End of July Brings Geneva Arts Fair

What do giant stained glass murals, sprawling black and white landscapes, and intricate wire jewelry have in common?  They are just a small sampling of what to expect at the 2012 Geneva Arts Fair, July 28-29. 

Back for its eleventh year the prestigious Geneva Arts Fair will showcase the work of over 150 fine artists from around the country.  Designed as an interactive gallery, this year’s juried show will provide visitors with the opportunity to peruse multiple mediums and talk directly with the artists about their stunning displays.  As they stroll down Third St. in Geneva, guests can enjoy art “en plein aire”, without the unforgiving chill of a museum and best of all, for free.   

Kids can use their originality and imagination to create and transform thousands of hangars from blank canvases into one-of-a-kind artwork.  Admire how nature becomes a showplace for these masterpieces. 

Geneva merchants and restaurants will also be providing guests with sales and food and wine specials, creating two full days of sensory overload. 

The 11^th  Annual Geneva Arts Fair presented by Geneva Chamber of Commerce is a must for anyone looking to expand their “stay-cation” possibilities, and enrich their summer. For more information, please log onto www.genevachamber.com or call (630) 232-6060.

Swedish Days - a must visit festival June 19 - 24!

Free nightly musical entertainment on Central Stage brings new excitement each day.  Kick-off Tuesday evening with Mike & Joe – Alternative & modern rock music from the ’90s through today played by one of the most popular cover bands in the Midwest.  Evening entertainmetn continues all week with ABBA Salute, The Moods, 7th Heaven and Hi Infidelity.  Join performers Ellus Bellus, Dennis O'Brien, Swings n' Arrows and Jim Green - The Wandering Endorphin fo rafternoon Concerts on the Lawn Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.   

Geneva’s Got Talent semifinalists and finalists will take the stage Wednesday and Saturday to vie for a chance to win $1000 first place cash prize. 

Favorite fun for young visitors includes the Creation Station Art projects, Quad Power Jump, and a special concert by Radio Disney’s Season Four Next Big Thing winner Shealeigh on Friday, June 22.  In fact, Friday is entirely dedicated to kids with the Kids’ Day Parade and numerous other child-friendly attractions including the Dunk Tank and lawn games.   

Kids of all ages will enjoy the Carnival, merchant specials and Saturday’s zip line.  When hunger pains hit, favorite American and ethnic fare combined with traditional Swedish delicacies—meatballs, pancakes, and pastries—will be among the many tempting treats. 

Lots of Swedish activities too!  Sweden Väg debuts on Saturday June 23 & Sunday June 24.  A block of all things Swedish – gifts, art, food & games.  Again this year, you can take a step back into history at the Swedish Cottage Walk and Viking Ship Tour in Good Templar Park on Saturday & Sunday.  Earlier in the week, head to Geneva Underground Playhouse for two different movies.  Catch the adventures of a red haired Swedish girl or tap your toes to the movie inspired by the music of ABBA. 

On Sunday, bring some chairs and blankets so the entire family can enjoy the renowned Grand Parade and create memories that last a lifetime. 

The energy in downtown Geneva will be unbelievable June 19 – 24.  You won’t want to miss a day of fun.  Come join us for the Swedish Days Festival presented by Cadence Health.  We look forward to saying Välkommen (welcome) to you.  Visit www.genevachamber.com for a full schedule of events and times or call 630-232-6060.  To view 2011 fun http://youtu.be/IDL0cZDj-hA!

Festival Season

While many of you may be getting ready for graduations, the Geneva Chamber is getting ready for what we dub "Festival Season".

June 19 kicks off 6 days of Swedish Days in downtown Geneva.  Full details will be posted soon at http://www.visitgenevail.com/swedishdays.html.  2012 brings new entertainment and events; zip lining down Third St, Sweden Väg and Geneva's Got Talent and favorites return; the carnival, Kids' Day, Rosemaling and the Grand Parade.  It all makes for the perfect start to summer.

The prestigious Geneva Arts Fair commences on July 28 and continues on July 29.  Over 150 esteemed artists will line Third St., in downtown Geneva.  Visitors will be amazed at the artistry and creativity displayed.

