The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Latest News
|The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Latest News

Subscribe

The Lombard Lilac Ledger

The Lombard Lilac Ledger

Archives

March 3rd, 2026

March 3rd, 2026
Edition 5

Author

Mar 3, 2026

Trivia Questionâť“

Before it was incorporated as the Village of Lombard in 1869, by what name was the area known in the 1830s and 1840s?

A. Churchill’s Crossing
B. Babcock’s Grove
C. DuPage Station
D. St. Charles Crossing

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Safety Upgrades Underway at Glen Ellyn Preschool Following November Incident

GLEN ELLYN, IL — Parents in Glen Ellyn are calling for faster action and clearer communication from the Glen Ellyn Park District as safety improvements move forward at the preschool housed inside the Glen Ellyn Park District’s Main Street Recreation Center.

 

Concerns began in early November after a man attempted to enter a preschool classroom and was reportedly seen taking photographs of activity inside. According to the Glen Ellyn Police Department, no charges were filed. Police indicated the individual appeared to be a First Amendment auditor photographing in a public space, as the preschool operates within a public recreation facility.

At the Feb. 17 Park District board meeting, Executive Director David Thommes outlined several safety measures already in progress.

 

Safety Improvements in Motion

  • Shatterproof security film has been installed on preschool windows.

  • Six to seven security cameras are scheduled to be strategically placed throughout the building.

  • The district has hired a security consultant to conduct a broader safety assessment of both the preschool and the recreation center.

Over the next four to six weeks, district officials will continue working with the consultant to identify additional improvements.

 

Possible Classroom Reconfiguration

One proposed change includes relocating classrooms so they are consolidated onto one or two floors within the facility. However, district leaders noted that any major reconfiguration would likely take place after the school year ends to avoid disrupting students.

 

Parents have emphasized the need for transparent updates as the process continues, expressing a desire for both immediate safeguards and long-term solutions.

 

The situation remains under review as the Glen Ellyn Park District works to balance public facility access with enhanced preschool security measures.

For ongoing updates about Glen Ellyn and the surrounding communities, stay connected with your local news sources.

Community Promotion & Tourism Committee Meeting

Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026

Time: 7 pm

Location: Community Room at Village Hall-255 E Wilson Ave, Lombard

Village Board of Trustees Meeting

Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026

Time: 6 pm

Location: Board Room at Village Hall 255 E. Wilson Ave Lombard

A Cup of Hope fundraiser on March 1

Northern Illinois Food Bank unveils its upcoming “A Cup of Hope,” presented by Cultivate Power,

When: Sunday, March 1 

Time:1:30-4 p.m.

Where: Abbington Banquets, 3S002 Route 53, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137,  Website: www.solvehungertoday. org/cup 

Community Program to Spotlight Poverty in DuPage County

AAUW Presents: Combatting Poverty in DuPage County

Did you know that many individuals and families in DuPage County are struggling with poverty, food insecurity, and limited access to healthcare? A local program aims to shed light on these challenges — and explore how community members can make a difference.

The AAUW Wheaton-Glen Ellyn Branch is hosting an in-person presentation focused on poverty in DuPage County and the resources available to support neighbors in need.

 

Featured Speakers

Laura Glaza, Executive Director of the Glen House Food Pantry, will share insight into local food insecurity and how the pantry serves residents who live, work, or attend school in DuPage County. 

Kara Murphy, President of the DuPage Health Coalition, will discuss healthcare access for uninsured and underinsured residents. 

 

Event Details:

When: Wed, Mar 4, 2026 at 6:45 PM

Where: Glen Ellyn Police Department, Community Room, 65 S Park Blvd, Glen Ellyn, IL, 60137

 

The program is open to members and guests, and pre-registration is not required. Please note this presentation will be held in person only (no virtual option available).

