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At Home with Merle Burleigh – June 4, 2025

By

At Home with Merle

MERLE’S CORNER

We are reminded about mosquitos and the danger of West Nile virus. However, persons should also be concerned about ticks, which seem more prevalent this year. After walks, runs or just being outside, check for ticks; this includes your pets. The longer a tick is attached (at least 24 to 36 hours), the higher the risk for Lyme disease.

Regarding mosquitos, persons can communicate with Clarke through the Clarke Mosquito Hotline, 1 800-942-2555; the Clarke Portal, https/www.clarkeportal.com; and/or email wcmad@clarke.com.

 

AROUND AND ABOUT

  • The 2025 season at Turtle Splash Water Park, 129 W. National St., begins Friday. June 6, and ends Sunday, Aug. 10. It is open from noon to 6 p.m, open for season pass holders at 11:30 a.m. Daily admission price is $12 for residents, $15 for non-residents. Season pass price is $100 for residents, $122 for non-residents.
  • “Emerging in Gratitude” is the exhibit for the month of June at Gallery 200, 103 W. Washington St. The artist’s reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 6, 2025. The mixed media art exhibition by Marita Valdizan is inspired by the transformative power of gratitude. Through her distinctive wire crochet technique, Valdizan weaves emotions, memories, and symbolism into forms that explore spiritual and personal rebirth. The show features crocheted sculptures, colorful wire butterfly wings, and compositions that blend fabric and light—each representing a journey from darkness into inner clarity. Every piece is the result of deep introspection, becoming an act of healing and celebration.

Valdizan is an award-winning artist, jewelry designer and teacher from Peru. She studied art in Peru and has been developing different techniques using a crochet hook and wire to create sculptural and multi-functional wearable art and mixed media. She has received awards from the Crochet Guild of America, DuPage Art League and Naperville Art League, plus was honored with the Gran Estrella de Plata in Peru. https://merleburl.com

  • The City of West Chicago hosts its annual Paper Shred and Medical Disposal Event from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 7, 2025, in the Metra Parking lot, 508 Main St. The City partners with the West Chicago Environmental Commission, SCARCE, DuPage County Sheriff’s Office and DuPage County Community Services.

There is a limit of 10 standard office-sized boxes for paper shredding; persons also can use plastic bags. The bags and boxes are not disposed of on site. Accurate Document Destruction provides the shredding on site. Also Eworks is collecting clothing, shoes and accessories, bedding, towels, and other household textiles. Persons can also recycle used American flags, eyeglasses and hearing aids. Persons can pick up their pre-ordered rain barrel(s).

The DuPage County Sheriff’s Department accepts expired or unused medications and vitamins, placed in a zip-lock bag, and medical sharps including syringes, epi-pens, lancets, and needles. All collected sharps are to be placed in a thick plastic container, such as a laundry detergent bottle, securing the lid with tape. Inhaler canisters, not the holders, are acceptable. For full details, visit the City's website, https://westchicago.org/news/paper-shredding-event-2025/ or call SCARCE at 630 545-9710.

