Have you ever heard of Chicago’s “Wild Mile?”

It describes itself as the world’s first-ever floating EcoPark, and it’s the inspiration behind an idea discussed at length earlier this week by St. Charles leaders.

At Monday’s Government Services Committee meeting, the River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles pitched the concept of a walkable, floating park on the Fox River — similar to what exists in Chicago. City officials showed strong enthusiasm for exploring it further.

“This is the most practical and achievable project that I've seen so far for the river that everybody of all ages, shapes, and sizes can use,” one official said.

It’s still early days, but the proposal has generated excitement.

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This Sunday, November 2, St. Mark’s Church in downtown Geneva welcomes all to the Feast of All Saints, a morning of reflection, music, and remembrance for those we’ve loved and lost.

The sanctuary will be filled with candlelight as each name is honored, creating a shared space of hope and gratitude. If you feel you’d benefit from an opportunity to pause, remember, and feel the quiet power of community and grace — not to mention dedicate a candle of your own — there will be a place waiting for you.

☑️ Resident input: Campton Hills officials will continue a public hearing on Thursday (10/29) on the proposed LaFox of Campton Hills project, which calls for 900 homes, 400+ acres of open space, and infrastructure changes. See the agenda for details.

☑️ Urging action: Kane County’s Legislative Committee advanced a resolution affirming support for immigrant rights amid recent federal immigration enforcement across the Chicago suburbs, calling for humane reforms and protections for all residents.

☑️ Adding & subtracting: Crews will remove 47 parkway trees along East State Street in November as part of Geneva’s major road reconstruction project — though 290 new trees will be planted by the end of the project.

☑️ Winter health: The Kane County Health Department is urging residents to minimize their risk of getting sick this season by getting updated vaccines, using at-home tests, and following basic precautions. Here’s a hub with resources, a respiratory illness dashboard, and more.

☑️ Historic building: Batavia’s Historic Preservation Commission recommended demolition of the long-vacant former Ethan Allen building at 14-18 N. Batavia Ave. The Committee of the Whole will review the recommendation, likely on November 18.

☑️ Detour warning: The Ooh La La Chocolate half marathon, 10k and 5k run will cause road closures and parking restrictions in downtown Geneva on Sunday (11/2).

☑️ Local artist profile: St. Charles designer Cara Buono is transforming vintage and discarded materials into unique, faith-inspired clothing and teaching others her craft through classes at Fine Line Creative Arts Center. Check out the artist profile.

☑️ Helping neighbors: Batavia United Way will once again host its Day of Caring leaf-raking event on November 9 to help local seniors, veterans, and residents with disabilities get their leaves to the curb before the city’s pickup.

☑️ Cultural tribute: Three Batavia businesses are hosting community ofrendas this weekend to honor loved ones for Día de los Muertos, a Mexican tradition that honors the spirits of the departed with colorful displays.

☑️ Philanthropic tradition: The Geneva Women’s Club will host its 50th Annual Holiday Craft Fair on November 9 at Geneva High School, featuring over 110 artists and crafters, a bake sale, and visits from Santa — all to benefit Fox Valley charities.

☑️ State of Batavia: The Batavia Chamber of Commerce will host its annual “State of the Community” breakfast event on November 6 at The Holmstad, where residents can hear about updates and plans from city, school, park, and library leaders.

☑️ Maker recognition: Geneva’s Bee Coco Candle was honored as a 2025 “Illinois Made” business for its non-toxic, handcrafted candles and growing impact in the local maker community.

Many of the Friday night performances this week are part of Halloween parties — so make sure to don your costumes if the situation calls for it. Or not, I’m not much of a costume guy myself.

Though if I decide to stay up past bedtime and hit up EMOWEEN at Pollyanna on Friday night, I may have to reconsider…

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Kurt B wasn’t kidding around when he left a review for Dragon Fire Coffee’s Black Dragon Blend:

That pretty much says it all. And remember, they offer free local delivery in the Tri-Cities, too.

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☑️ Go time for games: Rec Haus St. Charles — the new “social entertainment venue” with a full bar and 35+ interactive games — is hosting its soft opening through the weekend. Get all the details.

☑️ Fashion flashback: Neighborsgrid, a 90s vintage shop in downtown Geneva, is launching “Neighborsgrid Collective” — an expansion that will bring new vendors and more diverse vintage styles to the store. Stop by on Saturday for the grand opening.

☑️ Sustainable shop: Recently opened at 902 S. Randall Road in St. Charles, new grocery store Chipko Market offers a refill-friendly, low-waste shopping experience with pantry staples, eco-friendly products, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

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☑️ Downtown Trick-or-Treating | Thurs 10/30, 2-5PM | Downtown Geneva | Bring the kids for candy-filled stops at local shops and restaurants.

☑️ Jingle While You Mingle | Sat 11/1 & Sun 11/2 | trend + relic, STC | A holiday open house with new merchandise, home-baked food, hot cocoa, and more.

☑️ Craft Fair | Sat 11/1, 9AM-3PM | Bethany Lutheran Church, Batavia | Peruse handmade items and baked goods, plus raffle opportunities and lunch.

☑️ Holiday Market | Sat 11/1, 9AM-1PM | Vital Wellness Center, Elburn | A cozy market where local artisans and vendors will showcase unique goods.

☑️ Cookies & Cocoa Celebration | Sat 11/1, 10AM-5PM | Red Hive Market, Batavia | Holiday cookies, hot cocoa, Santa & Mrs. Claus, and giveaways.

☑️ Local Author Fest | Sat 11/1, 1-4PM | Geneva Library | Connect with 20+ local authors and discover new books.

☑️ The Next Era of Style | Sat 11/1, 2-6PM | Paula’s Couture Consignment, Batavia | Celebrate the local spot’s 7th anniversary with fashion, mocktails, food, and more.

🎟️ Civil War Ball | Sat 11/1, 6-10PM | Baker Community Center, STC | An annual ball event with music, dance, appetizers, and optional period attire.

🎟️ Squirrels of Kane County | Sun 11/2, 1-2:30PM | Creek Bend Nature Center, STC | Learn everything you need to know about local squirrels and their habitats.

✳️ Pilates & Pints | Sun 11/2, 11AM-12PM | Sturdy Shelter, Batavia | After an invigorating session of stretching and strengthening, reward yourself with a refreshing local brew.

☑️ Water Street Writers | Sun 11/2, 5PM | Water Street Studios, Batavia | Hear from and support local writers and enjoy refreshments.

🎟️ Under the Tuscan Moon Dinner | Wed 11/12, 6-9PM | Arcada Theatre, STC | Be personal dinner guest of Ron Onesti with amazing food, stories, and music.

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