As summer comes to a close, Festival of the Vine celebrates the autumn harvest.  September 7 - 9 brings the Flavor Fare, Wine Tent, Free Entertainment and activities for the young ones.  Also included are carriage and trolley rides and a fabulous craft show.  Deadline for application for the craft show is right around the corner, June 1. 

More information on all things Geneva Chamber is www.genevachamber.com.  We look forward to welcoming you to lovely, historic Geneva!

Let the MEN do the cooking this Friday!

Kick-off Mothers’ Day Weekend with 60 Men Who Cook this Friday, May 11 at the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles, IL.  Doors and cash bar open at 5:30 pm and samplings start at 6:00 pm.

Local celebrity chefs will prepare their favorite appetizer, side dish, main dish or dessert and compete to earn the most votes from the crowd.  Attendees can vote for their favorite chefs with their pocketbooks and every dollar is worth one vote.  Votes can be submitted before the event at our secure site www.genevachamber.com/60men.  All proceeds go to The Geneva History Center, The Geneva Lions Club & The Rotary Club of Geneva. 

Celebrity chefs schedule to cook that evening:

Mark Allen, Tommy Antonson, Eric Bartel, Nick Buseski, Patrick Cagney, Scott Capper, Greg Carlson, Matthew Christopher, John Cirpinski, Don Cummings, Mike Deagle, Justin Eggar, Hank Erwin, Don Forni, John Frankenthal, Joe Grace, Gordie Hard, Ben Hedge, Bruce Heidlauf, Kevin Heitkotter, Stuart Henn, Cory Hofstetter, Pat Hofstetter, Weldon Johnson, Dan Joniak, Gabe Kaven, Bob Kovacs, Don Kramer, Steve Lord, Mark Low, Craig  Maladra, Nicholas Manheim, Arun Mani, John Martin, Joe McMahon, Bennett Melone, Charlie Miller, Rick  Nagel, Nick Ninedorf, Devin O’Brien, Kevin O’Brien, Paul O’Dacre, Michael Olesen, Larry Olesky, Dan Perry, Mark Plantery, Dave Press, Howie Pribble, Jim Radecki, Tim Riley, J. Tom Shaw, Mark Spero, Tim Sullivan, Matt Teske, Mark Tusken, Jeff Ward, Doug Warlick, Mark Weaver, Dennis Wendt, Rick Williams, Andrew Young and Larry Zacher.

Tickets are $30 and are available at The Geneva Chamber of Commerce, The Geneva History Center, The Paper Merchant and State Street Jewelers.

For more information contact the Geneva Chamber of Commerce at 630-232-6060.   View last year’s fun at http://youtu.be/ABXWEZPxjTk.

The event is presented by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce to benefit the Geneva History Center, Geneva Lions Club and Rotary Club of Geneva. 

About the organizations that benefit from “60 Men Who Cook”

 Geneva Chamber of Commerce

www.genevachamber.com

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce funds and promotes tourism activities including festivals that bring thousands of visitors to Geneva.  Dollars spent are shared among retail, restaurants, service providers and suppliers while sales tax contributes to the City’s general operating budget.  The Chamber and its members are community builders dedicated to sustaining local economic vitality and enhancing the quality of life in our hometown. 

The Geneva History Center

www.genevahistorycenter.org

The Geneva History Center collects and displays artifacts and information from Geneva’s past for the purpose of educating the public.  Through innovative educational programs, family friendly events, ground breaking exhibits and critical historical resources, the Geneva History Center uses the past for a better understanding of the present and an improved future. 

Geneva Rotary

www.genevarotary.org      

Over the past 40 years, Geneva Rotary has touched hundreds of organizations in the Fox Valley.  The men and women of Rotary are dedicated to improving the lives of people.  The proceeds from this event will help to further efforts in providing additional vocational scholarships to deserving high school seniors.   

The Geneva Lions Club

www.genevalionsclub.org

The Geneva Lions Club is the oldest service club in Geneva, founded in 1937 with 30 members. The Lions Club raises money primarily for the benefit of persons who suffer from sight and/or hearing disabilities. A smaller percentage of funds are donated to local community organizations.