  • West Chicago Police Department and West Chicago Park District host Touch a Truck 2025 from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7, 2025, in Reed-Keppler Park. It takes place along the roadway between Zone 250 and Wiggly Field. Youth and adults have the opportunity to explore, discover and climb on a variety of cars and trucks including big rigs, police cars, fire engines and tow trucks. The first half hour from 9 to 9:30 a.m. is sensory friendly time; there will be no flashing lights and no loud noises/sirens. https://merleburl.com
  • Wayne Township Electronic, Recycle and Shred Event is from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, June 7, 2025, in the Township building parking lot, 27W031 North Ave. Electronic items include computers, laptops, monitors, printers, circuit boards, servers, scanners, hard drives, projectors, cables/wires/power supplies, keyboards, mice, TVs, stereos, VCRs, power tools, appliances, gaming systems, cameras, exercise equipment, phones, microwaves, coffee makers, Christmas lights and metal. Some items have a charge. The costs are $20 each for televisions, $10 for tube CRT monitors, $5 each for microwaves and $5 per piece for exercise equipment. Cash or checks made payable to Midwest Computer Recycling. Other items include tattered American flags, eyeglasses, large batteries (not household batteries), textiles. For paper shredding, there is a limit of five “Grocery” sized plastic bags-no boxes. Shredding is off site by Cutting Edge Destruction.
  • West Chicago Public Library holds a Microsoft Word computer class at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in the conference room, 118 W. Washington St. Participants learn the basics, which includes creating a document, selecting and editing text, saving a document, and inserting page numbers and special characters. To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month.
  • Mocktails Class, a Healthy West Chicago program, is at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in the West Chicago Public Library main meeting room, 118 W, Washington St. To register, visit https://wcpld.info/, under calendar. Katie Maas, an herbalist and gardener, teaches the basics of making delicious mocktails. Not only do they taste good but also provide additional health benefits such as keeping one’s body hydrated and supporting digestive and immune systems.
  • The West Chicago Park District monthly social gathering for senior citizens is at noon Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the ARC, 201 W. National Street. “Spring Teatime” is the theme. The charge is $10. Reservation deadline is noon Friday, June 6, and may be made at https://www.we-goparks.org/special-events. The menu includes delicate blends of tea and seasonal treats.
  • The West Chicago Public Library hosts a family-friendly event, “Cruisin’ Thru the Afternoon,” from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025, on the lawn and in the parking lot, 118 W. Washington St. Several local auto clubs bring some of their show cars to exhibit. Chevrolet of Naperville brings some of its new model automobiles; attendees can vote for their favorite car. The winner of the votes receives a commemorative trophy. Also persons of any age can enter a competitive race with Remote Control cars. Youths can make their own wooden car craft; there is an obstacle course for toddlers based on Pixar’s Cars. Complimentary snow-cones and popcorn are available. Also there is a drawing of fun road-themed prizes; visit the library table to enter. https://merleburl.com
  • West Chicago Park District holds a Family Fishing Derby from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Cornerstone Lakes Park, 2199 Smith Road. Winners in each age category receive a trophy. Age categories are 3 to 5 years, 6 to 8 years, 9 to 12 years, 13 to18 years, and 18 and over. Catch and release is practiced. The charge is $10 for residents, $12 for non-residents, and $15 for walkups, which includes a light breakfast, and a goodies bag. Persons can register online at https://www.we-goparks.org/special-events or on the day of the event. This is a great time to have some fun while checking out one’s fishing equipment and favorite bait. https://merleburl.com
  • West Chicago City Museum presents the Historiography program, a non-fiction book reading group, at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 19, 2025, in the Museum, 132 Main St. The book is “Lifting as They Climbed: Mapping a History of Trailblazing Black Women in Chicago” by Marianne Kaba and Essence McDowell. To get a copy of the book or for further information, visit Friends of West Chicago City Museum website, https://www.wegohistory.com or call 630 231-3376. It is not necessary to read the book to attend.

Haymarket Books said, “An essential guidebook to influential Black women from Chicago’s South and West Sides, and their social, cultural, and artistic contributions to movements both past and present…It gives readers an in-depth understanding of the numerous Black women, from the nineteenth century to today, who empower(ed) their neighborhoods and communities”. The book showcases 75 women who are/were activists, artisans, and musicians.

Essence McDowell is a writer, communications strategist, and creative director. She utilizes community engagement, digital design, and communication technologies to strengthen community institutions, and advance justice-based organizations. She has worked with national and local entities: Illinois Humanities Council, Chicago Torture Justice Memorials, Latino Policy Form, Black Feminist Future, and Chicago Public Schools. Mariame Kaba is an organizer, educator, and curator who is active in numerous social movements for prison abolition, racial justice, gender justice, and transformative justice. She is the founder and director of Project NIA, a grassroots organization with a vision to end youth incarceration, and a co-founder of numerous organizations, including the Chicago Freedom School, Love and Protect, the Chicago Taskforce on Violence against Girls and Young Women and most recently Survived & Punished. https://merleburl.com

