At Home with Merle Burleigh – December 17, 2025

MERLE'S CORNER

With the downtown area aglow with the holiday lights of the City of West Chicago and West Chicago Public Library, so too are the other areas of the community. Thus, it means it is Ooh and Ahh time. As usual, Supermercado Tampico, 516 Main St. provides a colorful sight. At the ARC, 201 W. National St., the lights from the trees cast a shimmering glow. A residence on Colford St. is a winter wonderland. Taking the time to go oohing and aahing brightens the holiday spirit. https://merleburl.com

Due to the holidays, my Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, column will be posted Tuesday, Dec. 23.

AROUND AND ABOUT

• Sons of the American Legion host a Christmas Potluck from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec.20, 2025, in American Legion Post 300 hall, 123 Main St. Doors open at 11, dinner is served at 1 p.m.; ham is provided and guests bring dish to share. The event is open to the public. https://merleburl.com

• The Grinch continues to grow in popularity. Understanding this, the West Chicago Park District hosts its second annual "A Grinchmas Gathering" from 8 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, in the ARC, 201 W. National St. The charge is $25 for residents, $30 for non-residents and no charge for children under the age of one. Children must be accompanied by a guardian. All participants must be registered. To register, visit https://www.we-goparks.org/special-events; Activities include breakfast, greetings with both the Grinch and Santa Claus and making holiday crafts.

• The North Pole Theatre is open at the West Chicago Public Library all day, starting at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, in the main meeting room, 118 W. Washington St. All movies are rated G or PG. Among the items available from the Kris Kringle concessions are popcorn, hot chocolate and specialty snacks. Optional holiday-themed activities are provided during and in between the movies. Movies and times are "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas" at 10 a.m.; "Frosty's Winter Wonderland" at 11:20 a.m.; "Elf " at noon; "Dragons: Gift of the Night Fury" at 2 p.m.; 2018 version of "The Grinch" at 2:35 p.m.; "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" at 4:10 p.m.; and "The Nightmare Before Christmas" at 5:05 p.m.Following the last movie, the library holds a Holiday Perter Bead Craft at 6 p.m. Participants make holiday coaster ornament that ties in with the last movie of the marathon event.

• West Chicago Park District holds an Adult 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026, in the ARC Center, 201 W. National St. Players compete in a round-robin tournament by single elimination playoffs. Registration is individual; players form their own teams. Games are self-officiated. Registration deadline is Monday, Dec. 22, 2025. To make a reservation, visit https://www.we-goparks.org/athletics.

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

• Kamila's Cakes, 151 W. Washington St., has a special sale on tamales, made fresh and full of flavor. Traditional tamales are $3 each, $16 for six, and $30 for twelve. Available are Green Chicken Sauce, Reds with pork and Sweet Neapolitans stuffed with cream cheese. Gourmet Tamales are $3.50 each, $18 for six and $35 for twelve. The Duvalin fillings are Gancito or Ferrero chocolates. Pick-up times and dates are from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, or from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24. To place an order, call 630 256-1742. Holiday hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, closed Christmas Day and New Year's Day. https://merleburl.com

• La Michoacana Elite, 129 W. Roosevelt Road, hosts a holiday party from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025. Pictures with Santa take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Fun exercise is Zumba with Don Vicky from 7 to 8 p.m. The Posada party is from 8 to 9 p.m. Included in the festivity are tamales, drinks, piñata, and music. To help with its Christmas celebration, Dan Czuba, owner and real estate broker of Daniel and Associates Real Estate, gave them a $250 donation, plus $250 of items and gifts. https://merleburl.com

• Hawthorne's Backyard Bar & Grill, 1200 W. Hawthorne Lane, hosts a family Gingerbread House Making Contest from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025. It is free for children ages 3 to 15 with prizes for first, second and third place. Free cookies and hot cocoa are served. Seating and supplies are limited; there is only one house per family. To make a reservation call 630 293-2700 and talk to the manager. https://merleburl.com

• Kamila Cakes owners, Jesica Moreno and Rodrigo Garcia, received an Entrepreneurs Award from Radio Internacional Chicago 112.3 FM at the annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025. They said, "Thank you very much to everyone for your love and support. This recognition fills us with a lot of happiness." "The event is a special evening to celebrate successful business owners and entrepreneurs whose dedication, leadership and vision continue to propel us toward the future. It is time to recognize and applaud the excellence of the Latino business community." Kamila Cakes is an artisan pastry shop with a decade of experience, founded by two passionate bakers. They offer delicious homemade cakes made according to the wishes of their customers, as well as a variety of pastries and freshly brewed coffee. "Their commitment to quality and creativity has allowed them to serve a growing community of cake lovers." The award is quite impressive, and, I am certain, it has a place of honor in their place of business located at 151 W. Washington St. https://merleburl.com

• WeGo Together for Kids received donations from Chris Heating & Cooling. Staff from West Chicago Community High School helped sort the donations. With this donation, more children with families in need receive gifts. https://merleburl.com

REMEMBRANCES

• Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of John "Jack" Joseph Niland, who at the age of 93 passed away Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025.

