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your guide to summer fun in
Welcome Summer: Fun Ways to Celebrate the Longest Day of the Year
From outdoor adventures to seasonal traditions, the summer solstice is the perfect opportunity to embrace sunshine, relaxation and the joys of the season.
The arrival of the summer solstice marks an exciting milestone on the calendar: the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
Occurring on June 20, 21 or 22, the solstice brings the greatest number of daylight hours of the year. According to Space.com, the summer solstice occurs when one of Earth’s poles reaches its maximum tilt toward the sun, resulting in the longest day and shortest night of the year.
For many people, the summer solstice is more than an astronomical event. It is a celebration of warmer weather, longer evenings and the beginning of a season filled with outdoor activities, vacations and memorable moments with family and friends.
After months of cooler temperatures and shorter days, the solstice offers a chance to slow down, enjoy the sunshine and welcome everything summer has to offer.
Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition or simply make the most of the extra daylight, there are many enjoyable ways to celebrate.
Plan a hike or nature walk.
With daylight stretching well into the evening, the solstice is an ideal time to explore a favorite trail, park or nature preserve.
There’s no need to rush, making it easy to fit an outdoor adventure into even the busiest schedule.
Capture the moment.
Start a tradition by taking a “first day of summer” photo each year. Gather family members, friends or pets and document the occasion with fun summer outfits, matching shirts or favorite outdoor settings. Over time, the photos can become a cherished record of summers gone by.
Refresh your home for the season.
Welcome summer indoors by updating your décor with bright colors and seasonal accents. Switch to lightweight fabrics, add vibrant throw pillows, display fresh flowers and use citrus or tropical scents to create a relaxed summer atmosphere.
Create a favorite summer treat.
Celebrate with foods and beverages that evoke the season. Homemade ice cream, fresh lemonade, fruit salads, s’mores and frozen mocktails are all delicious ways to mark the occasion and gather loved ones together.
Make a splash.
Head to a local beach, lake or swimming pool and enjoy the first swim of the season. Whether it’s a cannonball into the deep end, a paddle
seasonal traditions and extra hours of sunshine.
on the water or simply relaxing by the shore, water activities are a summertime tradition for good reason.
Host an outdoor gathering. The longest day of the year provides the perfect backdrop for a backyard barbecue, picnic or evening bonfire. Invite friends and neighbors to enjoy good food, conversation and the
(Continued on page 14 see ‘TURTLE’)
6:00–9:00p Concerts start at 7:00p
Central Park
3rd Wednesday of the month 1555 E. Thacker St, at the Gazebo Lake Park Bandshell Thursdays, 2200 Lee St, at Fargo Ave
extended daylight. The summer solstice serves as a reminder to appreciate the simple pleasures of the season.
Whether spent outdoors, with loved ones or enjoying a favorite summer pastime, the first day of summer is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the months of sunshine and adventure ahead.
(Continued on page 11 see ‘VOTE’)
Thu, June 11 • Strung Out
Wed, June 17 • Prairie Station Thu, June 18 • The Mackenzie O’Brien Band
Thu, June 25 • Mr. Myers
In case of rain, Live at the Lake events are cancelled. We post info as early as possible on Facebook and the DPParks Mobile App. Enjoy free music! June 11–August 19
Thu, July 2 • Des Plaines Park District Community Concert Band
Thu, July 9 • The Rhythm Rockets
Wed, July 15 • Farkus Thu, July 16 • The Throwbacks
Thu, July 23 • Good Clean Fun
Thu, July 30 • The Yacht Rockettes
Thu, Aug 6 • Serendipity
Thu, Aug 13 • Classical Blast
Wed, Aug 19 • The Messengers
The summer solstice marks the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the longest day of the year and providing an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities,
From Historic Cities to Seaside Escapes: Five Memorable
Destinations to Celebrate the Fourth of July in True American
Whether you’re looking for patriotic history, spectacular fireworks, family-friendly festivities or a classic summer getaway, these destinations offer unforgettable ways to celebrate Independence Day.
Every year on July 4, Americans gather to celebrate Independence Day, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the birth of a new nation. The holiday is synonymous with fireworks, parades, backyard barbecues and displays of patriotism that bring communities together from coast to coast.
1. Delaware
America’s First State offers a blend of history and summer fun. Delaware earned its nickname when it became the first of the original 13 colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Visitors can spend the holiday exploring scenic beaches in Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach, hiking through Cape Henlopen State Park, or attending local fireworks displays and community celebrations. The combination of coastal charm and historical significance makes Delaware an appealing Independence Day destination.