 

For more information about the AAUW Wheaton-Glen Ellyn Branch and its community initiatives, visit:
https://wheatonglenellyn-il.aauw.net

This event offers an important opportunity to better understand the realities facing some of our DuPage neighbors — and how we can all play a role in supporting a stronger, healthier community.

CHOIR: District 87 Voices of Glenbard Concert

Date: Tuesday - March 3rd, 2026

Time:7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Location: Glenbard East High School, Biester Hall 1014 S Main St, Lombard

Meet and Greet IL State Rep. Margaret DeLaRose 

Date: March 5th 

Time: 7- 8:30 pm

Location: The Glen Ellyn Book Store Main Street Glen Ellyn

Stop by the Bookstore for a meet and greet with District 42 Illinois State Rep candidate Margaret DeLaRosa.

Bags & Brews - Bags Tournament - Glen Ellyn

Face off in a good old-fashioned cornhole competition at Ackerman SFC. Teams will consist of two players and will participate in a double-elimination tournament. Prizes will be awarded to the top two teams, and craft beer and seltzer will be available for purchase. One person will register as the team captain. Tournament rules, bracket, and waiver forms will be emailed to the team captains prior to the event.

Ages: 21 and up
Date: Friday, March 6
Time: 6-10 pm
Location: Ackerman SFC, 800 St. Charles Road, Glen Ellyn
R/NR Registration Fee: $60/$70
Register »

Vendors Wanted!  (Lombard) Spring Craft & Vendor Market

Calling all makers, artists, crafters, and small brands! Applications are now open for the (Lombard) Spring Craft & Vendor Market, happening:

DATE: March 13–15, 2026
Time: Friday & Saturday: 10 am–5 pm
          Sunday: 11 am–5 pm
Location: Yorktown Center | Lombard, IL

This high-traffic spring shopping weekend draws enthusiastic Chicago-area shoppers ready to browse, buy, and support small businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase handmade goods, boutique products, specialty foods, home décor, gifts, and more- Strong spring buying energy.

Interested vendors can apply now at:
👉 hometownvendormarket.com/chicagospring

Know a local business that should be there? Share this opportunity and help support our creative community!

Glow up your night of surprises as you search for hidden treats scattered outside! But wait, there's more! Keep your eyes peeled for golden eggs containing extra prizes. Bring your own flashlight and bag or basket to hold your eggs. 

Date: Friday, March 27

Time: And be early, the event starts at 7:30 pm sharp.

Location: Villa Park Recreation Center

 Register today. 

A Cinematic Milestone: 40 Years of 'Lucas' in Glen Ellyn

Downtown Glen Ellyn is proud to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Lucas, the beloved film that once transformed our streets into a movie set. The local filming and release of Lucas, which was produced in 1986. “Lucas” starring Corey Haim, Charlie Sheen, Jeremy Piven, and Winona Ryder. This week‑long tribute honors our shared history, the film’s enduring charm, and the special role our community played in bringing it to life. Enjoy memorabilia in the lobby and fun on‑screen trivia that brings the nostalgia back to the big screen.

 

SAVE THE DATE!

Date: Thursday, March 19th - March 26th

Location:Glen Art Movie Theater - Glen Ellyn 

Annual Adult Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt Fundraiser.

The Lombard Lilac Parade is hosting our  Annual Adult Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt Fundraiser. You can purchase your tickets online at www.Lombardlilacparade.com through events. We will be having a split-the-pot raffle and raffle for prizes. Looking forward to see you there.