Steve Lord - a self made cook

With one week left until 60 chefs compete for your votes, there is one more chef to meet.  That being said, 60 of the finest chefs have graciously offered to be a part of this event that is presented by Geneva Chamber of Commerce and supports Geneva History Center, Geneva Lions Club and Rotary Club of Geneva.

Steve Lord is not only recognizable by his name, as he is a news reporter for The Beacon News, but also by his face because he is a frequent performer and board member at Geneva Underground Playhouse and he writes short stories, plays and screenplays.  So obviously he can write, but can he cook? 

“Well, the truth is, I’m a self-made cook. When I was single and living on my own in the early 1980s, I got sick and tired of always making macaroni and cheese out of a box. So I bought The Joy of Cooking and a number of other cookbooks and learned how to cook.” 

And he continued to perfect his culinary skills. 

“For a long time on my own (I cooked), and then when my wife and I were first married, I cooked a lot and spent a lot of time on it. Then, when the kids came along, between them not liking what I cooked and not having a lot of time, it was back to macaroni and cheese out of a box!” 

Steve is a returning chef and believes in using fresh ingredients and the blending of flavors.  As of this writing, he isn’t sure what we will all be sampling, but one thing we can count on is his booth will be clean. 

“Once I slaved over a dinner and was “graded down,” if you will, for leaving the kitchen messy. So I learned how a chef is supposed to sort of clean as he goes.” 

One of the questions asked is ‘Any other interesting factoid you would like to add?’  Most  chefs will use this space as a final shameless plug to vote for them, however Steve actually added something very random, but nonetheless interesting. 

“The can was invented in 1810, but the can opener was sometime in the 1870s. That means for about 60 years, people canned food but didn’t have a way to open the cans!”

Things that make you go hmmmmmmm. 

Vote for your favorite chef at www.genevachamber.com and at 60 Men Who Cook.

60 Men Who Cook is on May 11, 5:30 pm at Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles.  Tickets are available at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (8 S. Third St.), Geneva History Center (113 S. Third St.), The Paper Merchant (328 S. Third St.) and State Street Jewelers (214 W. State St).   View last years fun at http://youtu.be/ABXWEZPxjTk

Don Cummings - adding chef to his extensive resume

In the next couple of weeks, leading up to 60 Men Who Cook, I will be spotlighting some of the fine chefs who have graciously offered to be a part of this event that is presented by Geneva Chamber of Commerce and supports Geneva History Center, Geneva Lions Club and Rotary Club of Geneva.

Don Cummings is a name many should recognize.  Besides living in Geneva for many years, he has served on various boards and committees.  Most recently being appointed to City of Geneva Alderman, filling a vacancy in the 2^nd Ward.  A current member of Rotary Club of Geneva, which in addition to Geneva History Center and Geneva Lions Club, are being supported by this event, he is also an active Geneva Chamber of Commerce member.  Oh, Don too has a paid job, Managing Partner at Blue Haven Capital in Geneva.   

And now he is adding chef to his already extensive resume.  At least a chef for 60 Men Who Cook.

So what has Don cooked before? 

“I burned leaves as a kid, but I do actually a few dishes I cook each year and they are consistently good.” 

“Who really made this?” is quite often what Don hears when he cooks.   On Friday, May 11 there will be proof that he indeed (with assistance from his daughter Delaney) did make his Cheesy Potatoes using 100% free-range potatoes, which “people will be pleasantly surprised how good they are”. 

Don may have been coerced into showing off his culinary talents, but he is very excited to be raising money for such great causes. 

Vote for your favorite chef at www.genevachamber.com and at 60 Men Who Cook. 

60 Men Who Cook is on May 11, 5:30 pm at Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles.  Tickets are available at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (8 S. Third St.), Geneva History Center (113 S. Third St.), The Paper Merchant (328 S. Third St.) and State Street Jewelers (214 W. State St).   View last years fun at http://youtu.be/ABXWEZPxjTk.

