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June 19-July 17, Naperville Art
League exhibit: Members of the
Naperville Art League will display original works during a free, month-long exhibit in North Central College's Schoenherr Art Gallery. "Artists Among Us" will showcase selected fine art pieces in a variety of
media from more than 30 local artists who belong to the Naperville Art League, a nonprofit organization that has inspired passion in the arts locally for nearly 50
years. The exhibit opens with a reception
from 6 to 8 p.m. on June 19 in the
Schoenherr Art Gallery at the College's Fine Arts Center, 171 E. Chicago Ave. The gallery
is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, and will be open one hour before most performances in the Fine Arts Center.
For more information visit www.northcentralcollege.edu/x48243.xml.
July 10-12 and 17-19, Musical theatre: North Central College's Summer Musical Theatre presents the Rogers and Hammerstein classic "The King and I," a story of an American governess who tries to help an Eastern king come to terms with the modern world. The show will feature youth and adult actors from the community in six
performances on July 10, 11, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. and on July 12 and 19 at 2 p.m. in
Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E. Benton Ave. Tickets are $15/adults, $10/students and senior citizens; call the North Central College Box Office at 630-637-SHOW (7469) or visit www.northcentralcollege.edu/show.
July 17-18 and 20-23, Hot Jazz-6 Cool Nites: Each summer, North Central College presents the Hot Jazz-6 Cool Nites concert series with performances by world-renowned jazz vocalists and instrumentalists. Each evening of the series will feature a different combination of artists and musical selections. The concerts are sponsored by North Central College's Jazz Studies Program and presented in conjunction with the Janice Borla Vocal Jazz Camp and its staff artists. Performances will begin at 8 p.m. July 17-18 and July 20-23 in Wentz Concert Hall at the Fine Arts Center, 171 E. Chicago Ave. Tickets are $17/adults and $14/students and senior citizens; call the North Central College Box Office at 630-637-SHOW (7469) or visit www.northcentralcollegeedu/show.
July 24-26, Musical theatre: North Central College's Summer Musical Theatre presents a staging of Glibert and Sullivan's classic comic operetta, "The Mikado." This hilarious social satire of Victorian culture and romantic whimsy is set in a fanciful and fictional Japanese society and includes many enduring numbers. The show will feature adult actors from the community in four performances on July 24 at 7:30 p.m., on July 25 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and on July 26 at 3 p.m. in Meiley-Swallow Hall, 31 S. Ellsworth St. Tickets are $15/adults and $10/students and senior citizens; call the North Central College Box Office at 630-637-SHOW (7469) or visit www.northcentralcollege.edu/show.
July 31, Aug. 1-2 and 7-9, Musical theatre: North Central College's Summer Music Theatre presents a production of the beloved American musical, "Singin' in the Rain." Based on the legendary MGM film, this musical examines Hollywood in the 1920s when silent pictures were giving way to the talkies. The show will feature youth and adult actors from the community in six performances in Pfeiffer Hall, 310 E. Benton Ave. Show times are 7:30 p.m. on July 31, Aug. 1, 7 and 8; and 2 p.m. on Aug. 2 and 9. Tickets are $15/adults, $10/students and senior citizens; call the North Central College Box Office at 630-637-SHOW (7469) or visit www.northcentralcollegeedu/show.
To stay connected with North Central College, visit www.northcentralcollege.edu or our new athletics website, www.northcentralcardinalscom. Become a fan on Facebook at www.tinyurl.com/bezste. Follow us on Twitter at www. . /northcentralcol. Visit our YouTube page at www.youtube.com/northcentralcollege.
Also, visit www.northcentralcollege.edu/show or contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at 630-637-5300 for a comprehensive schedule of North Central College's many fine and performing arts programs and lectures to enrich and broaden the cultural and academic outlook for the College and community.
COMEDY SHRINE
presents something
funny almost every day!
INFO & TKTS: 355-2844
Special offers at some
of your favorite places
to shop this season.
Downtown Naperville
Check monthly calendars
for day-to-day events!
To curl up in an easy chair with all the
good news about Naperville, pick up your monthly copy of PN at Casey's Foods, Minuteman Press, Barnes & Noble,
Oswald's Pharmacy and at many sponsor businesses. And view PN online at www.pnmonthly.com where you can take advantage of special offers, too.
Explore a great city...
Stroll the Riverwalk...
Tour Century Walk...
Enjoy Downtown...
Discover Naperville
Neighborhood Parks...