2. New York City, New York
Few Fourth of July celebrations rival the excitement and energy of New York City. Each year, thousands gather along the waterfront to witness one of the nation’s most famous fireworks displays illuminating the skyline. In addition to the dazzling show, visitors can spend the day exploring world-famous landmarks, enjoying outdoor events and soaking
in the festive atmosphere that takes over the city during the holiday.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
As one of the nation’s most historic cities, Boston is a fitting place to celebrate America’s independence. Often called the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston played a central role in the events that led to the nation’s founding. The city’s annual Fourth of July festivities include concerts, historical programs and the renowned Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular, which combines patriotic music, fireworks and even the firing of ceremonial cannons.
4. Traverse City, Michigan
For a celebration that blends small-town charm with summertime fun, Traverse City offers plenty to enjoy. Known as the Cherry Capital of the World, the city is famous for its picturesque waterfront, outdoor recreation and abundance of cherry-themed treats. Visitors can enjoy parades, community events and family-friendly activities while experiencing the relaxed atmosphere of northern Michigan during one of its most beautiful seasons.
5. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital may be one of the most fitting destinations to celebrate Independence Day. Visi-
tors can explore iconic monuments, museums and memorials while participating in patriotic events held throughout the city. The annual parade along Constitution Avenue, live performances and spectacular fireworks near the National Mall create a truly memorable holiday experience. For history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike, Washington offers a deeper connection to the nation’s past and present.
No matter where Americans choose to celebrate, Independence Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history while enjoying time with family and friends. F
rom historic landmarks and bustling cities to charming beach towns and scenic destinations, these locations offer unique ways to honor the Fourth of July and create lasting summer memories.
Fireworks, parades, concerts and community gatherings are among the many traditions Americans enjoy as they celebrate Independence Day on July 4.
Bronkberry Farms Marks 15th Season Milestone,
Continuing Five Generations of Family Farming and Community-Focused Agriculture in Plainfield and Joliet Area
A family-owned destination where fresh produce, seasonal traditions, and farm-fresh experiences have brought generations together for 15 years.
Bronkberry Farms is proud to mark its 15th season serving the Plainfield and Joliet area. Owners Jennifer Bronk and Kevin Veen established the farm on land that has been in Jennifer’s family for five generations, continuing a legacy rooted in agriculture, hard work, and community connection.
What began in 2012 as a small roadside stand has steadily grown into a well-loved local destination. Today, Bronkberry Farms features a vibrant greenhouse filled with quality plants, including annuals, perennials, native plants, vegetable starts, and select shrubs. The historic 25-acre property also produces a variety of farm-fresh vegetables and apples, reflecting its deep farming roots.
During the summer season, the farm’s market comes alive with fresh, locally grown produce such as tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, sweet corn, vine-ripened watermelon, berries, and more. Visitors return year after year for the abundance of seasonal favorites and the welcoming atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the farm.
As autumn arrives, Bronkberry Farms trans-
forms into a fall destination complete with a pumpkin patch, hayrack rides, and the aroma of homemade caramel apples crafted from a treasured family recipe. The annual Fall Fest has become a community tradition, drawing families from across the region to celebrate the season.
The general store remains open throughout the year, offering canned goods, local honey, homemade pies, sourdough bread, specialty oils and vinegars, fresh herbs, and a variety of unique gifts and home décor items. In addition, the farm hosts a Craft Fair on the third Sunday of each month from May through October, showcasing local artisans and makers.
Bronkberry Farms also provides a pavilion space available for private event rentals, as well as educational field trips for schools, scout groups, and organizations serving individuals with special needs. These offerings reflect the farm’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and creating meaningful experiences for all visitors.
Jennifer Bronk and Kevin Veen invite families to visit the farm, enjoy the seasonal offerings, and take part in a tradition that continues to grow with each passing year.
Built on five generations of family farming, Jennifer Bronk and Kevin Veen have grown Bronkberry Farms from a small roadside stand into a beloved local destination celebrating its 15th season.
Backyards Are Becoming Year-Round Entertainment Hubs as Families Embrace Classic Lawn Games, Tech-Driven Play, and Modular Outdoor Setups
From cornhole and pickleball to motion-sensor gaming systems and oversized board games, homeowners across the US, UK, and Canada are transforming outdoor spaces into active, social play zones driven by health, wellness, and reduced screen time
Backyards are experiencing a noticeable resurgence as families in the US, UK, and Canada rethink how they use outdoor space. Driven largely by a growing desire to reduce screen time—an issue affecting children and adults alike—homeowners are increasingly investing in physical play and recreational features at home.