  • “History of Motown Records” is the West Chicago Public Library program starting at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 19, 2025, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. Presenting the program is music historian and award-winning lecturer, Gary Wenstrup, who uses audio and video content to tell the story. In the 1960’s in Detroit, Motown Records produced hits sung by performers such as The Supremes, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder. Upon retirement, Gary Wenstrup developed courses on the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel and Motown Records for the Continuing Education Department at College of DuPage. Gary has lectured at more than 200 libraries across the country. https://merleburl.com
  • The Shopping Cart Shuffle takes place Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Ross Ferraro Town Center in Carol Stream. The proceeds from the race benefit Neighborhood Food Pantries, which includes the one in West Chicago located at 123 Fremont St. Registration is at 7:30 a.m. The Kids Dash is at 8:15 a.m. and the 5K race is at 8:30 a.m. All participants receive the same event t-shirt, finisher medal and other items. The top three overall male and female runners receive a medal, as do the top runners in each age category. Age groups are 13 and under, 14 to 19, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59, 60 to 69 and 70 and over. The cost is $40 for the 5K Run and 2K Walk; Kid’s 100 Yard Dash is free, no shirt. Persons can register online at. https://www.neighborhoodfp.org/event. Since 1999, Neighborhood Food Pantries has provided food security to neighbors in need, as well as monetary assistance for housing, utilities and medical care/prescriptions. For further information, call Elizabeth Zrelak at 630-945 0072. Jel Sert Company is one of the sponsors. https://merleburl.com
  • West Chicago Park District hosts Hello Summer Fest from 11 a.m.to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Reed-Keppler Park, 129 W. National St. The family event includes the fun of bounce houses and games. Off the Chart band provides the musical entertainment. When favorite songs played on the radio, they were always on the top 40 or top 100 charts. This band covers songs no longer on the charts with songs of rock, country, folk and more.
  • West Chicago Railroad Days takes place from Thursday, June 26, through Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Pioneer Park, 479 W. Forest Ave. The Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for exhibitor vendors, food vendors and not-for-profit vendors. For vendor application and more fest information, visit https://www.westchicagorailroaddays.com/. https://merleburl.com

 

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

  • Prairie Landing Golf Course, 2325 Longest Drive, hosts Live Music at 6 p.m. Friday, June 6, 2025. Performing is the Call Me Jo Band, a trio of experienced musicians that play acoustic versions pop, rock and country songs. Band members are Stefanie Brinegar, Anthony George Ken Modaff, June hours at McChesney’s Pub & Grill are from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. It is closed for private events Saturday, June 7, and Friday, June 20. https://merleburl.com
  • Music is busting out all over in June at Hawthorne’s Backyard Bar & Grill, 1200 W. Hawthorne Lane. Mikey Perez celebrates his birthday a day early by playing his own party at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 6. McLennon appears at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, June 8. Rohan Marr Trio is back monthly, playing for the first time at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 12. Logan Wheat direct from Nashville performs at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 13. Cassandra Henwood, Hawthorne’s Talent Quest winner, takes the stage at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 20. The Corey Marshall Band, country music, performs at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, June 22. Hawthorne’s 2024 First Place HTQ Winner Danny Rose performs at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 27. Wrapping up the June musical entertainment is The Frizz Trio at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, June 29. https://merleburl.com
  • 5 Points Haunted House is one of the vendors at the Midwest Haunted Convention in the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road in Rosemont; its booth number is 2671 with giveaways available. The convention takes place Friday June 6, through Sunday, June 8, 2025. MHC 2025 features an exciting show floor full of top-notch exhibitors, education-focused seminar series, behind-the-scenes haunt tour, evening parties, contests, makeup wars, annual costume ball, networking events, and the popular MHC Kids Zone. The Midwest Haunters Convention is the largest Halloween show of its kind in the United States, dedicated to all Haunters; actors, enthusiasts, Halloween loving families, home/pro haunters, and Halloween enthusiasts. For further information, visit https://midwesthaunterscon.com/5.
  • Sonny Acres Farm, 29W310 North Ave., hosts its Third Annual Pro Rodeo and Bull Riding event. It takes place Friday, June 13, Saturday, June 14, and the following weekend of Friday, June 20, Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, 2025. Gates open at 4:30 p.m.; show begins at 6:30 p.m. To order tickets and for more information, visit: https://sonnyacres.com/pro-rodeo-at-sonny-acres-farm/. It is a family friendly, for all ages experience. There is a mix of world class performances including Bareback Riding, Steer Wrestling, Saddle Bronc Riding, Girls Breakaway Roping, Cowgirls Barrel Racing and Bull Riding. Spotlight performance is by world-renowned Trick Rider and Roman Rider, Dusti Crain Dickerson, and includes her signature fire jump. Also available are the farm’s amusement rides, live musical entertainment, pony rides, petting zoo, kitchen & grill, garden center, and shops. https://merleburl.com
  • Some eating establishments and businesses have specials for Father’s Day, June 15, 2025.
  • La Taverna West Chicago, 956 N. Neltnor Blvd., now serves Sunday Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On the menu are Sweet Starts, Eggs & More, House Specials and Brunch Cocktails. To view the menu, visit https://www.facebook.com/westchicagotaverna/. Telephone number is 331 240-2432. The restaurant was featured on “Lunch break-WGN TV Friday, May 30, 2025. The chef Michael Lachowich gave a little background on the business and then prepared Tuna Tatare, one of the items on the menu. https://merleburl.com
  • We Grow Dreams Greenhouse & Garden Center, 1055 Washington St., celebrates its Twentieth Anniversary this year. As part of the celebration, the greenhouse is featuring “the hard-working individuals that are the driving force behind We Grow Dreams and our mission!” Featured now is Alex, who has been involved with We Grow Dreams since 2006. “He can be depended on to come in to work during the busy season and work some long hours getting the many deliveries that we take to local park districts, job sites for landscapers, and schools for fundraisers.” Greenhouse hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. https://merleburl.com
  • Little Caesars Pizza, 151 W. Roosevelt Road, held its Grand Opening Saturday, May, 31, 2025. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, from 10:30 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. Telephone number is 224 593-6181. https://merleburl.com
  • To celebrate National Flip Flop Day,Tropical Smoothie Cafe, 1865 N. Neltnor Blvd., donated smoothies to the staff of West Chicago Park District.

