At Home with Merle Burleigh – July 17, 2024

MERLE'S CORNER

With the artistic balloon display at Muy Cool Party Balloon Studio, 137 Turner Court, the dynamics of color festooned the area, drawing many to view it. This came about from the National Frida Kahlo Experience Workshop that owner Melissa Mercada hosted Thursday and Friday, June 11 and 12, 2024. The workshop featured master balloon artist Jesus Tejada, who demonstrated the art and joy of balloon decor and content creation.

The garland-like draping of the different-sized balloons in various hues of red and pinks, with small dashes of greens emphasized the distinguished portrait of Frida Kahlo, wearing a dashing red and small swatches of black costume. Large poster board and paper flowers, designed to portray the flora of Mexico, and the Monarch butterfly, exhibited the core of Kahlo's artwork. She was a Mexican painter known for her many portraits, self-portraits, and works inspired by the nature and artifacts of Mexico.The Cleve Carney Art Gallery at the McAninch Arts Center in partnership with College of DuPage hosted an exhibition of works by Frida Kahlo and historical exhibit from June through September 2021. It provided the information that led to Kahlo becoming one of the most important painters of the 20th century.

Mercada opened the balloon studio and retail boutique in April 2024. The shop has an extensive premium wholesale balloon selection and unique party accessories. The business offers themed balloon backdrops, balloon photo op backdrop, balloon installation on framework, hoop balloon installation, balloon wall, organic garland either installed or grab & go, balloon columns, balloon arches, neon-lit marquee numbers and letters, shimmer walls and themed neon elements. Although the business is now open in this location, Mercada has been involved with many balloon projects, working with other designers or on her own. Persons can purchase items in person or on line. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or any day by appointment. The business is on Instagram and Facebook. Her website is https://www.muycoolparty.com/. https://merleburl.com

AROUND AND ABOUT

• The Commemorative Air Force presents its AirPower History Tour from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday July 17, to Sunday, July 21, at DuPage Airport, 2700 International Drive. It features the legendary B-29 Superfortress "FIFI," accompanied by the P-51 Mustang "Gunfighter," a T-6 Texan, a PT-13 Stearman and an RC-45J Expeditor. The B-29 cockpit tours and PT-13, RC-45J, & T-6 for rides are available all day. B-25 ground tours are available after flights.Saturday and Sunday, B-29 flies at 9 and 10:30 a.m. For further information, visit https://www.airpowersquadron.org/chicago-dupage-il. https://merleburl.com

• "Pet Training 102: Rainy Day Enrichment" is the West Chicago Public Library program at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, 2024, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. Participants learn some tips and fun games when the weather is not conducive for pets to play outside. This is not a training session; no dogs allowed. To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month.

• West Chicago City Museum presents the Historiography program, a non-fiction book reading group, at 1 p.m.Thursday,July 18 2024, in the Museum, 132 Main St. The book is "Travel Route 66: A Guide to the History, Sights, and Destinations Along the Main Street of America" by Jim Hinckley. To get a copy of the book or for further information, visit Friends of West Chicago City Museum website, com or call 630 231-3376. It is not necessary to read the book to attend.

Long one of America's most cherished byways, Route 66 remains a popular tourist attraction and travel route for thousands of travelers every year. While stretches of the once-glorious road have been paved over or bypassed by the interstates, the journey from Chicago to Santa Monica along the path of Route 66 remains filled with unique roadside attractions, spectacular natural landscapes, and fascinating historical landmarks.

• The West Chicago Public Library historical presentation,"But It's a Great Story," is at 7 p.m. Thursday July 18, 2024, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. The program delves into some of the widely popular American legends passed down through generations, even if the truth is a different matter. Some of the legends presented are George Washington's false teeth, Paul Revere's Ride, Johnny Appleseed, and the Curse of the Hope Diamond. Presenting the program is Valeria Gugala. She has more than 40 years of theatrical and speaking experience with a knowledge on an array of topics. To make a reservation, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month. https://merleburl.com

• WeGo Community Theater presents,"Tarzan, the Musical" in the Fine Arts Center at Wheaton Academy, 900 N. Prince Crossing Road. Performances are at 7p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 18 and 19, and at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024. Ticket price is $12. To purchase tickets, visit, https://www.wegocommunitytheatre.org/. Information on cast members is on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/WeGoCommunityTheatre/

Based on Disney's epic animated musical adventure and Edgar Rice Burrough's Tarzan of the Apes, Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend, Phil Collins, and a book by Tony Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang. High-flying excitement and hits, like the Academy Award-winning "You'll Be in My Heart," as well as "Son of Man" and "Two Worlds." make Tarzan an unforgettable theatrical experience.

