MERLE’S CORNER
- The Chicagolands newest commercial haunted house, 5 Points Haunted House, is scheduled to open Friday, Oct. 4, and end Wednesday, Oct. 30. 2024. The haunted spot is run by 18-year-old West Chicago resident Miles McCabe, Brick Thunder on Youtube. Miles McCabe and family set up and ran the established home haunt Lehman Manor, which drew thousands of guests each year and was the winner of ABC's The Great Halloween Fright Fight. For information on the haunted site, times and ticket reservations, visit https://www.5pointshaunt.com/. There are non-scare times.
The 5 Points Barn, 241 W. Roosevelt Road, is more than 100 years old and has been a staple landmark in the history of the area.“Its weathered boards hide secrets that have long been whispered by locals over many generations. While much of its past remains shrouded in mystery, fragments of its story have emerged over the years, painting a picture that's as fascinating as it is chilling.” Built in the 1800s the barn was part of farm owned by the Hawthorne family. In 1912, a fire swept through the farmhouse, “which claimed the lives of the entire family.” However, the barn remained untouched. Throughout the years, the barn became the site of other uses. The haunted house incorporates the past varied history of the barn from its days as a farm to the lively Synergy bar. “While the full truth of its past may never be known, one thing is certain: the old barn at 5 Points continues to captivate and unsettle all who dare to enter its doors.” merleburl.com
AROUND AND ABOUT
- West Chicago City Museum presents the Historiography program, a non-fiction book reading group, at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, in the Museum, 132 Main St. The book is “A Whole New Ballgame: The Story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League” by Sue Macy. To get a copy of the book or for further information, visit Friends of West Chicago City Museum website, com or call 630 231-3376. It is not necessary to read the book to attend.
- To celebrates the 60th Anniversary of Mary Poppins, West Chicago Public Library holds a Mary Poppins themed craft program at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. Using the carpet bag, adults and youth from the ages of nine and up make a craft just designed for them. To make a reservation, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month.
- Healthy West Chicago and City of West Chicago host a Fit4Fall 5K Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024 by Zone 250 at Reed-Keppler Park, 201 W. National St. The 5K race, a certified course along the Prairie Path, starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by the 1 Mile Youth Run at 8:30 a.m.The charge is $35 for persons age 18 and over and$15 for persons age 17 and under. For persons registering on Race Day, the charge is $40.The charge for the 1 Mile Youth Run for children age 10 and under is $5. Runners in the 5K race receive a Fit4Fall 5K custom medal and Fit4Fall 5K shirt. There are pre and post-stretching and massages by Athletico.To register, visit https://www.healthywestchicago.org/fit4fall5k
- West Chicago Park District hosts a Family Campfire and Campout at Kress Creek Farm, 39W150 Wilson Road. The campfire begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024; the campout ends Sunday, Sept.22. Campfire activities include campfire, dinner, s'mores, camp stories, games and a family movie. The charge is $5 per person for residents, $7 per person for non-residents. Parents are required to register, attend, and supervise children at all times. The campsite is $25 per family and includes a continental breakfast Sunday. Participants are required to bring their own seating, tents and bedding. A separate registration is required for a campsite. To register, visit we-goparks.org/special-events.
- Wayne Township Food Pantry holds a Double Hero Blood and Food Drive from 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024, in the township Senior Center, 27W031 North Ave. For each double hero that gives for the blood Drive, Vitalant makes a $20 monetary contribution to the Wayne Township Food Pantry. The food collected also goes to the Pantry. Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 877 258-4825. Persons donating blood need to bring a an ID.
- West Chicago Garden Club meeting is Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, in St. Andrew Lutheran Church, 155 N. Prince Crossing Road. Social time is 6:45 p.m., short business meeting at 7 p.m., and program at 7:15 p.m. The meeting is open to the public. Presenting the program, “ Plant Breeding,” is Diana Blazek, Executive Director at All-America Selections and National Garden Bureau. The bureau is an organization that has plants tested out anonymously and compiles the best All American Selection winners. com
- West Chicago Public Library offers a Microsoft Excel computer class at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, in the conference room, 118 W. Washington St. Topics covered include layout and basic functions; entering and editing data; using multiple spreadsheets in the same workbook; formatting and sorting data; writing and understanding formulas. To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month/.
