March-April Neighbors of Darien

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March April 2018

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Jim Kiser is Citizen of the Year Tips from a burglar Praise to the community from District #61 Easter egg hunt and bunny breakfast Register for Darien Dash

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Neighbors of Darien Magazine

Inside Information

Neighbors Publications 630-995-3482 DuPageNeighbors.com Neighbors Staff and Contributors Tim & Kate Sullivan, Publishers Amber Johnson, Production Director Ben Scott, Community Editor Linnea Carlson, Creative Director

Community Liaisons April Padalik, Executive Director Darien Chamber of Commerce, 630-968-0004 Mary Belmonte, Administrative Secretary City of Darien, 630-353-8115 Patty Lauzon, Secretary to the Superintendent, Darien School District 61, 630-968-7505 Stephanie Gurgone, Executive Director Darien Park District, 630-968-6400

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Please submit your activity dates to newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com or add them to the calendar at DuPageNeighbors.com

For advertising opportunities: Contact us: info@neighborsmagazines.com 630-995-3482

City News—Congratulations Jim Kiser.................................................................6 School District 61—Helping hands at District 61..........................................10 Darien Park District—Have breakfast with the Easter Bunny..................14

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About the cover…

2018 Citizen of the Year, Jim Kiser, is one of those people who make a difference in Darien year after year after year. His unselfish commitment to give back to the community is evident in his active participation in just about everything Darien. check out his story on page 6. We think you will agree…Jim Kiser is truly the Citizen of the Year.

Cover photo by Studio One Photography and Video Naperville, IL,Joe Bruch, Prop.

Photo above courtesy Darien Park District.

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Neighbors of Darien Magazine

A message from our mayor “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ~Mahatma Gandhi The Darien Citizen of the Year selection is always a fun time in Darien.

Congratulations to James Kiser as this year’s recipient of the award. A committee of resident volunteers solicit nominations for Citizen of the Year and make a recommendation to the city council.

In addition to the Citizen of the Year I would like to recognize and thank all the resident volunteers who assist the city in a variety of ways. Volunteers are the ones who operate the cable tv room, record special events, review and make recommendations on local developments, participate in the police hiring and promotion requirements, and review environmental issues.

As the end of the winter season is upon us I would like to thank the Darien Municipal Services Department for the extraordinary service they provide during the winter months. These employees take great pride in clearing the city roads and keeping them safe and passable during the areas snowfalls.

These employees often work long shifts through the night, and we can’t thank this group enough for doing the critical work that keeps our city running. During a January snowstorm, our crews, who had just spent nine hours repairing a broken water main, also had to deal with an unforeseen mechanical problem in one of our large trucks and several employees ill with the flu. This made for a challenging start to snow plowing operations that day, but the crews caught up and stayed on schedule.

Congratulations to the City of Darien for being recognized as a SolSmart Bronze community!

SolSmart is a national program led by the International City/County Management Association. The SolSmart designation program is focused on acknowledging communities that have worked to improve the solar friendliness of their community and encourage solar market development. As a Bronze member, the city was required to create a permit checklist, conduct a review and develop a memo on existing barriers to solar in the zoning code. The City of Darien is part of the largest cohort in the nation to be SolSmart designated—14 municipalities and two counties. Thanks to the Darien Environmental Committee, city staff, Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and Alderwoman Sylvia McIvor for their efforts on this project.

Respectfully,

Kathleen Weaver City of Darien, Mayor

City of Darien Congratulations Jim Kiser, 2018 Citizen of the Year As the Citizen of the Year Committee rang the doorbell of our nominee’s home, the first thing that came to our honoree’s mind was…”what crazy people could possibly be at the door on this cold, cold evening?” Our nominee’s first response was, “I have heard about doorbells ringing around this time of year but never thought it would be mine.”

Without exaggeration, our nominee, Jim Kiser, is someone who is there for anything, anytime and most importantly for anyone.

Over the years in the multiple nominations Jim has received, they all state his diversity of giving of his time to all organizations, clubs and people, both young and old, is astounding. It is very hard to find a beginning timeline for Jim—he has been “doing” for so many years.

Jim’s dedication to his parish, Our Lady of Peace, spans over 21 years. He served as a Religious Education Instructor from 2002 to 2012, helping grade school children prepare for their upcoming sacraments. He was a member of the church’s parish council for a year and since 2005 has been a member of the Holy Name Society serving as a board member numerous times. He is the first to volunteer for any major fundraising activity the parish embarks on.