• West Chicago Park District hosts its annual Taco & Art Fest, "Let's TacO'bout Art," from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Reed-Keppler Park, 129 W National St. The event features live music, art showcases, children's activities and Taco Wars, where local vendors compete for the title of Best Taco. Event sponsors are Republic Bank, City of West Chicago, Aetna, Blachford, Inc., Eddie Vargas-StateFarm and Blue Frost Heating & Cooling

Special performances are by District 33 Folkloric Ballet,Mariachi Universitario and Jose Valdes & The Mambo All-Stars. Mariachi Universitario is a true mariachi with three guitars, two trumpets and 2 violins. Their classic repertoire includes "Guadalajara," "El Rey," "Volver Volver" and "El Ultimo Beso."José Valdes & the Mambo All-Stars perform high-energy music from Latin America including Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Cumbia, ChaCha and Mambo and Latin Jazz. The international orchestra features the music of Celia Cruz, Selena, Tito Puente and Grupo Aventura.

Food vendors are Taqueria St Barbara, La India, Taco Shop and Kool Kat Ice Cream. Activities include petting zoo, bouncy houses, face painter, henna tattoo artist, balloon twister, caricature artist, crafts and games, Artists and art demonstrations are art chalk, carving artist, painting and 3-D printing and various art vendors. Artists and art demonstrations are art chalk, carving artist, painting and 3-D printing and various art vendors.

• "Barbie @ Warner Bros." is the movie for the West Chicago Public Library Adult Saturday Film Series. It takes place at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. It is a 2023 Warner Brothers fantasy comedy film directed by Greta Gerwig from a screenplay she wrote with Noah Baumbach. Barbie and Ken are having the time of their lives in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land. However, when they get a chance to go to the real world, they soon discover the joys and perils of living among humans. Margot Robbie is Barbie and Ryan Gosling is Ken. Refreshments are served. .https://merleburl.com

• The West Chicago Public Library Gettin' Crafty program, "Bee Magnet Set," is at 7 p.m.Wednesday, July 24, 2024, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month. Using Mod Podge, adorable paper, tins, magnets, participants make the magnets for themselves or as a gift.

• West Chicago Public Library offers a Microsoft Excel computer class at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 25, 2024, in the conference room, 118 W. Washington St. Topics covered include layout and basic functions; entering and editing data;using multiple spreadsheets in the same workbook; formatting and sorting data; writing and understanding formulas. To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month.

• West Chicago Park District offers an Olivia Newton John Tribute and Luncheon for adults age 21 and older Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, at Chandler's in Schaumburg. Scheduled hours are 9:30 to 5 p.m. The charge is $65 and includes transportation and lunch. Registration deadline is Monday, July 29. To make a reservation, visit https://www.we-goparks.org/adult-programs.

This entertaining tribute showcases Olivia's most-loved signature songs with spot-on "Olivia-sounding" vocals. The show involves costume changes, lots of interesting Olivia trivia, and a live guitar accompanist. Served at 11:30, the family style luncheon includes garden salad, roasted sirloin of beef, roast turkey, garlic mashed potatoes, vegetable medley, mostaccioli, stuffing, cranberry sauce, dessert, coffee, tea or soft drink beverage. https://merleburl.com

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

• Hawthorne's Backyard Bar & Grill, 1200 W. Hawthorne Lane, holds Family Feud style Trivia at 7 p.m. every Tuesday, starting July 30, 2024. There is no charge for teams of two or more; weekly Progressive Jackpot up to $1000, plus nightly prizes. To register, visit https://www.facebook.com/HawthornesBackyard/. Participants playing July 16 and 17 receive a free submission to win a $500hotel/activity savings card. https://merleburl.com

• The Daily Herald announced the 2024 Readers' Choice Best of the Best winners. From West Chicago in the Recreation and Activities category, it was St. Andrew s Golf & Country Club for Best Driving Range and Best Public Golf Course. In the Places Category, College DuPage was voted Best Community College and Central DuPage Hospital was voted Best Hospital.

