Naperville City Notes
Naperville City Notes as of Wednesday, July 28, 2010
COMMUNITY EVENTS
COMMUNITY EVENTS
New thru 7/31
SELF-DEFENSE AND PERSONAL PROTECTION WORKSHOPS. Learn about anti-bullying techniques and how to defuse difficult situations during three free workshops taking place on Saturday, July 31 at Sharkey’s Karate Studio, 2916 W. Ogden Ave., Suite 120. The courses and times are as follows: Self-Defense Training for Occupational Protection (S.T.O.P) at noon, Self-Defense Awareness Female Education (S.A.F.E) at 2 p.m. and Self-Defense Awareness Family Education for Teens and Youths (S.A.F.E.T.Y.) at 4 p.m. Each class is one and a half hours in length. These workshops, which will be taught by Sharkey’s Karate instructor Ray Boyer, will provide attendees with personal protection techniques and more. From 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Friday, July 30, a special overview orientation will be offered for principals, teachers, hall monitors and officials in charge of maintaining safety and security. This class will teach these individuals how to handle difficult situations. For a schedule or to register, call (630) 369-8055 or visit www.sharkeyskarate.com.
New thru 8/1
“H.M.S. PINAFORE” PRODUCTION. North Central College’s Summer Music Theatre will present four performances of “H.M.S. Pinafore” at Madden Theatre in the Fine Arts Center, 171 E. Chicago Ave. Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on July 29, 30 and 31, and a 2 p.m. matinee will be staged on August 1. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and senior citizens. For more information, call (630) 637-7469 or visit www.northcentralcollege.edu/show.
New thru 8/4
RESIDENTIAL, OFFICE AND LIMITED COMMERCIAL (ROLC) OPEN HOUSE. The city will present the draft ROLC zoning district, which includes permitted and conditional uses, setbacks and area requirements, at an open house from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, August 4 in Meeting Rooms B and C of the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St. The open house will begin with a brief presentation at 6:30 p.m. followed by an opportunity for the public to review the draft zoning district. Representatives from the city will be available to answer questions and accept comments. A summary of the open house, including copies of the meeting materials, will be made available on Friday, August 6, 2010, on the city’s website at www.naperville.il.us/ROLC.aspx. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us/ROLC.aspx.
New thru 8/14
NAPERVILLE GARDEN CLUB FLOWER SHOW. The Naperville Garden Club will present a flower show titled “A Toast to You” from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 14 at the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St. This free event is open to the public and will feature fine art by the Naperville Art League and other local artists as well as horticulture, design and special exhibits from garden club members. The general public is encouraged to enter horticultural exhibits from their personal gardens. For more information, visit www.napervillegardenclub.com.
New thru 8/25
NAPERVILLE JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB GENERAL MEMBER MEETING. The Naperville Junior Woman’s Club will host its general meeting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 25 at Mimi’s Café, 2656 Show Place Drive. Full meeting information is available at www.napervillejuniors.org. For more information, call (630) 575-9567 or visit www.napervillejuniors.org.
New thru 8/29
LAKESIDE YOGA. Join the Forest Preserve District of Will County as they combine the beauty and serenity of the Whalon Lake Forest Preserve, located on Royce Road near the Naperville/Bolingbrook border, with the ancient tradition of yoga. The lakeside yoga class will take place from 4 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, August 29. Learn how yoga builds strength, increases flexibility and improves balance. Participants must be 15 years of age or older and a $12 fee is required. Registration is open to the first 20 participants. Please wear loose-fitting clothing and bring a mat or a beach towel. The yoga program will take place on naturally uneven terrain. To register, call (708) 534-8499. For more information, visit www.reconnectwithnature.org.
New thru 8/31
TRAVELING OFFICE HOURS. Congresswoman Judy Biggert will host traveling office hours from noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, August 31 in Council Chambers of the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St. Traveling office hours are an opportunity for constituents of the 13th Congressional District to meet with U.S. Representative Biggert at a convenient location and share their thoughts, ideas and concerns about issues of importance. For more information, visit http://judybiggert.house.gov.
New thru 9/6
LAST FLING. Join in the fun at this annual end-of-summer community event sponsored by the Naperville Jaycees near Rotary Hill and downtown Naperville. Events include a carnival, Labor Day parade, contests and a concert stage. The event takes place Friday, September 3 from 5 to 11 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, September 4 and 5 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Monday, September 6 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (630) 961-4143 or visit www.lastfling.org.
Updated; Good thru 10/8
BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ADVISORY COMMITTEE SEEKING NEW MEMBER.