His greatest giving by far is to the Darien Lions Club. Jim became a member of the Lions Club in 1997. From his license plate to his email address to his actions, he is Mr. Lion. He has held all 12 positions on the Board of Directors and served as president from 2013 to 2014. He has chaired nearly all of the 30 committees—it is easier to count those he hasn’t chaired than to name all that he has. His major contributions were heading up the following: the 2001 4th of July Parade; in 2009, the Darienfest Beer Tent; in 2005 and 2008 the Darienfest Corn tent; in 2002, Candy Day; the Children’s Halloween Party in 1999; the pancake breakfast in 2006; the Big Raffle in 1999 and the Golf Outing in 2011. He also led the Candy Day business from 2001 to 2008. He not only lends his helping hands to the Darien Lions Club but seeks out the needs of the Downers Grove and Westmont clubs. Jim has brought recognition to Darien by serving and participating in regional and international Lions activities. He has taken on the role as the District 1J Zone Chair for the Southeast Region; he has chaired the State’s “Alert” program and in 2017 was chair of recruiting high school marching bands to participate in the Lions International Parade in Chicago. In 2007, he also was an active member for the 90th International Lions Anniversary Committee. For his work in Lionism, Jim has been recognized by the Darien Lions and District 1J with the following awards and recognitions: 2003—Lions of Illinois Foundation Award; 2004–2005— Darien Lion of the Year; 2005—Darien Lions of Illinois Foundation Fellow; 2011—District 1J George Lazansky Award; 2016—Darien Lions Lifetime Achievement Award and Melvin Jones Fellowship Recipient.

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And his favorite Lion activity?—flipping pancakes!

Jim’s volunteering doesn’t stop there.

For over 15 years, he has enjoyed helping the Easter Bunny, the Lions Club and the Darien Park District hiding Easter eggs for the annual Easter Egg Hunt. Annually, Jim has assisted the city’s Chamber of Commerce in planning and setting up for Darienfest. He has also been instrumental working on the safety committee for the Darien Dash. In 2009, Jim received the Darien Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen Award. For the last six years, Jim has served the City of Darien as a member of the Holiday Lights Committee.

Along with his two other committee members, they locate the nominated homes. Jim is the navigator and photographer. He sets up the pictures on a visual display board for the city council and citizens to view. He loves being on this committee and decorating his own home for the holidays!

Each year without fail Jim heads out to Lisle with several other Lion members to assist Giant Steps, a school for autistic children, with their annual spring barbeque and again in the fall for their welcome back spaghetti dinner. From a food server to assisting with the silent auction, Jim is a great supporter of this organization. From 2004 to 2012, Jim also assisted the Hinsdale High School Booster Club at the concessions stands during athletic events. Jim is a steady donor of blood and platelets to the LifeSource Blood services center. He has given 49 times and still counting! When the need is there, so is Jim. In 1987, he and his wife Carrie were married and became homeowners in the Hinswood Patio Homes subdivision.

Jim served several years on the Homeowners Board of Directors. In 1993, they moved to their present home on 73rd St. They have two children, Thomas and Katelyn. Tom and Katelyn learned the importance of giving as they regularly volunteered right alongside their father. Jim supported his children in many of their activities, including what Jim calls becoming a “baseball Dad”.

One of his nominators states: Jim’s efforts to serve others are synonymous with our city motto, “A Nice Place to Live”, as well as the Darien Lions Motto, “We Serve”. No one embodies the spirit of those mottos more than Jim Kiser, whose interests have always been dedicated to unselfishly serving others in and outside the community.

William Barclay stated: “There are two great days in a person’s life: The day we are born and the day we discover why.”

Indeed, Jim has found the “whys” in life, and Darien is proud to be just one the benefactors.

630-852-5000 • www.darien.il.us

City of Darien offers free branch pickup 2018 Branch Pickup Schedule

April 23–27 August 20–24 June 25–29 October 22–26 The City of Darien is pleased to be able to offer free branch pickup for all residents within our boundaries. To help keep the streets clean and our crews on schedule, please stack the branches neatly by the curb on the Sunday before the pickup week. The chipper can accept branches up to 6" in diameter.

Please do not tie the branches or

put in garbage cans. All other yard waste such as grass clippings and flowers should be disposed of through our yard waste program with Advanced Disposal.

All branches need to be out by no later than the Sunday night prior to the designated pick up week. The chipping crew can make only one pass and may complete your street as soon as Monday morning.

Residents who are unable to put their branches out prior to the

2018 Tree trimming program begins

This year’s tree trimming program consists of trimming approximately 1,750 parkway trees, approximately 65 tree removals and stump grinding.

Below are the subdivisions to be trimmed: Farmingdale Village Carriage Hill Woodmere Townhomes Glen Eagles Tara Hill Subdivision Darien Woods Carriage Way West Waterfall Glen This year’s program also includes contract pricing for the Private Property Tree Trimming Program to all the residents. The program would allow residents to have their private property trees trimmed or removed and stump grinding at the residents expense. Trimming is for standard maintenance only. There will be no shaping,

scheduled week can take them to the Municipal Services Facility, located at 1041 S. Frontage Rd., and place them in the designated branch location.

Branches will be accepted Monday through Friday from 5am until 11pm. Landscape companies hired to help with your branches may also take them to Municipal Services.