 

REMEMBRANCES

  • Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Harvey O. Griffith, Jr., who at the age of 64 passed away Monday, May 26, 2025.

 

SCHOOLS

  • Eighth grade graduation for Leman Middle School is 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, 2025, in West Chicago Community High School. Last day of school for West Chicago Elementary School District 33 is Thursday, June 12.
  • The 1975 class of West Chicago Community High School plans a 50th High School Reunion. It takes place from 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Hawthorne’s Backyard Bar & Grill, 1200 W. Hawthorne Lane. Classmates from 72, 73, 74 and 76 are welcome to attend. The charge is $50 for adults, $15 for children aged 12 and under. Payments may be made via: Zelle-made to wego50th@gmail.com; Apple Pay-send to either Louanne Ooton or Cindy Mertes; or check-payable to We-Go Class of 1975 (email wego50th@gmail.com for mailing instructions). June 11 is due date for payment. Menu includes soup and dinner salad, prime rib, rosemary roasted chicken, baked mostaccioli, red roasted potatoes, vegetable medley, dinner rolls. Activities are Bags, Sand Volleyball, Lawn Pong and dancing.
  • Gilan Hosticka, a senior at West Chicago Community High School, is the Student of the Month for April 2025. His selection was due to his exceptional academic achievements and contributions to the school community.

He earned numerous academic honors, including the Illinois State Scholar, Seal of Biliteracy, AP Scholar, and a 5.424 Grade Point average, placing him on the High Honor Roll.

He was a committed member of the Audiovisual Club, developing skills in photography. A four-year varsity athlete, Gilan served as Captain of the Boys Varsity Tennis Team. He has secured a summer job helping teach cooking classes through a local family business, where he will work with children to inspire culinary creativity.

He plans to attend College of DuPage for an Associate’s Degree in Computer Programming. He hopes to explore game design as a future career path. This comes about from his course in Game Design and Coding at Technology Center of DuPage. https://merleburl.com

  • At its meeting Thursday, May 15, 2025, West Chicago Elementary School District 33 Board of Education gave recognition to several groups and individuals with D33 Pride and Salutes.