The City of Naperville’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) is seeking one new member. BPAC is composed of nine members who serve two-year staggered terms. The committee’s purpose is to guide, support and advise the City of Naperville on bicycle and pedestrian issues. Applications must be submitted by Friday, October 8. More information about BPAC and the membership process will be presented during the BPAC meeting on Monday, September 20 at 7 p.m. in Room 247 of the Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St. Interested residents may download the membership application online at www.naperville.il.us/bpac.aspx.
Good thru 7/29
BEST OF NAPERVILLE 2010. Join Naperville Magazine at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 29 at Hotel Arista, 2139 CityGate Lane, to celebrate the top 40 winners of Naperville Magazine’s 2010 Best of Naperville. Enjoy an evening of food, raffles, prizes and a cash bar. Live music will be performed by Karl Knutson of Funkyjazzypop! A portion of the evening’s proceeds will benefit the Naperville Heritage Society. Tickets are $85 per person or $800 for a table of 10. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (630) 696-4124 or visit www.napervillemagazine.com.
Good thru 7/30
PARK DISTRICT LUNCH-HOUR ENTERTAINMENT. Pack a lunch and join in the free fun at an exciting performance geared to the young and young at heart. The Naperville Park District’s lunch-hour entertainment takes place from noon to 12:45 p.m. on July 30 at Frontier Park, 3380 Cedar Glade Drive. For more information, call (630) 848-5000 or visit www.napervilleparks.org.
Good thru 7/30
DUPAGE COUNTY ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL “CHRISTMAS IN JULY” OFFER. The Friends of DuPage County Animal Care and Control (DCACC) Foundation will hold a “Christmas in July” offer to all DuPage County residents on the adoption of all adult cats from now through Friday, July 30. For those interested in providing a home to one of the many vaccinated, spayed/neutered adult cats at the DCACC, adoption fees will be 100 percent subsidized, making the adoption completely free. If you are interested in adopting a pet, visit www.dupageco.org/animalcontrol or call (630) 407-2800.
Good thru 7/31
BOATING SAFETY Q&A. If you like to get out on the water in a boat, then be sure to stop by and chat with Forest Preserve District of Will County staff, the American Red Cross and the Coast Guard Auxiliary during an informal question-and-answer session being held from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 31 at the Whalon Lake Pavilion in the Whalon Lake Forest Preserve, located on Royce Road near the Naperville/Bolingbrook border. Learn what these organizations offer while picking up tips on how to be safe while operating a boat. Staff will be on hand for four hours to answer any questions you may have about boating at Whalon Lake or boating safety regulations. The deadline to register is Thursday, July 29. To register, call (708) 534-8499. For more information, visit www.reconnectwithnature.org.
Good thru 7/31
MID-SUMMER CHINESE CULTURAL FESTIVAL. The 2010 Mid-Summer Chinese Cultural Festival will take place from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 31 at Central Park, 104 E. Benton Ave. Admission is free to this event which features food, exhibitions, performances, music, a fashion show, martial arts and more. For more information, visit www.raychineseschool.org/default.aspx.
Good thru 7/31
CHINESE PERFORMNG ARTS SHOWCASE. The Chinese Performing Arts Showcase will take place from 7:30 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 31 in Central Park, 104 E. Benton Ave. This free event will feature traditional and modern Chinese folk songs, dances, Beijing opera, martial arts and a costume show. For more information, call (630) 667-3183 or visit www.dongfangarts.org/english.htm.
Good thru 7/31
NAPERVILLE WOMAN’S CLUB COMPETING FOR GRANT. The Naperville Woman’s Club is vying for a community grant from the Pepsi Refresh Project and is asking the Naperville community to support its efforts. Should the club receive this grant, the money would be used to repair the Old Stone Church at 14 S. Washington St. This building serves as the clubhouse for the Woman’s Club. People can vote for the project every day until July 31 by visiting www.refresheverything.com/naperwomansclub. For more information on the Naperville Woman’s Club, visit www.napervillewomansclub.com.
Good thru 8/1
SUNRISE ROTARY CENTURY BIKE RIDE. The 14th annual Naperville Sunrise Rotary Club Century Bike Ride will begin at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 1 at Crone Middle School, located at the southwest corner of 111th and 248th streets. This well-supported recreational ride offers five primary routes of 20, 40, 55, 85 and 102 miles along scenic roads south and west of Naperville. All proceeds from the ride support DuPage PADS and Rotary projects. Ride support will end at 3 p.m. and helmets must be worn by all cyclists. The advance registration fee is $30 per ride or $60 per family. On the day of the ride, the registration fee is $35. A gourmet pasta brunch will be served and included in the cost of each registration. For more information or to register, visit www.napervillesunrise.com/Ride/index.htm.
Good thru 8/1
HERITAGE HALL OF HONOR. Come celebrate with honorees as they are inducted into the Naperville Heritage Society's Heritage Hall of Honor, a yearly recognition for people and organizations who have made significant impacts and contributions to Naper Settlement and the Naperville Heritage Society. The presentation is open to the public at no charge from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 1 at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St. For more information, visit www.napersettlement.org.