If you have any questions regarding branch pick up, please contact Municipal Services at 630-353-8105.

topping or other detrimental trimming. Private property tree trimming is $250 per tree in the front yard and $375 per tree in the back yard. The contract also includes pricing for private property tree removal, and stump grinding. The price for tree removal is $35 per diameter inch for the front yard, and $50 per diameter inch for the back yard. Stump grinding is $150 for the front yard and $200 for the rear yard. Deadline to schedule private tree trimming is March 23. Residents may contact Homer Tree Care directly at 815-838-0320.

The program shall be in full force for Private Property Trimming and Removal until May 1, 2018.

For additional information regarding the Tree Trimming Program please call 630-353-8105.

2018 Concrete replacement program offered In conjunction with the street replacement program, the City of Darien will again offer unit pricing to residents interested in replacing their sidewalks, driveways and aprons. Suburban Concrete was awarded the bid for 2018. The prices for 2018 are as follows: Driveways...............................................$8.00 per square foot Sidewalks................................................. $5.25 per square foot Apron w/fiber mesh........................... $5.40 per square foot Curb & gutter.......................................$17.85 per square foot Sealer........................................................ $3.00 per square foot Asphalt removal................................. $ TBD per square foot

Residents wanting to replace their private driveways (sidewalk to garage) should call Suburban Concrete directly at 847-837-8805, and inform them you are a Darien resident. Suburban Concrete will invoice you for the work.

Residents wanting to replace their sidewalk, apron or depress their driveway curb should call Diane at city hall at 630-353-8102. The city will invoice you for this work.

The deadline to participate in this year’s program is June 29.

Your elected city officials and city administrators Kathleen Moesle Weaver, Mayor 630-271-1619 JoAnne Ragona, City Clerk 630-353-8110 Michael J. Coren, City Treasurer 630-985-0974 Bryon Vana, City Administrator 630-353-8114 Ted V. Schauer, Alderman, 1

630-776-1487 Tina M. Beilke, Alderman, 2 630-789-2597

Joseph A. Kenny, Alderman, 3 630-334-2858 Thomas M. Chlystek, Alderman, 4 708-505-9257 Joseph A. Marchese, Alderman, 5 630-254-2421 Sylvia McIvor, Alderman, 6 312-961-9230 Thomas J. Belczak, Alderman, 7 630-515-0801

Contact the City of Darien: General Information on all city services 630-852-5000

Non-Emergency Police Department 630-971-3999 Police (for any police presence/emergency) 9-1-1 7

City of Darien Tips from a burglar On March 6, 2017 the Today Show aired a program called “How to protect your home from burglaries: Thieves tell all.” It was a story of Nicholas Kyriazis a convicted burglar who estimated that he had burglarized at least 100 homes. Today’s national investigative correspondent Jeff Rossen interviewed Kyriazis to get tips on how keep your home from being a target of burglary. This is what the interview revealed.

• Have a neighbor collect your mail when you’re away.

Mail in the mailbox signals burglars that no one is home.

• Leave your car outside. Kyriazis said, “If there are no cars in the driveway, there’s a good chance there is no one home.”

• Thieves often strike in the morning. More than half of convicted burglars surveyed said they target homes in the morning (8am to 2pm).

• Don’t assume an alarm system will protect you.

Kyriazis said, “Alarm system alerts me that the people are not home when the alarm is turned on.” This is a “professional” burglar; many burglars are not as prolific as this person, and alarms can be a deterrent. They just are not a panacea.

• Don’t assume home security cameras will protect you. Kyriazis said, “People got money for security cameras, they got something in there they’re protecting.” Again this person is a frequent burglar cameras do give some deterrent value. A proper camera properly installed can yield evidence after a crime.

• Have a neighbor watch your house. One of the best things for burglary prevention.

• Lock up when you leave. Many people leave doors and windows unlocked, and thieves take advantage.

“I’ve never carried burglary tools.” Kyriazis said. The Darien Police Department has made mention of this fact numerous times. In the 2016 annual report they reported that nearly 80% of theft related crimes, the property was not secured.

• Dogs can be a good deterrent. Kyriazis said a barking dog would give him pause.

• Never engage a burglar. Thieves and experts agree that if you come upon a burglary in progress, the best option is to leave, find a safe place and call 911 immediately.

Senior Corner Senior Services

There are many services and programs available to Darien Senior Citizens. The following are some services available thru the City of Darien, Downers Grove Township, DuPage County, and the State of Illinois.

File of Life

Available at the township office 4340 Prince St. in Downers Grove.

A $1 donation is requested.

Dial-A-Ride

630-719-6685.

DuPage County Senior Citizens Council Home Maintenance Program For more info please call: 630620-0804.

