Community celebrates 94th birthday of longtime Arlington Heights resident Essie Dabbert

Members of the Historic Arlington Neighborhood Association (HANA), family and friends came together Sunday, March 14, to celebrate the birthday of longtime Arlington Heights resident Essie Dabbert.

HANA president Jon Lewis and Dabbert's daughter, Patti Cunningham, organized a surprise parade on Fremont Street for her 94th birthday. Around 75 people attended the event singing happy birthday and carrying signs, flowers and balloons. Mayor Tom Hayes, Greg Padovani of the Veterans Memorial Committee, family and friends all passed by to give birthday wishes. The parade lasted around an hour.

Essie is a gold star member of the community whose son was killed in the Vietnam War. She is described by many as a kind person who sends Christmas cards, thank you notes and bakes brownies for all of her friends.

"She is not only my mom, but also my best friend. When my father passed away I made a promise to him that I would take care of her," Cunningham said. "We have had many fun times, we have laughed and cried, traveled, and done millions of little projects. I hope one day he will look down and say 'you done good.'"

Those attending the parade were treated to one of Dabbert's brownies and given a card depicting her artwork. Cunningham said that after the parade, Dabbert, who was surrounded by family and friends, gave a speech that drew many tears.

"I couldn't believe all the people, they just kept on coming. I feel like a queen," Dabbert said.

Cunningham expressed gratitude to those who made the day special.

"Thank you to the community, family and friends for helping pull off a wonderful parade and birthday surprise," she said. "Baking over 100 brownie giveaways with old high school friends was challenging, but they now know Essie's secret recipe. Nieces and nephews came in from far away to stand out in the cold and help. It all was wonderful."