Meet a 60 Men Who Cook Chef

In the next couple of weeks, leading up to 60 Men Who Cook, I will be spotlighting some of the fine chefs who have graciously offered to be a part of this event that is presented by Geneva Chamber of Commerce and supports Geneva History Center, Geneva Lions Club and Rotary Club of Geneva.

It is tremendous when all ages want to join in on the 60 Men Who Cook phenomenon.  Bennett Melone is a 5^th grade student at Fox Ridge Elementary in St. Charles.  His mother, Kathy, is President of Rotary Club of Geneva.  One of the non-profits benefitting from this event. 

Bennett wanted to help out his mom and the Rotary Club, so he decided to step up to the stove.  While he makes very good sandwiches and ice cream sundaes, his dish of choice will be Grandma’s Homemade Fudge.  With all three of those words in the name of the dish, you just know it will be delicious. 

A recipe that hasn’t changed in 40 years, Bennett remembers how yummy it tasted when his grandma made it for him when he was young.  

“Vote for me because I have a really good dessert and it will be the best.”  

What do Bennett’s friends say about his cooking? 

“I think my friends would think I was an OK chef.  They would at least take a bite.” 

Buy your tickets now to come and take a bite of Grandma’s Homemade Fudge and many other appetizers, sides, entrees and desserts. 

Vote for your favorite chef at www.genevachamber.com and at 60 Men Who Cook. 

60 Men Who Cook is on May 11, 5:30 pm at Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles.  Tickets are available at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (8 S. Third St.), Fagan’s Graphic Design (524 W. State St., Suite A), Geneva History Center (113 S. Third St.), The Paper Merchant (328 S. Third St.) and State Street Jewelers (214 W. State St).   View last years fun at http://youtu.be/ABXWEZPxjTk.

Meet 60 Men Who Cook Chef Justin Eggar

In the next couple of weeks, leading up to 60 Men Who Cook, I will be spotlighting some of the fine chefs who have graciously offered to be a part of this event that is presented by Geneva Chamber of Commerce and supports Geneva History Center, Geneva Lions Club and Rotary Club of Geneva.

J’s Sexy Stuffed Mushrooms.  How’s that for an attention getter?!  It is actually a real dish being prepared by Justin Eggar of Allstate- Eggar Insurance Agency.  Besides the name being delicious, Justin has actually said they really are delicious. 

Hoping one day to receive some formal culinary training, Justin calls himself a “regular schmo” when it comes to cooking. Likes to cook for family and friends, who does do some dishes better than average.  Hopefully, one of those “better” items is the dish he is preparing at 60 Men Who Cook on May 11. 

From the minute Justin and his wife Katlyn opened their business on State Street in Geneva, they both immersed themselves in the community. 

“(60 Men) is a great event supporting our wonderful local not-for-profits. In addition, it adds some fun flair to our community and allows me to give back a little for the wonderful time that we have being here,” says Justin. 

Votes generated that evening, not only are how the chefs win, but also how the non-profits are supported.  Chefs might do just about anything to be declared the winner in their category. 

“People should vote for me because they are going to love the dish that I’m preparing. In addition, I will happily resort to bribery…. Wait, will that get me kicked out of the competition? I need to read those rules again.” 

Still not sure if you should put 60 Men Who Cook on your calendar…. 

“It’s going to be a great time and the cooks are going to knock your socks off this year.” 

And Justin, like the true community guy he is, wants your ideas too. 

“If you have any great ideas for my set, please email me at : justin.eggar@gmail.com – I have a few ideas of what I’m going to do but I’d love suggestions!” 

Vote for your favorite chef at www.genevachamber.com and at 60 Men Who Cook. 

60 Men Who Cook is on May 11, 5:30 pm at Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles.  Tickets are available at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (8 S. Third St.), Fagan’s Graphic Design (524 W. State St., Suite A), Geneva History Center (113 S. Third St.), The Paper Merchant (328 S. Third St.) and State Street Jewelers (214 W. State St).   View last years fun at http://youtu.be/ABXWEZPxjTk.

