Open space might not last long on First Street
It's getting a little easier to envision what the next phase of the First Street project in St. Charles will ultimately look like, as the walkway at the riverside begins to take shape.
Some readers have wondered, because of the shaky economy and forecasts for more rough years, if the plans might not be altered to hold off on construction and leave the current open space.
Plans call for River Terrace and River Loft buildings to go in on the east side of First Street, with a blend of some open areas that would complement the plaza on the west side.
One reader suggested more open space would give St. Charles a chance to create a "mini version of Grant Park" right in the heart of the city.
Yes, it would be nice. But we can't forget that long-established businesses, namely Blue Goose and the Manor, had to move to make way for this project. They did so because of the potential for commercial and real estate properties to thrive along the Fox River.
I can understand why some are growing fond of the open space that currently sits along First Street. It is pleasant to consider a more natural setting, rather than more brick and mortar. But St. Charles has Pottawatomie Park very close to the downtown, and First Street has to generate the dollars that planners envisioned when this concept was introduced.
Leaves of disdain: If city officials were appointed or elected solely on the basis of whether that city picked up curbside leaves in a timely fashion during the fall, St. Charles and Batavia would be breathing easy this year.
Geneva? Not so much. In fact, they'd be in serious trouble. Falling behind by just a week or two isn't popular with residents wanting to get rid of leaves before the first snow falls.
We'll use Division Street as Exhibit A. Last week, the Geneva side remained full of leaves, the St. Charles side was clear.
Those other singers: Think of Baker Memorial United Methodist Church in St. Charles, and you generally think about singers. In the public's view, that would be the famous St. Charles Singers group conducted by Jeffery Hunt.
But other singers fill the rafters of the Baker on a regular basis, and one in particular is rehearsing now for a "Fall Classic" concert at 3 p.m. Sunday at the church.
The Baker Memorial Men's Ensemble is preparing for a concert that organizers say will feature the full array of "old hymns and new hymns, loud hymns and quiet hymns."
That appears to cover your basic run of hymns.
On top of all of the feel-good music, those in attendance will be able to participate in an ice cream social. This free event is open to the public.
Food to bank on: The Northern Illinois Food Bank stands to benefit from a "holiday bash" taking place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at the ReMax office at 1772 S. Randall Road in Geneva.
The public is invited to visit with numerous vendors and asked to bring canned goods for the cause.
dheun@sbcglobal.net