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Gene's Bit of Blogging

Calendar of Chicagoland Events

Enjoying Just One of the Many Great Chicagoland Music Venues - The Dominican University Performing Arts Center in River Forest, IL



Enjoying Just One of the Many Great Chicagoland Music Venues
The Dominican University Performing Arts Center in River Forest, IL



     My wife, Marilyn, is a huge country music fan.  Traditional country.  Old country.  Bluegrass. Iconic country performers.  The more "twang" the better for her.

    Knowing his mom's long-standing love affair with the genre, our youngest son and his wife gave her a Christmas gift of a pair of tickets to see Marty Stuart and the Fabulous Superlatives  for this last Saturday night. 

    To say she enjoyed herself, would be an understatement.  Let's just say I see a whole new side of her during shows like this.

    We had never visited this particular venue before this weekend's concert, but I'll tell you ... if you ever have a chance to see ANY entertainment at the Dominican University's Performing Arts Center,  located at 7900 W. Division Street, in River Forest, IL ... GO!   It's an amazing place.  Great acoustics ... and there are no bad seats.

     The Performing Arts Center  and the Dominican University  itself, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful homes you'll find within Chicagoland too.  There are just blocks after blocks of them.  Old and new.  Varying architecture. 

     Prior to the concert, we enjoyed just driving around and soaking up the River Forest area.  (What else does someone with 35 years in the real estate industry subject their spouse to??)      Massive trees are everywhere within this City.  I swear, we could have just enjoyed driving for hours in River Forest.  Gorgeous.

    During our show on Saturday night, we were right smack in the middle of the Performing Arts Center, just 11 rows back.  When Marty Stuart came out to showcase his "pickin'" abilities and speak to the crowd, I thought we could reach-out and touch him. 

    Now for those that don't know much about Marty Stuart, here's a little taste: 


You need Flash Player in order to view this.
Marty Stuart "Country Boy Rock & Roll" on Letterman 06/29
Visit http://www.TalkShowMusicFan.com for reviews and more great videos!!


   
   
     If you ever get the chance to see and hear Marty Stuart and the Fabulous Superlatives, jump on it. 

     And if you are in the Chicagoland area, I hope you'll check-out the wide variety of entertainment  available throughout the year at the Dominican University Performing Arts Center  in River Forest, IL.  Absolutely an amazing place within a beautiful town ...

     


     *  Hoping to buy a home in River Forest, IL or nearby in Chicago or Chicagoland area?  Work with a proven professional with years of experience and expertise at helping home buyers and clients successfully complete and close their transactions.
   Contact me  today.  I'll be happy to hear from you and have the opportunity to earn your trust and mortgage business.  I can be found at any of the following:
Direct:  815.277.4036 
Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
Conveniently Through Skype:  630.219.1316
or Click Here 4 a:

Celebrate America's Beautiful Trees! Arbor Day Celebrations in Chicagoland


Celebrate America's Beautiful Trees!
Arbor Day Celebrations in Chicagoland


    Did you know that trees are not only beautiful, they’re hard working too??

     Here’s just a small list of the many tasks that trees accomplish for us each and every day:

  • ·       Trees renew our air supply by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen
  • ·       One tree produces nearly 260 pounds of oxygen each year 
  • ·       Trees lower air temperature by evaporating water in their leaves.  Shade trees can make buildings up to 20 degrees cooler in the summer.
  • ·       A mature oak tree can provide support for over 460 different species of insects, birds and mammals in shelters and hollows, as well as fruit, flowers and foliage that attract a huge variety of birds and insects.
  • ·       Tree roots stabilize soil and prevent erosion
  • ·       The amount of oxygen produced by an acre of trees per year equals the amount consumed by 18 people annually  
    
     Not bad, huh?

     So is it any wonder that each year we set aside a day to celebrate the beauty, hard work, and enhancements to our lives that trees afford us?

Find the perfect new home?  Contact me 4 Your Mortgage Financing?  Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender    Arbor Day in the U.S., is celebrated on the last Friday in April each and every year.  This year, many cities and towns in Chicagoland are once again hosting Arbor Day festivities hoping to create renewed love and awareness for trees … and also promote the planting of new trees within their boundaries. 