- West Chicago Public Library hosts Game Night for adults at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. Participants can enjoy open play of chess or play other board games. To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month/.
- Winfield Township holds its annual Recycling Extravaganza from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, at the Township Road District Facility, 30W575 Roosevelt Road. Included again is the collection of non-perishable food items for Neighborhood Food Pantries located in West Chicago There is a $15 cash or credit card cost per car for electronic devices. Included among electronic items are computers, televisions, telephones and keyboards. Recycling for old latex paint is by Epaint Recycling Service, who accepts cash or credit card. The charges for latex paints are .50 for a pint can, $2 for a one-quart can, $5 for a one-gallon can and $20 for a five gallon pail. Flat Can Recycling provides for the disposal of spray paint at the cost of $1 per can and household batteries at $4 per pound. PROSHRED Security provides on-site shredding of confidential paper documents. There is a limit of four banker boxes. DuPage County provided partial funding for this service. Among the acceptable miscellaneous items are cell phones, old flags, eye glasses, fire extinguishers, office furniture, clothing and musical instruments. Scrap metal items include gutters, metal hangers, metal lawn furniture, metal shelving, metal wheelbarrows and radiators. Items not accepted include hazardous waste, explosives, items containing mercury, air conditioners, batteries, dehumidifiers, fluorescent bulbs, motor oil, refrigerators, tires and smoke detectors. (com
- West Chicago City Museum hosts its 35th annual Tales Tombstones Tell Friday, Oct. 4 2024, at Oakwood Cemetery, Oakwood Avenue and York Street. The 45-minute tours leave from the cemetery entrance at Garden Street starting at 6:30pm and every 10 minutes after, with the last group stepping off at 7:30pm. Lanterns and luminaries light the path through West Chicago’s oldest cemetery. While waiting, guests are entertained by the music of Roger Kotecki. There is no charge; donations are welcome. For more information call the Museum at 630 231-3376 or email museum@westchicago.org
This year the walk honors the 175th Anniversary of the West Chicago community. Founded as Junction in 1849, then incorporated as the Town of Turner, unofficially known as Turner Junction, it became the Village of West Chicago in 1896. Volunteer cemetery walk interpreters tell the story of those who lived through the historic early years of the community. merleburl.com
- West Chicago Park District holds an Adult Softball Tournament from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 5 and 6, 2024, in Reed-Keppler Park, 129 W. National St. The per team fee of $250 for residents and $300 for non-residents includes round robin tournament and prizes for first, second and third place teams. Players form their own teams. Alcohol is available for players age 21 and over. Registrations are due by Thursday, Sept. 22 and can be made at https://www.we-goparks.org/athletics.
SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
- The 2024 West Chicago Pumpkin Patch and Fall Festival is open now through Wednesday, Oct. 30, at Sonny Acres Farm, 29W310 North Ave. Attendees can enjoy a classic hayride through the charming landscape, take in the vibrant fall foliage, and savor the enticing aromas of great food from the outdoor grill, plus select the perfect pumpkin to take home. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays, and closed on Mondays. Due to a private party, it is closed all day Wednesday, Sept. 21. For further information, visit https://sonnyacres.com/. The telephone number is 630 231-3859.
- We Grow Dreams Greenhouse & Garden Center, 1055 W. Washington St., is open daily through the end of October. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
- Hawthorne’s Backyard Bar & Grill, 1200 W. Hawthorne Lane, hosts the Fourth Annual Charity Kent Kopinski “This Tournament Sucks” Golf Outing Monday, Oct. 7, 2024, at Arrowhead Golf Club, 26W151 Butterfield Road in Wheaton. It is a 10:30 a.m. shotgun start. The four man scramble price is $125 per person. The price includes golf, cart, green fees, driving range, food at the course and pig roast at Hawthorne’s.There are prizes and raffles, which include long drive contest, closest to the pin contest, par 3 challenge. Register with the bartender or manager. Proceeds benefit the Kent Kopinski Caddy Scholarship Fund.
- Rosati’s Pizza celebrates it 60th Anniversary this year.The four Rosati brothers, Al, Dick,, Ron and Fred started the pizza chain in 1964 in Mt. Prospect.There now are 225 restaurants in a dozen states, with about 35 owned by the family. Rosati’s Pizza in West Chicago is located at 177 N. Neltnor Blvd.