One of the recipients of the D33 Pride Award was Gaby Mancera from Leman Middle School. “Gaby is a quiet force of compassion, leadership, and dedication… From coaching Special Olympics to mentoring colleagues, she brings heart and humanity to every corner of D33.” Another recipient from Leman Middle School was Julie Odom. “In just a short time, Julie has transformed after-school athletics and activities into something vibrant, inclusive, and deeply meaningful for students.” Maria Fernandez from Indian Knoll School was a D33 award recipient. “Whether she’s supporting students with complex needs or stepping in to help colleagues, Maria brings calm, care, and a can-do spirit to every situation.”

Board Salutes went to four individuals and one organization. The staff, students and families behind this year’s 10th Anniversary Ballet Folklórico performance were recipients. Receiving special thanks were Pilar Rocha, Sal Tamayo, LuzMa Fuentes, Jami Murphy, and Gaby Lopez. Receiving a Board Salute was Billy Shipp, a Social Worker at Indian Knoll School. “His kindness, attention to detail, and connections with students make him a beloved part of the Indian Knoll family.” Carli Sabrina Benn, Learning Behavior Specialist at Pioneer Preschool, is “A fearless leader and relentless encourager, she lifts up students and coworkers alike with positivity and heart.” Jen Boorsma is a LLC Aide at Indian Knoll School. “Jen wears many hats at IK and leads with empathy, wisdom, and problem-solving superpowers.” Jennifer Rutkas, an Assistant Director of Student Services at Pioneer School. Pioneer Preschool, is a Special Education superstar and Student Study Team guru. “Jennifer is the behind-the-scenes force helping shape a strong, supportive preschool program.” https://merleburl.com

  • Several leadership transitions recently took place at Wheaton Academy. Current Principal Kori Hockett was promoted to a newly created role as Chief Academic Officer. In this capacity, she leads the Wheaton Academy Institute, retains oversight of the Athletics department, and continues to provide vital coaching and mentoring to faculty and staff. Brad Thornton, current Vice Principal, is the next Principal of Wheaton Academy. He served for twelve years in various roles, from classroom teacher and coach to Department Head and campus leader. After five years of pioneering leadership as Executive Director of the WA Institute and Head of the Business Department, Phil Strzalka transitioned to a part-time role at the school. This shift allows him to pursue an exciting opportunity in leadership and consulting with C12, a CEO Business Forum. https://merleburl.com
  • At the Illinois High School Association state competition, Wheaton Academy students Luke Osterholm, Dann O’Carrol, Michael Osielski, and Miguel Boney finished in ninth place in the 4x800 relay race with the time of 8:03.35. The time broke the school record they set earlier this season. https://merleburl.com

 

CHURCHES

  • United Women in Faith at New Hope United Methodist Church hold its annual “My Trash—Your Treasure” rummage sale from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 13, and from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the church building, 643 E. Washington St. The popular “bag” special applies to clothing and linens. The charge for a filled paper bag is $5 and $10 for a tall white plastic kitchen garbage bag. All other items are on a “make an offer” basis. https://merleburl.com
  • Andrew Lutheran Church, 155 N. Prince Crossing Road, hosts Everyday Hero, a program of DuPage Health Coalition, from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 14, 2025. Participants learn CPR, AED, and Narcan Training. The class is in English and Spanish. The free training includes basic life support skills, practice hands-only CPR, how to use an automated defibrillator, and Narcan and overdose education. To make a reservation call Pastor Alex modern at 847 912-2029 or email pastoralex@st.andrewlutheranlutheran.net. https://merleburl.com
  • Faith Community Church, 910 Main St., hosts its Second Annual Community Celebration from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025. The event, open to all in the community, offers a summertime of fun activities such as free food from Toasty Cheese, Sugar Mama's Mini Donuts and La Humita on Wheels food trucks, inflatables, yard games, face painting and, possibly, a dunk of the pastor in a pool. Live entertainment by Front Row Band, who play songs from the 60s through the 80s, is at 12:30 p.m. Dave Wright, the church music director, is in the band. There is a mini Touch-A-Truck with West Chicago Fire Protection District and West Chicago Police Department K9 unit. Attendees can also bring a non-perishable food item for Neighborhood Food Pantries at 123 Fremont St. Persons attending need to use the Hillview entrance. https://merleburl.com
  • The congregation at New Hope United Methodist Church donated baby clothes, diapers and other baby items to "Kids Above All.” This organization supports at-risk children in many ways from infancy to young adulthood.