SAVE The Date

Date: Saturday, March 28th, 2026

Time: Registration 7- 7:45 pm  Hunt: 8 pm

Location: Madison Meadows Park Lombard by Gazabo

After Party: Manny's Ale House in Elmhurst

Sign Up for Lombard's Community Garage Sale Days June 26-27th

Sign up for Spring Declutter! They handle all event marketing and map creation. You just grab your stuff and put it out at your home. Register to participate in townwide Garage Sales on June 26th and 27th. Contact Gina Damore at 847-217-9604

Register with this link  https://bit.ly/40AtN70 

Summer Day Camp Registration Opens March 1

Summer fun is coming!  
Resident registration opens Sunday, March 1, for Day Camp and, new this year, Sports Camp! Secure your spot early! 
More information in the Spring Activity Guide: lombardparks.com

Montini Wrestlers Shine at Class 3A State Meet

Montini Catholic delivered an impressive performance at the IHSA Class 3A Individual State Meet in Champaign, highlighted by two state runner-up finishes. Sophomore Erik Klichurov (113 lbs.) and junior Allen Woo (120 lbs.) each advanced to the championship matches, finishing second in their respective weight classes. Klichurov closed his season at 37-3, while Woo finished 41-9.

 

The Broncos also saw strong podium finishes from senior AJ Tack, who placed third at 175 pounds, along with fourth-place finishes by juniors Mikey Malizzio (132 lbs.) and Gavin Ericson-Staton (285 lbs.). Junior Bobby Ruscitti placed fifth at 126 pounds, ending his season 47-2, while seniors Santino Tenuta (165 lbs.) and sophomore Will Konder (157 lbs.) each earned sixth-place honors. Sophomore Sam Swais competed at 215 pounds.

 

Montini’s season continues as the Broncos head to Bloomington for the IHSA Class 3A Dual Team State Meet, where they will face Edwardsville in the quarterfinals.

 

Glenbard East seniors Ismael Chaidez (126 lbs.) and Orlando Hoye (190 lbs.), along with Willowbrook senior Aris Neal (120 lbs.), also represented their schools at the state meet, proudly concluding their seasons in Champaign.

Glenbard East Cheerleaders Compete at IHSA State Meet

The Glenbard East High School cheerleading team recently represented the Rams at the IHSA Competitive Cheerleading State Meet held at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.

 

The team earned its state berth after finishing fifth in the Coed-2 division at the Buffalo Grove Sectional on January 31. Competing against 24 of the top teams in their division, the Rams delivered a strong performance during the February 6 preliminary round. Although they did not advance to the final round on February 7, qualifying for state marked an impressive accomplishment for the program.

 

Team members making the trip to Bloomington included Claire Olsen, Yolanda Gonzalez, Liyah Adams, Courtney Coletto, Angel Hill, Allison Yuknis, Makayla Hagenbart, Makayla Beasley, Mariah Smith, Carsyn Corral, Daija Trice, MJ Acuna, Keira Carr, Margo Nunamaker, Wyatt Wilson, Leighann Schreiber, Madison Leicht, and Nick Logalbo.

The Rams are led by head coach Kelly Dolan.

 

Congratulations to the team on a successful season and on representing Glenbard East on the state stage!

Lombard Baseball -Regular Division Baseball Player Assessments

To best schedule out times and keep assessments moving, there are specific time slots below. Please adhere to these times to avoid backups.
Minor (3rd/4th grade): Last name A-L 5:15-6:00 pm
Minor (3rd/4th grade): Last name M-Z 6:15-7:00 pm
Major (5th/6th grade): Last name A-L 7:00-7:30 pm
Major (5th/6th grade): Last name M-Z 7:30-8:00 pm
*There are no JR workouts
The player will check in at the lobby at the Madison Meadows Athletic Center, and only the player is allowed in the gym. Parents, please remain in the lobby and feel free to view from the window area. Once they start their station, it should take roughly 30 minutes for the full assessment; however, we will do our best to keep the stations moving and avoid backups. Please help reiterate to the players that the assessments are not to be stressed about and that they should just try their best. Players should have a bat, glove, protective gear, and helmet. Please bring/wear dry gym shoes.

2026 Lombard Garden Club College Scholarship

Applications Now Open for Lombard Students

The Lombard Garden Club is offering scholarships up to $3,000 each to Lombard residents who are high school seniors, home-schooled students or students currently enrolled in a college program. Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 College Scholarship program, with awards of up to $3,000 per recipient.

