The Lombard Lilac Ledger
Archives
March 10th, 2026
March 10th, 2026
Don't miss out on the latest news and events in Lombard, Villa Park and Glen Ellyn! There's something for everyone.
Author
Mar 10, 2026
Trivia Question❓In the late 1800s, Glen Ellyn promoted itself with which distinctive slogan? A. “The Village of Lakes and Lanterns” Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
 |
2026 Lilac Court Announced |
The Lombard Junior Women’s Club has announced the 2026 Lilac Court, introduced at a ceremony on Sunday, March 1. The new Lilac Princesses are Alexis Rotermel, Charlotte Martin, McKenna Smith, Brielle Long, and Iris Turner, all students at Glenbard East High School.
Pictured left to right are: Princess Alexis Roimicher, Princess Charlotte Martin, Princess McKenna Schanks, Princess Lori Ong, and Princess Elle Turner. Roimicher, Martin, and Turner are juniors at Glenbard East High School. Schanks is a senior at Glenbard East. Ong is a junior at Timothy Christian High School.
Each princess will receive a $1,500 scholarship. The scholarships are funded in part by the Village of Lombard Local Tourism Grant Program.
They will represent the community at Lilac Time events, including the Lilac Queen Coronation, the Lilac Parade, and other village activities throughout the spring. The court is sponsored in part by the Village of Lombard, and one of these princesses will be crowned the 2026 Lilac Queen at Lilacia Park on Saturday, May 2.
Photo courtesy of Rock Valley Publishing |
 |
Fundraiser for Glen Ellyn Community Park |
GLEN ELLYN, IL — A newly launched fundraiser aims to get $800,000 together to help fund the Community Park planned for downtown Glen Ellyn. The fundraiser comes via a joint effort between the Glen Ellyn Parks Foundation and the Glen Ellyn Park District. The event park will comprise the former site of a U.S. Bank at 453 Forest Ave. It's estimated it will cost $5.8 million to transform the area by demolishing the building and parking lot and then constructing the park. Demolition is expected to begin later this summer. |
Groundbreaking Begins for The Union Villa Park Development |
Construction has officially begun on The Union Villa Park, a new seven-story mixed-use development coming to the Old Town area of Villa Park. The project, led by Naperville-based Marquette Companies, will bring 238 luxury apartments and 7,500 square feet of commercial space to the neighborhood.
Located at 100 S. Villa Avenue, the development will also include 94 indoor public parking spaces to support the nearby Villa Park Community Recreation Center, Cortesi Park, and surrounding businesses.
Designed to reflect the area’s historic rail hub roots, the building will feature an industrial-inspired design with brick exteriors, metal accents, large windows, and inset balconies. The apartments will range from studio to three-bedroom units and include modern amenities such as a resort-style pool, outdoor lounges, fitness center, coworking spaces, pet spa, and direct access to the Great Western Trail bike path.
Village officials say the project supports the ongoing transformation of the Old Town district and addresses the growing demand for high-quality housing in the area. Leasing and resident move-ins are expected to begin in fall 2027. |
Outreach House Expands its Service Area |
The Outreach House, a Lombard nonprofit, has expanded its service area to broaden its reach beyond the current borders of York Township to serve several surrounding towns and villages, including Lombard, Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Elmhurst, Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn, Westmont, Hinsdale, and Glendale Heights |
 |
 |
Public Works Citizens Academy Now Accepting Applications |
Public Works Citizens Academy Now Accepting ApplicationsHave you ever wondered how Lombard’s water is treated or how our streets are maintained? The Village’s Public Works Citizens Academy offers residents a behind-the-scenes look at the essential services that keep our community running. This free program is open to Lombard residents ages 18 and older. Classes will be held on four consecutive Monday evenings from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., April 20 through May 11. Participants will learn about the Public Works Department’s day-to-day operations through interactive demonstrations, presentations, and facility tours.
The deadline to apply is Monday, April 13, 2026, or until the class is full. To register or learn more, visit www.villageoflombard. |
 |
 |
Lombard Service League meeting “What’s Happening in Lombard” |
Lombard Service League meeting on March 12. The monthly meeting of Lombard Service League will be held on Thursday, March 12, at 7 p.m. at Lexington Square, 555 Foxworth Blvd. in Lombard.
The evening will begin with taking a look at “What’s Happening in Lombard,” presented by Trevor Dick, Director of Economic Development and Planning for the Village of Lombard. Trevor will discuss all the growth and new developments occurring around Lombard.