 

COMMUNITY MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTS

  • West Chicago resident Mike Hensel does a reading and book signing of his book, “Unicorn, Go To Bed,” at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 7, 2025, in Harvey’s Book Store, 216 James St. in Geneva. The book, geared for three to 6 year olds, has a five-star rating on Amazon. “Silly, colorful illustrations and engaging rhyming text bring this all-too-familiar bedtime tale to life, as each exasperated plea to go to bed is met with a seemingly innocent last request for a snack or a favorite stuffy, which inevitably spirals out of control.”

Mike Hensel is the son of the late David and Linda Hensel, and the nephew and godson of West Chicago resident Dona Smith. The owners of the bookstore, Chuck and Roxanne Osborne, also have a connection with West Chicago. Chuck was a science teacher at West Chicago Middle School, now Leman Middle School. He retired in 2018.

 

CLUB/ORGANIZATION NEWS

  • Artéculture 2025, under the auspices of West Chicago Cultural Arts Commission, is at the Main Gallery, 200 Main St., through Saturday, June 28. Hours are 3 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Organizing the exhibit is Buddy Plumlee. Artéculture features the works of 30 local artists and those in the Chicagoland area. The two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork features paintings, photographs, drawings, prints, mixed medias, computer art, stained glass, fiber and sculptures.

Artists are Abraham, Alec Renwick, Anke Richert-Korioth, Ann Blass, Andy Cristo, Benjamin Buchenot, Bruce Treudt, Buddy Plumlee, Chris Hodge, Christopher Lucero, Corinne Condos, Dan, David Linneweh, Emilia Hajduczenia and Gary Schirmer. Others are Iglika Godfrey, Jorge Jaen, Joshua Martinez, Karl Jahnke, Marge Hall, Maria Ananieva, Mark Hull, Matt Bukowski, Natalie Pivoney, Oksana Hrynenko, Owen O’Reilly, Paulina Garcia, Sarah Plumlee, Tom O’Bright and Uwe Gsedl. https://merleburl.com

  • May was Motorcycle Awareness Month. At the Monday, May 19, 2025, City Council meeting, there was a proclamation regarding motorcycle safety, education and awareness. Accepting on behalf of the DuKane Chapter of Abate of Illinois was Nathan Klapatch, former West Chicago resident. https://merleburl.com
  • The Auxiliary of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6791 hosts Bingo on Sundays at the post, 431 N. Neltnor Boulevard. Doors open at noon, games start at 1:30 p.m.

 

CITY OF WEST CHICAGO

  • The official dedication of the West Chicago Art Trail Murals and the Meet and Greet with the artist, Giovanni Arellano (Fiendsco) took place Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Gallery 200. Seven of his murals, inspired by the Illinois Prairie Path, are on display in the historic downtown area. There was also an art exhibit by Arellano, a West Chicago resident, in Gallery 200 throughout May. https://merleburl.com
  • At the Monday, May 19, 2025, meeting, City Council approved a contract for the 2025 Concrete Maintenance program in the amount of $100,000 to Strada Construction Company of Addison. The Item Summary states, “The program will consist of intermittent removal and replacement of sidewalks, curb and gutters, and concrete alleyways at various locations throughout the City…also includes construction of aggregate base course for ground stabilization, inlet adjustments, detectable warning installation, tree root pruning, and restoration items.”

Also approved was the contract for the Police Station Front Entrance Improvement Project for the amount of $138,639 to Honch Concrete LLC of Barrington. The Item Summary states, “The project includes the demolition of the existing concrete sidewalk ramp and stairways, the proposed cast-in-place American Disability Act compliant concrete sidewalk, ramp, proposed stairways, new handrail system, painting, aluminum door and glass replacement, door hardware and minor landscaping and evacuation work…The project is anticipated to be completed in August 2025.”

