Community Events and Achievements in Suburban Areas

Berwyn Pride Walk Celebration

The annual Pride Walk in Berwyn will occur on June 27 from noon to 2 p.m. in the Depot District. Starting at James Boyce Irish Pub, the walk will head towards East Avenue. This celebration supports inclusivity and LGBTQ+ pride. Bungalo+, Berwyn Development Corporation, and City officials back the event. Festive attire is encouraged for this family-friendly gathering that unites local leaders, community groups, and residents.

Mayor Robert Lovero emphasizes Berwyn’s spirit of connection, stating the Pride Walk symbolizes the importance of everyone being seen, supported, and valued in the community.

Local Students Awarded National Merit Scholarships

Local students have been recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation with scholarships worth $2,500. Winners include:

• Joshi Rishikesh from Hinsdale South High School, planning to study chemistry
• Alexander Sjullie from York High School, intending to study applied mathematics
• Yazmin Crisostomo from Hinsdale Central High School, aiming to study medicine
• Kathleen Krasnewich from St. Ignatius College Preparatory School, planning to pursue engineering
• Emmie Guo from Hinsdale Central High School, with a focus on medicine
• Nathan Leonauskas from Lyons Township High School, focusing on engineering
• Grace Rhoten from Lyons Township High School, targeting biomedical engineering
• Maclane Zich from Benet Academy, planning to study medicine

These students are part of the 6,700 finalists who shared nearly $24 million in scholarships after initial screening based on PSAT/NMSQT scores.

Oak Brook Resident Becomes Second Lieutenant

Skylar Parker from Oak Brook has been commissioned as a second lieutenant into the U.S. Air Force at Clemson University. Majoring in language and international health, Parker joined 40 other ROTC members representing four armed forces branches. They participated in a Silver Dollar Salute at Military Heritage Plaza to mark their first salute from an enlisted member.

Elmhurst Teens Awarded Hospital Foundation Scholarships

Elmhurst teens received Teen Volunteer Health Profession Scholarships from the Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation. Scholarship recipients, Erin Horn, Sophyia Sendelbach, Teah Navarro, and Ariya Shah volunteered at Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital. They plan to pursue health-related careers and met criteria such as volunteer service hours, academic achievements, and community service. Scholarships, ranging from $2,500 to $4,000, are funded by the Reindeer Route Housewalk and community contributions.

Darien Summer Concert Series

Darien’s summer concert series starts with a performance by Fuze on June 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Darien Community Park. The free concert invites families to bring chairs and blankets. Upcoming performances include Dick Diamond & The Dusters on July 30 and Heart to Heartbreaker on Aug. 27. Attendees are encouraged to donate canned goods and cleaning supplies to the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Food Pantry.

Trivia Night at Elmwood Park Library

Trivia enthusiasts can participate in a trivia night on June 30 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Elmwood Park Public Library. Teams of up to six can compete, with prizes for winners. Contact 708-435-7645 for more information.

Author Events at Oak Park Bookstore

The Book Loft in Oak Park hosts authors Meg Waite Clayton and David Ellis. Clayton will discuss her book “Typewriter Beach” and sign copies on June 25 from 6 to 7 p.m. Ellis will hold a launch event for “Keep Them Close,” a sequel to “Look Closer,” on June 30 at 6:30 p.m. For details, call 708-665-3199.