“Family is the most important thing in the world”

- Princess Diana

This coming Sunday, September 8, is Grandparents Day, a day when families will come together and acknowledge the love and appreciation they have for their grandparents. As a grandparent there is a joy in witnessing a new generation of our family, and being a grandparent provides a sense of fulfillment, as we see our grandchildren carry on the traditions of our family. 

 Over the years we care for our grandchildren as if they were our own children; yes, we spoil them, but that is an outgrowth of our love for their presence in our lives. We have changed their diapers, wiped away their tears, attended their sporting events, celebrated their academic successes, and quite honestly, made ourselves available to them whenever they needed us. Why? Because as Princess Diana states, “family is the most important thing,” and our grandchildren will always be a part of us, and hopefully they will always have beautiful memories of our presence in their lives. Happy Grandparents Day!

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Suicide Prevention Month

September is Suicide Prevention Month. Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. While suicidal thoughts are common, they should not be considered normal, and they often indicate more serious issues. You are not alone, there is help:

• If you or someone you know is in crisis, call, text, or chat 988, immediately (chat available at 988Lifeline.org).
• 988 offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Call, text, or chat 988.
• Have questions about 988? Visit NAMI’s FAQs to learn more about how 988 can offer judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and suicide crises.

Summer Concert Series

Thank you for supporting our Summer Concert Series! We appreciate all the attendees, the local restaurants, the talented bands, and everyone else who came together for some summer fun.

And thank you for supporting Our Lady of Mount Carmel Food Pantry with donations of cleaning supplies and canned goods. Check out their website to learn how to support the food pantry all year round.

The City is Hiring

The City of Darien Police Department is accepting applications for a Part-time Community Service Officer (CSO).

This is a 25 hour per week position with paid holidays and up to 40 hours of paid vacation per year. Starting pay is $19.21 per hour. Top Pay Range for this position is $23.58 per hour. Uniforms and equipment are provided. The candidate has to be able to work Monday – Friday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (excludes holidays). Schedule may vary during training and special City events.

Learn more and apply here.

St. John Lutheran Cemetery Walk

September 14, 1:00 p.m.

67th Street & Clarendon Hills Road

Select gravesites of area residents from past generations will be toured. Docents in period dress will portray these early settlers and give first person narratives about their lives and

contributions, including insight into local history. Families are welcome! View Flyer

Oktoberfest - September 21

Celebrate the beginning of Fall on September 21 at Oktoberfest at Westwood Park. Bring the whole family and enjoy the food, beer, music, and games from noon until 10:00 p.m.!

National Preparedness Month

Every September is a chance to make and review the plans we have in place in the event of a disaster or emergency, but talking about bad things that could happen isn’t always easy. We may think we’re protecting the people we love by avoiding these conversations, but they are important to start taking steps to get ready and stay safe. 

Starting a conversation today can help you and your family to take more actions to prepare. By taking simple steps, you can build your preparedness at your own pace:

• Set aside a time when everyone is calm and relaxed. 
• It may help to hold the discussions over a set time period, so decisions aren’t rushed, and people feel more comfortable talking about the topic. 
• Talk about steps you’ve taken to prepare and encourage others to ask questions about preparedness actions that might work for them.

Don't worry if you feel like you don't have all the answers during these conversations. Over the next few weeks, we will cover the basics of what to do Before, During, and After experiencing a disaster, so that you can rest assured that you and your loved ones are prepared.

Fire Prevention Week Open House - October 5

The Darien-Woodridge and Lisle-Woodridge Fire Protection Districts are hosting a 2024 Fire Prevention Week Open House on Saturday, October 5. Stop by Station 89 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. to see a firefighter fashion show, try out the children's slide pole, see a K9 demonstration, and more!

Free Dental Day - October 9

Veterans, Active Duty Military Personnel, and their immediate family are all invited to take part in Free Dental Day at Kingery Dental on Wednesday, October 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. They will be offering dental exams, cleanings, sealants, fillings, periodontal evaluations, and pain relief. Call 630-789-0900 to learn more and schedule your appointment.

National Police Woman’s Day

September 12 is National Police Woman's Day - a day to celebrate and acknowledge the women who serve with the Darien Police Department and other police departments across the country. The United States swore in its first female police officer in 1908, and today, women represent about 12% of law enforcement officers in the country. Agencies, like the Bureau of Justice Assistance, are working to increase that number to 30% by 2030. Thank you to all the women who have and will continue to serve our community and country!

211 DuPage - Income Supports and Employment

Find employment and income resources through 211. They can help with your job search, training, preparing your taxes, and more!

Get connected to services by calling 211 or visiting 211dupage.gov.

Darien Woman’s Club Fall Member Registration is now OPEN: link

Treasures in a Trunk Sale - September 7: link

Eisenhower Junior High Music Boosters Car Wash Fundraiser - September 7: link

Darien Garden Club Meeting - Bulbs: Basics, Myths, and Truths - September 9: link

Darien Historical Society Cemetery Walk - September 14: link

Oktoberfest - September 21: link

Fire Prevention Week Open House - October 5: link