     Some of the towns taking part in this year’s Arbor Day festivities are:

    Village of Lombard:  The Village will be celebrating on April 25th, in cooperation and partnership with the Morton Arboretum and Glenbard East High School.
 
     Activities will include a “tree tagging” event.  The Glenbard East HS Ecology Club will be working along with professional arborists and foresters from the Morton Arboretum to identify and gather data regarding the trees located in the parkways near the school.  Each tree’s tag will show the monetary value of the tree entered into the National Tree Benefits Calculator.

    City of Crest Hill:  Both residents and nonprofit organizations are invited to take part in this year’s “50/50 Tree Program”, sponsored through the City ... and held in conjunction with Arbor Day.

    Only one (1) tree per household is allowed.  Anyone receiving a tree through last year’s “50/50 Tree Program”, will not be eligible for participation this year.  Funds are limited for this Program.  If interest is high, early applicants will be given first consideration.  The goal set by the City is for 5 trees to be newly planted within each of its 4 wards.

     To download an application for the City of Crest Hill’s “50/50 Tree Program”, go to: 

    
Don't get caught out on a limb with your financing.  Call Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender today!     All trees must be planted by the landscaper working in partnership with the City of Crest Hill, “The Fields on Caton Farm”.  For further info, call the City of Crest Hill at: 815.741.5100.
 
    In Naperville:  The City of Naperville’s Dept. of Public Works is hosting its annual Arbor Day Tree Sale on Saturday, April 28, at the Public Works Service Center, located on 180 Fort Hill Drive in Naperville.  The hours of the sale are:  8 am to 12 Noon.

     A variety of trees will be available at big savings, including:  Ornamental Pear, Magnolia, Redbud, various Maples, Crabapples, and more.  Prices and further info regarding the trees are available at: 

    
     Trees can be purchased by check or cash and removed from the Center by Noon.  Naperville Public Works employees will be in attendance to help residents load trees.  (No commercial sales are allowed).

      An expert from the Morton Arboretum will be in attendance at this event to assist residents with their questions and offer planting advice.  The City of Naperville will be offering a copy of its informative tree booklet:  The “Trees of Naperville  -  Tree Selection and Planting Guide”, which can also be found and/or downloaded on the City’s website.

     Should you need further info regarding this sale, please call 630.420.6095.
 
    In St. Charles:  St. Charles, IL has been named a Tree City USA thirteen times by the Arbor Day Foundation.

    Arbor Day is being celebrated in St. Charles this year on Friday, April 27th, at Lincoln Park on Main Street, between 4th and 5th Streets.  There will be live music, a tree raffle, tree care demonstrations and more.  Arbor Day festivities begin at 4 pm. The artwork and photos of the participants and winners of the coloring and photography contest will be on display.
 
     In Illinois alone, there are 186 Tree City USA communities.  Many are hosting their own Arbor Day festivities.  Think about attending a celebration taking place near you … or go to The Arbor Day Foundation website and make a donation to help them plant, nurture, and celebrate trees in your community and across the U.S.




     * Looking for a new home to plant those Arbor Day trees?  I can help you with your financing ... whether in Will County, Chicagoland, or across the U.S.
    Contact me today.  I'll put my 35 years of experience and expertise to work on your behalf.  You'll be planting your new Arbor Day trees in no time!
     I can be found at any of the following:
Direct:  815.277.4036  Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
At Your Convenience on Skype:  630.219.1316
Click Here 4 a: NO Cost NO Obligation
         
 
 

Mothers Day Celebrations and Activities in Chicagoland, 2012



Mothers Day Celebrations and Activities in Chicagoland, 2012


Reserve & Lock-In a Great Interest Rate Today!  Contact Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender    
Mothers Day 2012 is Sunday, May 13th.  Do you know how you're going to celebrate?

    
     There are many opportunities all over the Chicagoland area for families to celebrate the wonderful mothers in their lives in a wide variety of ways.  I'm including some info below that I found while doing some research of my own.  Hope it proves helpful to you.

     I think there's something here for almost every personality, pocketbook, and taste.  So take a peek and find something you think will be perfect for your mom ... and then Enjoy!