Meals on Wheels

Contact DuPage County Meals on Wheels at 630-620-0804 Ext. 105 8

DuPage County Para-Transit Program

Ride DuPage sponsors and offers transportation to county senior residents who meet low-income guidelines. Travel is provided to medical appointments within DuPage County, DuPage County Health Department locations, and DuPage County Community Services at 421 N. County Farm Rd., Wheaton. Proof of eligibility must be provided and applicants must pre-register. There is a charge of $4 each way to 421 and 111 N. County Farm Rd. buildings, all other destinations are $1.50 for the first six miles, then $1.50 each additional mile. To register, seniors should call DuPage County Senior Services at 630-407-6500 or 1-800-942-9412.

Subsidized Taxi Service

Please contact -Darien City Hall for further details and information at 630-852-5000

State of Illinois Benefit Access Program (formerly Circuit Breaker)

Call the Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) at 800-252-8966 for more information.

Real Estate Tax Relief

Call the Downers Grove Township Office to see if you qualify and for an application 630-968-2100.

630-852-5000 • www.darien.il.us

Do I need a building permit?

The following information is provided to help guide the residential homeowner on various interior and exterior home remodeling projects. For more detailed information please contact the building department at 630-353-8115, email mbelmonte@darienil.gov, or visit our website at darien.il.us.

Always consult with the building department regarding local building setback requirements, and any items not addressed on this sheet. Please note that all contractors must be licensed with the City of Darien before beginning any work. Please contact the building department to determine if your contractor is licensed.

Permits required:

Permits not required:

(Common examples) • New dwelling structures • Room additions • Garages, attached and detached • Alterations where structural elements are affected, i.e.: new openings in foundations, walls, ceilings, roofs, enlarged door and window openings.

• All new electrical & plumbing installations (in wall work) • Fireplaces and solid fuel burning stoves • New air conditioning units • Generators • Sheds • Swimming pools—in ground and above ground • Patios, including paver brick • Decks and porches • Fences • Driveways—including paver brick • New water service • Sewer work in public right-of-way • Concrete work over 100 sq. ft.

• Landscaping ponds • Landscaping that alters the grade of the property • Retaining walls • Underground sprinkler systems • Wheelchair lifts/elevators Revised 1/15/2018

(Common examples) • Normal repair and maintenance • Roof replacement • Replacement of deteriorated materials • Siding, soffit & fascia • Windows & doors – replacing with same size • Superficial remodeling which does not affect structural elements, such as drywall and plaster work • Replacing fixtures • Exterior concrete flatwork under 100 sq feet, such as stoops and service walks • Driveway overlay or sealcoating • Simple landscaping that DOES NOT change the grading of the property Residential Multi Family: • Normal repair and maintenance • Replacing fixtures All other multifamily construction may require permits. Please check with the building department AND your homeowners association BEFORE beginning any construction. All multifamily construction requiring a permit also requires licensed contractors.

My contractor must be licensed with the City of Darien because…

The City of Darien requires all contractors performing permitted work within the city become licensed with us. When a contractor becomes licensed with the city, they are required to provide contact information, liability insurance and a construction bond. These

items are in place to insure that the construction is completed in accordance with our building codes.

Registration allows the City of Darien to better regulate construction activity and contractors working in the city. It also gives the resident an avenue of recourse

should the construction not be up to code.

Please call the Building Department at 630-353-8115 when considering construction to determine if the contractor is currently licensed with the City of Darien.

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School Directory Eisenhower Jr. High School

1410 75th St., Darien, IL 60561 630-964-5200 • Fax: 630-968-8002

Lace School

7414 Cass Ave., Darien, IL 60561 630-968-2589 • Fax: 630-968-5920

Mark DeLay School

6801 Wilmette Ave., Darien, IL 60561 630-852-0200 • Fax: 630-968-7506

Administration

Dr. Robert M. Carlo, Superintendent Dr. Carol Schultz, Assistant Superintendent Dennis Forst, Chief School Business Official Mr. Jacob Buck, Principal, Mrs. Jeanine Arundel, Assistant Principal, Eisenhower Jr. High Ms. Erin Dwyer, Principal, Lace Elementary Mrs. Lisa Kompare, Principal, Mark DeLay Elementary

Board of Education Janine Kiwiet, President Katherine Fujiura, Vice-President Gregory Leban, Secretary Jack Kubik, Member Jane Moss, Member Iranell Spann, Member Joseph Tortorich, Member schoolboard@darien61.org Come visit us on the Web at: darien61.org 10

Helping hands

by Mary Andersen The New Oxford American DeLay School is the recent grant Dictionary defines community as: recipient of a future “Buddy Bench” “a group of people living in the that will be installed on our north same place or having a particular playground. We can’t wait! The characteristic in common.” That Rotary Club also gives out brand statement perfectly describes the new dictionaries to our third grade Darien District #61 community students each year for them to and all of the people who help to add to their own libraries at home. make a difference in the lives of our Rotary is the only global service students. organization with an office in the We are fortunate to live and work United Nations headquarters in in a community that believes in our students and continually strives for ways to give back. The Darien community gives back with their time, expertise and sometimes their money or service.

