Festival of the
Vine,
Geneva
Festival of the
Vine,
Geneva
16
23
Senior Breakfast,
7:15-8:45am,
Adult Activity
Center
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
Plan Commission
Meeting,
7pm
First Day of
Autumn
27
28
29
10
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
St. Charles East
Homecoming
Parade,
1pm
Fox Valley
Marathon
25
9
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
Festival of the
Vine,
Geneva
Primrose Farm
Frolic,
11am-3pm
3
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
[email protected]
4
2
No School ,
Teacher Institute
Day
30
Farmers Market,
7am-1pm,
Baker Methodist
Church
17
Tiny Tots Track
Meet,
10am,
East Side Sports
Complex
24
Important Contacts
Emergency....................................... 911
City of St. Charles.................................630-377-4400 stcharlesil.gov
Police (non-emergency)....................................................630-377-4435
Fire (non-emergency).........................................................630-377-4458
Fox River & Countryside Fire/Rescue District.......... 630-584-3473
............................................................................................................. frcfr.org
Public Works.......................................................................... 630-377-4486
Utility Billing......................................................................630-377-4426
Electric Utility....................................................................630-377-4407
Garbage pick-up...............................................................630-377-4405
Veolia Environmental Services...................................630-587-8282
. ........................................................................................... veolieaes.com
Park District................................................630-513-6200 stcparks.org
Kane County Government Center..................................630-232-3400
.......................................................................................... countyofkane.org
Kane County Sheriff (non-emergency)....................... 630-232-6840
..............................................................................................kanesheriff.com
Kane County Animal Control...........................................630-232-3555
.....................................................................co.kane.il.us/AnimalControl/
St. Charles Township........... 630-584-9342 stcharlestownship.org
Assessor’s Office.............................................................. 630-584-2040
Campton Township............630-377-5705 camptontownship.com
Assessor’s Office...............................................................630-513-5403
Chamber of Commerce....630-584-8384 stcharleschamber.com
St. Charles Convention & Visitors Bureau.................... 630-377-6161
.......................................................................................... visitstcharles.com
Downtown St. Charles Partnership................................630-513-5386
.........................................................................................................dtown.org
Public Library..............................630-584-0076 stcharleslibrary.org
Post Office............................................................................... 630-584-5353
PACE Dial-A-Ride.................................................................. 630-584-5353
J.U.L.I.E........................................................................811 or 800-892-0123
Nicor Gas................................................... 888-642-6748 nicorinc.com
Comcast.....................................................866-594-1234 comcast.com
Senior Services.....................847-741-0404 seniorservicesassoc.org
Delnor Hospital......................................... 630-208-3000 delnor.com
Community Unit School District 303......630-513-3030 d303.org
St. Charles High School North.................................... 630-443-5700
St. Charles High School East........................................630-584-1100
Elgin Community College.... 847-697-1000 University of Illinois
Extension........................................630-584-6166 urbanext.uiuc.edu
St. Charles Heritage Center........... 630-584-6967 stcmuseum.org
Clubs and Organizations
Alcoholics Anonymous....................630-377-6610 aadistrict61.org
American Legion Post 342................... 630-584-5166 post342.org
CASA Kane County................................................................. 630-232-4484 To report suspected child abuse or neglect 1-800-25-ABUSE (22873)
........................................................................................casakanecounty.org
Exchange Club of the Tri-Cities....................................... 630-377-7328 .................................................................................... tcexchangeclub.com
Farnsworth Mansion Foundation................................... 630-587-1530
.............................................................................farnsworthmansion.com
Fox Valley Volunteer Hospice......................630-232-2233 fvvh.org
Friends of the St. Charles Public Library..................... 630-584-0076
Kiwanis Club..........................................................................630-584-6483
Lazarus House................... 630-587-2144 lazarushouseonline.com
League of Women Voters.......................................................... lwvckc.org
Literacy Volunteers of Fox Valley................ 630-584-2811 lvfv.org
