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CITY NEWS
Official Facebook, Twitter & Nixle Links 
There are several Facebook pages that come up when doing a search for our City page.  Please use this link to "Like" us for city contact information and current city news on the City of Darien Official Facebook Page 

 

 

The City of Darien Now "Tweets"!  Please follow us on twitter at  Cityofdarien. 

 

The Nixle text alert system provides for the City to send out urgent and emergency alerts via text messages.  This a FREE service.  To sign up for Nixle, visit our website and click on the nixle icon or visit the nixle website here.
Burglary Update from Chief Brown 

Important Information from Darien Police Chief Ernest Brown

Dear Darien Residents,

 

As you recall, late last year we experienced a rash of residential burglaries. Working in tandem with other agencies we have developed sufficient information that will allow us to close several of those cases. In that the investigation remains on-going, I am unable to give very specific detail regarding the nature and scope of the investigation. What I can tell you is that a nationwide burglary ring was responsible and we have identified several suspects. We have recovered jewelry and money. Some of the Darien victims have viewed and tentatively identified some of the items as their property. There will be additional updates as the case continues to develop and we will likely be closing four or five cases.

 

Along similar lines, we also experienced a rash of burglary to motor vehicles, local motor vehicle thefts, and cars being stolen in other jurisdictions and being dropped in Darien. Additionally, several of the steals locally and in adjacent towns were being dropped on the southeast side of Chicago. Again through collaboration and exchanges of investigative intelligence, we have identified three subjects from Chicago who seem to be using the western suburbs as a base of operations for vehicle thefts. We will be closing a number of cases locally as will our sister agencies based upon the identified and in custody subjects.

 

Both of these cases underscore two factors; the continued need for hyper vigilance on the part of our officers and especially our residents. When you see something suspicious, call 911 immediately.
Daylight Savings begins this Sunday. 

Daylight savings time begins this Sunday, March 8 at 2:00am.  Remember to "Spring Ahead" by turning your clocks ahead one hour.

  

Our Fire Districts also remind people to make another change that could save their lives - change your smoke alarm and CO Detector batteries. Changing these batteries twice a year is the simplest and most effective way to reduce tragic deaths and injuries. After you change the battery, make sure you test it to ensure the alarm is working properly. 
Refuse Sticker Rate Hike 
The City of Darien is entering into its fifth year with Advanced Disposal as its refuse hauler.  Each year on April 1st the rates go up according to the contract.  The new rate for refuse stickers is $3.47 each. Residents also have the option to rent a tote and not have to use the stickers.  Tote prices are  $21.29 for a 64 gal tote, and $26.06 for a 96 gal tote.  To rent a tote please call Advanced Disposal directly at 708-409-9700.

Although the rates have changed, the pickup procedure remains the same.  Any stickers you currently have are still valid, and may still be used after April 1st.

City Administrator
(630) 353-8114
(630) 852-5000
(630) 971-3999
(630) 852-5000
Mayor
City Clerk
Treasurer
Ward 1
Ward 2
Ward 3
Ward 4
Ward 5
Ward 6
Sylvia McIvor
Ward 7
City Council Meetings

Monday, March 16
7:30 p.m.
 
Monday , April 6
7:30 p.m.
Agendas for City and Committee Meetings

The following links will direct you to the City Meeting and Committee agendas and packet information on our website.  Stay informed on City issues and upcoming projects!    

All Agendas

View Darien Meetings on YouTube!

You may now view city meetings on YouTube by clickng here.

 

Our user name is DarienCableChannel.  You may still access meetings from the links on  our website.

Meet & Greet Mayor Weaver!

The third Monday of every month at Darien City Hall from 6 - 7pm 

 

Find out the latest city updates - Share your thoughts and suggestions - Get involved - Meet  other residents!