• Deepest sympathy is expressed to the family of Stanley A. Klimek, who at the age of 81 passed away Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.

• Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Rocco F. La Spisa, who at the age of 46 passed away Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025.

SCHOOLS

• The last day of elementary schools and high schools is Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.

• Jonathan Ocampo is the West Chicago Community High School Athlete of the Week for Monday, Dec. 1, 2025. In his new role varsity point guard on the basketball team, he averaged 17 points per game, six rebounds and three assists, leading the team to a 2-1 record, and earning All tournament Team at the Lisle Thanksgiving tournament. https://merleburl.com

• Educare West DuPage recently celebrated the Tenth Work Anniversary of teacher assistant Johana. "Johana's care, patience, and steady presence have made a lasting difference in our classrooms and in the lives of the students she supports every day. We are truly grateful for all she brings to our community." https://merleburl.com

• Wheaton Academy music students participated in the recent Illinois Music Education Association District Music Festival. The students were Toby Morden in the Jazz Band, Anna Willemssen and Bryan Edmonstone in choral groups, Jenna Jasper in the Concert Band, Addie Cathey, Via Kersey, Claire Jeong and Toby Morden were in the Orchestra. Four students qualified to represent Wheaton Academy at the state level, which takes place in January. They are Toby Morden in all state band, Claire Jeong and Adelyn Catheyin all state orchestra and Bryan Edmonstone in all state chorus. https://merleburl.com

CHURCHES

• Faith Community Church, 910 Main St., holds a Blue Christmas service at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025. The service honors people who have lost loved ones and are experiencing grief.

• Glen Arbor Community Church, 204 Church St., has a drama production during its 10 a.m. worship service Sunday, Dec.21, 2025.

• Faith Community Church, 910 Main St., has a Carol Sing at 11:15 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025.

• Some local churches hold Christmas services at their usual worship hours on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025. Some churches hold special Christmas Eve services on Wednesday, Dec. 24.

• Christ Fellowship Church, 28W240 North Ave., has two Christmas Eve Candlelight services; the first is at 2 p.m., and the second one is at 4 p.m.

• Faith Community Church, 910 Main Street, Christmas Eve service is at 6 p.m.

• Glen Arbor Community Church, 204 Church St., Christmas Eve Candlelight service is at 7:30 p.m.

• New Hope United Methodist Church, 643 E. Washington St., Christmas Eve Candlelight service is at 7 p.m.

• New Life Bilingual Church, 468 Ann St., worship service is at 11:15 a.m. Sunday.

• Renewal Church Christmas Eve worship service is at 5 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 23, in the ARC, 201 W. National St.

• St Andrew Lutheran Church, 155 N. Prince Crossing Road, holds two Christmas Eve services. The contemporary service is at 4 p.m., the Spanish service is at 6 p.m.

• Mary's Catholic Church, 164 N. Oakwood Ave., Christmas Eve services begin at 4 p.m.in English, 6:30 p.m. in Spanish and Latin at midnight in the chapel. Christmas Day services are 10 a.m. in English, noon and 5 p.m. in Spanish.

• Michael's United Church of Christ, 400 W. Washington St. Christmas Eve Candlelight service is at 9 p.m.

• Trinity Lutheran Church, 338 George Street, Christmas Eve service is at 7 p.m. The Christmas Day service is at 10 a.m.

• West Chicago Bible Church, 205 S. Oakwood Ave. Christmas Eve Candlelight service is at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23.

• West Chicago Church of Christ, 350 James St., worship service is at 10:30 a.m. Sunday.

• Wheaton Bible Church, 27W500 North Avenue, Christmas Eve services, start at 5 p.m.-contemporary and 7 p.m.-Spanish Tuesday, Dec. 23. Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, Contemporary services are at 2 and 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. is the traditional service.

• The last day of Hanukkah (Chanukah) is Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, beginning at sundown on Sunday, Dec. 14, and lasting for eight nights until nightfall on the 22nd, concluding the Festival of Lights with the eighth candle lit.

• Andrew Lutheran Church, 155 N. Prince Crossing Road, celebrates the ninth day of Las Posada at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025.