Mothers Day 2012
in Chicagoland!



Several Packages for the
Mother's Day Brunch are Available
May 13, 2012
Several Dining Options available.
General admission & reserved seats remain available,
as of this writing, for Mother's Day.
Purchase can be made online at:
or by calling to:  847.870.RACE  (7223)
Kids will enjoy the NEW Jr. Jockey Zone, FREE Pony Rides,
Petting Zoo, and Hands-On Activities



Lyons Township Dog Training Club
70th & 71st AKC Dog Obedience Trials
Saturday, May 12th
Sunday, May 13th
AKC-sanctioned dog obedience trials and rally trials
1033 North Villa Avenue, Villa Park, IL
Sunday: 7:00AM - 6:00PM
Saturday: 7:00AM - 6:00PM
Tickets Cost: FREE 
Contact Information: 630-941-9292 
Website: www.ltdtc.org
Motorcoach Parking: On-site, Free
Services for equal accessibility: Wheelchair Accessible,
Toilets with grab bars




Mothers Day tea will include traditional afternoon tea service, a beauty bar where mom can get pampered, and a fashion show. 
May 13th
  • Afternoon Tea: Seating’s from 11am to 5pm
  • Price is $36 per Adult and $18 per Child under 12
  • Harpist performs from 11am to 5p.m.
  • Beauty Bar available from 12noon to 5pm – Mario Tricoci
  • Fashion Show
Phone 312.787.2200


Shopping for a new home?  Contact Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender

Have a Mom that
LOVES to Shop??
Head to:
A visit to this vintage clothing store will be a treat for any shopaholic mom!  In addition to Dolce & Gabbana frocks and Diesel Jeans, Savvy Seconds & 1sts carries an array of accessories.

Hours are:
11 am - 7 pm Mon.-Sat.
11 am - 6 pm Sun.
Questions: 773. 728.8920




Lincoln Park Conservatory
Last Day of Show
Hours:  Daily, 9 am - 5 pm
  • Accessible Wheelchair Entrance(s)
  • Partially accessible
FREE!




May 6th
Fundraiser for Heartland Service Dogs
Held at: 
Hours:  11 am to 3 pm
Get your pet washed and dried so they're
all sweet-smelling and fluffy for mom.
Reservations for Appointment needed
Email:  HeartlandSvcDog@yahoo.com
All dogs MUST have current rabies tags
$15.00 Donation per Dog Wash




Make It To Take It:
Mother's Day Brunch Family Class
May 12th  -  1:00 pm
Bring the kids and get ready to give mom the morning off.
We'll stir up a family-pleasing brunch menu that everyone can
contribute to and the added bonus: you take it home to
surprise Mom tomorrow! Add ice to the juice cocktail,
bake the Strata, and you have a glamorous, no-fuss meal.
$50/family of 3, $10 each extra person
Menu
- Sparkling Juice Cocktail
- Strata with Asparagus and Goat Cheese
- Strawberry Yogurt Parfaits
Reservations are required.  To Buy Tickets, Go To:




 Mother's Day Shop-A-Holic Expo
Date: May 12, 2012
Location:   Hilton Garden Inn  
Hours:    1pm-6pm
Admission Tickets:  $5.00  
Door Admission:  $8.00.
Children Admission is FREE.
This is a Cash-n-Carry event.
Spa Services, Raffles, Candy Buffet Bar, Gift Bags,
Door Prizes,Vendors, Music

 

Kayak Chicago  -  Architectural Tour
Saturday, May 12th & Sunday, May 13th
Kayak down the Chicago River to gain views of our beautiful City of Chicago from a unique vantage point ... from the waterway! 
See Trump International Hotel and Tower.  The Wrigley Building.  Listen to fascinating historical anecdotes regarding mobster Al Capone.  You don't need to be a kayaking expert.  Everyone's welcome. 
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and your camera in a waterproof bag.
3 Hour Tour Beginning at Noon
Tour begins at: 1501 No. Magnolia Avenue
$65 per person
For further info, call:  630-336-7245



Don't Miss Out on the Current Great Interest Rates & Home Prices!  Contact Gene Mundt for a FREE Mortgage Consultation
Barrington Mother's Day 5k Run/Walk
May 13th