View Darien Police Department Weekly Incident Report
You may view the Darien Police Department weekly incident report by
 clicking here

View Chief Brown's Monthly Press Release

You may view the Police Chief's monthly press release by  
 clicking here

Submit an article for Direct Connect 

You may submit an article for Direct Connect by emailing  mwintermute@darienil.gov
Voter Registration / Early Voting Information 

One of the most convenient ways to register to vote is to download an application and send it in to the DuPage County Election Commission. Simply visit their Websitedownload the pdf file, and follow the instructions on filling out and sending the form! The Election Commission's website also allows individuals to check their voter status, check provisional ballots, browse frequently asked questions, check their eligibility to vote, find a registration location, and more.   

 

The City of Darien also offers voter registration services.  To register at City Hall you must have two forms of identification with you - one of which must be photo identification, and one must show your current address such as utility bill.The last day to register to vote at City Hall is Tuesday, March 10. After that date, you can only register at the Election Commission Office.

 

Early Voting will begin on March 23 and run thru April 4.  The closest location to Darien to vote early is Downers Grove Village Hall at 801 Burlington.  Hours to early vote will be Mon. - Fri. from 8:30am to 7:30pm, and Saturday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.  For more locations to early vote visit the DuPage County Election Commission Website

Play It Safe - Never Donate Money Based on a Phone Solicitation. 

The City of Darien has received complaints from residents regarding telephone solicitations of money where the caller implies some affiliation with the Darien Police Department. The City of Darien is not affiliated in any way with these organizations. Citizens should be aware that most telephone solicitations are not made by the actual organization itself, but are contracted out to a professional fund raising company. As their compensation, professional fund-raisers often charge 80% to 90% of your contribution as a fee. The service you receive from the Darien police Department will never be affected based on your choice not to contribute to a phone solicitor claiming to represent the police department or police union. The advice from the city is to never donate any money based on a phone solicitation. If you have questions please contact City Administrator, Bryon Vana at 630-353-8114.  

 

Some Facts About Police and Firefighter Solicitations:
* Some police and firefighter organizations are not charitable but instead are unions or social groups that will not use your donation for charitable purposes.
* Police officers and firefighters never know you contributed.
* Any coercive statement, direct or subtle, that infers that giving is a way to get better protection or special treatment is a crime and should be reported to the respective police department, the State's Attorney and the Attorney General's office.
* Having the words "police" or "firefighter" in an organization's name does not mean police or firefighters are members of the group.
* Paid professional fund-raisers make most of the solicitations for police and firefighter organizations. Professional fund-raisers often charge 80 to 90% of your contribution as a fee

New Scams Alert! 

The Darien Police are continuing to receive reports from residents that were either a victim of a phone scam or an attempted scam. Since January 15th, there has been 6 police reports; No reports on monetary loss. We are providing our residents with a review of the reported incidents in the hopes that no one becomes a victim.

 

Tax email - A resident received an e-mail from Tax1099.com to complete an online W-9 tax form online for the IRS and says the recipient can use the e-signature feature. The e-mail listed HWOA LLC as the payer and the resident would be a Contractor. Residents or their tax accountants should be the only persons who fill out tax forms. This unsolicited "official looking" notice if filled out could be used to commit identity theft. Do not respond to unsolicited offers or requests for personal or financial information.

 

Make Money With Apple - resident received e-mail for opportunity to make money advertising Apple product on their personal car. Subject told resident he would be paid $500. Resident received check for $2520 with instructions to mail the remainder $1,970 to an address in California.  The check is not legitimate. If the resident cashed the check, he would be responsible for full repayment to the bank. Do not deposit or cash any check received that is for an amount greater than originally stated. Contact the bank listed on the check to verify the check is legitimate. Do not respond to unsolicited offers on phone, Internet, or through mail.

 

Free Walmart Gas Card - resident received a phone call from subject claiming she won a Walmart gas card and would need to provide a credit card number for shipping charges. This is a scam. Once the caller has a credit card number, fraudulent charges will appear.

 

800 Numbers - Resident attempts to call a valid 800-like number (e.g., Edible Arrangements 877-DO-FRUIT --- i.e., 877-363-7848) but mistypes the phone number (e.g., 877-367-7848)

Scammers know that people mistype these types of "alphabet" phone numbers so the scammer buy up the 800 numbers close to the valid numbers. When a resident accidentally calls, the scammer says "We're sorry ... the call volume is so high and we appreciate your business so we'd like to offer you a free $100 Walmart gift card". Ultimately, they ask for your credit card number for shipping and handling.  

