U.S. Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García came to the far western portion of his district Tuesday to congratulate the village on its sesquicentennial anniversary. Several politicians issued proclamations or sent letters of recognition, which were on display at a reception following the village board meeting. (Jim Slonoff photos)
The mood was unusually jovial at Tuesday night's Hinsdale Village Board meeting.
"Thank you all for coming," Village President Tom Cauley told the crowd. "Usually when we have this many people in the room it's not a good thing."
The village's first official 150th anniversary celebration brought out everyone from residents to former trustees to a U.S. congressman.
After conducting regular business (see roundup on Page 6), Cauley read a sesquicentennial proclamation, citing the importance of the railroad, significant early figures in village history and its willingness to change with the times.
"Whereas, as a community of choice, Hinsdale continues to maintain its ability to be both historic and progressive, offering hometown charm to its residents and visitors, while also providing exceptional business, health and educational amenities," he read.
The proclamation also declared the American Beauty rose as the village's official flower and dedicated it in the memory of Penny Bohnen, a longtime resident and preservation advocate.
Cauley wasn't the only one to read a proclamation. U.S. Rep Jesús "Chuy" García got up to the podium to read the statement he submitted in Congress honoring Hinsdale.
"It's in the Congressional record forever, so maybe people will refer to it 150 years from now when Hinsdale celebrates its tercentenary. I looked that up," he added with a laugh.
Michael Bailey, representing state Sen. Suzy Glowiak-Hilton, also read a certificate of recognition on her behalf, as she is in session in Springfield this week.
The village received proclamations and letters of recognition from Gov. JB Pritzker, Sen. Dick Durbin and other political leaders. All were on display with other memorabilia in the rotunda, where a reception was held after the meeting.
Cauley recognized several politicians and village organizations had representatives in attendance. Boy Scouts from Troop 10, which is also celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, led the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of the meeting.
Cauley repeatedly thanked those in attendance.
"I never expected this kind of a turnout," he said.