Good thru 8/1
NAPERVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY SUMMER READING PROGRAM. The Naperville Public Library Summer Reading Program is now underway and continues through Sunday, August 1. This eight-week program for all ages from birth to adult is divided into four levels. To register, each participant must have a current Naperville Public Library card. Registration is available at all three library buildings: Nichols Library, 200 W. Jefferson Ave.; Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Blvd.; and the 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Drive. For more information, visit www.naperville-lib.info.
Good thru 8/2
NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY GARDENERS PROGRAM. The Naperville Community Gardeners will host the free program “I’ve Removed the Buckthorn and Honeysuckle – Now What Do I Do?” following its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, August 2 at Knox Presbyterian Church, 1105 Catalpa Lane. This program on native alternatives to invasive plants will feature presenter Philip Riske discussing the most common invasive plants in the Chicago region, accompanied by several native plant alternatives to take their place. For more information, visit www.napervillecommunitygardeners.org.
Good thru 8/3
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT. Neighborhoods throughout Naperville are invited to join communities nationwide and participate in the city’s 15th annual National Night Out event from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, August 3. National Night Out is a nationwide event designed to generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and improve the relationship between the community police department and residents. To celebrate National Night Out, all residents are encouraged to lock their doors, turn on their outside lights and spend the evening outdoors with their neighbors. Members of the Naperville Fire, Public Works and Utility Departments will visit registered events. For more information, visit www.nationalnightout.org/nno/ or www.naperville.il.us/nno.aspx.
Good thru 8/4
BACK TO SCHOOL FAIR. The DuPage Regional Office of Education is hosting its annual Back to School Fair from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, August 4 at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 W. Manchester Road, Wheaton. The event is a “one-stop shopping event” of health and family services for families living on low incomes in DuPage County. Participants will have access to free school supplies, free medical and dental screening services, housing, financial and insurance information, as well as community agency information. Parents who wish to participate must bring the following information to the fair: proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax return or Public Aid card), proof of address in DuPage County (photo ID, driver's license or State ID and a recent utility bill or lease) and identification for children (birth certificate or medical card). For more information, call (630) 495-8008.
Good thru 8/5
NAPERVILLE MUNICIPAL BAND SUMMER CONCERT SEASON. The Naperville Municipal Band’s 2010 Summer Concert Series takes place each Thursday evening until August 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the Community Concert Center, 104 E. Benton Avenue. An ice cream social will be sponsored by local non-profit groups at each concert. For more information, visit www.napervilleband.org.
Good thru 8/8
VEGGIE FEST 2010. Veggie Fest 2010 is a family activity that features vendor booths, expert speakers on health and nutrition, food demonstrations, live music, a vegetarian food court and more. The free event takes place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, August 7 and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, August 8 at the Science of Spirituality Center, 4S175 Naperville-Wheaton Road. For more information, visit www.veggiefestchicago.org.
Good thru 8/8
NAPERVILLE SPRINT TRIATHLON. The Naperville Sprint Triathlon is a multi-sport event with an emphasis on fun and fitness. This event features a swim, bike and run starting at 7 a.m. on Sunday, August 8 at Centennial Beach, 500 W. Jackson Ave. Check-in takes place from 5 to 6:45 a.m. For more information, call (866) 454-6561 or visit www.napervilletri.com.
Good thru 8/13
RIVERVIEW FARMSTEAD PREVIEW EVENT. Join the Forest Preserve District of Will County for a night of entertainment at a fundraising event at the historic Clow Farmstead in south Naperville. This event takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, August 13 at the Riverview Farmstead, located at 111th Street and Book Road. Be the first to tour and visit the farmstead and get an up-close view of the farmstead structures. Attendees will also learn how the site will eventually be used to interpret the historic transition from horse to mechanical-powered agriculture. Tickets are $55 each and include food, drinks and entertainment. Proceeds benefit restoration work. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (815) 722-1289 or visit www.reconnectwithnature.org/information/riverview-farmstead-opening.asp.
Good thru 8/14
DOG DAYS OF SUMMER. Visit downtown Naperville on Friday, August 13 and Saturday, August 14 for special deals with or without your pet. Special events and sales, including pet-friendly events, will take place these days. For more information, call (630) 544-3372 or visit www.downtownnaperville.com.
Good thru 8/14
AUDITIONS FOR “GHOST STORIES IN THE PARK . . . IN THE DARK.” The Naperville Park District will host auditions for its yearly “Ghost Stories in the Park . . . In the Dark” event from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 14 in Room 206 of the Alfred Rubin Riverwalk Community Center, 305 W. Jackson Ave. Eight to 10 adult and young adult actors are needed to present stories and scenes to a varied audience. Performances will be held on October 1, 2, 3, 8, 9 and 10. Bring a prepared Halloween story or monologue and be prepared to work on them with the director during the audition. Storytelling experience is not required. For more information, please e-mail ghoststories@summerplacetheatre.com.