The presentation will be followed by refreshments and a brief business meeting. Club members welcome guests to attend. Lombard Service League is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and the 5th/6th District of the Federation of Women’s Clubs. Membership is open to all those interested in participating in community events and service projects. For more information about the club, visit Facebook, the Club website, and call or text 630-988-0625. |
Floral Symphony at Glenbard South |
Event: Floral Symphony' Location: Glenbard South Date: Thursday, March 12 Time: 7 p.m. This event is in its 32nd year and is a fundraiser benefiting the Glenbard South Music Program. Come watch local florists create beautiful floral arrangements right before your eyes. Those floral arrangements will be raffled off to attendees throughout the night, and there will be separate raffles for donated items from community businesses. On top of this, Glenbard South music students will perform beforehand and at intermission. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.gsboosters. org/floralsymphony24/p/tix |
Glen Ellyn Park District's SportSwap |
GLEN ELLYN, IL — Residents can buy gently used gear at the Glen Ellyn Park District's SportSwap on March 22 at Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center. Ahead of the event, unwanted equipment can be traded in for a voucher that is redeemable at the SportSwap sale. Kids' athletic clothes, shoes, bats, balls, protective wear and other items will be available for purchase from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Payment will be accepted in cash, check and voucher. Shoppers should bring their own bags, per the event page. Donations and trade-ins can be dropped off from March 16 and March 20 at Ackerman. Proceeds from SportSwap will be shared by the Glen Ellyn Park District and Glen Ellyn Parks Foundation. Click the link for more information about SportSwap. |
St. Patty's Day at O'Neill's |
Join them for Irish Dancers, food, drinks, and live Irish music! Date: Saturday- March 14th Time:11 am Location:236 St. Charles Rd Lombard |
 |
Shannon's Irish Pub 2 Day St Patrick's Event |
Shannon’s Irish Pub in Glen Ellyn is gearing up for a lively celebration of Irish music, food, and community with a special two-day event featuring the band Bangers Bridge. Event overviewThe celebration will take place at Shannon’s Irish Pub, located at 428 N. Main Street in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. The pub will host performances on Sunday, March 15 from 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., and again on Tuesday, March 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., giving guests two chances to join the festivities. Live musicHeadlining the event is Bangers Bridge, an energetic act focused on Irish folk music and rousing songs about drinking. With acoustic guitar and vocals at the center of their performance, the group promises a spirited sing-along atmosphere that captures the feel of a traditional Irish pub session. Food and drink specialsIn addition to the music, Shannon’s Irish Pub will offer themed drink specials designed to complement the Irish folk playlist. Guests can also enjoy food specials created for the occasion, making the event a full evening out with hearty pub fare alongside pints and cocktails. Community and causeThe event is not just about entertainment; it also supports a meaningful cause. Music donations collected during the shows will benefit the St. Baldrick’s Pediatric Cancer Foundation, allowing attendees to enjoy an evening of culture and camaraderie while contributing to pediatric cancer research and support efforts. |
 |
Hop Into Easter Fun in Downtown Glen Ellyn! |
Bunny Pictures with the Easter Bunny (FREE) |
 |
Sip and Soap Party by Lombard Moose Lodge |
The Lombard Moose Lodge has a Sip and Soap Party. Enjoy some wine while making your own bar of soap. You choose the fragrance, color, and shape of your soap. Soapy Roads Mobile Soap Bar, from Lombard, will walk you through the process.
DATE: March 15th 2026 Time: Event begins at 2 pm, $25 per person.
Location: 328 W Roosevelt Rd, Lombard, IL 60148 Please sign up at the lodge or respond to this post if you plan on attending. This event is limited to 25 people and is open to Moose members and qualified guests. |
 |
Scooping for a Cause at Chocolaterie Stam |
Now through March 21, treat yourself to a scoop of gelato while supporting a meaningful cause at Chocolaterie Stam. During this special event, a portion of all gelato sales will benefit Special Olympics Illinois through Eileen In and the Polar Plunge.
For the past seven years, the Schaefers family, longtime Glen Ellyn residents, have participated in the Polar Plunge in honor of their daughter Eileen, who has Down syndrome. Their dedication helps raise vital funds and awareness for Special Olympics athletes across Illinois. This year, the community can join in supporting the cause simply by enjoying a scoop of gelato—no icy plunge required.
Be sure to try the limited-time “Cookie Monster Gelato,” created especially for Eileen. The fun and nostalgic flavor blends chocolate chip cookie dough, sugar cookie, and cookies & cream into one delicious treat.