According to All About Play, the global outdoor toy market is now valued at around $23 billion in 2026, underscoring the scale of this shift. Fortune Business Insights projects the sector will continue expanding at an annual rate of about 4.65 percent through 2034.
Modern outdoor spaces are no longer defined solely by grass, patios, or a simple swing set. Instead, they are evolving into multi-use activity hubs designed for entertainment, exercise, and social gatherings. Whether a property features a compact urban yard or expansive suburban acreage, backyard games are helping transform underused outdoor areas into dynamic environments for all ages.
Classic lawn games remain central to this revival.
Cornhole continues to dominate as a crowd favorite, with competitive players often upgrading to regulation-sized wooden boards and weather-resistant professional bean bags. Pickleball is also gaining traction, with portable nets making it easy to set up temporary courts on driveways or lawns.
At the same time, oversized versions of familiar indoor games—such as giant Connect 4® and Jenga®—are bringing a more physical, social element to traditional tabletop play. These supersized formats encourage group participation and intergenerational interaction.
Technology is also reshaping backyard recreation. Motion-sensor systems such as Nex are turning outdoor areas into interactive gaming environments, blending physical movement with digital feedback. Similarly, some families are experimenting with virtual reality setups outdoors, combining immersive gaming with fresh air and open space.
Industry trends also point toward growth in modular playground systems. All About Play reports that North America’s outdoor play structure market is expected to reach $850 million by 2033.
These customizable systems combine features like trampolines, climbing frames, and adjustable basketball hoops into one integrated setup, reflecting a preference for flexible, longterm backyard investments.
As families continue prioritizing wellness, connection, and outdoor activity, the backyard is no longer just a passive space—it’s becoming one of the most active rooms in the home.
A growing number of families are redesigning their backyards with games, fitness-friendly activities, and interactive play systems that encourage outdoor time and social connection.
SUNDAYS • JUNE 7 - SEPT 27 9:00am-1:00pm
Fountaindale Public Library’s
PRIZES!
Use your Fountaindale Public Library card to register online, at the library or on the Bookmobile.
All ages can participate!
Sign up and log your activities with READsquared!
Complete and log your activities by July 31.
• Read or listen to a book for 30 minutes
• Read or listen to a new author or genre
• Read or listen to a staff pick
• Visit the Bookmobile
• Attend a library program
• Color, craft or make something
• Explore Studio 300
• Spot the knight each week
• Visit a park, museum or community event
• Checkout Challenge: check out five items
• Play a game
• Make up your own activity
Collect your prizes and earn entries into our grand prize drawings when you reach 25 and 50 points.
Looking for more fun?
Log 75 points to earn a bonus grand prize drawing entry!
Making a Splash: Choosing the Right Pool for Your Backyard
From kiddie pools to in-ground retreats, homeowners can choose from a variety of options to stay cool and enjoy the outdoors.
Many homeowners aspire to have sun-drenched backyards they can enjoy for hours on end. But being in full sun all the time can affect the functionality of an outdoor living space.
As global temperatures continue to rise, the comfort of private yards depends heavily on how homeowners can mitigate sun and heat. A pool can make time outdoors more comfortable.
Swimming cools you down primarily through conduction and convection. Water conducts heat away from the body 25 times faster than air.
When a person enters the water, heat is immediately transferred from the warmer body to the cooler water.
Homeowners can choose among various types of pools, weighing the pros and cons of each before settling on a decision.
• Kiddie pool: A kiddie pool is a way to test the waters of having a pool in the yard. It’s a portable play feature for children and typically is inexpensive.
Although it can be fun for kids, the small size and the need for frequent emptying and refilling can be a chore. There’s also no filtration, so kiddie pools can get dirty quickly.
• Above-ground pool: An aboveground swimming pool is functional and affordable. Angi says the average cost of an above-ground pool ranges from $1,000 to more than $10,000, with most homeowners spending around $4,000 for the pool and professional installation. Soft-sided, smaller pools can suit smaller budgets.
An advantage to an above-ground pool is that it’s not a permanent structure, which means that property taxes may not be affected.
• In-ground pool: Active families who like a multi-use swimming pool often turn to in-ground pools. These pools can be built into the landscape to form a seamless aesthetic.
However, that luxury comes at a cost. The Spruce notes in-ground swimming pools average about $55,000 to install, and it’s easy to spend upwards of $100,000. Unlimited shapes and larger sizes for entertaining attract many to the in-ground option.
• Lap pool: Those who want a pool for exercise purposes can consider a lap pool.
It’s a shallow and narrow pool designed for swimming laps. Since they’re rectangular and narrow, these pools can be good for narrow lots.