 

WEST CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT

  • Some members of the West Chicago Police Department participated in the first leg of the inter-regional Torch Run on behalf of the Illinois Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and Special Olympics Illinois Saturday, May 31, 2025. It was hosted by the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. The Flame of Hope is now passed to the Kane County Sheriff’s department as it takes the second stage of the region Saturday, June 7. The torch completes its journey through Region C when it is handed off to the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office for the final stages, making its way to the opening ceremony of 2025 Special Olympics Friday, June 20 at the Hancock Stadium at Illinois State University.
  • Wednesday, May 28, 2025, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and West Chicago Police Chief Colin Fleury announced Judge Joshua Dieden granted the State’s motion to detain pre-trial a Bloomingdale man accused of attempting to rob at gunpoint a West Chicago gas station. Filip Simonovic appeared at First Appearance Court Wednesday charged with one count of Attempt Armed Robbery with a Firearm (Class 1 Felony), one count of Unlawful Possession of a Weapon (Class 3 Felony) three counts of Aggravated Unlawful Use of a Weapon (Class 4 Felony), two counts of Misdemeanor DUI and one count of Misdemeanor Transportation of Open Alcohol by a Driver. Simonovic’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, June 23, 2025, in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

At approximately 1:25 a.m. Tuesday, May 27, 2025, a West Chicago police officer entered the Thornton's Gas Station, located at 1330 S. Neltnor Blvd, selected beverages from the cooler and proceeded to the counter to purchase them. While the officer was in line, it is alleged that the clerk indicated that an individual at the counter, later identified as Simonovic, had pointed a firearm at him. After speaking with Simonovic, officers located on his person two firearms, a loaded Beretta Mod 950BS .25 caliber, with seven rounds in the magazine and a loaded Beretta Mod 92FS 9mm handgun with ten rounds in the magazine. Officers took Simonovic into custody at this time. Officers also found Simonovic to be wearing body armor under a button-up shirt. After obtaining permission to search his vehicle, officers allegedly found ammunition and three additional firearms including a loaded Ruger revolver .357 magnum, a loaded carbine Zastava M92 and a loaded Smith & Wesson SW9VE 9mm. Following further investigation, it is alleged that Simonovic entered the store and tried to buy cigarettes. It is alleged that as the clerk began to ring them up and told Simonovic the amount, he pulled out the black handgun and racked it and told the clerk “don't do anything stupid” and demanded the money out of two cash registers. It is further alleged that Simonovic pulled a second firearm out of his waistband and pointed it at the victim. It is alleged that Simonovic concealed the weapons as the officer approached the entrance to the store.

 

WEST CHICAGO FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

  • West Chicago Fire Protection District companies teamed up with the West Chicago Park District at Turtle Splash Water Park for combined training with their lifeguard staff. This is in preparation for the summer season by reviewing response protocols for significant incidents, ensuring smooth coordination between fire district crews and the lifeguards. “It’s all about teamwork, communication, and readiness to keep our community safe while having fun in the sun!” https://merleburl.com

 

ODDS AND ENDS

  • During the summer, West Chicago Public Library is closed on Sundays, until September 7, 2025. Summer hours are from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
  • Through Community High School District 94, there are free summer meals for all youths under the age of 19 Monday through Friday, now through, Aug.1, 2025. The hours and locations are from 10 a.m. to noon at West Chicago Community High School, 326 Joliet St., door 25; from noon to 2 p.m. at Timber Lake Apartments, 1200 Kings Circle, near the pool; and from noon to 2 p.m. at Reed-Keppler Park, National Avenue and Yale Street. The youths eat the meals on-site. https://merleburl.com
  • Winfield Farmers Market, 27W171Geneva Road, is now open Wednesdays through Oct. 29, 2025. Hours are 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Although the wind was bit gusty at times, a good-sized crowd enjoyed all the activities at Blooming Fest held Saturday, May 17, 2025. Entertainment on the main stage was quite popular. Children enjoyed the many fun activities for them. The West Chicago Garden Club tent was a hub of activity; persons buying plants and asking questions. After purchasing plants, persons shopped at the many vendors locations, and some took a break to munch on some of the foods available to whet their hungry appetites.

West Chicago Garden Club president/Plant Sale Chairman Dan Bebee said, “All but around 20 plants were sold, and the plants left were mostly ephemerals, like Virginia Bluebells that had already gone dormant for the season.” These will end up in his garden. “We had a relatively nice, if windy, day for the sales and festival. The members came ready to work, the customers came prepared to buy, the other vendors were ready to sell, and the weather cooperated (more or less).” https://merleburl.com

 

My email address is merleburl@earthlink.net.