Location: Chocolaterie Stam -530 Pennsylvania Ave A, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Stop in before March 21, enjoy a sweet treat, and help support inclusion and opportunity for athletes throughout Illinois. Small acts—like sharing a scoop—can make a big difference. |
 |
Save Date: Sip, Shop & Stroll Ladies Night Out Glen Ellyn |
Grab your girls and get ready for a Sip, Shop & Stroll takeover in Downtown Glen Ellyn!
Stroll through 20+ boutiques featuring:
Sips of wine & mocktails Exclusive deals Delicious bites A night full of fun with friends All included in one unforgettable night out for just $20!
Don’t miss the spring edition of everyone’s favorite girls’ night.
Get your tickets: link in bio |
 |
SAVE THE DATE May 8th Lilac Ball |
 |
 |
Warriors’ Season Concludes in Regional Semifinal |
The Willowbrook boys basketball team wrapped up its 2025-26 season with a 68-42 loss to Wheaton Warrenville South in the IHSA Class 4A regional semifinal on Feb. 25 in Villa Park. The Warriors closed the year with an 11-21 record. The Tigers built an early 15-5 lead and pulled away with six three-pointers in the third quarter. Senior Otis Powell led Willowbrook with 19 points, while seniors Jaylen Griffin and Evan Kase each added six.
Wheaton Warrenville South, the No. 5 seed in the Bartlett Sectional, went on to win the regional title and advance to sectional play at Bartlett High School. |
Rams Capture Regional Title, Eye State Run |
The Glenbard East boys basketball team claimed the IHSA Class 4A regional championship on its home court, defeating Lake Park 61-40 on Friday, Feb. 28.
The victory improved the Rams to 29-3, a new single-season program record. Glenbard East dominated its postseason opener with a 70-36 win over Proviso West before rolling past Lake Park in the title game. Senior Michael Nee led the Rams with 18 points in the final, followed by Danny Snyder and Jacob Marynowski with 12 and 11 points, respectively.
Head coach Eric Kelly praised the team’s focus beyond the regional title. “We don’t take it for granted, but our goal is much bigger. We want to win the last game in Champaign,” he said.
Up next, the No. 1-seeded Rams advance to the Bartlett Sectional, continuing their pursuit of a state tournament berth. Photo courtesy of Rock Valley Publishing |
 |
Shymkiv Claims Historic State Wrestling Title |
Winning Warriors at De La Salle Invite |
The Willowbrook girls track and field team dominated the De La Salle Girls Invitational in Chicago, winning the team title with 160 points, well ahead of runner-up Evanston’s 100.
Individual wins came from Madeline Pentecost in the 3,200-meter run (13:10.52), freshman Rachel Simek in the 800 (2:30.44), and senior Mariangela Popoca in the 1,600 (5:44.46). Sophomore Phoebe Aldana captured the high jump, while relay teams of Bethany Yurich, Paige Simek, Kate Borho, and Rachel Simek (4x800), plus Paige and Rachel Simek, Khloe Adenji, and Kenya Hernandez-Rodriguez (4x400), also brought home first-place finishes. |
Lombard PARK DISTRICT Sports |
|
 |
Scholarship Fundraiser Lunch |
The Villa Park Chamber of Commerce invites community members to a special Scholarship Fundraiser Lunch on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Willowbrook High School, 1250 S. Ardmore Ave., starting at 11:30 a.m. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., with lunch and dessert served at 11:45 a.m. by The Brook Catering Co., featuring Willowbrook High School students, followed by musical entertainment from the Willowbrook orchestra and an art display of student work. The program will include a brief presentation about District 88’s work-based learning initiatives and ways local businesses can partner with the district, remarks at 12:15 p.m., and an optional tour of Willowbrook at 12:45 p.m. Tickets are $25 each, and additional donations are welcome; all proceeds support the Villa Park Chamber of Commerce scholarship fund benefiting Villa Park High School students. For more information or to reserve tickets, contact 630-941-9133 or kschnettler@villaparkchamber.org. |
 |
Villa Park Junior Women’s Club Scholarship |
Villa Park Junior Women’s Club Scholarship – Around 1,500 dollars to a current Villa Park resident who is a high school senior with at least a 3.0 GPA and at least two years of community service; deadline listed as March 15 in the 2025–26 cycle overview.