• New Hope United Methodist Church gave a one-time donation of $1,000 to Neighborhood Food Pantries at 123 Fremont St.; a fourth quarter increase from the usual $500 quarterly donations. The church purchased $500 worth of Uber gift cards in $25 increments for the West Chicago Police Department social worker to be dispersed to people needing transportation to court dates and those seeking shelter in emergency situations. Also the church donated $1,000 to the Freedom Commissary, which is a service organization that assists homeless Veterans to get housing.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTS

• Elias Kent Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution presented the Excellence in Community Service Award to Zoeie Kreiner, CEO and Founder of Stress Over Stigma. "Zoeie's unwavering dedication to our military, veterans and first responders is at the heart of everything we do at Support Over Stigma. This honor highlights the countless hours, compassion, and leadership she pours into serving those who serve us all." Kreiner is a board member of the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce. https://merleburl.com

• Sons of American Legion Squadron Commander Michael Scheffler is the recipient of an award from the National Headquarters of the Sons of the American Legion. Scheffler was Runner up to the National Commander of the Year. His unit is associated with America Legion Post 300. https://merleburl.com

CLUB/ORGANIZATION NEWS

• During the month of December, American Legion Post 300, 123 Main St., opens at noon on Saturdays. In addition to the specialty brats for $4, there are special holiday cocktails.

• West Chicago Youth Cheer Organization holds registration for its very first Spring season. The charge for returning Fall athletes is $430. The charge for new athletes is the same, plus $135 for uniform. Registration ends Thursday, Jan. 1; fees are due by Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026. For more information and to register, visit https://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=wegoyouthcheer. Spring Season includes weekly practices, weekly tumbling classes, three stunt clinics, team bonding, and two competitions. https://merleburl.com

• The West Chicago Rotary Club was a source of warmth during the successful Frosty Fest event Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The members served more than 1,000 cups of hot chocolate. The West Chicago Lions Club kept busy serving popcorn. https://merleburl.com

CITY OF WEST CHICAGO

• Friends of West Chicago City Museum have a new ornament for the holidays. The round wooden ornament features the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad depot. The charge is $10. Ornaments are available at West Chicago City Museum, 132 Main St.; Gallery 200, 103 W. Washington St.; and Main Street Gallery, 200 Main St.

This Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad depot was built in the late 1860s, replacing the original depot that dated back to 1850, which is when the Burlington built its very first track from Junction (now West Chicago) to Aurora. Today's Burlington Northern Santa Fe, America's largest railroad, started in West Chicago. The depot was donated to the City by the Burlington in 1976. It was moved from its original site on Wood Street to Heritage Commons, a former railroad park on Main Street. It was moved back near its original site in 2005, located at 134 Turner Court behind the City Museum. https://merleburl.com

• The votes were cast for the Frosty Fest window decorating contest, which had the theme of candy canes. Winners are Currier Elementary PTO for first place, Daisy Troop 56960 for second place and Girl Scout Troop 56548. Prizes for the contest included $250 for first place, $150 for second place, and $100 for third place. Other creative artists were CAPE, Despertar Latino, Educare West DuPage, Gary PTO, West Chicago Sister Cities, Turner Elementary PTO, WeGo Together for Kids and West Chicago Parks Foundation. Businesses whose windows were decorated were El Coco Loco, Ferny's Salon, Gorditas Liselena, Jackson Hewitt Tax Service, Light up the Floor, Raised Bakery & Cafe, Renacer Hair Salon, Republic Bank, The Whistle Stop, Vida Activa Nutrition, and M. Lauhoff & Company. https://merleburl.com

WEST CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT

• The West Chicago Police Department joins law enforcement agencies across Illinois in a major traffic safety effort through Monday, Jan. 5, 2026. The officers take part in the statewide "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, "Drive High. Get a DUI." and "Click It or Ticket" campaigns. These enforcement efforts are supported by the Illinois Department of Transportation's statewide outreach media program. "It's Not a Game." which reminds motorists that driving is serious business. Drivers should plan-ahead to prevent impaired driving and reduce the severity of crashes; designate a sober driver, use public transportation, or arrange for a ride-sharing service. Report dangers, wear seatbelts, avoid distractions and drive the speed limit.

• DuPage County Sheriff's Office recently hosted its annual Shop with a Cop event. Participating were the West Chicago Police Sergeant Tony Reyes and his friend. The event included breakfast, looking at some law enforcement vehicles and a photo opportunity with Santa. Following this was a lights and sirens parade to Meijer, where the children shopped. Each child received $150 to spend on family members and themselves. https://merleburl.com

• The West Chicago Police Department participated in the statewide "Click It or Ticket" and "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" mobilization to reduce crashes and save lives., which ran from Friday, Nov. 21, through Tuesday, Dec.2, 2025. Enforcement focused on seat-belt use, speeding, distraction, and alcohol and drug-impaired driving, including cannabis. During the Thanksgiving campaign, the West Chicago Police Department reported 13 speeding citations, 24 occupant restraint citations, 2 electronic device use citations, 14 other traffic citations and 1 traffic arrest. The Thanksgiving enforcement effort was supported by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation and aligns with the Illinois statewide campaigns of "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over," "Click It or Ticket" and "It's Not a Game" campaigns.

ODDS AND ENDS

• The ARC Center, 201 W. National St., is open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 24, no childcare is available. Closed Christmas Day. It is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. the day after Christmas, Dec.26, no childcare is available.

• West Chicago Public Library, 118 W. Washington St., is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

My email address is [email protected].