Registration & Packet Pick Up: 7:00-7:45 a.m.
Free 100 meter kid's dash @ 7:50 am
Register at:
5k Starts:  8:00 am
Awards:  8:50 am
Course Open For 1 hour 20 minutes
Course is USATF certified.  Awards presented to the top 3 participants, male and female overall, and top 3 in each age group. 
Must be Present to Receive Award.  Strollers allowed on course.
Water station available along the course with water and sports drink. Free Parking!    
              For additional info, Phone: 847.344.0861              
To Donate: 




Family Farm Tours
Saturday, May 12th & Sunday, May 13th 
The Children's Farm
During family farm tours, farm guides invite the public into each animal pen and are ready to supply information about the animals to inquiring visitors.  Complimentary pony rides are offered for children. 
Hours:  1:00 pm to  4:00 pm
No reservations needed
   Cost:  $4.50 per person   
 Children under 2 - Free
Additional Info: 708.361.3650 



Hope these suggestions prove helpful to
everyone in finding outings and ways
to celebrate the mothers in your life!

Best Wishes to all!





     *  Another great Mother's Day activity surrounds home buying! If you're in the market this Mother's Day holiday, for a new home ... or just wanting to refinance the one you have ... contact me.  With over 35 years of mortgage experience and expertise, I can help you successfully finance a new home ... or save money on the monthly payments of your current home.
    You can find me through any of the following:
Click Here to Contact Gene Mundt, Mortgage Lender  Direct:  815.277.4036  
Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
Let's Talk, via Skype:  630.219.1316
                     or Click Here 4 a:  NO Cost NO Obligation

Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day 2012 In Chicago and Chicagoland


Ways to Celebrate
Valentine's Day 2012
in Chicago and Chicagoland


Gene Mundt Chicago Bancorp mortgage lender blog of Ideas for celebrating Valentine's Day 2012 in Chicago/Chicagoland
    
 Valentine's Day is coming soon!


     I thought it'd be fun to take a look at what the City of Chicago and Chicagoland area offered in the way of celebrations for this year's Valentine's Day holiday. Mortgage lenders need to do some "woo-ing" too, you know!

     What I found, was an unbelievable amount of information to pour through and consider.  There was definitely a bit of something to choose from for every taste and every pocketbook.

     Whether you're hoping to head to the City of Chicago ... or celebrating in the Chicagoland suburbs.  Wishing for some special "couple time" ... or hoping to include the kids ... the City of Chicago/Chicagoland area has Valentine's Day activities for you to choose from. 

     Heck ... I even found a special and novel opportunity to "pop the big question" to your sweetie around this special holiday.

     I decided to share with you a cross-section of the information I found while doing my own investigating.  When possible, I included the websites and contact information available, so if you have additional questions or needs, you can contact the venues or businesses directly.

     Hope the ideas and information found below help you in your quest to celebrate Valentine's Day in a special way with your special someone(s) ... 

    Enjoy ... and Happy Valentine's Day!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



Valentine's Day 2012 Celebrations and Offers
in the City of Chicago and Chicagoland Area



Facebook Page of Salon Evania in Frankfort, IL

  Salon Evania   … 


Will Design Your Beautiful Valentine’s Exterior to Equal the Beauty You Find Within ...


 
     What Valentine doesn't like to be pampered?? 

     Pamper YOUR Valentine during the whole month of February at Salon Evania  in Frankfort, IL. 

    Book any combo of Hair and Make-Up Application … and your Valentine receives a FREE Manicure to top-off their look!  They’ll look spectacular when you step-out on the town to celebrate Valentine's Day together!

Salon Evania  is located at:     
13 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, IL               
Telephone:  815.277.2420

Their Salon Hours:
Tuesday:  11am-8pm
Wednesday:  11am-8pm
Thursday:  11am-8pm
Friday:  9am-5pm
Saturday:  9am-5pm
Closed Sunday & Monday

Salon Evania Services include:  Full Hair Services (cut, color, styling), Hair Removal, Make-Up, Bridal/Bridal Groups, Body Wraps, Extensions, Lashes, Nails. Skin Care, Hair Straightening

 
Noble Horse Chicago Carriage Rides

     The Noble Horse Carriage Rides are a fun way to tour Chicago's  North Michigan Avenue shopping district. 

