Community Corner
Elburn Day’s celebrates special needs families with a smile
John Lardas, owner and operator, Elburn McDonald's continues 20-year tradition of giving back to the community.
ELBURN IL | More than 140 Kaneland County families with special needs children gathered together to celebrate Elburn Days at the Lions Park located on Filmore St.
The Elburn Day’s festival committee designated Friday, August 17, from 1:30-5:30 p.m. a magical time for these very special children.
The annual event brings together Kaneland community residents for some good old-fashioned family fun, and includes free carnival rides, attractions and food.
The first Elburn Day’s started back in1930. Today participation is stronger than ever, according to John Lardas of Yanni Management.
Lardas, owner and operator of nine local McDonald’s restaurants, including the Elburn McDonald’s, has participated in Elburn Day’s nearly 20-years, since 1998.
“We are proud of our long history in Elburn”, Lardas said. “We have always been involved in the communities we serve, and we are happy to see the Elburn community come together to provide some very special family entertainment.”.
Over the years, Lardas has contributed to the growth of Elburn Day’s through the donation of floats, Ronald McDonald, Hamburglar, coupons, and this year a Bounce House for families to let loose and enjoy.
Julie Travers, Community Relations Director for the Elburn McDonald’s, was on-hand to greet guests with smile stickers, hand out free Vanilla Cone Coupons, and capture the moments with photos.
Lardas said of his involvement with the festival, “I look forward to continuing in the tradition of Elburn Day’s and remaining actively involved in the community.”
A special thank you goes to the Elburn Day’s Committee members, Joe Kryszak a twenty-five year veteran of the Lions Club and Chairperson and chief organizer for this year’s event and Chairman Dave Pniewski. Nick Carter has also been involved with the event since 1983 and has been a proud member of the Lions Club since 1984. Nick has served many roles with Elburn Days. A huge thank you goes to all the members of the Elburn Lions Club and the many volunteers that make this event possible. Additional sponsors for this event include Skinners Amusement and their donation of the rides without lights or sounds. The Kaneland Schools also provide invitees and chaperones for the children to enjoy the day.
For more information about events provided by the Elburn area McDonald's, please contact Community Relations Director Julie Travers at julie.travers@comcast.net.
