The Chapel on the Green in Yorkville will be host to a presentation entitled, “The Legend of ‘The Fox’” Fourth of July at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 4. The program will be held at the Chapel, 107 W. Center Street in Yorkville. Gary Mechanic, executive director of the Friends of the Fox River (FOFR) in West Dundee, will be the presenter.
This year is the 50th anniversary of the “birth” of the Fox Valley’s hero, Jim Phillips. A video documentary produced by FOFR’s Digital Media Director Jennifer Howard will be shown as part of the presentation.
For nearly two decades James F. Phillips, an Oswego resident and teacher, successfully hid his identity by masquerading as “The Fox” while he waged a courageous, covert war against the worst polluters of the Fox River. “The Fox” became the world’s first eco terrorist to some, and a world renowned environmental hero to many.
It’s a story about courage born of love. It’s a story of magic and danger. It’s a story about The Lone Ranger, Robin Hood, and Henry David Thoreau rolled into one small town, teacher/activist. It is a story about protecting the environment, and changing the culture of the world.
Gary Mechanic will bring his 30 years of experience in historic interpretation, informal environmental education, and public storytelling to present the depth and breadth of “The Legend of The Fox” with vivid, verbal images, in its largest historic context. “I love telling Jim Phillip’s story. It’s not just a story about a unique watershed hero,” Gary said, “it’s a story that touches everyone’s care for the environment. It’s a story that inspires love and care for the Fox River.”
A donation of $5 to the Chapel’s preservation efforts would be appreciated. For questions contact Howard Manthei at 630-553-6287. The building is on the National Register of Historic Places.
— The Chapel on the Green