REMEMBRANCES
- Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Anita “Ana”Wuest, who at the age of 88 passed away Friday, Aug. 6, 2024.
- Deepest sympathy to the family of Charles “Chuck” Cowden, who at the age of 89 passed away Thursday, Sept. 13, 2024.
- Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Leonardo Avalos, who at the age of 78 passed away Tuesday, Sept. 11,2024.
SCHOOLS
- Wheaton Academy Homecoming is from Monday, Sept. 23 through Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024. Monday is Color Day; students wear colors of class. Tuesday is Character Day; students dress as any character from a movie or show.Wednesday is WA on TV; students dress as any television show or channel. The beginning of the service project is at 7 p.m. at Sonny Acres Farms. I will have the rest of the week activities in the Sept. 25 column.
- In the Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, football games, West Chicago lost to Glenbard South with a score of 8-63; Wheaton Academy won against Chicago Christian High School with a score of 27-7; Bartlett High School lost to Glenbard East High School with a score of 47-14; and St. Charles East High School won against Glenbard North with a score of 40-7.
- In the Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, soccer game, West Chicago Community High School lost to Amos Alonzo Stagg High School with a score 1-2.
- Teresa Ocon is the new Family Outreach Coordinator at West Chicago Community High School. Her role is to bridge the gam between home and school, ensuring that all work together to support the success of students. She was the family liaison at Turner School with West Chicago Elementary School District 33 and received the #D33 Pride Award in 2023.
- Gabriela Marin, a senior at West Chicago Community High School, is the Student of the Month for August. Her selection is due to her academic achievement, leadership and service to the community. One teacher who nominated her said, "Gabi moved here to a brand-new country with almost no English, and in only a few years has pushed herself to the level of taking multiple AP classes. She is extremely involved in the school community and will give back as a Newcomer Ambassador, helping students who are new to the United States navigate a new school, culture, and language. She is a role model for her peers."
With a weighted GPA of 4.583, she is on the High Honor Roll and was a recipient of the Wildcat Pride Award. She serves as a Snowball Leader and a member of the Student Council. Outside of school, she works at a local retirement home and volunteers her time creating care packages for cancer patients. Upon graduation, Marin plans to attend college with the goal of being a lawyer. merleburl.com
CHURCHES
- Andrew Lutheran Church, 155 N. Prince Crossing Road, hosts a free Community Health Fair from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024. Free tests include health screening, flu shots and blood pressure screening. Other offerings include healthy fruits and drinks, plus activities for children. merleburl.com
- Glen Arbor Community Church, 204 Church St.,hosts Awana’s children’s ministry from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays. It is for youth ages three to fourteen. To register, visit https://glenarborchurch.com/. Awana is an international children’s ministry.The goal of Awana is to assist parents in the spiritual development of their children. It provides a fun approach to a serious calling.
- Andrew Lutheran Church, 155 N. Prince Crossing Road, hosts “Zumba Con Vicky” at 6 p.m. Thursdays. Reservations are not required; there is no charge. merleburl.com
CLUB/ORGANIZATION NEWS
- Gallery 200, 103 W. Washington St.,has art class series ranging from sculpture, jewelry to painting for adults and youths. All classes are beginner friendly, intermediate and advanced. Upcoming classes are plaster statuette and necklaces.To make reservations for the classes, visit https://www.gallery200.net/gallery-200-shop/art-classes. There are two upcoming classes, Prairie Flower Workshop and Felted Landscape
For persons 18 and over, Prairie FlowerWorkshop is from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, and is taught by Maria A. Participants create one 11x14 inch size prairie flower painting. They explore the entire process for start to finish, which includes concept sketch, blending, techniques, creating and painting. The charge starts at $30. Persons can bring their own supplies or pre-pay for supplies. A kit includes everything needed; individuals can bring their own brushes. To order a kit, email Maria at mariaananieva.art@gmail.com.
There are two Felted Landscape classes, one is at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, and the other is at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. Sharon M. Is the teacher. The charge of $35 includes all supplies. Participants make a landscape from felted wool fibers inspired by a photograph, either one of theirs or one from the teacher.
- Joining We Go Together for Kids are three social work interns. One is Jocelyn Cruz. She currently is earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and minor in Criminal Justice at Aurora University. Cruz said, I chose this internship because I grew up just a few miles away, but I spent most of my time here in West Chicago. I love my culture and community and I am looking to giving back in any way possible.” com
COMMUNITY MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTS
- Gallery 200 member Marge Hall is one of the participants in the 2024 Riverwalk Fine Arts Fair in downtown Naperville. Her booth number is 96. The 39th annual event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 21 and 22, 2024.
