Hinsdale pianist takes top prize in Elmhurst
The Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra named winners in the 2025 Stanger Young Artist Competition, with pianist Tong-Bai Deng, of Hinsdale, coming in first for his performance of “Piano Concerto No. 2, Movement IV” by Sergei Prokofiev.
The contest’s three finalists performed with the symphony orchestra last month at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church. The others were Sam Deverman, Elyse Schlesinger, Julian Kolthammer and Sarah Gomez, a horn quartet that played “Konzertstück for Four Horns and Orchestra” by Robert Schumann, and violinist Neal Eisfeldt, who performed Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s “Violin Concerto, Movement I.”
The annual competition, partly supported by the Kiwanis Club of Elmhurst, celebrates younger classical musicians by giving high school performers the chance to appear as soloists accompanied by a professional orchestra.
The judges, who were seated in the audience, evaluated the finalists on interpretation, musicianship and stage presence before announcing the winner live. The panel included Michael Lewanski, Peter Lipari and Andrea Lafranzo.
Oak Park’s Rehm Pool open for season
Rehn Pool at 515 Garfield St. in Oak Park has reopened – with one exception. Construction still is happening on the new activity pool featuring a current channel, lily pad crossing and new waterslides, although it should open soon.
The wading pool, kiddie area and main pool are open for business. Parking in the lot is limited because of construction equipment, but street parking is available.
Cardholders at the Oak Park Public Library can check out a free pass for one week to use during public swim times. Up to four people may use a pass. One pass is released each Sunday on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Annual pool passes cost $82 for residents and $164 for nonresidents. Daily admission is $15, $6 for lap swim for those 16 and older and $13 for visitors. Children 1 and younger are admitted free, but all others must pay. Information is at 708-725-2000.
Oak Brook Park District’s financial reporting earns award
For the 30th year in a row, the Oak Brook Park District has earned national recognition for commitment to financial accountability and transparency from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada.
The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the District for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year that ended April 30, 2024.
“This award reflects the outstanding work of our finance team and our unwavering commitment to transparency, stewardship of public funds, and fiscal integrity,” Laure Kosey, executive director of the park district, shared in a news release.
An impartial panel reviewed the annual comprehensive financial report and judged it to meet the standards of the association’s program.
AAUW accepting items for late June sale
Those who need a new home for books, CDs, LPs, video games, audiobooks and DVDs can donate them through June 23 to the American Association of University Women Elmhurst Branch NFP for its annual used book sale.
Collection bins have been set up at Sandburg Middle School, 345 E. St. Charles Road; Elmhurst Park District’s Courts Plus, 186 S. West Ave.; and the Elmhurst Public Library, 125 S. Prospect Ave.
The sale will be June 26 to 29 at Sandburg Middle School. Preview night, from 6 to 9 p.m. June 26, costs $20 to attend. Children younger than 12 will not be admitted that night.
All other days have free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 28 and noon to 3 p.m. June 29. On the last day, books will be sold for $10 per bag.
Proceeds will be used for local scholarships and national AAUS research and programs for women and girls. Details are at https://elmhurstarea-il.aauw.net/ or by calling 630-832-4677.
Darien vet earns Veterinarian of the Year nod
Veterinarian Rand Gustafson of Darien Animal Clinic has been named one of the Veterinarians of the Year by Trupanion, a pet medical insurance company.
The announcement came just weeks before the company’s Veterinary Appreciation Day, which is June 18. The company hosts its annual awards event to “celebrate and recognize the veterinary community for their profound impact on the lives of pets and their families,” a news release noted.
Nominees are submitted by veterinary professionals and their clients.
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