Two time winner returns to 60 Men Who Cook

In just a little over 30 days, 60 local community “celebrities” will be baking, cooking, grilling and sautéing dishes to please our palates.  The 4^th Annual 60 Men Who Cook takes place on May 11 at Prairie Event Center at Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Rd., St. Charles.  Doors will open at 5:30 pm and samplings will begin at 6:00.  Tickets are $30 which includes samplings and voting.  Of course, you need to vote for your favorite chef! 

In the next couple of weeks, I will be spotlighting some of the fine chefs who have graciously offered to be a part of this event that is presented by Geneva Chamber of Commerce and supports Geneva History Center, Geneva Lions Club and Rotary Club of Geneva. 

One of our returning chefs is Pat Hofstetter.  Pat has the esteemed honor of being the two time winner for Best Presentation.  Not surprising as Pat and his wife Mindy, for 21 years, have owned CPR Printing in St. Charles, where creativity and design are key.

Proclaiming himself as a novice cooker who has no formal training, except eating, Pat likes to experiment with different flavors and spices.  That being said, his dish this year is New England Clam Chowder because he had a great idea for the display! 

An active Geneva Chamber member and always looking to give back to his community, helping to raise money for a good cause, coupled with eating is why Pat has participated all four years in 60 Men Who Cook. 

Obviously Pat is creative, but would others say he is a good chef?   

“Others may not say a good chef, or even a fair chef, but everyone would agree that I put my best foot forward and I have the body to show it,” said Pat. 

Voting by the public is not only how the chefs are declared “winners” in their categories, but also how the non-profits earn their money.  After all, this is a FUNdraiser.  Why should you vote for Pat Hofstetter?   

“I’m funny, charming and witty.  It’s events like this that give me an opportunity to see a lot of my friends and business customers in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. I look forward to this event every year!” 

Vote for your favorite chef at www.genevachamber.com and at 60 Men Who Cook. 

60 Men Who Cook is on May 11, 5:30 pm at Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles.  Tickets are available Friday, April 6 at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (8 S. Third St.), Fagan’s Graphic Design (524 W. State St., Suite A), Geneva History Center (113 S. Third St.), The Paper Merchant (328 S. Third St.) and State Street Jewelers (214 W. State St).   View last years fun at http://youtu.be/ABXWEZPxjTk.

Go for the GOLD and GOLF

Many people would agree that having a great golf game is kind of like winning a pot o' gold or receiving a gold medal, even if is just in their own minds.

Geneva Chamber of Commerce is holding their annual golf outing on June 4, 2012.  Being an Olympic year, the theme is Go For the GOLD!  I can't promise there will be gold medals, but there will be food, drinks, awards, an auction and of course lots of fun. 

This year's event takes place at Royal Hawk Country Club, 5N748 Burr Rd. in St. Charles.  Lunch is at 11:30 am followed by a shotgun start at 12:30 pm.

Everyone is invited and welcome to join in.  Grab a foursome or sign up just yourself (we will find you a group to play with).  Early Bird Pricing until April 15 at golfinvite.com/genevachamber.

It is sure to be a PARty and a TEErrific good time.

Got Talent? Geneva Chamber is looking for you!

Seems every channel on television has some sort of talent opportunity.  And now Geneva Chamber of Commerce is bringing talent to Geneva. 

"Geneva's Got Talent" is looking for talent! Singers, dancers, magicians, jugglers, gymnasts…just about anything.

Why should you apply, to audition, for ours? Besides the fact you don't have to travel to Hollywood, first prize is $1000!

Auditions will be held May 20 in Geneva.  Only the first 75 applications received will be invited to audition and vie for a chance to perform during Swedish Days for a chance at  the $1000 cash prize. 

You do not have to live in Geneva to apply.   

Rules and the application can be found at www.genevachamber.com/swedishdays.html.  For more information, please call 630.232.6060.

Weddings and Pizza

Yes, I have been to a wedding that served pizza.  However uncommon it may be.  Clearly, this choice may not be for everyone.   Dining, photographers, flowers and everything else that completes your special day will be on display at Geneva's Wedding Walk this Sunday, March 4.