• Pool club: Individuals who do not want to worry about pool maintenance can join a swim club or purchase day passes when it’s time to take a plunge.
Homeowners have different options to consider when thinking about adding a pool to their property.
LEGAL NOTICES
IN THE HAMILTON SUPERIOR COURT ROOM NO. 5
CAUSE NO. 29D05-2601-AD-000006
STATE OF INDIANA ) ) SS:
COUNTY OF HAMILTON ) IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF ) )
NEVAEH LYNN RUFF, ) a minor child )
NOTICE OF ADOPTION
Kenzie Nicholas Ruff is notified that a petition for adoption of a child named, Nevaeh Lynn Ruff, born on November 12, 2013, by the spouse of the biological parent of the Child, was filed in the office of the Clerk the Hamilton Superior Court, Room No. 5, One Hamilton County Square, Noblesville, Indiana 46060. The petition for adoption alleges that the consent of Kenzie Nicholas Ruff is not required pursuant to Indiana Code § 31-19-9-8(a) (1), Indiana Code § 31-19-9-8(a)(2) and (a)(11).
If Kenzie Nicholas Ruff does not file a motion to contest the adoption within fifteen (15) days after the service of this notice, the above named court will hear and determine the petition for adoption, the consent of Kenzie Nicholas Ruff will be irrevocably implied, and Kenzie Nicholas Ruff will lose his right to contest either the adoption or the validity of his implied consent to the adoption.
No oral statements made to Kenzie Nicholas Ruff relieves him of his obligations under this notice.
This notice complies with Indiana Code § 31-19-4.5-3 but does not exhaustively set forth a person’s legal obligations under the Indiana adoption statutes. A person being served with this notice should consult the Indiana adoption statutes.
Joel D. Kirsh
KIRSH & KIRSH, P.C.
2930 East 96th Street Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 575-5555
Attorney No. 5545-49
Attorney for Petitioner
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ) ) HERBIE J. SHAW, ) CASE NO. 2026 PR 000215 ) DECEASED. )
CLAIM NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to creditors of the death of Herbie J. Shaw. Letters of Office were issued on April 30, 2026 to Nellie M. Luckett, 314 Luana Road, Joliet, Illinois 60433, as Independent Executor, whose Attorney of record is Chris D. Rouskey, Rouskey Law Office, 210 N. Hammes Avenue, Suite 105, Joliet, Illinois 60435.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Will County, 100 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL 60432, or with the Independent Executor, or both, WITHIN SIX MONTHS OF THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION. ANY CLAIM NOT FILED WITHIN THAT PERIOD IS BARRED. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the Independent Administrator and to the Attorney of record within ten days after it has been filed.
E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions. To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider. Visit http://efile.illinoiscourts.gov/ service-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider. If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, vit http:/illinoiscourts.gov/faq/gethelp.asp, or talk with your local Circuit Clerk’s Office.
HERBIE J. SHAW, DECEASED BY ______________________
CHRIS D. ROUSKEY ROUSKEY LAW OFFICE
210 N. HAMMES AVENUE, SUITE 105 JOLIET, ILLINOIS 60435 815-741-2118
IL REGISTRATION NO. 03123595
Published 5/7/26, 5/14/26 & 5/21/26
CHRIS D. ROUSKEY Attorney for Independent Executor
Pools come in a variety of sizes and styles, offering homeowners different ways to cool off and enjoy their outdoor living spaces.
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
Publication Summons and Notice (Small Claims) STATE OF WISCONSIN, CIRCUIT COURT, MILWAUKEE COUNTY Case No. 2026SC007856
Plaintiff(s):
ShortTermFinancial, L.L.C dba Americash Loans
2400 E. Devon Ave, Suite 300 Des Plaines IL 60018 VS.
Defendant(s):
JAMAR MANUAL
6502 GOLDHABER LN PLAINFIELD IL 60586
TO THE PERSON(S) NAMED ABOVE AS DEFENDANT(S):
You are being sued by the person(s) named above as Plaintiff(s). A copy of the claim has been sent to you at your address as stated in the caption above.
The lawsuit will be heard in the following small claims court: MILWAUKEE County Courthouse
Telephone Number of clerk of court: 414-985-5757
Courtroom/Room Number:
Address: 901 N 9th Street
Address: Room 400
City: Milwaukee, WI 53233 on the following date and time:
Date: 06/17/2026 Time: 8:30 AM
If you do not attend the hearing, the court may enter a judgment against you in favor of the person(s) suing you. A copy of the claim has been sent to you at your address as stated in the caption above. A judgment may be enforced as provided by law. A judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate (property) you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property.
