At Home with Merle Burleigh – July 3, 2024

MERLE'S CORNER

Independence Day, Thursday, July 4, 2024, commemorates the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. On July 2, 1776, the Congress voted in favor of Independence and two days later the delegates from the 13 colonies ratified it. The Declaration announced the political separation of the 13 North American colonies from Great Britain.

The first celebration took place July 4, 1777. At night there was an exhibition of fireworks plus a 13-gun salute from the cannon on the ship in honor of the 13 colonies. Fireworks became a part of the celebration, signifying national pride and patriotism. In 1870, almost a hundred years after the Declaration was written, Congress first declared July 4 to be a national holiday.Through legislation, it was declared a Federal holiday in 1941, a paid holiday for all federal workers.

Have a wonderful Fourth of July!

AROUND AND ABOUT

• "Inner Sense" is the exhibit for the month of July at Gallery 200, 118 W. Washington St. The artwork of Elisa Rijos is on display. The artist's reception is from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 3, 2024.

The Venezuelan artist creates colorful and interpretive paintings. Her self-taught style has been developed through interaction with paints, different textures, combination of fluid painting techniques and pigments, and inspiration of natural and vibrant colors that have positive effects on moods and emotions. She selects colors that are fun. She said, "The turn to abstract painting opened up my very personal world of images to me, today I work in acrylic mixing technique combined with different paints such as spray paint. Painting has become one of the main contents of my life."

• The West Chicago Park District monthly social gathering for senior citizens is at noon Thursday, July 8, 2024, at the ARC, 201 W. National Street. The theme is "Independence Day Picnic." The $10 charge includes lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs cooked on the grill, plus some backyard games. Reservation deadline is at noon Friday, July 5, and can be made at https://www.we-goparks.org/special-events. https://merleburl.com

• Gallery 200, 103 W.Washington St., holds art class sessions. Brochures are available at the
  ""The Joy Of Painting" is a four series oil and acrylic class from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, beginning July 11, and ending Aug. 1. Participants, using their own reference photos, learn techniques suitable for both acrylic and oil and how to safely combine these mediums together. A supply list is sent closer to the class date. The cost for the adult only series is $80. To make a reservation, call 630 639-2599 or visit https://www.gallery200.net/.

• Partnering, the West Chicago Public Library and the West Chicago Park District offer a summer concert series in the Shell at Reed-Keppler Park, 832 Arbor Ave. The second concert features John Green at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 10, 2024. He is a Chicago-born singer/songwriter and acoustic guitar instrumentalist, creating fiery, percussive-driven songs and three-dimensional finger style instrumentals. His performance weaves through genres, with sounds ranging anywhere from a driving rock band to a blissful simple melody. https://merleburl.com

• West Chicago Public Library holds a Microsoft Word computer class at 6:30 p.m.Thursday, July 11, 2024, in the conference room, 118 W. Washington St. Participants learn the basics, which includes creating a document, selecting and editing text, saving a document, and inserting page numbers and special characters. To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month.

• West Chicago Public Library hosts a Trivia Night at 7 p.m. Thursday, July11, 2024, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. The subject matter is mysteries and detectives. There is a chance to win prizes.To register, visit https://wcpld.librarycalendar.com/events/month.

• West Chicago Park District hosts Fun Friday at 11 a.m. July 12, 2024, in the Shell at Reed-Keppler Park, 832 Arbor Ave. Providing the entertainment is Headspin Guy, whose high energy provides unique games, challenges and dance moves that defy gravity. His show appeals not only to youth, but also adults.

• The West Chicago Public Library Saturday Crafternoon program, "Colorful Mobile," is at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 13, 2024, in the main program room, 118 W. Washington St. Participants make a summer mobile suitable to hang indoors year round or outside when weather permits.. To make a reservation, 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. Communities throughout each of the eight states have embraced this vital piece of American history and offer a vast array of opportunities to experience the grandeur as well as the lost innocence of the glory days of Route 66.The states are Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California.

Route 66 expert and enthusiast Jim Hinckley provides detailed descriptions and itineraries that allow travelers of all ages and inclinations to explore the myriad wonders to be found along the highway's 2,500 miles. In addition to specific recommendations for places to visit, eat, and spend the night, Hinckley presents history for the highway and its attractions and suggests detours and day trips off the beaten path. all while providing a vivid picture of the road that has long captured the imaginations of travelers from throughout the world. It is illustrated with a wealth of color photos and vintage memorabilia. (Information from Barnes & Noble)

With presentations made in the United States and Europe, the publication of hundreds of feature articles and twenty two books, and with tours, Jim Hinckley has earned the moniker of America's storyteller. His work has been the subject of interviews on television and programs, for blogs and podcasts. (information from Reedy Press) 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/

The musical is about Tarzan, a shipwrecked baby who was raised in an African jungle by apes, having his first encounter with humans, including the beautiful Jane. He must choose where he belongs-the "civilized" human world or the "wild" one that nurtured him. It is based on the book byDavid Henry Tang. Music and lyrics are by Phil Collins. https://merleburl.com

• 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. Special performances are by 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" They have performed for Mexican Independence Day Parade, Columbus Day Parade, andChicago Latino Music Fest.