 

This is especially tricky is because you, the resident, placed the call. No one called you so you are not expecting to be scammed. The Darien Police Department reminds Residents to never give out account numbers unless you are positive of the company you are speaking with.

 
2015 Private Property Emerald Ash Borer Program  

The City of Darien has recently received competitive quotes for the treatment of the Emerald Ash Borer located on private property. The recommended vendor is Tree and Turf Professionals. The treatment method consists of a licensed applicator injecting the tree with the product Treeage. For additional information regarding the treatment and general information please visit the following website: www.arborjet.com 

           

The tree would be drilled with a small hole(s) and larger trees will require multiple holes based on the diameter of the tree. The Treeage product is injected based on the tree diameter and sealed with a plug(s). The application is good for up to two years. The Ash tree must have a minimal 60% healthy canopy to be a candidate for the treatment. The Tree and Turf Professionals shall review each Ash tree prior to treatment. All payments shall be the responsibility of the homeowner. The contact person for Tree and Turf Professionals is Lyle McGinn at 630-759-7389 or email at lmcginn@treeandturf.com 

 

For more information and for pricing please visit  here.           

2015 Concrete Replacement Program 
In conjunction with the street replacement program, the City of Darien will again offer reduced pricing to residents interested in replacing their sidewalks, driveways and aprons.  Suburban Concrete was awarded the bid for 2015.  The prices are as follows:

 

Driveways                    $6.95 per square foot

Sidewalks                     $4.33 per square foot

Apron w/fiber mesh       $4.47 per square foot

Curb & gutter                $13.95 per lineal foot

Sealer                          $1.25 per square foot

 

Resident wishing to replace their driveways 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 wishing to replace the sidewalk, apron or depress their driveway curb should call City Hall at 630-353-8102.  The City will invoice you for this work.

 

The deadline to participate in this year's program is July 3.

COUNTY/STATE/FEDERAL NEWS
Recycling Event March 21 in Lisle 
Recycle hard to dispose of items such as electronics, bicycles, scrap metal, building / hardware supplies, textiles, batteries, documents for shredding and more at the annual Sustainable Saturday Event in Lisle.

The Village of Lisle, Benedictine University, DuPage County and SCARCE encourages you to bring electronics, SLA, rechargeable and household batteries, bicycles, scrap metal, building / hardware supplies, textiles and more to the annual Sustainable Saturday in Lisle on March 21, from 9:00 a.m. until noon.

 

The drop-off event takes place in the Dan and Ada Rice Center parking lot located on the campus of Benedictine University, which is located at 5700 College Road.

For more information and a list of items accepted visit here

Electronic Recycling Information 

The State of Illinois has banned computers, monitors, printers, televisions, and other electronics from landfills. If any of these items are left curbside, they will not be picked up.  There are many options to responsibly recycle your electronics throughout DuPage County. Residents are encouraged to visit the DuPage County  website or SCARCE for information on how to recycle electronics  

COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
Vote for the NEW DarienFest Logo!

Calling the city of Darien!!! We need your help in order to pick the new logo for this year's 2015 DarienFest! Voting will conclude Tuesday March 10th at 5pm and we along with the Darien Chamber of Commerce will announce the winner on Wednesday March 11th at Noon!  To view and vote on the logos click here https://www.facebook.com/ChucksCafe8025.