     Boarding and Drop off is at Michigan Avenue and Chicago Avenue (800 North). Pick up and Drop off service to/from a nearby hotel/restaurant is available for an extra fee.
     Carriage Ride Hours:   Every day from 10:00 a.m - 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. - midnight.
    Carriage Ride Costs:    $35 per 1/2 hour, $70 per hour, with up to 4 passengers.   Extra charges apply for more than 4 passengers.   Tip additional …
    For Info, Phone:    312-266-7878

 
Chicago Odyssey Valentine Dinner Cruise

     Odyssey Cruises are located at: 
     600 E. Grand Ave., Streeterville
     Valentine's Cruise:  February 10 : 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.  
     Boarding takes place at 6:30 p.m.

     The cruise includes:   Dinner service, live entertainment, a champagne toast and a single red rose per couple.  A premium bar package is available for an additional $35.

Love Songs and Lights (FREE)

     Now through February 19th

     Enjoy the sights and lights of State Street and the sound of love songs when the Chicago Loop Alliance presents “Love Song and Lights” as part of Lightscape, a multisensory experience.
     Visitors are encouraged to submit love songs dedicated to their loved ones through Twitter, text messaging, or the Lightscape website.  The winning song will be chosen at random and will play with a romantic-themed colored light show.
 
Chocolate & Champagne Tour

     Join Chicago Chocolate Tours  for their annual “Chocolate and Champagne Tour!”

     Enjoy an evening of chocolate, Champagne and chocolate-Champagne confections. Guests will learn about the history, myths and pleasures of both chocolate and Champagne, two fantastic combinations of art and nature.

     Date:    Friday, February 10              5:30 pm
     Tickets are $50 per person.          
     To reserve your spot, call (312) 929-2939.

 
Sex, Love & the Second City:   A Romantic Dot Comedy presented by UP Comedy Club

     Now through February 29
     From legendary comedy theatre The Second City comes a play about relationships in the age of social networking. There are plenty of fish in the sea, but can we all live in eHarmony? Or are our lives too much of an open (Face)book? Find out more in this hilarious new show!
     For more info, go to:     http://upcomedyclub.com/show_right.cfm?id=121613

 
Ice Skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink

     Open through Sunday, March 11, 2012, weather permitting.      Free and open to the public. 
     Skate rental is available for $10.
     The ice rink is located on Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison streets.

And if you’d rather do your skating closer to Heaven
 
Skating in the Sky – John Hancock Observatory

     Now through April 8
     Take in awe-inspiring views of the city and beyond while twirling on a surface made of synthetic ice at the world’s highest skating rink on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Observatory.
     Located 1,000 feet off the ground, the rink will be open for skating daily from 9am–11pm. 
     Last skating ticket is sold at 10pm.

Valentine's Day Couples Cooking Class

     Charlie Baggs in the Belden Stratford 

     February 11th:           6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
    
     Sip complimentary prosecco with your partner as you watch an introductory cooking demo, prepare an international array of gourmet small plates with hands-on instruction and then sample the fruits--so to speak--of your labor.
 
Winter Dance (FREE)

     February 11: Dance lesson 5–6pm, open dancing 6–8pm
     Enjoy dance lessons at this indoor dance party in an indoor heated tent before heading out to see Luminous Field, the outdoor site-specific art installation by Luftwerk. 
     Dancing is preceded by a one-hour lesson led by professional instructors from the American Tango Institute.
     Admission isfree, food and beverages by Park Grill will be available for purchase.
 
Then head over to:

Luminous Field Lights Up Millennium Park

     (FREE)
     February 10–20: Fridays & Saturdays 6-10pm,
     Sunday-Thursday 6-9pm

     Come see Millennium Park transformed into a digital canvas of light and geometrical form with its first-ever site-specific video and sound installation by the Chicago-based artistic ensemble Luftwerk.      Created specifically for Millennium Park, the installation will illuminate Cloud Gate – known by many Chicagoans as “The Bean” – and its surrounding AT&T Plaza with dramatic images and colors set to music composed by Owen Clayton Condon, of the local avant-garde classical ensemble, Third Coast Percussion.
 
