Darien Direct Connect E-Newsletter: January 29, 2026

The following email provides timely information on news and services

from the City of Darien.

Weekly eNews - January 29, 2026

Mayor's Message

Earlier this week, as I was reading my daily Chicago Tribune, I came across an article in the Op-Ed section, where the author utilized the above quote as justification for not giving up when we are faced with challenges that at times seem to be overwhelming. As I read this article, I thought to myself that this truth, this belief in the power of an idea still resonates today, perhaps now more than ever.

We live in a world that can feel complicated, divided, and overwhelmed by challenges that seem too large to solve. We live in a world challenged by issues of economic uncertainty, environmental concerns, housing affordability to public safety; issues that create a feeling that our problems are bigger than our capacity to address them. But history, and our own community, tells us a different story.

Progress has never been driven by force alone; it has been driven by ideas, bold ideas, practical ideas and sometimes simple ideas that arrive at exactly the right moment. When an idea’s time has come, it has the power to cut through cynicism, to unite people with different perspectives, and to turn possibility into action.

The truth is this, there is no challenge before us that cannot be met with a good idea, and the will to act on it. Every solution we rely on today began as a thought in someone’s mind. Clean water systems, public libraries, safer communities, thriving local businesses, inclusive public spaces, all were once just ideas, waiting for the right moment and the right people to bring them to life.

In Darien, those people are you; innovation doesn’t only come from those of us here at city hall, it comes from neighbors, students, entrepreneurs, volunteers and families who care deeply about this city that we call home. When we listen to one another, collaborate, and remain open to new ways of thinking, we unlock solutions that no single entity could achieve alone.

This time we are in calls not for despair, but for imagination. It requires our confidence in our shared ability to think creatively, act responsibly, and move forward as a team. When a good idea meets a community ready to embrace it, there is nothing more powerful.

The future is not something that simply happens to us; it is something we build, one idea at a time. So, let’s get busy thinking!

Scroll to the bottom to view Community Events

2026 Citizen of the Year

We are excited to share that The City of Darien is honoring Deborah Uhlar as the 2026 Citizen of the Year!

The extent of Deborah’s activities goes beyond the city making our nominee not only a shining star in Darien but surrounding communities. Deborah is not only noted for the remarkable longevity of her volunteer service, but for her selfless, generous, and immediate response to any person or organization in need. Volunteering is not something Deb seeks recognition for; it is simply part of who she is.

Through her selflessness, consistency, and quiet leadership, Deb has made a lasting difference in countless lives and has strengthened the very fabric of the Darien community. The heart of a volunteer is not measured in size but by the depth of the commitment to make a difference in the lives of others. Deborah Uhlar’s tireless commitment, efforts and positive influence makes her an exemplary choice for this prestigious recognition. Indeed, Deborah is and will continue to be one of the many shining stars in Darien making Darien “a Nice Place to Live”. Read Deb's full nomination here.

In addition to Citizen of the Year, we are also honoring six 2026 Service and Organization Honorees. Thank you to each of you for giving of your time, your skills, and your hearts:

Darien Youth Club (DYC) – Mike Beringer

Darien Woman’s Club (DWC) – Marian Krupicka

Darien Lion’s Club (DLC) – Mike Falco

Darien Garden Club (DGC) – David DeCuir

Darien Rotary Club (DRC) – Pastor Eli Voigt

Darien Business Alliance (DBA) – Jame Burke

On Tuesday, February 17 th at 7:30 pm during the city council meeting, a resolution will be presented to Deborah Uhlar and the Mayor and City Council will recognize the service and organization honorees for their service. All participants and club members are encouraged to attend.

Please Join us for the 2026 Citizen of the Year

and Service and Organization Honorees Dinner Dance

Friday, March 6, 2026

Alpine Banquets – 8230 S Cass Ave

6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The cost of $52.00/person includes family style of Chicken, Roast Sirloin of Beef, and Pasta as well as soup, salad, vegetable, and desert. Open bar and music and dancing.

Reservations can be made by calling Diane at 630-852-8102. Learn more here.

City Council Meeting - February 2

City Council will meet on Monday, February 2, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1702 Plainfield Road. The agenda will be posted here.

Public Hearing Notice - February 4

Notice is hereby given that the Planning, Zoning and Economic Development Commission of the City of Darien will hold a public hearing on February 4, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers, 1702 Plainfield Road, Darien, IL 60561.

The purpose of the public hearing will be to hear testimony from interested persons and make a recommendation on CASE NO. PZC-25-1. Learn more here.