Good thru 8/15
INDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION. Mayor A. George Pradel and the suburban Indo-American community invite everyone to celebrate India’s 64th Independence Day with a flag raising ceremony at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 15 at the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St. Following the ceremony, light refreshments will be served and a cultural celebration will take place. For more information, contact Suresh Khattar at (847) 274-4032 or e-mail wsis2009@gmail.com.
Good thru 8/16
NAPERVILLE JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION MEETING. The Naperville Junior Woman’s Club will host a new member orientation meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, August 16. Full meeting information, including location, is available at www.napervillejuniors.org. For more information, call (630) 575-9567 or visit www.napervillejuniors.org.
Good thru 8/21
INDIAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL. The Vedic Cultural Society invites the public to participate in the annual Indian Cultural Festival taking place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 21 at the Iskcon Temple of Greater Chicago (ITOGC), 1505 McDowell Road. Admission to the festival, which features children’s activities, folk dances, musical performances and Indian food, is free. Most activities are designed for all age groups. For more information, including volunteer opportunities, call (630) 355-5468 or visit www.indianculturalfestival.org.
Good thru 8/21
NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY GARDENERS FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW. The Naperville Community Gardeners will host its 30th annual Flower & Garden Show from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, August 21 at the Barn Recreation Center, 421 W. Martin Ave. The show will feature exhibits of vegetables, flowers, fruits, herbs, hanging baskets, original garden art and collections of plants. Accredited judges will evaluate the different presentations in each category. Exhibits should be brought to the show between 7 and 10 a.m. This event is free. For more information, visit www.napervillecommunitygardeners.org.
Good thru 8/24
MILLENNIUM CARILLON SUMMER RECITAL SERIES. The 2010 carillon summer recital series brings talented carillonneurs from our own community and from around the world to entertain audiences each Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. from now through August 24 at the Millennium Carillon. These free performances are held rain or shine (unless there is lightning), and audiences are welcome to picnic on Rotary Hill. Weekly carillon recitals are also held on Saturdays at noon and 7 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. A full schedule of performances is available at www.naperville-carillon.org.
Good thru 8/26
NAPERVILLE DOWNTOWN2030 PLAN PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE. A public open house for the draft Naperville Downtown2030 Plan will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 26 in Council Chambers of the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St. During the open house, participants will have an opportunity to view displays and share feedback related to future land use, transportation, parking, building design, streetscape and other plan recommendations. Representatives from the city will be available to accept comments and answer questions. There will be no group presentation; the meeting is an open house format. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us/napervilledowntown2030.aspx.
Good thru 8/27
HISTORIC TROLLEY TOURS OF NAPERVILLE. Every Friday at 11 a.m. until the end of August, take a one-hour historic trolley tour of Naperville. This tour blends the past with the present, highlights Naperville’s growth and includes some fun stories. The tour includes Naperville’s Historic District, North Central College, the downtown business and shopping areas, Centennial Beach, Moser Tower and the Millennium Carillon, Naper Settlement, the city’s Public Safety Campus, Edward Hospital, the Riverwalk and more. All tours start and end on Jackson Avenue at Eagle Street. The cost is $8 for adults, $5 for children ages 4 to 17 and one cent for children ages 3 and younger. Reservations are requested as the tours do sell out. Walk-ons are welcome if space is available. No strollers are allowed. For more information, call (630) 420-2223 or visit www.napervilletrolley.com.
Good thru 8/27
ROLLIN’ ON THE RIVER. Sponsored by the Naperville Park District, Rollin’ on the River is a live, summer-long concert series taking place on July 30 and August 6, 13, 20 and 27. This free series entertains Riverwalk patrons from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Riverwalk Pavilion at Jackson Avenue and Webster Street. For more information, call (630) 848-5000 or visit www.napervilleparks.org.
Good thru 8/29
SETTLEMENT SUNDAYS. Enjoy a free ice cream sundae during Settlement Sundays taking place each Sunday from now through August 29 at Naper Settlement. Each Sunday, admission to the historic museum village not only includes free sundaes from 2 to 3:30 p.m. with do-it-yourself toppings, but also a variety of hands-on activities during the Settlement's open hours of 1 to 4 p.m. Play old-fashioned games, participate in sack races, tour the Victorian mansion, explore the homes and businesses and try the Geocache hunts. Admission is $9 for adults, $8 for seniors 62 and older and $6.50 for youth ages 4 to17. Admission is free for children 3 and younger. For more information, call (630) 420-6010 or visit www.napersettlement.museum.
