Schaumburg, Hoffman seniors celebrate Flag Day

Though moved indoors due to rain, a sold-out crowd of 180 seniors enjoyed Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates' annual Flag Day Picnic in the gym of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Schaumburg Friday.

Schaumburg Barn Senior Services Coordinator Marina Lvovich said she believed the event was still running strong after nearly 25 years because it is an ideal opportunity to celebrate the togetherness of the community.

"It brings us all together and shows the support of the local government," Lvovich said.

Elected officials who attended to share their thoughts on the history and meaning of Flag Day were Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson, Hoffman Estates trustees Michael Gaeta, Anna Newell and Gary Stanton, and state Rep. Michelle Mussman of Schaumburg.

"As we have heard about the flag, it's very dear to us," Newell said. "It means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. It is very special but it gives us this special day, which is Flag Day. We are honoring the people who gave us the freedom to enjoy this with friends, family, anyone who is here."

Despite the inability to see the flag blowing proudly in the wind outside, Newell promised, "The sun will be out tomorrow!"

As attendees began eating the lunch catered by Chick-fil-A, entertainer Rick Pickren of River Forest began playing such patriotic songs on his guitar as "You're a Grand Old Flag" and "This Land is Your Land," while wearing a stars-and-stripes shirt.