Say “I Do” in Millenium Park    

     February 11th and 12th

     Couples in love can get engaged to each other on the ice, and enjoy a Chicago Winter Dance celebratory package, including 5 minutes of exclusive ice time for the marriage proposal, complimentary skate rental, and either dinner at the Park Grill or champagne and dessert at the Park Grill lounge. 
    
For more information about the Chicago Winter Dance engagement packages, contact: lauren.rosenberg@cityofchicago.org or call:  312.744.7094. 
 
 
North Central College's Madden Theatre at the Fine Arts Center

     Sun., Feb. 12th 
     6:00 PM 
     171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville, IL

     Music:   Cabaret star Sally Mayes showcases her classic and seductive vocals in her show "Valentine".
     Tickets: $30 and $25.
     For More Info:      Visit: northcentralcollege.edu/show
     or call the box office at:  630-637-SHOW (7469).
 
WINTER ON THE GREEN

     Feb 12, 2012    
     Time:  1-3PM      
     Breidert Green  -  Oak & Kansas Streets, Frankfort, IL  

     Bring your Valentine sweetheart to taste a variety of chocolate fondue delicacies!  Visit members of Frankfort Boy Scout Troop 270 while they demonstrate a winter campout and sample their hot cobbler made in Dutch ovens!

     For More Info:  815-469-2177   

 
Wine & Wildlife: Animal Attractions at Lincoln Park Zoo

     February 14th
     Times:   5:30–7 p.m. or 7:30–9 p.m.
    For participants ages 21 and older only!
     For Directions:    http://www.lpzoo.org/plan-your-visit/hours-location-directions
    
     $45   ($40 for Zoo members)

     Those who are wild at heart can woo their loved ones at the zoo on Valentine’s Day. This adults-only event will take place inside Regenstein African Journey, with champagne and chocolates being served as participants get the inside scoop on the risqué side of animal courtship—the wild lives of wildlife.
 
We Heart Hopping -  The Western Suburban Quilt Shop Hop

     Dates:    Feb. 9, 2012 - Feb. 12, 2012
     Times: Thurs. 10 am-8 pm, Fri. & Sat. 10 am-5pm,
     Sun.  Noon-4pm
     Location:    Roberts Sewing Center, 2011 S. Weber Rd,
                         Crest Hill, IL 60403

     Visit 7 of your favorite quilt shops in the western suburbs, each hosting it's own Valentine Hop!  Stop in at all  7 and you're eligible to win one of 22 great prizes.  Hoppers must pick up a "passport" and get stamps from each shop to participate in the grand prize give-away.
    Participating shops are:  Roberts Sewing Center (Crest Hill), Thimbles (Lockport), Pieceful Heart Fabrics (Lisle), Prairie Shop Quilts (Batavia), Prairie Stitches Quilt Shoppe (Oswego), Quilt Basket (Downers Grove), and Quiltfabric.com (Willowbrook).
     For More Info, Phone:    815-729-1600
     Or Visit the Roberts Sewing Center Website:  http://www.robertssewingcenter.com/
 

 

     Have little ones and family/friends you want to include in some of the celebrations??


     Head to:  Key Lime Cove Indoor Waterpark Resort in  Gurnee, IL
    
     Key Lime Cove offers 65,000 square feet of water thrills.  There’s no need to worry about cold, rain, or snow as it’s always a balmy 82 degrees here and the sun shines endlessly, so don't forget to pack your swimwear because you're definitely going to want to get wet!
     There’s plenty of water thrills and fun for kids of all ages here. We’ve got Wild Rides which are guaranteed to get your pulse pounding, lazy floats down the river for those who are looking forward to Takin’ it easy, and a play pond kiddie pool for the Lil’ Limers who need some extra special attention in a fun, safe and secure environment.