REMEMBRANCES

• Deepest sympathy is expressed to the family of Kent Orlandini, who at the age of 88 passed away Thursday, July 11, 2024.

• Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Loretta M. "Lorry" Kuhn (nee Witt), who at the age of 93 passed away Monday, July 8, 2024.

• Deepest sympathy is expressed to the family of Winston A. H. Hallett Sr., who at the age of 87 passed away Monday, July 8,

• Deepest sympathy is expressed to the family of Muriel Anderson,, who at the age of 97 passed away Sunday, June 9, 2024. (This is a CORRECTION. I had the incorrect date of death)

SCHOOLS

• The West Chicago Community High School class of 1965 celebrated its 59th reunion this past weekend. com)

CHURCHES

• Andrew Lutheran Church , 155 N. Prince Crossing Road, has Vacation Bible School from 3 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, July 22 to 26, 2024. The charge is $5 per child, maximum $10 per family. To register, call the church office at 630 231-3787. The theme is "On Earth As In Heaven." Activities include Bible learning, songs, crafts and games, plus snacks.

• Faith Community Church, 910 Main St., hosts a chamber music concert, "La Belle Époque,"at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 27, 2024.The music is "Sonata in A major" by César Franck. Performing are Jake Muzzy on the cello and Frank Messer on the piano. To reserve seats, visit us. The concert also will be streamed at: https://realconcerts.us/. There is a pay what you want with a request for a one dollar minimum.

• Andrew Lutheran Church, 155 N. Prince Crossing Road, hosts a Community Picnic at noon, Sunday, July 28, 2024. There is no charge. In addition to delicious food, there are bounce houses for the youth.merleburl.com)

CLUB/ORGANIZATION NEWS

• The WeGo Together for Kids Steering Committee launches its new Community Council, whose purpose is to make certain the community voices are always a part of the strategic decisions. At this time WGTD is looking for nominations/applications from the West Chicago community.

The Community Council will consist of up to 15 West Chicago residents ages 14 and older. Transportation, child care and language interpretation will be provided as needed. A gift card is provided for each member at each meeting. Deadline for the first round of nominations is Saturday, July 20, 2024. Applications are available at https://forms.gle/vAg349M25SpLLNq47

The Community Council provides input to WGTK's goals and programming, brings attention to pressing issues in West Chicago and encourages participation in WGTK programs, services and events. For a full list of duties, visithttps://www.wegotogetherforkids.com/merleburl.com)

• A Northern Illinois Food Bank mobile food distribution is coming from 4 to 5:30 p.m. once a month Thursdays for six months near the community Center at the Timber Lake Apartment complex. The dates are July 25, Aug. 22, Sept. 26 and Oct. 2, 2024. Then it will come from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 21 and Dec. 19. No identification or proof of income is require, Food is distributed on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. Community organizations will share resources. The event is made possible by the partnership of Northern Illinois Food Bank, Northwestern Medicine, Timber Lake Apartment Homes and We Go Together for Kids. com)

• The 2024 Mexican Independence Day Festival, scheduled originally for September, has been cancelled. Due to other commitments by the organizer of the event, the Mexican Cultural Center of DuPage, there is not sufficient time to plan a safe and successful event. The Mexican Cultural Center has been working on the Olmec Trails exhibit, which is currently being showcased until October throughout DuPage County. This information is per the City of West Chicago and Mexican Cultural Center DuPage.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTS

• Marita Valdizan, Gallery 200 artist, was selected to showcase her crochet wire art in the inaugural Latin (sub)URBAN Art Walk from 1 to 4 p.m.Saturday, July 20, 2024, in downtown Naperville. The event is in partnership with the DuPage Hispanic Alliance. She and her selected artwork,"Delightful Women on a Beautiful Day.," are at MAC cosmetics, 108 W. Jefferson. Valdizan said, "This event is a fantastic chance for me to share my cultural roots through my art with the community." com)

WEST CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT

• During the month of July, the West Chicago Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police and more than 200 local law enforcement agencies to step up enforcement efforts across the state in an effort to reduce speeding. During the speeding enforcement blitz, officers will intensify enforcement of posted speed limits. The speed enforcement effort is made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT.