Good thru 9/6
METRA SUMMER FARE SALE. A ride to Chicago will cost less this summer thanks to Metra’s Summer Fare Sale. Now through Labor Day, up to three children ages 11 and under ride free when accompanied by one fare-paying adult. Riders can also save a little cash by purchasing a monthly, 10-Ride or $7 Weekend Pass. Metra is also offering free Summer Fun Kits filled with fun-saver coupons to some of Chicago’s most popular attractions, including museums and tours. The kit contains Metra’s Event Planner and Travel Guide, which provides personalized information to easily plan a trip to the city. To request a free summer fun kit, visit www.metrarail.com.
Good thru 9/6
BLUE STAR MUSEUMS. Naper Settlement, the DuPage Children’s Museum, the First Division Museum at Cantigny, the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art and the Morton Arboretum are participating this summer in Blue Star Museums, an initiative of Blue Star Families in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and more than 750 museums in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. These museums are offering military families free admission this summer from Memorial Day through Labor Day. All active duty service members (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard), National Guard and Reservists and up to five immediate family members, including spouse, child or sibling, can participate. For a full list of participating museums, visit www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums or www.bluestarfam.org/drupal/participatingmuseums.
Good thru 9/27
ENGLISH ROWS TOWNE CENTRE FARMERS MARKET. The English Rows Towne Centre Farmers Market will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. on Mondays from now through September 27 at English Rows Towne Centre, located south of 103rd Street on the west side of Route 59. For more information, call (630) 904-2727.
Good thru 10/30
NAPERVILLE FARMERS MARKET. The Naperville Farmers Market takes place each Saturday from now through Saturday, October 30 from 7 a.m. to noon at the Fifth Avenue Station parking lot. For more information, call (630) 369-5638.
Good thru 10/30
WE GROW DREAMS GARDEN MARKET. The We Grow Dreams Garden Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday from now through October at Freedom Commons, located between I-88 and Diehl Road on Freedom Drive. Items for sale at the Garden Market will include annuals, perennials, herbs, houseplants, mixed containers, hypertufa planters with plants, fairy gardens, pumpkins, gourds and cornstalks, locally grown seasonal produce, birdhouses, customized garden bricks and pet memorial stones, craft items, handcrafted gift cards and bookmarks. Shoppers may drop off their own containers to be planted. Weekly specials will be posted at www.freedomcommons.com.
Good thru 11/21
MILLENNIUM CARILLON TOURS. Tours of the Millennium Carillon run on Saturdays and Sundays through November 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday tours will take place through August 20. Climb the 253 steps of Moser Tower or ride the elevator to the observation deck and enjoy a spectacular view that stretches for miles and learn about the history of Naperville, the Riverwalk and the Carillon at the Visitor Center. For more information, call (630) 848-5000 or visit www.napervilleparks.org.
GENERAL INFORMATION
SUMMER SAFETY. The Naperville Police Department (NPD) reminds residents to lock their vehicles when unoccupied, remove valuable items from view and document make, model and serial numbers of devices when available. A majority of thefts in Naperville result from unlocked or unsecured doors and windows, and these thefts occur during all hours, not just at night. The NPD provides a home security survey to Naperville residents by appointment only. A copy of a Home and Personal Security Handbook is available for residents to pick up in the Municipal Center lobby, 400 S. Eagle St., and the NPD lobby area, 1350 Aurora Ave. For more information on crime prevention programs such as home security surveys or Community Radio Watch, contact the Naperville Police Department at (630) 305-5477.
WATER SAFETY. The City of Naperville would like to remind residents of the threat that retention ponds and other bodies of water pose at this time of year. Children should be told that retention ponds, rivers and any other body of water are not areas to play in or around at any time of the year. For more information on emergency preparedness, including a downloadable copy of the city’s Emergency Preparedness Guide, visit the city’s website at www.naperville.il.us/nema.aspx.
ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE CHURCH PARK-N-RIDE. Commuters in north Naperville have a more convenient transportation option to and from the downtown Naperville Metra Station aboard the city’s new St. Thomas the Apostle Church Park-n-Ride. Located at 1500 Brookdale Road, the new Park-n-Ride is serviced by Pace Route 682 with five morning trips and four evening trips to the downtown Naperville Metra Station. Commuters may park in any of the more than 75 blue-striped parking spaces located at the northeast corner of the church parking lot. The bus will board on Brookdale Road at the eastern driveway of the church, located at the far northeast corner of the church property. Parking is free at the Park-n-Ride. The Pace Bus fare is $1.75 each way. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us/transit.aspx.
