Darien Direct Connect E-Newsletter: May 4, 2023

The following email provides timely information on news and services

from the City of Darien.

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Weekly eNews - May 4, 2023

Mayor's Message

"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to

turn on the light." — Albus Dumbledore

We all appear shocked when we hear of someone in the public eye who has taken their life due to a mental health issue. What is even harder and more shocking is when the individual is a close friend or relative. Think back and I would imagine that we can each find not one, but several losses we have experienced due to an individual being overcome by their personal demons. What is sadder, is many of us never knew that these individuals were suffering and carrying such personal torment.

The month of May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and you might ask, why introduce the topic of mental health with such a dire description of events. My answer would be that we still live in a society where those in need of services often shun seeking those services due to the stigma attached to mental illness. While we have a tendency to keep our health issues fairly private, we do not hesitate to seek medical advice when we are experiencing a condition meriting a physician’s attention. Whereas an individual suffering from a mental health crisis may avoid seeking professional help simply due to the way society views individuals suffering from anxiety, depression or any of the myriad symptoms of mental illness. While we have come a long way in reducing the stigma of mental health issues, and have developed more treatment options, we still have a need for educating and advocating for mental health.

During this National Mental Health Awareness Month, please take time to be better informed regarding mental health issues and treatments. Our Indian Prairie Library will have resources you can examine, or you can contact NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) with local offices here in DuPage County for more comprehensive information. Remember, the information you gather may help you in identifying the needs of a relative or friend who is in need of help; your intervention may be what they need to seek professional treatment. Fred Rogers of Mr. Rogers fame summed it up nicely by saying, "There is no normal life that is free of pain. It's the very wrestling with our problems that can be the impetus for our growth."; Mental Health treatment can help an individual through a difficult time in their life, and in the end lead to a better quality of life.

Mental Health issues are more common than any of us realize; let’s all play a role in helping someone, before it is too late to intervene.

May is Mental Health Month

Each year in May, the DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) recognizes Mental Health Month with other national organizations to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and substance use treatment, help individuals access resources for support, and reduce stigma.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 call, text, and chat access to highly trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, a mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. People worried about a loved one who may need crisis support can also call, text, or chat 988 for assistance. Learn more about DCHD Mental Health resources here.

Welcome New Department Heads and City Officials

Please join us in congratulating Darien's Department Heads and City officials who were sworn in during the May 1st City Council meeting. We look forward to working together to serve and support our community.

Congratulations to Darien's City Officials

City Clerk, JoAnne Ragona
City Treasurer, Mike Coren
Alderman Ward 2, Ralph Stompanato
Mayor Joseph Marchese
Alderman Ward 6, Eric Gustafson
Alderman Ward 4, Gerry Leganski

Darien's Department Heads

Dan Gombac, Director of Municipal Services/ Community Development
Bryon Vana, City Administrator
Greg Thomas, Police Chief

Thank You for Your Service

Alderman Tom Chlystek of Ward 4 and Alderman Lester Vaughan of Ward 2 each received a resolution thanking them for their service as Aldermen.

Restore the Local Government Distributive Fund

On April 19 and 20, Mayor Marchese led a large group of Mayors to Springfield to meet with the Governor and to lobby State Legislative leaders regarding the restoration of “LGDF” or the Local Government Distributive Fund. It is important to share this information with all of our Darien residents regarding this effort and to ask all of you to become involved by contacting your local State Senator John Curran and State Representatives John Egofske and Anne Stava Murray and asking them to support Senate Bill 180 and House Bill 1116.

As Illinois lawmakers prepare this year’s State Budget, Mayor Marchese, President of DMMC and other local government leaders are urging the General Assembly to Invest In Communities and restore the Local Government Distributive Fund to 10%. Visit InvestInCommunities.org to learn more and make your voice heard by contacting your state legislators and posting on social media using #InvestInCommunities.

Additional information

Balcony Repairs at City Hall

You may have noticed the construction at City Hall. The north entranceway and balcony to City Hall was in disrepair and it is being remodeled.

Economic Development Committee Meeting - May 4

The Economic Development Committee will meet on Thursday, May 4, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall. The agenda will be posted here.

Public Service Recognition Week: May 7-13

Beginning in 1985, every year we take time to celebrate Public Service Recognition Week to honor and thank those who serve our nation as federal, state, county and local government employees. Thank you for choosing to serve our community and dedicating your time and energy to making Darien a nice place to live!

Business Spotlight - Compass Lending

8182 S Cass Ave., Darien | Phone: 630-541-9213 Email

Everyone dreams of home ownership, but few actually know the steps to make that dream a reality. That’s what we are here for! Compass Lending offers a variety of mortgage options. We work with multiple banks to find the lowest rate and the program that suits you best. From excellent communication and competitive rates to easy applications and fast closings, everything we do is to help you get into your dream home faster. We're mortgage experts, so we do mortgages best. Let us find the best loan for your new home, refinance, or investment property. We are so excited to be doing business in the City of Darien. We work with several clients all over the Chicagoland area and this is the perfect location with easy access to I-55.

Shop and Dine Locally this Mother's Day

Have you decided what to get for the special mother in your life? Darien has the perfect local option for you, whether you are looking for a special gift, a spa gift certificate, or a reservation for a delicious meal. Check out this business directory or restaurant directory and find the perfect option!

Tornado Preparedness

Know the signs of a tornado, including a rotating, funnel-shaped cloud, an approaching cloud of debris, or a loud roar like a freight train.
The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, then become familiar with the warning tone.
Pay attention to weather reports. Meteorologists can predict when conditions might be right for a tornado.

Tornado Preparedness Tips