The Downtown Geneva Wedding Walk is the perfect time to see all Geneva has to offer to plan your unique wedding (even pizza if you want it).  You will have a chance to meet with venues, boutique shops, and visit some of the top wedding businesses in Chicagoland.  Each bride that registers to attend the Geneva Wedding Walk will receive fabulous ideas, goodies and giveaways!  Tickets: $25 for the bride & 2 guests ($30 at the door).  Check in / Registration is at 11:00 am at Herrington Inn & Spa, 15 S. River Ln, Geneva.  Visit www.genevabride.com for more information.

All this pizza talk have you hungry?  Tuesday, March 6, stop by one of our newest members, Morano's Pizza, 417 Hamilton Street in Geneva.  The Geneva Chamber will help celebrate their grand opening with a ribbon cutting at 5 pm.  Their extensive menu carries much more than pizza too!  Something to satisfy every taste bud.

Always visit our website for complete Geneva, IL happenings (www.genevachamber.com). Your guide to fantastic fun!

Chamber hat tree is expanding

As February becomes March and winter becomes spring, the Geneva Chamber continues to plan 2012 events and festivals.

Swedish Days, called the "Granddaddy of Illinois Festivals", has been on our mind since before 2011 was over.  This six day festival, June 19 - 24 this year, already has the entertainment booked, favorites returning and new activities planned.  Think bringing the Swedish back to Swedish Days.  Not to mention "Geneva's Got Talent", but more on that in future blogs.

Adding to the hats we wear is a Geneva City-Wide Garage Sale.  While you have to have a home or business in Geneva to sell, all are welcome to come and discover the treasures that can be purchased.  April 27 - 28, 8 am - 4 pm both days.  A map with the addresses involved and a select listing of items for sale, will be available the week before at genevachamber.com.

While these events are months off, there is always something cool happening in Geneva.  February 29 only happens every four years and the Geneva shops and restaurants are taking advantage of honoring this special occurrence.  This Wednesday, from 5:30 - 9, experience "One Cool Winter's Night..." in downtown Geneva.  Let the luminaries guide you to all the excitement.  Tickets ($10) required and can be purchased at Cocoon, 212 S. Third St.; Odalisaque, 312 S. Third St.; 318 Coffeehouse, 318 S. State St. and State Street Jewelers, 214 W. State St.  Don't miss an event that only happens every four years!

Always visit our website for complete Geneva, IL happenings (www.genevachamber.com).  Your guide to fantastic fun!

GENEVA, IL on ABC 7 News

This is my first blog at "Chamber Chatter".  What I am hoping, is it will become a weekly posting board for news about our Geneva Chamber members or about our Geneva Chamber events.  As 2012 begins, we always have something going on in Geneva.

For those reading who are not familiar with Geneva, IL.  It is a medium size city, pop of about 22,000.  Geneva is known for its shopping, dining, lodging in our historic downtown and also for our award winning festivals - Swedish Days, Geneva Arts Fair, Festival of the Vine and Christmas Walk with Christmas House Tour.

Geneva is a short 40 miles west of Chicago and is easily accessible by train or car.  Great for a short stay or day getaway. 

The Chamber of Commerce serves as the Visitors Center, so stop by our office located in the heart of the downtown at 8 S. Third Street.  Pick up a Visitors Brochure that will tell you all you need to know about our beautiful city.  We love answering questions and welcoming visitors!  Our website is bursting with information about Geneva http://www.genevachamber.com/.

Looking for a quick preview of Geneva? 

Geneva will be featured on ABC Chicago Channel 7 tomorrow, Saturday February 18 at 10 pm.   Not from the Chicagoland area, catch it at http://www.http//abclocal.go.com/wls/index

Weekend news anchor, Karen Jordan, participated in the Geneva Chocolate Tour on Wednesday, February 15.   Read about the chocolate tour and all the shops that participate at www.chicagochocolatetours.com/geneva-il

The tour started at Graham’s Fine Chocolates & Ice Cream (302 S. Third St).  Also included in this tour were 318 Coffeehouse (318 S. Third St), Moveable Feast (321 Franklin St), Peaceful Parlour (212 S. Third St.), Preservation Bread & Wine (513 S. Third St.) and All Chocolate Kitchen (33 S. Third St).