RIVERWALK REHABILITATION. Construction is now underway on Segment Two of the Riverwalk Phase I Rehabilitation Project. The portion of Riverwalk included in this segment extends from Eagle Street to the Free Speech Pavilion, located adjacent to the Dandelion Fountain on Jackson Avenue at Webster Street. Improvements to be implemented include a new bulkhead wall, improved lower walkway, stairway access, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility, a Youth Plaza redesign, new landscaping and sidewalk replacement and lighting. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us/riverwalkrehabilitation.aspx.
SMART GRID INITIATIVE. The future of power has arrived in Naperville in the form of the Smart Grid Initiative. This project will transform the city’s electric utility for the 21st century by providing complete automation of the city’s electric grid, which will enhance system efficiency and reliability. The addition of more than 57,000 smart meters in customers’ residences and businesses will allow them to analyze and adjust energy usage patterns, thus conserving energy and costs by controlling consumption. Through this process, the community’s environmental impact will be reduced by slowing the rate of energy use and demand. In addition, the creation of this smart grid will spur the local and national economy while building the next generation grid capable of supporting future applications, such as the initial infrastructure to support electric car usage for the average household. For more information on this exciting initiative, visit www.naperville.il.us/smartgrid.aspx. Sign up to receive the latest news about the Smart Grid Initiative delivered straight to your e-mail inbox at www.naperville.il.us/enews.aspx.
CPR/AED TRAINING. The City of Naperville is offering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) certification classes for residents and businesses, in accordance with American Heart Association guidelines. The cost of the four-hour certification class is $45 for residents and Naperville businesses and $55 for non-residents. Classes are held at the Naperville Electric Service Center and taught by certified Naperville Fire Department personnel. Visit www.naperville.il.us/cpraed.aspx for more information or to register. Registration will also be accepted over the phone by calling (630) 420-6141.
RESIDENTIAL REFUSE FEE. Effective May 1, 2010, residents pay a $2 monthly residential refuse fee that appears on their monthly utility bills as a flat monthly rate. The City Council approved this new fee at its March 15, 2010 meeting. The residential refuse fee was considered as the City Council worked diligently to close a $14.1 million gap in the Fiscal Year 2010-2011 budget. Council directed city staff to first implement internal cost saving measures before considering new fees. The decision to implement a residential refuse fee was not taken lightly by the City Council, and all possible solutions to balance the city’s budget were judiciously considered. Instead of charging for individual garbage tags like many local municipalities, the City Council opted for a one-time, flat rate refuse fee. Naperville’s refuse collection service will remain unchanged, and residents will still be able to put as much refuse as they wish at the curbside on their scheduled collection day. The monthly residential refuse fee recovers only a portion of the city’s total monthly cost of $12.16 for refuse and recycling service per household. The rate being charged still ranks Naperville significantly lower than other regional municipal refuse fees. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us/refusefee.aspx.
OVERNIGHT PARKING NOW AVAILABLE IN DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE. The City of Naperville is pleased to announce a new overnight parking option in downtown Naperville. Overnight parking is now available every Friday and Saturday on any of the interior levels of the Central Parking Facility, Van Buren Parking Facility and Municipal Center Parking Deck. Visitors should look for signage with the city’s new “Park Easy, Park Smart” logo at the parking decks to locate the overnight parking areas. For more information on how to “Park Easy, Park Smart” in downtown Naperville, visit the city’s website at www.naperville.il.us/parkeasy.aspx.
CHANGE IN CITY SERVICE HOURS. The hours of operation for the Naperville Police Department’s front desk are now Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. If an emergency arises near the police department, a citizen can use the intercom located at the front entrance of the police station, which will immediately connect them to the police dispatch center. Community Connection, previously located at 535 Fairway Drive, is now closed. Any citizen needing non-emergency police services previously offered at Community Connection should visit the police department front desk during normal business hours. Citizens seeking finance-related services previously offered at Community Connection should visit the Municipal Center in order to conduct their business during normal Finance Department hours of operation, which are 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Any citizen having questions about front desk operations or Community Connection is encouraged to call the Naperville Police Department’s non-emergency telephone number at (630) 420-6666.
NEW AUTOMATED CREDIT CARD BILL PAY SYSTEM. The city’s Finance Department has implemented a new automated telephone credit card payment program for utility bill customers. This system replaces the option of customers paying their utility bill via telephone with one of the city’s account representatives. Customers will continue to use the same (630) 420-6059 phone number to utilize the automated system, which is an additional way for utility bill customers to pay their bill 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Customers who choose to utilize this option will be charged a $3.50 convenience fee per $300. This fee is reimbursement to the payment program company and is not received by the city. Visa and MasterCard are the only two credit cards accepted. In addition to this automated program, the city’s convenient e-Bill option allows customers to receive their utility bills via e-mail. Through the program, customers can view and store their bills online as well as pay using their credit card, an electronic funds transfer or direct debit. For more information about the e-Bill program, visit www.naperville.il.us/ebill.aspx. Residents can also pay their utility bills in person during Finance Department office hours from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. There is no convenience fee for either the e-Bill or payment-in-person options.