Find what's north, east,
west and south (NEWS)
all over town
365 Days a Year
Rotary Scholars 2008
Have you visited our special promotions on PN Monthly lately?
Since late 2007, PN has been featuring special offers and other promotions at www.pnmonthly.com, the monthly publication's other companion Web site. The colorful page keeps readers in touch with some good deals and special attractions, especially time-sensitive items that might come up in between issues of the publication.
PN Monthly also has a feature where you can print out only those offers you want. You don't have to print out the entire page with dozens of offers. Simply scroll down to view them all. We invite you check out the page at PN Monthly regularly.
Thanks for reading and for spreading the word about our two Web sites.
And, of course, when you're finished at PN Monthly, we welcome you back to the Naperville News Blog. We update this page and all of our monthly calendars regularly, too.
OVERFLOW NEWS BLOG
Declare to support IndieBound's Independents Week in Naperville
After Ribfest, the spectacular fireworks, patriotic carillon music and neighborhood Independence Day parades in Naperville, the stage will be set for the first Independents Week to kick off around town.
From July 6-12, shoppers will find exclusive deals, giveaways and opportunities to add to the fabric of the community when many locally-owned IndieBound businesses show their wares and services, creating awareness about their impact on the community. To date, nearly 100 stores, services and restaurants are members of the IndieBound group, launched last October and now led by Sally Blackburn of Anderson's Bookshop.
"For every $100 you spend at one of the IndieBound businesses, $68 will stay in our community," said Becky Anderson, co-owner of Anderson's Bookshop in downtown Naperville. "Shopping at your nearby brick-and-mortar, locally-owned store also ensures that sales taxes are reinvested where they belong---in our communities."
Nurturing and supporting local businesses at all levels and throughout the city builds a strong community.
Here's the daily schedule of the IndieBound Independents Week Events:
July 6: Blood Drive from 2PM to 7PM on the west side of Anderson's Bookshop. We are the Pulse of the Community!
July 7: Tax Holiday! Customers can visit participating businesses with the red IndieBound Naperville sign and the TAX FREE HOLIDAY sign and when they ask about IndieBound or the tax holiday they get a discount of 7.25%. Freedom from taxes!
July 8: An Independents Day Parade will be held on the Washington Street sidewalk from 4:30-6PM. Look for kids and other participates holding IndieBound signs and balloons and wearing patriotic hats.
July 9: Shop Local Independents during Sizzlin' Sidewalk Sales. Play IndieBound bingo cards.
July 10: Not for Profit Day: IndieBound Businesses will invite their favorite non-profit business to set up in front of their store.
July 11: Freedom Walk. Parents and kids are encouraged to seek out the red IndieBound Naperville sign and can stop in for candy (a la Halloween) and a coupon for parents to be used at a later date (i.e. August).
July 12: Indie Block Party 2PM to 5PM. Tents and IndieBound businesses will be showcased with a live band, a hockey mascot and a raffle drawing for all of the bingo cards collected during the week.
Register Now For Flag Football At Field House Family YMCA
League is co-ed and serves children in grades 2-5
Let your child experience Flag Football the “Y” way where all players have equal and fair play time no matter their ability level. Check out the Flag Football program that has been running for many years at the Field House Family YMCA.
This program is based on the YMCA Youth Sports Philosophy stating that every child should have a change to play equally and fairly no matter what their skill or ability. Offering two leagues; grades 2nd & 3rd and grades 4th and 5th, participants will learn new kills and fundamentals, will build self-esteem, will have tons of fun, and it is a great way for the family to become involved while they cheer the teams on.
Cowlishaw Elementary School is the ite with weekly for an entire seven weeks. A one hour practice is held during the week. Grades 4-5 play on Monday from 5:30-6:30pm. Grades 2-3 play on Tuesday from 5:30-6:30pm.
YMCA Member registration begins 7/01 and cost is $55.00 Community Participant registration begins 7/17 and cost is $110.00 Teams are formed by YMCA based on school and geographic location. Don’t delay, each division limited to first 40 registrants.
For more information call the Field House Family YMCA, 630.585.5100. To obtain a Flag Football registration form, go to www.heritageymca.org or stop by any Heritage YMCA Naperville branch to register. For more information about YMCA programs and services, visit www.heritageymca. We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.