Go Easy on the Salt

While salt can help prevent slippery roads after a winter storm, always be mindful of how much salt you use to clear your driveway and sidewalk. According to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, the salt we use eventually enters our waterways where wildlife can be harmed. Using too much salt can also corrode vehicles, hurt animal paws, damage concrete and kill plants. Follow these tips from the MWRD to help minimize your salt usage:

Shovel first - Salt should only be used after the snow is removed and only in areas needed for safety.

Use sparingly - More salt does not mean more melting. A 12-ounce coffee mug should be enough salt for a 20-foot driveway or 10 sidewalk squares (250 square feet).

Spread - Distribute salt evenly, not in clumps. Clumped salt is wasted salt!

Sweep - If salt is left over on the ground after the ice melts, you used too much! Sweep up leftover salt to keep it out of rivers and streams.

Switch - Salt stops working if the temperature drops below 15 degrees. When it gets this cold, switch to sand.

Darien Garden Club Celebrates 25 Years

The Darien Garden Club is celebrating the organization's 25th Anniversary. They are offering a number of special events throughout this year commemorating this milestone. Mark your calendars and join the fun!

Avoid Tax Scams

You worked hard for your refund, don't let scammers steal it! The Federal Trade Commission says that scams may start with a text or email that asks you to click a link in regards to your "tax refund." These messages might ask you to verify your identity, share personal information, or send money, but it's a phishing scam. The FTC offers these steps to help you determine what to do if you receive a suspicious message:

Know that the real IRS and state tax offices won’t reach out by text, email, or on social media to get your information. Only scammers will.
Don’t respond or click any links. To check the status of a pending tax refund, never use the link from the message. Instead, visit USA.gov to learn how to find out if you’re really getting a federal or state tax refund.
Report and delete the message. Use your phone’s “report junk” option or forward unwanted texts to 7726 (SPAM) and mark unwanted emails as spam or junk. Once you’ve checked it out and reported it, delete the message.
Visit IdentityTheft.gov/steps to learn how to protect yourself before identity theft happens. And if you spot a scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Dancing with the Darien Starz

Just like the TV Show, Darien is bringing you Dancing with the Darien Starz featuring Darien area dancers from local NFP groups supporting Cancer Research. Ticket includes: (4) hour open bar, family style dinner, raffles, split the pot, and a professional dance competition! Get your tickets NOW at: darien.il.us/business then click on the flyer...

Creative Youth Art Fair

Submit Your Art by February 21

The Darien Woman's Club is hosting its 50th Creative Youth Art Fair on Sunday March 1, 2026 at Cass Junior High School from 2:00-3:30 p.m. in the gym. Local community students are invited to submit up to (2) two pieces of art to be judged at the Art Fair. Prizes will be awarded.

Registration to participate is required and the deadline is Friday, February 21 at 10:00 p.m. Register by clicking here or using the QR code.
Click here for rules and regulations as well as event related dates and deadlines.

Many participating young artists have grown up with this event over the years and have gone on to continue their education in the arts to become artists, photographers, and educators or have excelled in many other careers in the arts.

The Darien community is invited to attend the show on March 1 and there will also be an exhibit of the Division Winners and other notable and favored art pieces at the Indian Prairie Public Library during the month of March in celebration of Art Education Month.

Senior Programs

Check out the Downers Grove Township February 2026 Senior Programs Newsletter for information on their upcoming events!

Darien Park District Events & Facilities

Spring Craft Show

The Darien Park District has their Spring Craft Show coming up on March 7! If you're crafty, you're invited to sell your handmade work at the show! Learn how to reserve a space at the show here.

Indoor Movie Night

Calling all Frozen fans for the Park District's Indoor Movie Night on February 27. You can even come early to meet Olaf! Register here to save your spot!

Ladies Valentine Luncheon

Reserve your spot at the Ladies Valentine Luncheon on February 17 at 11:30 a.m.! This is a special event for widows hosted by the Modell Funeral Home at Maggiano's Little Italy and you can reserve your spot by email or by calling (630) 852-3595 no later than February 13. View flyer.

Be in the Know - Help Spread the Word

Darien’s Direct Connect E-Newsletter (DC) is the City’s primary source of information for residents and businesses. Please tell your friends and neighbors about DC, forward this email to them, and ask them to sign up. Signing up is simple and can be done here.

Community News & Events

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Click on the links below for more information on these upcoming community events!

Darien Park District Ultimate Princess Party - January 30: link

Darien Garden Club - February 2: link

Dancing with the Darien Starz - February 6: link

Valentine's Day Luncheon for Widows at Maggiano's Little Italy - February 17: link

Registrations for Darien Youth Club's Spring Baseball, Spring Softball, Spring Soccer, Baseball Winter Workouts, and Softball Winter Workouts are all currently open! Register here