St. Charles Mothers Club.................................. 630-217-MOMS (6667)
........................................................................... stcharlesmothersclub.org
St. Charles Underground Teen Center..........................630-513-4380
....................................................................................stcunderground.com
The Salvation Army
Golden Diners Senior Nutrition Program...............630-232-6676
................................ salarmychicago.org/services/goldenDiners.htm
TriCity Family Services........................................................ 630-232-1070
.............................................................................. tricityfamilyservices.org
TriCity Health Partnership.................................................630-377-9277
.........................................................................................tchpfreeclinic.com
United Way of Central Kane County.............................. 630-377-1930
........................................................unitedwayofcentralkanecounty.org
Valley Golden Agers.............................................................630-584-1056
VFW Post 5036................................630-377-9845 stcharlesvfw.com
Welcome Club of the Fox Valley..................................... 630-582-9090
..........................................................................welcomeclubfoxvalley.org
Zonta Club..................................... 630-584-2040 zontawest-sgb.org
The last page…
Going dry:
St. Charles’
speakeasies
by Elaine Higham
St. Charles Heritage Center
O
n May 16, 1918, inhabitants of St. Charles
had no idea the newly
instated “dry law” would turn
their small community into the
epicenter of the newly illicit
activity of alcohol production
and sale in Kane County. With
the recently christened Federal
Bureau of Investigation on the
P hoto courtesy St. Charles H eritage Center
heels of saloons, dives, and any
Members
of
the
St.
Charles
Police
Department
display
a brew kit and a gun they
establishment violating Procollected
after
a
raid.
hibition, speakeasies became
rampant across the country and
distribution became the next probrarely investigated. No sign led the
outnumbered the formerly legal
lem. A slightly more sinister setting
way down the steep driveway; no
saloons. St. Charles’ location, just
than Blackberry Farm provided Alphone number was listed and direcclose enough to Chicago to allow
bert’s Corner with both an ominous
tions were never posted. Only tips
trade but far enough to keep out of
reputation and the esteem of the
from the jealous owners of other
the eye of the law, made it a prime
mob. Used exclusively as a link in
speakeasies advised the authorities.
choice for organized crime.
the distribution chain, Albert’s CorWith all the activity of the speakIn order to serve the liquor in the
ner was “designed to give lookouts a easies, it was inevitable authorities
first place, it needed to be produced, good view of oncoming traffic from
would catch on eventually. Police
and, considering the heavy equipall sides.” Garage doors allowed
broke into Blackberry Creek Farm
ment requisite to produce anything
farmers coming in with carts full of
and, after spilling their contents
worth bottling, it was no small task.
soon to be fermented corn mash to
across the dirty floor, cemented the
Manufacturers needed somewhere
enter and exit quickly. Men in grey
barrels into the wall and bricked
isolated, small, and above all beyond fedoras and matching suits patrolled
up the entrances. Shirley Pieper
suspicion. One such location was Al
the balconies with barely concealed
Sportsman recalled how police
Capone’s Blackberry Creek Farm.
Tommy guns and vicious attitudes.
raided the Hideaway. “Feds would
The mob owners hired a farmer to
Alcohol was shipped and stored in
suddenly arrive, axe down locked
front the operation, storing liquor in
the basement, and then transported
doors and haul out bushels of
barrels in the basement of the barn
to the speakeasies in St. Charles
bootleg booze from their hiding
while the farmer worked the scenic
itself.
places. With a dramatic flourish, the
fields. People living around the farm
Any venue open to circulation
agents mashed the quart bottles on
noted “well dressed men in expenhad to be private and reachable for
the rocks out front.” However, after
sive cars…hauling sugar. Sometimes
its clientele. The Hideaway provided a brief restocking and renovation
they got stuck in the mud, and local
the perfect combination. Purchased
period, the speakeasies were back
farmers had to pull them out with
by the Soukup family in 1920, its
in business, selling their illegal wares
oxen.” Despite these and other mihidden back rooms reverberated
to the citizens of St. Charles as if
nor mishaps, the liquor production
with the rattle of slot machines and
nothing had happened. Pleas from
flourished, and the finished products clank of mugs of criminal gin. New
the Justice of the Peace and Chief of
found their way into dances, parties, Year’s Eve echoed with the shotgun
Police to report speakeasies fell on
and establishments of “questionable
blasts of drunken celebrators shootmostly deaf ears. The illegal liquor
reputability.”
ing out the shoreline lights. And, de- trade flourished in the Fox Valley
After the alcohol was produced,
spite obvious patronage, the police
until the end of Prohibition.
38

Neighbors of St. Charles Magazine

Transcription

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