I would like to highlight some of the amazing community DeLay teachers helped the Darien Rotary Club with food organizations that packing for the club’s “Food for Kids” program.. the district works closely with and how those helping hands go towards that their purpose supersedes race, religion or national boundaries. For many different initiatives and more information about the Rotary programs.

Club go to: darienrotaryclub.org.

The first organization that I would Other organizations that work like to thank for their tireless efforts closely with our school community is the Rotary Club. They give back are the Lions Club and the Darien to our district in many different Woman’s Club. The Lions Club ways. sponsors a Halloween party each One way happens once a month October, at the Darien Sportsplex, for their “Food for Kids Program.” that gives kids a safe place to Club members spend an evening celebrate with family and friends. at Lace School to help pack the At the Halloween party they have food bags that some students bring home each weekend. It’s a well-oiled games and prizes for the kids along with ice skating and entertainment. machine and truly illustrates “all This is all free to the community. hands on deck” for a common goal.

Around the holidays, the Lions Club Another way the Rotary Club helps sponsors food drives in the schools. out is by fulfilling grant proposals.

630-968-7505 • www.darien61.org

Thank you to the community organizations and businesses that give back to Darien’s schools so generously Then they put food baskets together with the donations and deliver them to families. The Lions Club just recently remodeled a home for a district family, too. For more information about the Lions Club go to: darienlions.org.

The Darien Woman’s Club, founded in 1970, is a strong presence in the Darien community.

The DWC collects soap and lotions in the schools to be included in the food baskets from the Lions Club.

This is an easy way for students to learn the important idea of giving back, and it’s something they can easily participate in.

The Darien Woman’s Club also promotes student art at the annual Art Fair, held every February and offers two scholarships in the fine arts for summer study. All these activities benefit District 61 students and the Darien Woman’s Club is proud to be of service to the Darien community and School District 61. For more information about the Darien Woman’s Club go to: darienwomansclub.org. An organization that gives brand new coats, hats and gloves to some of our students is “Operation School Bell.” This is affiliated with the Assistance League of Chicagoland West. Their major source of revenue comes from an annual event they host every November called “Books & Brunch.” They raise their own funds, shop for the products they give and deliver the products to the schools. Our school social workers work closely with this group to help keep our students warm in the deep freeze of winter. In the fall of 2017, almost 200 students received a new coat, hat and gloves. Our school community is deeply appreciative

of this wonderful organization for keeping our little ones safe from the harsh weather!

We would also like to thank the Indian Prairie Library for all of their time and dedication to our schools.

They have sent representatives to attend several of our Parent Universities and offered book titles and information about the given topics. Technology Librarian, Tyler Works, came to our “Weird Science” night and brought along his Ozobot robots. Monica Dzierzbicki, Youth Services Librarian at IPPL, partnered with Diane Nelson, our D61 District Librarian, to sponsor an after school “green screen” club that filmed students re-enacting parts of different stories. For more information about IPPL go to: ippl.info.

There are many local businesses that the district and PTA partner with to help with our fundraising efforts. These could be restaurants that offer a percentage of their sales or local stores who offer deep discounts and percentage donations.

Home Depot donated supplies and their staff to help DeLay set up and organize their garden in the courtyard. Some of the other ones we have worked with are: Buona Beef, Chipotle, Potbelly Sandwiches, Menchie’s, Chuck E. Cheese, Papa Passero’s and Five and Below. In previous years we have also had successful Teacher Nights at McDonald’s and Culver’s. The students got a kick out of seeing their teachers serve them food in arestaurant.

Our ECE/Pre-K team hosted a family pizza night to culminate their unit on the book Pete’s a Pizza by William Steig. Several local pizzerias

District #61 preschooler plays with donated pizza dough on Pete’s Pizza Night. donated yummy pizza pies for the night. Please help me give a big shout out to Zazzo’s, Home Run Inn and Papa John’s. The families were treated to dinner and some fun activities to do with their children.

They played games, played with pizza dough from Giordano’s and had a pizza motor group. The night finished with a book and a song!

The word THANK YOU doesn’t seem to completely express how grateful we are to all of these community organizations that help the schools and the students. We couldn’t do all that we do without you. We look forward to future connections and appreciate your kindness and generosity.

Mary Anderson teaches at Mark DeLay Elementary School .

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New club comes to Lace School thanks to The Gift of Carl Foundation

by Bob Johnson Mighty Acorns is a stewardshipbased environmental education program that has been offered throughout the Chicago region to 3rd–5th grade students for over 20 years. The Mighty Acorns curriculum focuses on educating students about native prairie, woodland and wetland ecosystems in the Chicago region, as well as the key concepts of biodiversity, environmental health, and stewardship of land and water resources. Students adopt a natural area in their community or at their school and act as stewards of that site.

Nineteen years ago The Conservation Foundation started providing the Mighty Acorns program to schools in West Chicago, and now, in 2017–2018, will be serving over 1000 children in DuPage, Will, and LaSalle Counties.