JEFFERSON AVENUE BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION. The Jefferson Avenue Bridge is now closed to all vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The official detour route is posted on the City of Naperville’s website at www.naperville.il.us/jeffersonbridge.aspx. The Jefferson Avenue Bridge closure is needed in order to completely remove and reconstruct the bridge which was originally built in 1962. The new Jefferson Avenue Bridge will open by August 27, 2010. All residents and motorists are encouraged to register to receive project alerts via e-mail at www.naperville.il.us/enews.aspx. For additional information about the Jefferson Avenue Bridge Construction project, including frequently asked questions, visit www.naperville.il.us/jeffersonbridge.aspx.
DUPAGE RIVER TRAIL. The DuPage River Trail is now closed at 87th Street every weekday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. During this time, trail users will be prohibited from entering and exiting the trail at 87th Street. The trail closure is required to allow trucks and equipment to safely enter and exit the construction site for Segment 4 of the DuPage River Trail. Access to the trail is still available at Bailey Road; however, trail users must turn around at 87th Street and travel back to Bailey Road to exit the trail. Trail users are advised to respect all construction signs, fences and barricades. For more information about Segment 4 of the DuPage River Trail, visit www.naperville.il.us/drt4.aspx. To sign up to receive e-mail updates as the construction progresses, visit www.naperville.il.us/enews.aspx.
RED LIGHT PHOTO ENFORCEMENT CAMERAS. The City of Naperville has red light photo enforcement cameras located at the intersections of Diehl Road and Route 59, Aurora Avenue and Ogden Avenue and Route 59 and North Aurora Road. Motorists issued a citation will be fined $100. Signs are posted at these intersections indicating to motorists the presence of the cameras. The cameras are located on the northbound and southbound approaches of Route 59 and Diehl Road and on the northbound and westbound approaches of Ogden Avenue and Aurora Avenue. The city began its Red Light Enforcement Program in January 2009 with the activation of cameras at Route 59 and North Aurora Road. Since that time, there have been significant improvements in various crash statistics. For detailed information on this program, visit www.naperville.il.us/redlight.aspx.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS (COA) FAST TRACK MEETING. The City of Naperville has implemented a “fast track” process through which property owners and residents applying for a certificate of appropriateness (COA) can receive expedited staff review and approval for qualifying improvements to landmark and Historic District structures. A weekly Fast Track meeting is in effect every Wednesday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. During this time, COA applicants are encouraged to come to the Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle St., to discuss their projects with city staff. For simple home improvements such as window, door and siding replacement, as well as certain front porch improvements, you may receive your approved COA at the end of the Fast Track meeting if sufficient information is provided. To learn more about the detailed list of improvements that qualifies for staff approval and to download a copy of the application packet, visit www.naperville.il.us/preservation.aspx. Once you have completed your application, please call (630) 548-2974 at least 24 hours ahead to schedule your Fast Track meeting.
75TH AND WASHINGTON CONSTRUCTION PROJECT. The City of Naperville advises residents and motorists that major road and bridge construction on 75th and Washington streets is underway. The City of Naperville encourages motorists to seek alternate routes throughout the duration of the intersection improvement project, which is slated for completion in late 2010. Motorists planning to travel through the intersection during construction should expect delays. The City of Naperville is also delivering the latest news on the 75th and Washington Intersection Improvement Project to inboxes throughout Naperville and the region. Interested parties are encouraged to sign up to receive project updates via e-mail at www.naperville.il.us/enews.aspx. The newsletter is distributed periodically as the city announces project updates or provides additional information on its website. For more information on the 75th and Washington intersection improvements, visit www.naperville.il.us/75andwashimprovements.aspx.
WCNC. WCNC is the City of Naperville’s government access channel (Channel 6 – Wide Open West, Channel 10 – Comcast and Channel 99 – AT&T) that services more than 40,000 households and more than 144,000 residents within the city. “Naperville’s Hometown Channel” provides government-based video programming and services to inform our residents about city government policies, services, events, initiatives and programs. City Council, Plan Commission, Naperville Park Board and Transportation Advisory Board meetings are broadcast live on WCNC. In addition, WCNC re-broadcasts DuPage County and Will County Board meetings as well as the Illinois Channel, which consists of independent, nonpartisan coverage of Illinois state government and public affairs. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us/wcnc.aspx.
