Happy Friday, Antioch!
As we approach Veterans Day weekend, I had the honor of attending the District 117 Veterans Day Assembly and U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider’s event at the College of Lake County this morning. These gatherings were poignant reminders of the dedication and sacrifices made by our veterans, and we extend our deepest gratitude for all they do for our country and community.
I’d also like to congratulate all the winners of last week’s election, locally, at the state level, and nationally! Thank you to the candidates for their hard work and commitment and to all who voted, ensuring your voices were heard in this important process.
Looking ahead, candidates for the 2025 Consolidated Election on April 1 can start filing their petitions on Tuesday, November 12. With the Mayor and three Village Trustee positions up for election, candidates have until Monday, November 18 to submit their petitions. For more details, visit www.antioch.il.gov.
I’m also pleased to announce that we are in the process of establishing a Village Veterans Committee. The first draft of the ordinance to form this committee will be presented at the Committee of the Whole meeting on Wednesday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m. This committee aims to support local veterans, champion veterans’ causes, and serve as a liaison between our veteran community and village government.
We are seeking village residents interested in serving on this important committee. Application submission dates and procedures will be announced following the approval of the ordinance. Please stay tuned for updates on how to apply and contribute to this meaningful initiative.
If you’d like to honor a veteran locally, please consider supporting the Antioch Veterans Memorial . You can make a meaningful contribution by purchasing a brick, making a cash donation, or contributing toward a monument for one of the branches of our armed forces. Every donation helps keep the spirit of service and remembrance alive in our community. Visit www.antiochveteransmemorial.org for more information.
Here are more ways to celebrate and honor our veterans:
Monday, November 11
• Veterans Day Ceremonies:
o 8 – 9 a.m. – Antioch CCSD 34’s Veterans Day Reception at Antioch Upper Grade School, 800 Highview Dr.
o 9 a.m. – Antioch Veterans Day Ceremony with Antioch American Legion Post 748 and Antioch VFW Post 4551 at the Tank on Toft.
• Dining for a Cause: Rivalry Alehouse and The Lodge of Antioch will donate 20% of all sales to the Antioch Veterans Memorial. Consider stopping by for lunch or dinner to support this cause.
• Village Hall Closure: Please note that Antioch Village Hall will be closed on Monday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day.
Additionally, The Penny’s Purpose NFP‘s Annual Blanket Drive runs through December 15. This local nonprofit is collecting new, homemade, or gently used blankets and sleeping bags for those in need. Visit thepennyspurpose.org for donation bin locations.
Finally, join us next week for the swearing-in ceremony for our newest officer, Flo, the Village of Antioch Police Department’s comfort dog. The ceremony will be held at the Village Trustee Board meeting on Wednesday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m. You can attend in person at 874 Main St. or stream it via Zoom; the link will be posted on the agenda at antioch.il.gov.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Scott J. Gartner