 

Join the Darien Chamber
Spring into the Darien Chamber of Commerce and connect!  Join on or before March 10, 2015 and receive all benefits including a free 50 word description and placement in the Neighbors of Darien 2015/2016 Business Directory & Community Guide.  For more details visit the Chamber website, or call 630-968-0004
Shop Local - Shop Darien
The Darien Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce their Shop Local Shop Darien Campaign. We encourage residents to support Darien Chamber businesses that display the Shop Local Shop Darien decal posted in their window. Shop Darien Shop Local Preferred Cards are now on sale for $5 at the Darien Chamber of Commerce office in City Hall or at local Darien Chamber member businesses.  Visit the Chamber at www.darienchamber.com  for all the Shop Local Shop Darien Preferred Offers and Discounts! 
Darien Historical Society "March to Membership"
The Darien Historical Society invites you to support Old Lace Schoolhouse & Museum at 7422 Cass Avenue.  Annual & Life Memberships available!  Please call 630-745-7779 for more information. 
Darien Park District Indoor Flea Market
Darien Park District will host an indoor flea market on Saturday, March 7 from 9am to 1pm at the Community Center, 7301 Fairview Avenue.  There will be over 65 sellers, and admission is free.  For more information please call 630-968-6400
Darien Woman's Club Spring Clothing Resale

Darien Woman's Club Spring Clothing Resale - Save the date for Saturday, March 28 from 9am-2pm at Prairieview School.  Seller registration is starting Saturday, March 7 from 9am-12pm OR Tuesday, March 10 from 5:30pm-8:30pm at Safety Village of Darien.  Seller registration fee is $7.00 cash, after March 10th it will be $10.00.

 

Please visit: http://darienwomansclub.org Or email resale@darienwomansclub.org for more information. Questions: Call Valerie (630-852-4097) or Deb (630-215-4942)  

Boyscout Troop 101 Pancake Breakfast

Boy Scout Troop 101 is hosting their 42nd Annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, March 8 from 8AM to 1PM at the Eisenhower Junior High Commons located at 1410 W. 75th St (2 blocks west of Cass Avenue). 

 

Pancakes, sausage, and eggs are on the menu. It's all you can eat including beverages! No tip! It's a delicious and nutritious way to start your day! Tickets are $6.00 at the door. Children under 6 are free!

Indian Prairie Library Events
 

IPPL Voted Best in the West!

Indian Prairie Public Library was voted Best Public Library in West Suburban Living's 2015 Best of the West issue. For the full list of readers' choices in more than 80 categories, visit here.

 

IPPL 3D Design Challenge for Teens

Teen Tech Week is March 8-14, and the Indian Prairie Public Library is hosting its first-ever 3D Design Challenge for teens in grades 7-12. Students are challenged to design a 3D object that will make the life of a student easier. Entries will be judged on functionality, creativity, and originality. All entries must meet the library's 3D printer policy (visit 3dprinter.ippl.info) and will be printed free of charge. Entries can be emailed to Teen Librarian Tyler Works at tylerw@ippl.info with the subject line 3D Design Challenge. Entries are due Saturday, March 14, and winners will be announced the following week.

 

Teen Summer Job Fair @IPPL

The Indian Prairie Public Library, Darien Chamber of Commerce, and Willowbrook/Burr Ridge Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host a Teen Summer Job Fair on Saturday, March 21, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the library. The fair is for teens seeking summer employment, internships, and/or volunteer opportunities. A panel of managers and job coaches will give advice on how to get a job and keep it from 1 to 2 p.m., and local businesses will be on hand to discuss a variety of opportunities for teens from 2 to 4 p.m. For additional information, please contact IPPL Teen Librarian Tyler Works at tylerw@ippl.info.

EJH Choir Butter Braid Pastry Sale  

The EJH Choirs are participating in a Dessert fundraiser with Rite Bite! These are frozen 1lb 6oz braided pastries with icing included. Just Thaw, Rise and Bake! They are only available through fundraising, so you should order them now! Exceptionally Great and High Quality!   They come frozen and are good for up to a year, so you can save them for Thanksgiving and Winter Holidays!      

                                                                                        

Please help us raise Funds for our Musical, a Sound System & our upcoming Choirs Trip! Support the EJH Choirs!

 

Orders are due March 12. All checks should be made payable to EJH Choirs. Pick-up will occur on March 24 from 2:30 - 5:30pm at EJH. For an extra order form and more information visit EJH Choirs web site.

Cancer Smashers Fun Fair
Cancer Smashers Fun Fair will be held on Saturday, March 14 from 5pm to 9pm at Eisenhower Jr. High School, 1410 75th Street.  100% of the proceeds will go towards Cancer Smashers Postdoctoral Fellow Award of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.  The winner will be chosen by the children of the Cancer Smashers.