The scholarship is available to Lombard residents who are:

  • High school seniors

  • Home-schooled students

  • Students currently enrolled in a college program

Eligible applicants must be planning to pursue a career in fields such as horticulture, ecology, landscape design, agriculture, environmental conservation, botany, forestry, or other related environmental disciplines.

To qualify, students must:

  • Maintain a minimum “C” average, verified by an official transcript

  • Submit two letters of recommendation from teachers or school counselors

  • Provide a personal statement outlining their career goals

While not required, participation in extracurricular activities is encouraged and may strengthen an application.

Students with questions or those ready to apply can email their completed materials to swiemer@turnstonedev.org.

The application deadline is March 13, 2026.

Lombard students passionate about the environment and ready to take the next step in their education are encouraged to apply early and take advantage of this valuable opportunity.

Lilac Princess Applications Now Open

The Lilac Princess Program is a leadership and scholarship opportunity for young women in Lombard, Illinois. This time-honored tradition has been in existence in our community for over 90 years, and it is an important part of Lilac Time in Lombard.

Participants gain valuable skills through volunteer work, community involvement, and mentorship.

The contest is open to young women of Lombard who are between 16 and 21 years of age. 

 

Five Lilac Princesses are selected and serve as the Lilac Court, community ambassadors for the Village throughout Lilac Time. 

Each Lilac Princess is awarded a $1,500 scholarship, funded through a Village of Lombard Tourism Grant.  

Click here to apply 

History After Hours at the Carriage House - LHS

Once a month, the Lombard Historical Society opens one of our historic sites for special evening hours—and this month, it’s the Carriage House!

Date: Tuesday March 3rd, 2026

Time: 4–7 PM for a unique after-hours experience.

Location: Lombard Historical Society Carriage House

Explore our powerful exhibit, Breaking the Mold, and discover the inspiring stories of people from—and connected to—Lombard who challenged expectations and broke through societal barriers.

Step inside, explore history in a new light, and be inspired!

Hello Girls: Women Who Connected the Nation Lecture

LHS presents local historian Megan Gensler. Join as Megan will introduce the Hello Girls, the highly skilled and independent women of the US Army Signal Corps who performed vital translating and communications logistics during World War I.

Learn about the important role of the telephone and the important role that women played in connecting the nation and beyond.

Date: Saturday - March 7th

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Location: LHS Carriage House 23 West Maple StreetLombard, IL

Join in person or virtually. Registration is required. https://lombardhistoricalsociety.ticketspice.com/hello-girls 

Glen Ellyn Historical Society Welcomes New Executive Director

The Glen Ellyn Historical Society has announced the appointment of Dan Schoeneberg as its new Executive Director. Schoeneberg officially began his role on Tuesday, February 17, working out of the Glen Ellyn History Center.

 

Schoeneberg brings more than 30 years of experience as an award-winning museum professional. His career includes leadership roles at Living History Farms, Conner Prairie Museum, the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, and the Montgomery County Historical Society in Dayton, Ohio. Throughout his career, he has worked in site development, historical interpretation, museum administration, exhibits and curatorial services, and educational program development.

 

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Historic Preservation from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Arts in Historical Administration from Eastern Illinois University.

 

Schoeneberg lives in Glenview with his wife, two children, and their dog, Chloe. Outside of work, he enjoys gardening, reading, woodworking, and exploring new interests.

 

The Historical Society invites members and prospective members to stop by and meet him. The History Center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.gehs.org or call 630-469-1867.

 

Local history enthusiasts can look forward to fresh leadership and continued preservation of Glen Ellyn’s rich heritage under Schoeneberg’s direction.

Supporting Families with Compassion & Confidence

A welcoming new resource in our area is helping families slow down, reconnect, and move forward with clarity. Located at 300 S. Ardmore Ave. in Villa Park, this practice provides compassionate, evidence-based care designed to support children, teens, caregivers, and entire families.