Prudent advice for the holiday weekend: Drive safe. Drive Sober
The following story was submitted to Positively Naperville to alert residents about the severe penalties of a DUI arrest:
Naperville was the third best place to live in USA in 2008 as published in the CNNMoney.com. Sadly, it also was the second highest in number of DUI arrests in the Illinois communities outside of Chicago in 2008 according to the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists (AAIM). Let us work together to keep it the lowest!
People might think that drivers who get arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) are only those who are alcoholic or who repeatedly abuse alcohol. Well, this is wrong!
It is common to have drivers who socially or seldom drink to get arrested for DUI. All it takes is one bad judgment, a decision to drive while impaired, that can turn life into tragedy.
Imagine this scenario; Mr./Ms. Social, who is a very kind, friendly, and hard-working person who occasionally drinks alcohol responsibly. One day he/she met friends for dinner or co-workers for a business gathering or students in a college party and did not intend to abuse alcohol. But it happened. Mr./Ms. Social lives close to the restaurant/party and decided to drive such a short distance as his/her mental judgment had already been impaired.
This huge mistake can be avoided by simply calling a Taxi or a sober friend for a ride.
In Illinois, a driver is legally considered to be under the influence of alcohol if the driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or more. Does this mean that it is legal to drive as long as the driver's BAC is below 0.08? Does this mean that it is safe to drive as long as the driver's BAC is below 0.08? The answers for these questions is NO. People can get impaired once they have alcohol in their system even if their BAC is less than 0.08. This is why in Illinois a driver with a BAC between .05 and .08 may be convicted of DUI if additional evidence determines that the driver was impaired. Physically, the driver concentration and judgment abilities start to get affected after he/she drinks the first alcoholic beverage. It is vital for drivers not to be impaired and to be 100% focused while driving.
On the other hand, there are people who are alcoholic or abuses alcohol. If you have a problem with alcohol, get medical or supportive help. Whether you are a social or heavy drinker, be careful and prepared to avoid a future DUI mistake. You don't want to place the lives of people and your life in danger and suffer the stiff DUI penalties including loss of driving privileges. Consequences are severe and prevention is simple. Please don't drink and drive. —Dr. Al Sharoa
Teacher will be feted during retirement party at Xilin Chinese Academy
The, Xilin Chinese Academy will host a retirement party at 4PM, Sat., July 11, for Lifang Xiao, a beloved teacher who is retiring after teaching Chinese in America for over 25 years.
Party organizers will recognize her dedication to Chinese teaching that has touched so many kids and left a huge impact on their learning.
Present students hope that past students and other friends will attend Mrs. Xiao's party to show appreciation for her many years of teaching.
The Xilin Center is located in the Iroquois Mall at 1163 E. Ogden Avenue near the City Club.
Every "Cool Nite" is different "Hot Jazz" experience during Vocal Jazz Week in Naperville
Each of the six "Hot Jazz-6 Cool Nites" concerts presented July 17-18 and 20-23 at North Central College offers listeners a unique experience, featuring a different combination of acclaimed jazz artists and musical selections during each evening performance.
Blujazz recording artist Janice Borla, Sunnyside recording artist Jay Clayton and Dash Hofmann recording artist Cathy Segal Garcia will be joined by trumpeter Art Davis, guitarist John McLean, pianist Dan Haerle, bassist Bob Bowman and drummer Jack Mouse. The series of concerts are presented in conjunction with the Janice Borla Vocal Jazz Camp and begin at 8 p.m. in North Central College's Wentz Concert Hall at the Fine Arts Center, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville.
The opening performances on Friday, July 17, and Saturday, July, 18, as well as the closing concert Thursday, July 23, will showcase the entire jazz camp faculty. Two of the three vocalists will be featured in various combinations, both individually and together, on July 20-22. Borla and Segal Garcia will sing on Monday, July 20; Clayton and Segal Garcia on Tuesday, July 21; and Borla and Clayton on Wednesday, July 22.
Tickets to the concerts are $17/adults and $14/students and senior citizens; a five-night concert pass can be purchased for $68/adults or $56/students and senior citizens. Contact the North Central College Box Office at 630-637-SHOW (7469) or visit www.northcentralcollege.edu/show.
In addition to North Central College, the presenting sponsor for the concert series is the First National Bank of Naperville.
5K Family Fun Run/Walk returns to Scott Elementary School on Aug. 22
Lace up the running shoes and grab the family for the 3rd annual Scott S'Cool Scoot will step off at 8AM, on Saturday, August 22, at Scott Elementary School in Naperville. The 5k family fun run or 1.8 mile walk encourages family participation and drew over 300 participants last year.