Donations Welcome!  For more information please visit
www.cancersmashers.org
Darien Park District Spring Fling Craft Sale
Darien Park District will host a "Spring Fling Craft Sale" on Saturday, March 14 from 9am to 1pm at the Community Center, 7301 Fairview Avenue.  All crafts will be homemade, and admission is free.  For more information please call 630-968-6400.
Hinsdale South Post Prom Craft & Vendor Show

The Hinsdale South Post Prom Committee will host a spring craft & vendor show on Saturday, March 21 from 9am to 3pm at Hinsdale South High School Cafeteria, 7401 Clarendon Hills Road.  Admission is &1.00 per adult, 18 and under are free.  Come and find unique treats and gifts.

Lions Club 44th Annual Pancake Breakfast

The Darien Lions Club 44th Annual Pancake Breakfast will be on Sunday, March 22 at Eisenhower Junior High. The all you can eat breakfast includes Pancakes, Sausage, Eggs, Coffee, Milk and Juice.  Tickets are now available from any Lions Club Member for only $5.00 and kids 5 and under eat free. Please contact Pancake Day Chairman-Lion Andrew at 773-957-3900 with any questions.

Rotary Club Annual Fundraiser "A Taste of Route 66"
The Darien Rotary Club is hosting their annual fundraiser "A Taste of Route 66" on Tuesday, March 24 starting at 6 PM.  The event will be held at Carriage Greens Country Club.  A selection of local restaurants will be featuring their food, as well as a silent and live auction and various raffles.  Cost is $40 per person, and all proceeds will be used by the Darien Rotary Club for their charitable endeavors.  The club's main project is "Food for Kids," a program where the club provides supplemental nutrition to over 100 children here in Darien.  To attend, visit the club's website at www.darienrotaryclub.org or contact Chris at cgerrib@comcast.net or 630-434-5075.
Darien Swarm Football & Cheer Registration 

Boys and girls, ages 5-14, are invited to join us for the 2015 season of Darien Swarm Football & Cheer! Through our program, they will learn football skills and cheer techniques while learning and practicing the skills of focus, tenacity, and dedication. Darien Swarm Football & Cheer is not just an organization but is also a family. We are very lucky to have enthusiastic football coaches with experience, dedicated parent volunteers to support our members, and award-winning football and cheerleading teams!

 

In-person registration dates are March 24, April 21, and May 27 at the Darien Police Station at 1710 Plainfield Road from 6-8pm.

 

Visit us at http://www.darienswarm.com to learn what we are all about!  

Questions? Contact Cathy at  swarmfootball@darienswarmfootball.com.

Darien Garden Club "Spring Gardening Inspiration"
The Darien Garden Club invites you to "Spring Gardening Inspiration" on Saturday, March 28, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Eisenhower Junior High School, 1410 75th Street.  The keynote speaker, Mike MacDonald, will present "My Journey into the Wilds of Chicago," and two additional sessions will offer a choice of eight informative speakers to inspire your best garden ever.  There will be vendors and a raffle, and the $40 admission includes continental breakfast and box lunch.  Reservations are required.  Complete speaker information and Reservation form is on the website or you may contact Cathy by telephone:  630-253-2125 or via email:  dariengardenclub@gmail.com  
15th Annual Darien Dash - Registration Now Open!

Darien Dash is celebrating its 15th year, registration is now open! Run the Dash on Sunday, May 17 at Darien Community Park. The Chamber is excited to announce a new 5k and 10k race course and a FREE Fun Run for children up to 10 years old. Also new this year is Extra Early Bird registration. Once again the Chamber will award $2000 to local schools and $500 to local youth organization, school foundation or booster with the most registered participants. Register online today at www.dariendash.com 

 

Darien Youth Club Baseball Registration

Spring Registration Now Open for T-ball, Baseball and Softball!