    The Lost Paradise Waterpark is open:
    Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. 
     Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m
     For More Information, go to:   http://www.keylimecove.com/water-park/index.cfm
 
Valentine's Day Jump - Pump It Up with the Kids

   Friday, February 10, 2012   
    Start Time:    6:00 PM        End Time:    8:00 PM
     Located at:   4995 Varisty Drive,  Lisle, IL       
     Tel:   630-310-5700
             
     Bring the family for a jumpin' good time!  Enjoy jumping, climbing on the new Rock Wall, the glow party going in Arena B.   
    You can add Dinner $10 for a 12 inch pizza and a 2 liter drink.
     More Info at:  630-310-5700 to register
     Or E-mail: piulislemanager@gmail.com
 
Family Valentine Dance  -  Chicago Women's Park and Garden

      Friday, February 10, 2012
      Start Time:    4:00 PM       End Time:    6:00 PM
      Price:     $10

     Family fun dance with a Valentine theme   -  ALL AGES

      Located at:  1801 S Indiana Ave, Chicago, IL   
      Telephone:  312-328-0821
 
Downers Grove Ice Festival: Love is in the Air

     Friday, February 10th - 6:30 pm  thru
     Sunday, February 12, 3:00 pm

     Downtown Downers Grove:  Main & Curtiss Street
     Admission is $4.00      (Proceeds benefit Noah's Hope)

     Unique ice sculptures will line the streets of the downtown. 

    There will be live carving demonstration on Friday evening at 6:30 pm ... and also on Saturday and Sunday from 11am-3pm.  The live demonstrations will take place throughout Downtown Downers Grove. 
     There will also be:  a Ronald McDonald Magic Show, Pancake Breakfast, tasty street vendor, a special movie of E.T. at Tivoli Theatre.

     For More Info, go to:  http://www.downtowndg.orghttp://www.downtowndg.org/icewebtemp.pdf ...   
     Or contact: Downers Grove Downtown Management Corporation at 630-725-0991.
 
Clifford Valentine Party - Fox Valley Park District

      Saturday, February 11, 2012
      Start Time:     12:00 PM         End Time:    1:30 PM
      150 W. Illinois Ave.,  Aurora, IL

      Celebrate Valentine's Day in a big way -Clifford style! The big red dog is the guest of honor for this celebration that will feature crafts and games for everyone.
      Hot dogs, chips and punch will be served.  

     Advance Arrangements Required.  Call park to register.
      Registration closes Thursday, Feb. 9
      Minimum Age:   3 yrs.
      Pricing:   Residents:  $5        Non Residents:  $8
     Tel:   630-859-8606
                       

Valentine Pictures & Pony Rides  -  Sponsored by Plainfield Park District

     Date:     2/12/2012   
     Time:   1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
     Where:  Normantown Trails Equestrian Center,  Plainfield, IL   (Just south of 119 Street)
     Pony Rides $10              
     Pictures $3

    Make Peter Pan your sweetheart and take a picture with him for Valentine’s Day!  Peter will be festively dressed for the event and will pose for as many pictures as you can take in 3 minutes.
     Pony rides will also be available. Rides are 10 minutes in length and helmets will be provided.  
     Bring your camera as NTEC will not be providing a photographer or photos for this event.
    Please call ahead to book your pony ride time as those with reservations will be served first.  

     For Info on the Plainfield Park Dist.’s Normantown Trails Equestrian Center:  http://www.plainfieldparkdistrict.com/par-Normantown.asp

Valentine's Day American Girl

    Held at the Rec Center 
     Geneva Park District

     Enjoy decorating a special Valentine's Day outfit with accessories for your favorite doll.   

     Minimum Age:   3 yrs.      Maximum Age:   12 yrs.
     Advance Arrangements:      Children ages 3-5 require parent
     Pricing Notes:   $37 for residents    $57 for non-residents



Some Additional Inexpensive, but Wonderful Ways to Say “I Love You”
 
Valentine’s Day Crafts at your local library:

      Simply making a Valentine’s Day card and spending some one-on-one time together communicates big love to the littlest people in your life.
      Most area libraries, offer some sort of card-making project to help small hands craft cards that say {or illustrate} “I love you.” Worthy of noting, the mess from glitter and crafting won’t be in your kitchen.
 
And if you’re still looking for more Valentine’s Day ideas … don’t miss:
 
TribLocal Tweets:    All about Valentine’s Day

     Wednesday, February 1
     Time:  7 p.m. - 8 p.m.