Celebrating their 45th year, The Conservation Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving natural areas, restoring water quality, and promoting positive environmental initiatives in northeastern Illinois.

The Mighty Acorns is an after-school program at Lace School, which provides children the opportunity to discover nature and act as stewards in their own community. In this first year, the students in Mighty Acorns have already been on one field to Water Fall Glen, and have two more field

trips planned before the end of the year. The children have learned how to identify animal tracks and had the opportunity to look at many different animal pelts. They also planted twelve oak trees on Lace School’s property. To further explore water resources and native plants, the Mighty Acorn students are planning to build a small rain garden in the storm water retention area on the school property this spring The Mighty Acorns at Lace School has been funded through the generosity of The Gift Of Carl Foundation. The Gift of Carl Foundation, which was incorporated in 2005, strives to provide additional learning opportunities to students in the areas of theater arts, literacy, music and the environment. The foundation was begun in memory of Carl Alan Vuillaume Thank you Gift of Carl for providing such a wonderful opportunity to the students of Lace School!

Warren “Chip” Johnson Community Service Award nominations sought The Warren “Chip” Johnson Community Service Award recognizes 8th grade students who have demonstrated a commitment to their community through volunteer activities in the school as well as local organizations. Although the student must currently be in 8th grade, service performed during sixth and seventh grades will be considered. More than one individual may be nominated. Recipients of the award will be announced at the Eisenhower Junior High School Commencement Ceremony.

The board of education is asking our school and local communities to think about those upcoming 12

graduates who have given of their time and talents beyond the classroom walls. We would like to know about students who have volunteered for the Darien Youth Club, church groups, food banks, as well as other organizations. Local groups such as the Lions, Chamber of Commerce, Women’s Club, and Rotary will be contacted for possible nominations. Formal applications for the award are available at darien61.org. Please think about the young people you know and how they have touched the lives of others in our community.

Nominations must be received by May 4.

630-968-7505 • www.darien61.org

Darien District #61 2018–2019 School Calendar

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Darien Park District

Get to know your Darien Park District!

More details are available on darienparks.com

Did you know…

this year’s Easter events are one week earlier on March 24?

Don’t miss out— mark your calendar now!

Easter Egg Hunts:

This year’s Easter Egg Hunts will be on Sat., March 24 at 9am SHARP! Locations: Darien Community Park (Plainfield & Clarendon Hills Rd.) Westwood Park (75th and Fairview Ave.) For all Darien children ages 2–8 Free!

More information at darienparks.com

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny:

This year’s Breakfast with the Easter Bunny will be on Sat., March 24 from 10am–12pm!

Location: Darien Community Center (7301 Fairview Ave.) A “hopping” good time will be had by everyone with breakfast and fun activities for the kids (activities provided for kids ages 2–9) Pre-registration is required by March 19 Children ages 2–9 $10 R fee Ages 10–adult $12 R fee 14

Park District: 630-968-6400 • Sportsplex: 630-789-6666 www.darienparks.com

Did you know…

the Darien Park District offers Spring Break camps for children ages 6–13?

Are you looking for a fun place for your child to spend the week off school?

Sign them up for the Spring Break Escape!

Registration available day by day or by the week Mon., March 26 through Fri., March 30 from 9am-4pm Extended care is available from 7–9am and 4–6pm Fun games, activities and trips planned all week long Sign up at: darienparks.com.

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Darien Chamber of Commerce

18th Annual Darien Dash

The Darien Dash is a fundraising event sponsored by the Darien Chamber of Commerce. A portion of the proceeds will benefit one local Darien school. The 18th Annual Darien Dash Race will be held on Sun., May 6 at Darien Community Park. There are plenty of

16  DuPageNeighbors.com

sponsorship opportunities available before the March 23 deadline. Please join us as a sponsor and become part of this exciting annual community event! Simply go to darienchamber.com for more information.

darienchamber.com 1702 Plainfield Rd. • Darien, IL 60561 • 630-968-0004

Darien Women in Business Business Women collaborating and sharing their wisdom, resources and experiences to enhance business growth…

We meet the third Friday of every month at: First American Bank, 2013 75th St., 11:30am We would love for you to join us!

WIB Upcoming Events:

March 23 BUNCO After Hours, Wild Orchid Salon, 7511 Lemont Rd. April 20 Monthly Meeting: 11:30 am 1st American Bank, 2013 75th St. May 17 “Dressing for Business Success” After Hours Fashion Show Chateau Orleans Banquets May 18 Monthly Meeting: 11:30 am 1st American Bank, 2013 75th St.

DCC Coffee Connection…

Register online: darienchamber.com

A place to Network,gain information,meet fellow members and coffee of course!

Attention all area business owners: looking for a quick and easy way to meet new connections, showcase your business or product and have a hot cup of coffee? Then come to our monthly ”Darien Chamber of Commerce Coffee Connection” held the last Tuesday of each month, 8–9am at various area banks (see schedule). A light and casual way to introduce yourself to other area businesses. A guest speaker will be featured at each event. Chamber members are free and future members are $10.