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.

The District is seeking more artists to participate. Persons interested should email Recreation Supervisor Sara Witteck at [email protected].

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

• The Wrestling Room, 109 Turner Court, recently opened. It is a private practice facility available for drop ins, private coaching or full rental. Memberships are available.The business is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Telephone number is 847 609-5955. At the Historic Preservation Committee meeting Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Joseph Raia, owner, applied for a Certificate of Appropriateness for the installation of two flush mounted signs on the entrance to the building constructed in the 1910s.

Two other owners of Turner Court buildings also applied for COA' s. These can contribute to the improvement of the appearance of this area. Oscar Munoz, owner of 102 Main Street, requested the approval for renovation of theTurner Court rear entry of the Arte Modern building built in the 1930s. The facade is currently boarded up. He is proposing to install two oversized commercial doors with bronze anodized finish and glazed with 1 inch low tempered glass. A window is to be installed on either side. These replicate what was previously on the rear of the building

Melissa Mercado, owner of 135 Turner Court, requested a COA for the installation of a traditional shed style awning with no sides. The awning will contain signage identifying the name of the business in the commercial space. She is the owner of Muy Cool Party, the retail balloon boutique at 137 Turner Court. Before opening the business, she renovated the entryway and windows.

• Dave Portnoy visits pizza shops all over the country to sample one bite of pizza, which appear on his videos, "One Bite Pizza Reviews." He recently visited the Slice Spot, 960 Roosevelt Road. He rated it 6.8. Locally the restaurant receives very good reviews.

• Spare Wheels Transportation recently opened at 1800 W. Hawthorne Lane. It is a professional transportation and bus rental company serving the greater Fox Valley area and Chicago's surrounding western suburbs for more than 40 years. The business provides safe and dependable organized group transportation through affordable charters, plus offer a variety of wheelchair accessible vehicles to transport anyone with special needs for schools and charters. Spare Wheels started in 1987 with one vehicle, a station wagon. At that time, the business drove individual students to local schools. It now has more than 50 vehicles for school transportation, corporate, weddings and rehearsal dinners, college, university, sports, travel, park districts, senior citizens, church groups, concerts, shopping and tourist excursions. Its previous location was in St. Charles.

• Laundromat Family Rueda is the new business and owner of the laundromat at 647 Joliet St.

REMEMBRANCES

• Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Mary Beth O'Brien Taylor, who passed away

Friday, June 28, 2024.

• Deepest sympathy is expressed to the family of Mary Lou Kovac (nee Wheeler), who at the age of 88 passed away Friday, June 28, 2024.

• Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Pamela "Penny" Caligiuri, who at the age of 71 passed away Friday, June 29, 2024,

SCHOOLS

• National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association recently posted All American times. The West Chicago Boys Co-op Swimming team showed well.The medley relay of Nathan Windstorm, Bradley Johnson, Ryan Fors and Sam Ortiz were 33rd fastest in the country and their 400 free relaywas 40th fastest. Johnson's 100 free was for fifth and his fourth in the country.

The West Chicago GirlsCo-op Swimming team had four NISCA All Americans. Individually, Claire Conklin was named All-American in the 50 Free, 46th overall in the country. The relay teams of Hollyn Ambre, Audrey Lindstrom, Claire Conklin, and Amelia Murphy combined to be named All-American in the 200 Free Relay, 62nd overall, and the 400 Free Relay, 70th overall.

NISCA is a professional organization that supports high school coaches of all aquatic sports. They are dedicated to coaches education and athlete recognition through the All America programs. NISCA allows opportunities for coaches to network and exchange knowledge and experience. https://merleburl.com

• At its meeting Monday, June 24, 2024, St. Charles Community Unit District 303 Board of Education approved a five-year contract extension for Superintendent Paul Gordon, more than a year before the expiration of his existing contract. The new contract includes a three percent pay increase. The base salary for 2024-25 contract year is $275,834. Gordon has served as superintendent since 2022. https://merleburl.com

• Jennifer Dalrymple is the new Assistant Principal at Turner Elementary School. She currently is the Executive Director of Professional Development for the Will County Regional Office of Education. Her career in education started as a Spanish and French teacher at Hinsdale Central High School. Dr.Dalrymple next had the position of Professional Development Coordinator in East Aurora School District 131. She also served as a Middle School and Elementary Assistant Principal and Elementary Principal. She received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Illinois State University in Normal and her doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb. https://merleburl.com

COMMUNITY MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTS

• Carol and Richard Vigsnes celebrated their 60th WeddingAnniversaryWednesday, June 26, 2024.

CLUB/ORGANIZATION NEWS

• American Legion Post 300 Auxiliary is celebrating its annual "Christmas in July" with 18 resident veterans Wednesday, July 24, 2024, in the DuPage Care Center. The auxiliary serves dinner, plus gives a gift. The Auxiliary is requesting monetary donations, which can be made from 3to 8 p.m. daily at the Legion, 123 Main St. The deadline for donating is Wednesday, July 17. The funds are deposited into the veterans' personal accounts at the care center, then they can purchase salon services or items from the Center shop. https://merleburl.com

• The Auxiliary of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6791 hosts Bingo on Sundays at the post, 431 N. Neltnor Boulevard. Doors open at noon, games start at 1:30 p.m.