You may have the option to Answer without appearing in court on the court date by filing a written Answer with the clerk of court before the court date. You must send a copy of your Answer to the Plaintiff(s) named above at their address. You may contact the clerk of court at the telephone number above to determine if there are other methods to answer a Small Claims complaint in that county.
Electronically Signed by MICHAEL
F. G. HICKEY
State Bar # 1124679
5/12/2026
DLF Law Group, LLC (formerly Dobberstein Law Firm, LLC)
225 S. Executive Dr. Suite 201 Brookfield, WI. 53005 262-641-3715
Published May 20, 2026
TAX DEED NO.: 2026TX000107
FILED: 05/04/2026 TAKE NOTICE
County of: Will
Date Premises Sold: December 4, 2023
Certificate No.: 22-00089
Sold for General Taxes of (year): 2022 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 1900 Lincoln Avenue, Bolingbrook, Illinois 60490
Legal Description or Property
Index No.: 07-01-25-406-016-0000
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 29, 2026.
The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem
TAX DEED NO.: 2026TX000108
FILED: 05/04/2026 TAKE NOTICE
County of: Will Date Premises Sold: December 4, 2023
Certificate No.: 22-00925
Sold for General Taxes of (year): 2022 Sold for Special Assessment of (Municipality) and Special Assessment Number: N/A
Warrant No.: N/A Installment No.: N/A
THIS PROPERTY HAS BEEN SOLD FOR DELINQUENT TAXES
Property Located at: 25024 West Lake Forrest Lane, Shorewood, Illinois 60404
Legal Description or Property
Index No.: 05-06-20-402-012-0000
This notice is to advise you that the above property has been sold for delinquent taxes and that the period of redemption from the sale will expire on October 29, 2026.
the property from subsequent forfeitures or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 29, 2026.
This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of this County in Joliet, Illinois on November 19, 2026 at 9:00 A.M. in Courtroom 905, Will County Courthouse, 100 West Jefferson Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432.
You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 29, 2026 by applying to the County Clerk of Will County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Joliet, Illinois.
For further information contact the County Clerk:
Address: 302 North Chicago Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432
or tax sales. Check with the county clerk as to the exact amount you owe before redeeming.
This notice is also to advise you that a petition has been filed for a tax deed which will transfer title and the right to possession of this property if redemption is not made on or before October 29, 2026.
This matter is set for hearing in the Circuit Court of this County in Joliet, Illinois on November 19, 2026 at 9:00 A.M. in Courtroom 905, Will County Courthouse, 100 West Jefferson Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432.
You may be present at this hearing but your right to redeem will already have expired at that time.
YOU ARE URGED TO REDEEM IMMEDIATELY TO PREVENT LOSS OF PROPERTY
Telephone: (815) 740-4615
P&N PROPERTIES INC
Purchaser or Assignee
Dated: 05/04/2026
CASE NUMBER: 2026TX000107
CERTIFICATE OF PURCHASE NUMBER: 22-00089
Begum Razia
Masroor A. Shamsi
Quratual-aen I Abbasi
KSN Registered Agent, LLC as R/A for Americana Estates Homeowners Association
Americana Estates Homeowners Association
Occupant
Will County Clerk
Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” 8147-964893
Published 5/21/2026, 5/28/2026 & 6/4/2026
P&N PROPERTIES INC
Purchaser or Assignee Dated: 05/04/2026
CASE NUMBER: 2026TX000108 CERTIFICATE OF PURCHASE NUMBER: 22-00925
Sowals Inc.
Illinois Secretary of State for Sowals Inc.
Law Offices of Lynn D. Dowd Adetoro Ogunmuyiwa as R/A for Sowals Inc.
Sowals Inc. c/o Adetoro Ogunmuyiwa Joel Shupe as R/A for Lake Forrest Homeowners’ Association Lake Forrest Homeowners’ Association Occupant
The amount to redeem is subject to increase at 6 month intervals from the date of sale and may be further increased if the purchaser at the tax sale or his or her assignee pays any subsequently accruing taxes or special assessments to redeem the property from subsequent forfeitures
Redemption can be made at any time on or before October 29, 2026 by applying to the County Clerk of Will County, Illinois at the Office of the County Clerk in Joliet, Illinois.
For further information contact the County Clerk:
Address: 302 North Chicago Street, Joliet, Illinois 60432
Telephone: (815) 740-4615
User of 25024 West Lake Forrest Lane, Shorewood, Illinois Will County Clerk Claimants, Judgment Creditors and Decree Creditors, if any of the above described as “unknown owners” “Unknown owners or parties interested in said land or lots” 10732-964896
Published 5/20/2026, 5/27/2026 & 6/3/2026