March 27 8–9am, First Merchants Bank, 8301 S. Cass Ave. April 24 8–9am, First American Bank, 2013 75th St. May 29 8–9am, Republic Bank, 1510 75th St. June 26 8–9am, BMO Harris Bank, 2275 W. 75th St. July 31 8–9am, First American Bank, 2013 75th St. Aug. 28 8–9am, First Merchants Bank, 8301 S. Cass Ave. Sept. 25 8–9am, First American Bank, 2013 75th St. Oct. 30 8–9am, Republic Bank, 1510 75th St. Nov. 27 8–9am, First American Bank, 2013 75th St.

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Around the Block

for more, visit DuPageNeighbors.com

Sign up for the Darien Woman’s Club Children’s Clothing Resale Darien Woman’s Club is hosting a Children’s Clothing Resale event on Sat., March 17, 9am–2pm at Lace School located at 7414 S. Cass in Darien. Sellers receive 65% of the funds for their items with a $7 fee for registration. Sign up Wed., March 7 from 6:30–8pm at the Darien Park District, 7301 Fairview Ave. in Darien.

The sale includes children’s clothing, shoes, outwear, toys, bikes and maternity wear. darienwomansclub.org

The Gift of Carl Musical Instrument Drive takes place March 31 The Gift of Carl Musical Instrument Drive will be held Sat., March 31, 9am–5pm at the Indian Prairie Public Library. Drop off your musical instrument in the Library lobby. Refurbished instruments will be donated to local schools and music programs in need. You will receive an appraisal, a tax deduction and the joy that comes from helping others. Instruments will be appraised by PM Music Center in Aurora. For more information about The Gift of Carl Foundation, visit giftofcarl.org.

Easter Eggstravaganza at St. John Lutheran Church March 31 St. John Lutheran Church & Early Learning Center, located at 7214 S. Cass Ave. in Darien, will host an Easter Eggstravaganza on Sat., March 31 from 9–11am with an Egg Hunt at 10am. Jeremiah, a Lutheran Church K–9 Comfort Dog, will be on hand to personally greet everyone. This family-friendly event is open to the public free of charge. In addition to looking for treatfilled plastic eggs, children and their families will have the opportunity to participate in games and to make crafts at 9am. There will also be a puppet show at 9:30am and 10:30am. 630-969-7987, sjlcdarien.org

“Get Your Kicks” at A Taste of Route 66 fundraiser Hit the road to Carriage Greens Country Club on Tues., April 24 from 6–9pm and experience a fun-filled evening featuring the greatest taste sensations from local area restaurants, silent auction, raffles, split the pot, entertainment—something for everyone!

Darien Rotary Club is proud to host A Taste of Route 66 again this year. This annual event is the pathway for the Rotary Club to continue their service initiatives in the community. Darien Rotary Club’s signature project is Food for Kids—a program which provides supplemental nutrition to 195 school-age children in the Darien area, ensuring that when they come to school on Monday they are ready to learn. Other programs include Grants-in-Aid benefitting local civic efforts, RYLA which provides leadership training for local high school students and the Darien Rotary Dictionary Project, handing out dictionaries annually to every third grader in the Darien area (over 700 in 2017 and over 6,000 in the last 9 years). Visit tasteofroute66.org for information and to RSVP.

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Now you can add your own events to the Events Calendar at

Easter Egg Hunts

March 24 Westwood and Darien Community Parks

DuPageNeighbors.com

DARIEN SUNDAY

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THURSDAY

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newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com Deadline for the May/June 2018 issue is April 1, 2018 Please note: Some programs listed may require registration and/or fees. Please check with individual organizations.

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5 Admin./Finance Committee 6pm Pre-Council Work Session 7pm City Council 7:30pm City Hall

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Police Committee 6pm Environ. Com. 7pm Police Facility Meet & Greet the Mayor, 6pm Pre-Council Work Session, 7pm City Council 7:30pm, City Hall

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Now you can add your own events to the Events Calendar at

Get a Taste of Rt. 66

April 24 6–9pm Carriage Greens Country Club

DuPageNeighbors.com

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Administrative/ Finance Committee 6pm Pre-Council Work Session 7pm City Council 7:30pm City Hall

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Darien Historical Society Open House 1-3pm Old Lace Schoolhouse

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Municipal Services 6:30pm City Hall

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A Taste of Rt. 66 6-9pm Carriage Greens Country Club

28 Children’s Safety Course 9:30am-12pm Safety Village

Send us your event information! newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com Deadline for the May/June 2018 issue is April 1, 2018

Please note: Some programs listed may require registration and/or fees.

Please check with individual organizations.