 

T-Ball:

Coed 5 & 6 year old

 

Baseball:

Pinto- 7 & 8 year old

Mustang- 9 & 10 year old

Bronco- 11 & 12 year old

Pony- 13 & 14 year old

Colt- 15 & 16 year old

 

Softball:

Minors 8U - 7 & 8 year old (No Arc)

Majors 10U - 9 & 10 year old (Fast Pitch)

Juniors 12U - 11 & 12 year old

Seniors 14U - 13 & 14 year old

 

All children are welcome and eligible to participate in DYC programs, regardless of residence. To register or for more information visit www.DarienYouthClub.org before the April 2nd registration close date

The DYC is currently seeking volunteers for the following positions

  • Directors of Soccer & Girls Softball - Duties include drafting/creation of all teams; working with Club Administrator to schedule games, assisting in all Coaches training efforts; monitoring field conditions to ensure quality play; keeping records on leagues' season records, communicating with parents and coach
  • Photography Manager -This person will ensure that photos are taken, organized, disseminated and archived each season. Reports to Publicity & Communications Direc
  • Membership/Fundraising Committee Members - Help drive membership and participation by assisting with special events. Assist with fundraising efforts by connecting with local businesses to secure sponsorships. Reports to Membership Director.
Interested or want to learn more? Contact Dave Leatherwood at dycpresident1@gmail.com, Nina Jordan Kuhlman at dycmarketing1@gmail.com or Amber Cortez at  dycmembership1@gmail.com.
Family Shelter Service Annual Gala
On April 17 Family Shelter Service will hold its annual gala at The Abbington. The Secret Garden: A Celebration of Hope has the idea of renewal & peace for victims of domestic violence.

The event will have music, raffles & silent/live auctions. Family Shelter's largest fundraiser is critical for funding for shelter, counseling and court advocacy for the 2,000 women and children it serves yearly.

To buy tickets, donate, sponsor, or supply an auction item go to
familyshelterservice.org
Darien Lions Club 2015 Humanitarian Award

Announcing the Darien Lions Club 2015 Humanitarian of the Year Award to honor an outstanding local individual who gives of her/himself in service to others.  Nominations open to all people in Darien and surrounding communities.  Nominate a friend or neighbor today!  Deadline for nominations:  April 25, 2015

 

For award criteria and a nominating form visit the Lions Club website 
Darien Youth Club Candlelight Bowl Fundraiser

Please join us on Saturday, April 25 from 7pm-11pm at Brunswick Zone Woodridge to support Darien Youth Club. Raffles - Split the Pot - Bowling - Food - Fun! For more information or to register visit our registration page by clicking here.

 

DYC is a non-for-profit youth sport organization that has been around for over 50 years. Events like this help off-set registration costs when facility rental rates increase every year, help supply us with additional equipment updates and much more.

 

Interested in donating a raffle prize or would like your company to sponsor a lane - contact Amber Cortez for more details at dycmembership1@gmail.com 
American Cancer Society Relay for Life Information
American Cancer Society Relay for Life:

Donate your fabric scraps for area high school students to make quilts from. Quilts will be sold and proceeds donated to help support cancer preventions programs, cancer research, and free services to cancer patients in the local are.  drop off locations in Darien are: Chucks Southern Comforts Cafe,  Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church and Wild Orchid Salon at 75th & Lemont.  For more information call Donna at 630-368-6656

Informational Meetings - All are Welcome: Tuesdays, March 10, April 14, May 12 and June 9.  All are at the Downers Grove Library at 1050 Curtiss St., Room A.  Contact lLeslie at 630-932-1151 or visit relayforlife.org/downersgrovewoodridgeil

Join other businesses donating to the Treasure Chest for a Cure, which will be raffled off to help fund cancer prevention programs.  Contact Leslie at 630-932-1151 or visit  relayforlife.org/downersgrovewoodridgeil
Join the Darien Senior Club!
Doing - Sharing - Caring!  The Darien Seniors Club was founded in 1975, to serve Darien and surrounding communities Senior Citizens.   If you are age 55 or older please join!  Darien residency is not required.  The club meets at noon on the second Tuesday of each month at the Darien Sportsplex, 451 Plainfield Road.  For more information please call 630-852-6482