CITY OF WEST CHICAGO

• West Chicago Infrastructure meeting is rescheduled to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, 2024.

WEST CHICAGO FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

• West Chicago Fire Protection District recognizes the June anniversaries of the firefighters. They are Deputy Chief Jeff Keefe with 22 years and Battalion Chief Ric Ciszewski with 21 Years. Celebrating 16 years are Lieutenant Matt Keller, firefighters/paramedics Andy Maxwell, Brendan O'Leary and Erik Therkildsen. Others are firefighters/paramedics Kevin Maczko with 10 Years, Patrick Fogarty with 9 Years, Jon Malhiot with 8 Years, and both Rile Capes and Brendan Sullivan with1 year. https://merleburl.com

• At approximately noon on Thursday, June 27, 2024,West Chicago Fire Protection District personnel responded to a reported structure fire in an apartment building located in the 800 block of Burr Oaks Drive at Main Park Apartments. Upon arrival firefighters had light smoke showing on the third floor with evacuation in progress. The fire was quickly extinguished by fire personnel. All occupants safely evacuated the building; there were no injuries. The fire was confined inside the wall on the third floor center of the building. A fire origin and cause investigation was conducted., identifying the cause of fire as accidental and related to plumbing torch work occurring within the bathroom of a third floor unit. The majority of the occupants of the building were able to return to their apartmentsThe occupants of the two units that sustained damage were relocated to vacant apartments in the complex. Their belongings were not damaged. Assisting were Carol Stream Fire Protection District, Wheaton Fire protection District, Winfield Fire Protection District and West Chicago Police Department. https://merleburl.com

As a side note; this is the same complex, Main Park Apartments, that the fire occurred Nov. 30, 2023, causing serious damage to the three story apartment building, displacing more than 100 residents. The fire started in a second-floor bathroom ceiling vent fan and extended to the roof through the plumbing walls. The last time I went pass it, Saturday, June 8, the building was still undergoing repair. Also there was a fireDec. 13,2022. About 50 people from two dozen families were displaced. https://merleburl.com

ODDS AND ENDS

• Tuesday, June 25, 2024,DuPage County Board Chair Deborah Conroy joined Development Committee Chairman Sam Tornatore (District 1),and Stormwater Committee Chairman Jim Zay (District 6) to celebrate the County's increased rating in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Community Rating System program, which. will result in increased savings on flood insurance for residents living in unincorporated areas of DuPage County. The County was upgraded from a CRS rating of 6 to a rating of 5, meaning unincorporated residents in floodplains are eligible to receive up to a 25 percent discount on their flood insurance premiums. The new CRS rating is expected to save nearly 400 property owners more than $64,000 annually. Since the County enrolled in the program in 2018, residents have saved more than $600,000. More than 1,500 communities nationwide participate in the CRS program. DuPage County has the highest CRS rating among counties in the state. https://merleburl.com

• The Tuskegee Next class of 2024 started their flight training at DuPage Airport this week. These young adults will earn their pilot's license and learn other life skills honoring the original Tuskegee Airmen. Tuskegee Airmen were black servicemen of the U.S. Army Air Forces who trained at Tuskegee Army Airfield during world War II. They were the first African-American flying unit in the U.S. military. In January 1941, the War Department formed the all black 99th Pursuit Squadron of the U.S. Army Air Corps. Using single-engine planes, they were trained at the segregated Tuskegee Army Air Field and graduated in March 1942. Their commander was Benjamin O. Davis, Jr.

Benjamin O. Davis, Jr. entered the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York in 1932 Upon graduation in 1936, he was commissioned in the infantry and in 1941 was admitted to the Army Air Corps and pilot training. Upon his graduation he was swiftly promoted to lieutenant colonel, and organized the 99th Pursuit Squadron, which flew tactical support missions in the Mediterranean theatre. In 1943 he organized and commanded the 332nd Fighter Group, the Tuskegee Airmen. By the end of the war Davis himself had flown 60 combat missions and had been promoted to colonel. He became the first African American general in the U.S. Air Force. (Information is from Britannica) https://merleburl.com

• Saturday, June 8, 2024, Wayne Township's Recycling event was very successful. "It was the largest ever," said Township Supervisor Randy Ramey. "Hundreds of cars came through with all of their items. Thank you to all the Wayne Township staff and elected officials for putting in the time and effort to make this a smooth event" Business participating were Midwest Computer Recycling, Cutting Edge, Document Destruction and USAgain.https://merleburl.com

• A nice-size crowd attended the Hello Summer Fest , hosted by the West Chicago Park District, Saturday, June 22, 2024. They had fun participating the various activities to welcome the summer season .Sponsors were Republic Bank of Chicago, Blue Frost Heating & Cooling and Blanchford Inc. https://merleburl.com

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