Around the Block

for more, visit DuPageNeighbors.com

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Darien Garden Club holds Spring Gardening Inspiration event The Darien Garden Club will hold their Spring Gardening Inspiration event on Sat., March 10 from 8am–2pm. Abigail Derby Lewis, Ph.D., Field Museum of Natural History will give the keynote address: “What You Plant Matters: the collective impact of urban habitat on people and nature.” The event will include two breakout sessions where you will learn about composting, soil, vegetables, natives, pollinators and more, with speakers, exhibits, raffles and a farm-to-table luncheon at Chuck’s Southern Comforts Café, Darien.

630-253-2125, dariengardenclub.com

Safety Village of Darien offers “Children’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Smart Course” The teachers of Safety Village of Darien will host a “Children’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Smart Course” for children of Darien and surrounding communities.

This course is geared for children who are four to seven years of age. Through this course, children will learn and practice skills essential to becoming a safety-smart pedestrian and bike rider.

The safety course will take place Sat., April 28, 9:30am–12pm at the Safety Village of Darien, 7400 Cass Ave. Children should bring a helmet with them for the course. This event is $25 per child, which covers the cost of Safety Village shirts, handouts and snacks. If you are interested in signing your child up for this course, send an email to SafetyVillage@att.net and you will receive a PDF application. safetyvillageofdarien.org

The Kerry Piper’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration benefits St. Baldrick’s Willowbrook’s charming Irish oasis, The Kerry Piper, is hosting its annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration featuring three days packed with lucky fun inside the restaurant and outdoors under a massive party tent. The Kerry Piper will have extended hours Fri., Mar. 16–Sun., Mar. 18. Weekend festivities include a St. Baldrick’s head shaving event, special guest bartenders, several live bands and more. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a not-for-profit organization raises funds to help find cures for children with cancer. The cottage-style Irish pub will offer classic Irish dishes and drinks and truly Celtic fare for guests to enjoy. kerrypiper.com Around the Block is continued on page 22

Neighbors of Darien

Important Contacts Neighbors Magazine 630-995-3482 info@neighborsmagazines.com City of Darien. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-852-5000 City Administrator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-353-8114 Director of Municipal Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-353-8106 Public Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-353-8105 Post Office – Westmont. . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-968-0855 Humane Society – Darien. . . . . . . . . . . 630-375-7976 Fire Departments — 911 for Emergency Darien-Woodridge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-910-2200 (West of Cass) Tri-State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-323-6445 (E of Cass, S of 67th, W of Rt. 83, N of I-55) Lemont. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-257-2376 Police Department — 911 for Emergency Darien. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-971-3999 TDD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-971-3999

Utilities Com Ed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-EDISON-1 Nicor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-642-6748 ATT New Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-244-4444 Repair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-611-4466 Comcast Cable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866 594-1234 Internet Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888 423-7888 Downers Grove Sanitary District. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-969-0664 Advanced Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 708-409-9700 Library Indian Prairie Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-887-8760 Park District Community Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-968-6400 Administrative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-968-6400 Darien SportsPlex. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630-789-6666 Parks Department . . . . . . . . . . 630-968-6400, ext 122

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Free to Fly Gala supports victims of domestic violence On Sat., April 28, 5:30–11pm, Family Shelter Service will hold its annual fundraising gala, “Free to Fly,” at the Drake Oak Brook with proceeds supporting DuPage victims of domestic violence.

Guests will enjoy music, dancing, and silent and live auctions where they can bid on a wide variety of exclusive experiences, event tickets and specialty getaways. Raffles will include a Grand Raffle for a sixnight tropical vacation.

Founded in 1976, Family Shelter Service serves 2,000 women and children annually with shelter, counseling and court advocacy in order to help them find safer futures, free of domestic violence. The gala is Family Shelter Service’s largest fundraiser of the year. familyshelterservice.org

Visit the new WouldShop™ at IPPL Indian Prairie Public Library has a new creative space where kids and teens ages 8–18 can gather to design, tinker, build and make. The WouldShop™ was donated

by Maria and Joe Sadowski and their family and friends in honor of Ed Sadowski. It offers hands-on learning and making through special activities and classes, as well as a variety of readily-available creative and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) equipment. wouldshop.ippl.info

Support the Darien Historical Society If you love the Darien Historical Society and the Old Lace School House, consider making a donation. If you shop on Amazon, do so through Amazon Smiles. Select “Darien Historical Society of Illinois” as the beneficiary and Amazon will donate .05% of every sale to DHS. The Darien Historical Society is located at 7422 Cass Ave. darienilhistory.org/donating

Our Lady of Peace School holds annual Auction Gala Our Lady of Peace School invites you to support their largest and most significant fundraiser—the annual Auction Gala. This event will be held Fri., April 6 at the Marriott Burr Ridge, 1200 Burr Ridge Pkwy.

Our Lady of Peace School is a Catholic grade school located in Darien providing Pre K–8th grade education to more than 300 students from Darien, Downers Grove, Burr Ridge, Woodridge and other neighboring communities. Fundraisers like the annual Auction Gala help keep tuition affordable for families and raise funds for other items for which the budget does not allow.

630-325-9220, olopschool.org