The Villa Park Junior Women’s Club is sponsoring a scholarship program to benefit two female Villa Park high school seniors. The purpose of this scholarship is to acknowledge and reward the involvement of women who actively serve their community. Two scholarships worth $1000 each will be awarded at the Senior Awards Night(s) at the recipients’ high school in the spring. The scholarship recipient’s decision will be based on the individual’s community service involvement described in the application and personal statement. This scholarship is not awarded based on financial need. |
Free Legal Clinic Expo at College of DuPage |
The Office of the General Counsel at College of DuPage invites the community to a free Legal Clinic Expo from noon to 2 p.m. on Monday, March 16, in the Student Resource Center, Room 2000, at the College’s Glen Ellyn campus (425 Fawell Blvd.). Titled “Ask a Legal Expert: Guidance and Resources for Everyday Legal Issues,” the event offers practical information and answers to common legal questions. Guests can explore topics such as housing equity, veterans’ benefits, family law, and record expungement. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with representatives from UIC Law Fair Housing Legal Clinic, Legal Aid Chicago, Prairie State Legal Services, the DuPage County Bar Association, and the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office. Additional support will be available from Metropolitan Family Services and COD resources. |
 |
Location: 23 W Maple St (map) Join LHS and Esotarium Florals & Decor to celebrate Women’s History month with a hands-on flower bouquet-making workshop! Create bouquets inspired by the women of Lombard guided by the experts of Esotarium! |
 |
Location:23 W Maple St. Lombard (map)
Planning your big day? Join us for a fun and inspiring Wedding Expo featuring talented local vendors all under one roof! Meet the experts, gather fresh ideas, and enjoy a relaxed, stress-free planning experience.
Meet the experts, gather fresh ideas, and get inspired in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere designed to make wedding planning exciting (and stress-free!).
All guests will also receive a complimentary tote bag filled with valuable information from the event’s vendors, as well as details on additional vendors who may not be present in person. |
 |
Be a Chapel Champion- Support Maple Street Chapel |
Your gift helps preserve Maple Street Chapel and supports concerts, community programming, and ongoing care of this historic landmark.
https://maplestreetchapel.org/Donation.HTM |
 |
 |
New Aquatic Shop Opening Soon in Villa Park |
We’re making waves in the neighborhood Stay tuned for the soft opening! 328 E St Charles Rd, Villa Park (Kindly please use Google Map for the meantime to get to the right location as Apple Map is outdated and will take you to West instead of East) Happy Fish Keeping! |
 |
 |
A Taste of Italy Arrives in Downtown Glen Ellyn |
A new Italian dining experience has arrived in downtown Glen Ellyn. A Tavola by Mancini officially opened its doors on February 10 at 504 Crescent Blvd., bringing authentic family recipes and warm hospitality to the community.
The restaurant is inspired by owner Gina Mancini’s upbringing as the daughter of Italian immigrants. Many of the dishes come from cherished family recipes passed down through generations. Mancini recalls how her mother filled their home with the aromas of traditional Italian cooking and the comfort of homemade meals shared together each evening. When dinner was ready, she would call out, “Bimbi, venite a tavola!” — inviting the family to “come to the table.”
At A Tavola, those traditions continue. Chef Enzo Cullotta has helped refine the family recipes into a menu that celebrates classic Italian flavors. Signature dishes include orecchiette with sausage and rapini, rigatoni with butternut squash and sautéed guanciale, and Chef Enzo’s tortellini, served with goat cheese, toasted peanuts, shallots, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and a white wine sauce.
Guests can also enjoy a thoughtfully curated list of imported wines available by the glass or bottle, making it the perfect spot for a cozy dinner or a night out in downtown Glen Ellyn.
A Tavola by Mancini is open Tuesday through Sunday from 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and invites the community to gather around the table and enjoy the flavors of Italy. |
 |
Meet Ronnie! |
Hi, I'm Ronnie! I'm a floofy Pomsky dream come true. I'm so fluffy it's almost unreasonable. How am I so soft? I'm a good natured gal who has a sweet personality. When we first meet, I might be a bit shy- I'm polite and like to observe first. Give me a minute and I warm up with a big smile and soft eyes. I love my people and will give them affection and tail wags. I get along with other dogs, cats and people of all ages. Send in an application to meet me today!
Available for Adoption through West Suburban Animal Shelter https://www.wshs-dg.org/adopt/adopt-a-dog |
 |
 |
 |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Answer: B. “Chicago’s Newest Suburb and Health Resort” |
 |
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. |