- West Chicago residents Jeff and Louise Handel celebrated their 45th Wedding Anniversary Monday, Sept. 16, 2024.
- Andre Cobbs is the new Recreation Manager of the West Chicago Park District. He oversees Customer Service, Fitness, and Athletics, plus provides support to Rentals. Prior to this he was with the Elmhurst Park District .Cobbs is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional. He has a Bachelor of Applied Science degree with the focus on parks, recreation, leisure and fitness studies from Illinois State University in Normal. com
WEST CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT
- The West Chicago Police Department conducted an impaired driving enforcement effort over Labor Day weekend. There were no arrests for driving under the the influence, 16 seatbelt citations were issued, 12 speeding citations, 11 uninsured vehicle citations, 8 suspended/revoked/unlicensed driver arrests and 2 warrant arrests.The Police Department collaborated with other law enforcement agencies and highway safety partners across the state for the Illinois Labor Day Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" and "Drive High. Get a DUI' campaign. It is funded by federal highway safety funds through the Illinois Department of Transportation.
- At 5:25 a.m. Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, West Chicago Police officers responded to the area of Roosevelt Road, just west of Joliet Street.for the report of a male subject found on the side of the roadway. Upon arrival, they located the subject, who had severe burns on his lower extremities. He was transported to the hospital for medical treatment. Lane closures remained in place as officers processed the scene, with normal traffic resuming at 9:50 am.The incident currently is under investigation. Persons with information should call the police department at 630 293-2222.
ODDS AND ENDS
- DuPage County Sheriff’s Office Safety Saturday is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, 21, 2024, at the DuPage County Government Center, 501 N. County Farm Road. Among the activities are food trucks, DJ music, face painting, and safety exhibits. Also on display are police cars, fire engines and military vehicles, plus a helicopter appearance. During the same time frame, the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office Annual Car Show takes place. Paul Ledger Productions, Ltd. provide entertainment. com
- West Chicago Community High School Class of 1974 celebrates its 50th reunion Friday and Saturday. Sept. 20 and 21. The informal gathering is from 6 to 10 p.m. at American Legion Post 300, 123 Main St. Cash only for dinner and bar. The dinner is at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, at Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, 28256 Diehl Road in Warrenville. The charge is $65, cash bar. Reservations and advance payment are due by Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024. For payment information email Donna (Baker) Hodel at donnam@gmail.com. merleburl.com
- The four new candidates for the West Chicago Fire Protection are Tommy Enger, Brian Sanborn, Laura Cleveland and Chris Franzone.Once new members are hired they are required to complete a week of "days" where they are shown the very basics of the way the district does things before moving on to shift training and eventually beginning their probationary year. The district opted to demonstrate "firefighter survival” Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024, a way to honor the 343 members who gave the ultimate sacrifice 23 years ago. com
- The Post, 105 Turner Court, recently opened. The building name is due to its former use as a Post Office and has been recently renovated to provide individual offices with common areas and modern amenities. Offices range in size from 100 to175 square feet and can be rented individually or together.
Ergonomically designed furniture and high-speed internet is in every office, plus there is well-equipped kitchen, dedicated co-working areas, and well-maintained meeting rooms. Extra services include catered options, VOIP telephony, sophisticated AV setups and tele-conferencing facilities. For further information or to schedule a tour, visit Jeff Uecke at wegotothepost@gamail.com. merleburl.com
- Tracy Kunce, Executive Director of EKGs for EKG, provided an Automated External Defibrillator for the Fox Community Center. She presented it to Dave Sabathne, CEO/President Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce. Chamber member Kim Edwards of Kim Edwards Insurance Agency provided the information on the not-for-profit organization. AEDs are used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It's a sophisticated, yet easy-to-use, medical device that can analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. com
- DuPage Senior Citizen Council needs volunteers. Volunteer opportunities include delivering meals to homebound senior, calling seniors in the Social Connections Program, participating in yard clean up days, networking and advocating for seniors and, fundraising and special event planning. For more information or to volunteer, call 630 620-0804. com
My email address is merleburl@earthlink.net.