• The annual Chicago Ducky Derby is Wednesday, Aug.7, 10, 2023, in the Chicago River in downtown Chicago. Each duck adopted in the fundraiser benefits 23,000 athletes and more than 13,000 young athletes for Special Olympics Illinois programs.The West Chicago Police Department has a team, WCP Ducks. DuckAdoptions are $5 for one entry, $25 for a Quack Pack of six ducks or $100 for a Flock of Ducks of 24 ducks. The goal is have 250 ducks adopted. To donate, visit. https://www.duckrace.com/Chicago/teams/10529

The top three ducks are winners. Prizes for the winners include 2024 Chevy Trax; four life-time passes to Six Flags Great America, an all all-new Chevy Trax, a $2,500 cash prize, and a Six Flags Great America 2025 Self-Guided VIP Tour Package. Winners do not need to be present to win. Family Festival is from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The main event, Splashdown for the Duck Derby, takes place at 1 p.m. Persons can watch the dump truck filled ducks waiting for the race to start. The goal is to have 100,000 ducks race. (merleburl.com)

• Wett Car Wash brought donuts to the West Chicago Police Department. The business is located at 193 W. North Ave. com)

WEST CHICAGO PARK DISTRICT

• West ChicagoPark District is working on some key projects to complete this year. These include entryway flower beds of the landscaping at the corner of National Street prior to entering the ARC Center, installation of paver brick as a border to the volleyball court at Cornerstone Lakes Park, construction of a retaining wall around the splash pad at Turtle Splash Water Park, extension of the roadway to Zone 250 from the ARC and pathway development at Kress Creek Park.

Also the district is paving paths to improve accessibility. The paths are from the skate park to the pyramid and basketball courts, from the Cornerstone Lakes parking lot to the bridge, Prince Crossing from the street to the pond, and from the dog parka through the core to the ARC ring road. The ADA Transition Plan audit report identified these projects; funding is from Western DuPage Special Recreation Association funds.

• During the first month of being opened, there are more than 9,500 daily admissions at Turtle Splash Water Park. The water park staff received an overall 5 Star score on its first unannounced audit of the season conducted by Starguide Elite. The criteria for audit scoring is lifeguard observations on-chair performance, skills and scenarios, slide dispatch and facility observations and management.

ODDS AND ENDS

• Construction on the Geneva Road bridge over the DuPage River is scheduled to begin Monday, July 22, 2024. The project includes the removal of the existing two-span concrete bridge and the construction of a new, single-span steel girder bridge. It also involves the installation of retaining walls and sidewalks and drainage improvements, pavement reconstruction, and installation of a stormwater storage facility.

During the first stage of construction, Geneva Road will be closed to westbound traffic west of Winfield Road while crews construct the northern half of the bridge. During the second stage of construction, one lane of traffic in each direction will be open over the newly constructed north half of the bridge as the south half is replaced.

The detour route for the Geneva Road closure is southbound on County Farm Road, west bound on Roosevelt Road, and northbound on Neltnor Boulevard. The project is expected to be substantially completed by mid-2025.

• DuPage County was the recipient of seven Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties. The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents. The winning programs were Back to School, Back to Work; Realtime Winter Weather Solution; Municipal Infrastructure Match Share Program; DuPage County Website Redesign; Police Transparency and Crime Data Portal; 18th Judicial Circuit Court QR Code Project; and Guardianship Family Engagement Mediation Program

Each year, NACO's Achievement Award, launched in 1970, recognize outstanding programming in 18 categories aligned with the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The categories include children and youth, criminal justice and public safety, libraries, management, information technology, health, civic engagement and more. Each nominated program is judged on its own merits and not against other applications.

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