     TribLocal staff and blogger Johanna Cook, aka Momma Cuisine, will be hosting a chat about all things Valentine’s Day. From candy to dinner for two, she’ll be offering up tips for how to treat your sweetie, or your loved ones.
    To participate in the hour-long chat, follow @TribLocal, TribLocal community producers and @MommaCuisine from 7 to 8 p.m.  on February 1st.   
     Make sure to use #TribLocal in your tweets.

     For more info Contact:   TribLocal, 312-731-5460




      *    Love yourself enough this Valentine's Day to check your credit ... and get pre-qualified for home buying.  Interest Rates are at historical lows ... and housing prices are down too.  And that makes this Valentine's Day a great time to think about buying a home.
    Contact me now ... for yourFREE Mortgage And CreditConsultation.  I'll be glad to hear from you and have the opportunity to earn your trust ... and your mortgage business.
     I can be reached at any of the following:
Direct:  815.277.4036   Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
Skype:  630.219.1316
 
 

     
    

    

    


Can You Spare a Strike?? Bowl for Kids' Sake Through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties in March



Can YOU Spare a Strike??

Bowl for Kids' Sake Through Big Brothers Big Sisters
of Will and Grundy Counties in March


     It's a sad fact.  Some kids aren't lucky enough to have strong role models in their lives.  But the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization is trying to change that for kids nationwide.

   
Bowl for Kids' Sake, sponsored each year through Big Brothers Big Sisters is the organizations' largest fundraiser aimed at raising money to help children in need across our country. 

   
     Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties in Illinois is part of that overall effort and is once again taking part in this year's annual Bowl for Kids' Sake  being held on 4 different dates in March, 2012.

   How can YOU participate and help area children?
  
     1) Start a team
             Teams are formed with five or six members.  Consider creating a team with family, friends, fraternity brothers, sorority sisters, or co-workers.

      2) Start securing sponsorships
        Each bowler is asked to raise a minimum of $100 in sponsorships for a total of $500 - $600 raised per team.
Want to know the best part?  All of the event expenses are completely underwritten by our corporate sponsors.  That means 100% of the money raised by bowlers goes directly towards supporting children served by Big Brothers Big Sisters in your community.

      3) Start bowling
        After you have secured your sponsorships, it's time to have fun!  Receive 2 Free games of bowling (shoe and ball rental included!), a Bowl for Kids' Sake t-shirt, food, drinks, chances to win door prizes!

    This year's Bowl for Kids' Sake Event Schedule is:

VIP Opening Event!
Crest Hill Lanes, 905 Theodore, Crest Hill
March 3, 2012  
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Cops VS Fire Event
(Police & Fire Dept. teams only)
Strike 'N Spare, 811 Northern Avenue, Lockport
March 4, 2012 
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Grundy County Event
Echo Bowling Lanes, 220 Bedford Road, Morris
March 10, 2012 
12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Grundy County Event
Echo Bowling Lanes, 220 Bedford Road, Morris
March 10, 2012 
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Will County Event
Strike 'N Spare, 811 Northern Avenue, Lockport
March 24, 2012 
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

     This year participating bowlers will be vying for a FREE iPad.  The more money they raise in donations, the more chances they have to win! YOU could be that lucky winner, if you too sign-up and partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties during this event. You receive one entry into the iPad Raffle for every $150 of donations you raise.

    For additional information regarding the Bowl for Kids' Sake Events being held in March, go to: 

     Toregister for one of the Events, go to:

     To donate to an existing Bowler at one of the Events, go to:
       
     Can YOU Spare a Strike?? 

    Bowl for Kids' Sake through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties this March!  Take action to help our area kids now!




    * Thinking of buying a home or refinancing a loan in the Will and Grundy county area? In need of answers to your mortgage and credit questions? 
     My 35 years of mortgage experience and expertise will safely see you through your entire mortgage process, from your 1st questions, to pre-approval, to through successful mortgage closing and beyond. Contact me today at any of the following, to get started:
Direct:  815.277.4036   Cell/Text:  708.921.6331
Skype:  630.219.1316