 

Their mission is simple but powerful: to create a calm, supportive space where families can gain insight, strengthen connections, and confidently navigate life’s challenges—together. Whether working through everyday stressors or more complex concerns, their team focuses on practical tools, emotional growth, and lasting resilience.

For added convenience and accessibility, telehealth appointments are also available.

 

Families looking for guidance, connection, and expert support close to home will find a trusted partner right here in our community.

“Smack Desserts” Sweetens Up Lombard Soon This Spring

Sweet news, Lombard! A brand-new dessert shop is set to open at Roosevelt Road and 1300 S Unit B Main Street in Spring 2026 — and it has a heartfelt hometown story behind it.

After a successful year in the catering business, the team behind Smack Desserts is taking the next big step: opening a storefront right here in Lombard.

 

For the owner, this moment is especially meaningful. Having grown up in Lombard, opening a business in their hometown is truly a dream come true.

 

And this won’t be your typical dessert shop. The team promises creative, one-of-a-kind treats you won’t find anywhere else. Chicago’s first ice cream sandwich dessert station. They’re inviting the community to share ideas too — what desserts would you love to see on the menu?

 

Lombard, get ready for something AMAZING. 

Follow along for updates on Instagram: @smackdonuts

Spring 2026 can’t come soon enough!

Newly HFSAA Certified Restauant in Lombard

 Sufra Authentic Yemeni Cuisine is the newest addition to Lombard’s dining scene, introducing the rich, slow-cooked flavors of Yemen to the heart of DuPage County. Located at 411 E Roosevelt Road in Lombard, Sufra was highly anticipated in the community and has now opened its doors, inviting guests to experience traditional dishes in a warm, welcoming setting. The restaurant focuses on authentic Yemeni recipes, featuring aromatic rice, tender meats, and fragrant spices that reflect the country’s culinary heritage.

 

Early guests highlight Sufra as a place for true Yemeni home-style cooking, presented in a modern, comfortable space that is suitable for families, friends, and food lovers trying Yemeni food for the first time. The team behind Sufra emphasizes quality, hospitality, and generous portions, aiming to make the restaurant a go-to destination for Middle Eastern and Yemeni cuisine in the western suburbs. With its recent opening, Sufra gives Lombard residents and visitors a new opportunity to explore bold, authentic flavors without leaving the neighborhood.

Meet Girlfriend - A sweet Lhasa Apso/ Bichon Frise

Girlfriend

A.R.F. Pet ID:18602297
  • Species: Dog
  • Breed: Lhasa Apso / Bichon Frise (medium coat), Bichon Frise
  • Age: Adult
  • Sex: Female
  • Size Potential: Small
  • Spayed/Neutered: Yes
  • Housetrained: Yes
  • Energy Level: Moderate
  • Good with Cats? Yes
  • Good with Dogs? Yes
  • Good with Kids? Older or considerate kids only

 

đź’ˇ Answer to Trivia Question:

B. Babcock’s Grove.

RelyLocal Lombard Area helps connect residents with trusted local businesses while keeping dollars circulating in our community. We partner with locally owned shops, restaurants, and service providers to offer exclusive rewards, digital coupons, and community-based promotions that benefit both businesses and customers. Through our RelyLocal Rewards Card and local fundraising programs, we help schools, teams, and organizations raise money while supporting small businesses. Our mission is simple: strengthen the local economy, support neighborhood businesses, and make it easy to shop local in Lombard and surrounding communities.

/>
The Lombard Lilac Ledger

© 2026 The Lombard Lilac Ledger.

The Lombard Lilac Ledger is a local online newsletter for the Lombard community. It shares news, events, and fun things happening around town, along with highlights of local businesses and neighbors. Our goal is to help people stay connected and support the small businesses that make Lombard a great place to live. Each issue is positive, easy to read, and focused on bringing our community together. Because when we support local, Lombard grows stronger.

© 2026 The Lombard Lilac Ledger.