Community Updates: Zoo Leopards, Photo Contests, Concerts, and Student Achievements
Endangered Leopards at Brookfield Zoo Celebrate Milestone
Two Amur leopards at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago recently celebrated their first birthday. Known as Lacy and Sady, these leopards are part of a critically endangered species, with fewer than 100 remaining in the wild. To mark the occasion, they received a special treat to stimulate their mental and physical well-being, encouraging natural behaviors. These agile climbers are commonly found hiding in trees or on rocky ledges, both available at the zoo for them to explore. Visitors can find the cubs in the Big Cats Walkway near the entrance to Desert’s Edge. More information is accessible at brookfieldzoo.org.
Photo Contest by DuPage Forest Preserve District
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is inviting residents to participate in a photo contest, encouraging reconnection with nature. The contest categories include Wildlife & Plants, Landscapes & Places, and People & Recreation. Participants must take their photos within a DuPage County forest preserve and may submit multiple entries, even for the same category. Open to Illinois residents aged 18 and older, winners will be chosen by district employees. Prizes include technology, camera equipment, or a framed print. Online voters can select their favorite photo through Sept. 14, with a Kodak Printomatic camera and accessories as the reward for the Voters’ Choice. A random prize drawing on Sept. 2 will award a Kodak disposable camera and a $25 district gift card. Full contest details at www.dupageforest.org/2026-photo-contest.
Through the contest, which is part of the district’s Unplug to Recharge campaign, organizers aim to inspire residents to enjoy their surroundings and reduce screen time. Forest Preserve District President Daniel Hebreard expressed hopes that people will explore the preserves and capture memorable moments.
Live Concerts at Oak Park Arms Senior Living Community
The Caught Off Guards will offer free concerts on Aug. 21 and Sept. 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Oak Park Arms Senior Living Community, located at 408 S. Oak Park Ave. This band, known for blues, jazz, soul, funk, and R&B, originally performed as a backing and karaoke band before becoming a main act. Their concerts aim to heal through the arts, having formed at an open-mic event associated with the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Weather-permitting, performances will occur outdoors; otherwise, the historic ballroom will serve as the venue. Additional details can be found at 708-386-4040 or www.oakparkarms.com.
Blooze Brothers Band in Elmhurst
The Blooze Brothers Band will perform at the Elmhurst History Museum’s Fourth Fridays summer concert series on Aug. 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 120 E. Park Ave. Admission is free, with funding partially provided by the Dr. Virginia R. Stuart Memorial Fund. Event details are available at elmhursthistory.org.
Triton College Student Recognized
A second-year student from Triton College in River Grove, part of the Radiologic Technology program, achieved first place in the Student Scientific Paper Competition at the Illinois State Society of Radiologic Technologists Conference. Gerek Wright’s award-winning paper focused on kyphosis, a condition that causes excessive forward curvature of the spine. Samantha McDonald, another Triton student, placed third in the Kahoot Review Competition among 150 peers. Both are active in Triton’s Rad Tech Club.
Nancy Rizo, the program chair, noted the significance of Wright’s accomplishment, being the college’s first win in the contest. She recognized Wright’s dedication and the program’s ability to prepare students for high-level research and presentations. Wright has since graduated and is now working as a radiologic technician at a local hospital.