CITY OF NAPERVILLE NOW ON TWITTER AND FACEBOOK. For those residents who use Twitter and Facebook for communicating with friends and companies, the City of Naperville is using these services for press releases, emergency updates, event notifications and meeting notices. For more information, or to create an account, visit www.facebook.com or www.twitter.com. To subscribe to City of Naperville updates on Twitter, visit www.twitter.com/NapervilleIL and click on “Subscribe.” To become a fan of the City of Naperville on Facebook, visit www.facebook.com/NapervilleIL or search for “City of Naperville, Illinois” in Facebook and click on “Become a Fan.”
CITY COUNCIL, PLAN COMMISSION AND TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY BOARD (TAB) MEETING VIDEOS NOW STREAMING ONLINE. Residents and interested parties can now view City Council, Plan Commission and TAB meeting video in real-time online on the city’s website at www.naperville.il.us/granicus.html. The electronic meeting management system that makes this possible now allows for online, on-demand access to City Council, Plan Commission and TAB meeting agendas, documentation, video and audio. Through this site, residents can also access a searchable audio/video archive by agenda item using a keyword search, view meeting documentation and corresponding video side-by-side and jump to the point in the meeting video that corresponds to their agenda item of interest with the click of a mouse. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us.
SIGN UP FOR E-NEWS. Residents interested in keeping up with the latest city news can sign up for Naperville e-News online. This free, voluntary e-mail service is available for anyone interested in learning more about city services, news and events. To sign up, visit www.naperville.il.us and click on e-News at the bottom of the page. Residents can also sign up for Naper Settlement's monthly e-news by visiting www.napersettlement.museum and clicking on the "Subscribe to E-News" icon on the homepage. To sign up for Naperville Park District e-news, visit www.napervilleparks.org and enter your e-mail address in the space provided at the top of the center column beneath "Sign up to receive our e-News".
GARBAGE COLLECTION AND GARBAGE CARTS REMINDER. The city would like to remind residents that garbage must be placed on the curb for collection by 6 a.m. on your garbage collection day. Empty containers must be removed from the curb following collection by 7 p.m. on your garbage collection day. Under the city’s voluntary garbage cart program, residents have their choice of purchasing, for a one-time fee, a 32-gallon (two bags, $43), 68-gallon (four bags, $57) or 95-gallon (six bags, $63) cart. Delivery is available for an additional $10 fee. Garbage carts can be purchased online at www.naperville.il.us or at the Municipal Center (400 S. Eagle St.), the Public Works Building (180 Fort Hill Drive) or Community Connection (535 Fairway Drive).
RESIDENTIAL GARBAGE COLLECTION HOLIDAYS. As a reminder to residents, there is no residential garbage collection on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving or Christmas. When a collection falls on one of these holidays, garbage collection will be one day later for the remainder of the week. Residents whose regular collection occurs on Friday will have their garbage and recycling picked up on Saturday. For more information, visit www.naperville.il.us/garbage.aspx.
SUPPORT RENEWABLE ENERGY. The City of Naperville, in partnership with Community Energy, is offering a voluntary program that allows all residential and commercial utility customers within Naperville to purchase emission-free, renewable sources of electricity from wind, sun and water. To sign up or to receive more information, visit www.naperville.il.us or call (866) 946-3123.
MUNICIPAL MEETING SCHEDULE
The LIQUOR COMMISSION will meet on Thursday, July 29 at 3 p.m. in the Mayor’s Conference Room of the Naperville Municipal Center.
The FAIR HOUSING ADVISORY COMMISSION will meet on Monday, August 2 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Manager’s Office Conference Room of the Naperville Municipal Center.
The SISTER CITIES COMMISSION will meet on Wednesday, August 4 at 6 p.m. in the Mayor’s Conference Room of the Naperville Municipal Center.
NAPERVILLE CITY NOTES is a regular feature. For more information or to include your event in City Notes, please contact Community Relations Specialist Kate Houlihan at (630) 305-5341 or houlihank@naperville.il.us or Community Relations Manager Nadja Lalvani at (630) 420-6034 or lalvanin@naperville.il.us.
DISCLAIMER. Please note that dates, times and locations of events listed in City Notes are subject to change. We strongly suggest you consult the most recent issue of City Notes for event information as well as the appropriate contacts listed with each event.
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Naperville News Blog
Moser Tower
at Rotary Hill along the Riverwalk
Aurora Avenue across from Naperville Central High School
Tours ($3) of the Moser Tower with the Millennium Carillon run on Saturdays and Sundays through November 21 from 10AM to 4PM.
Friday tours will take place through August 20.
Climb the 253 steps of Moser Tower or ride the elevator to the observation deck and enjoy a spectacular view that stretches for miles and learn about the history of Naperville, the Riverwalk and the Carillon at the Visitor Center.
INFO: (630) 848-5000 www.napervilleparks.org.
FYI: The Millennium Carillon with 72 bells rang for its first community concert during its dedication on June 29, 2000. The Naperville Men's Glee Club and the Naperville Municipal Band also performed during the event.