Joan Brant, event organizer and member of the Scott Home & School Health and Safety Committee, encourages everyone to join in the fun. "Keeping kids healthy and ready to learn means keeping them active, which is why this is the perfect event for our community".
Both courses wind through the streets of Naper Carriage Hill and finish at the school. Strollers, wagons and wheelchairs may accompany walkers, but for safety, they are the only "wheels" allowed on the course. The fun run is self-timed, so bring your watch!
To pre-register and guarantee a t-shirt, go to www.ncusd203.org/scott to download a registration form. Race day registration is also available at Scott School the day of the event from 6:30-7:30AM. Scott School is located at 500 Warwick Drive in Naperville. For more information, to volunteer, or donate items, contact Joan Brant at (630) 717-1979 or email joan.brant@sbcglobal.net.
Open Letter to Indian Prairie Community from Superintendent Kathy Birkett
As someone who has spent the past 30 years working in Indian Prairie, I have come to truly love our community and I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as your superintendent. In each of my roles over the past three decades -- teacher, assistant principal, principal, and deputy superintendent, I have been fortunate to witness an incredible level of parent involvement and I have always appreciated how deeply our community cares about our children and their education. I truly believe it is one of our greatest strengths. Now is the time for our district to build on that strength as we move forward.
As superintendent, I will focus on student achievement, finances, and communication. There are questions in these areas that need to be asked. How can we make sure each student achieves to the best of his or her ability? With a volatile economy, how can we continue to deliver an outstanding, cost-effective education for our students? I am fortunate to be able to call on wonderful administrators, teachers, support staff, and community members to help me address these areas. Collectively, we will continue to prioritize doing what is best for our students.
In the area of communications, I plan to provide you with regular updates through 204 E-News. As a way of increasing the transparency of our work, at the end of August we will launch a new online area of our website called BoardDocs. I'll bring you more information on that topic later this summer.
I recognize that we have dealt with some difficult and controversial issues in the past few years. I hope that we, as a community, can come together and move forward. I am counting on your support as we all work on behalf of our most important investment -- our children.
Tommy Nevin’s Pub will sponsor golf outing for Heritage YMCA Strong Kids
Tommy Nevin’s Pub will host a Charity Golf Outing to benefit the Heritage YMCA Strong Kids Campaign on Tuesday, August 18 at Tamarack Golf Club. The shotgun start is at 1:30PM for the Four Person Scramble. The event includes 18 holes of golf, carts, contests, lunch, open beverages, steak dinner, silent and awards reception at Tommy Nevin’s Pub.
More than $60,000 in team and individual prizes are available. A silent will feature items including an autographed Kenny Chesney Guitar, Richard Perry Driving Experience, Family Flying Experience in a private plane, Wine tasting Party, Master’s Print, Master Flag, Blackhawks, Cubs, White Sox , Bears and Bulls tickets, Greens Fees packages at a number of area golf courses, as well as a number of golf items and restaurant gift certificates.
“This is a top-drawer event that we are so proud to be part of,” says Fry Family YMCA Board of Directors member Art Cuellar. “The folks at Tommy Nevin’s have been so generous. We want to make sure that people who register for the event indicate they are Friends of the Y, so that we can continue to provide scholarships to families in need of Y services at this challenging time in our economy.” Golfers may register as foursomes or individually.
To register for golf or dinner and reception only, go to www.golfinvite.com/tommynevinsymca. Cost is $150.00 per player. Not a golfer? $100.00 entitles you to Banquet, Open Bar and . Be sure to indicate that you are with the Heritage YMCA benefit when registering.
Loaves and Fishes begins fiscal year with new president and six new board members
Loaves & Fishes Community Pantry has announced its Board of Directors for the new fiscal year beginning July 1.
Officers are Sandy Forty, President; Brian Bolliger, Vice President; Barry Horek, Treasurer; and Gary Pradel, Secretary. Tom Kallay of Nicor is Immediate Past President.
Board members are Penny Beerntsen, Courtney Brown, Bill Garlough, Bob Harder, Ronald Haskell, Michael Havala, Wendy Hayum-Gross, David McSweeney, Bill Mitchell, Deborah Shaughnessy, Douglas Stanley, and Burt Thomas. Carrol-Deane Garren was named Board Member Emerita.
Christine Robinson, former President, and Stacy Gerdes, former Treasurer, are leaving the Board after serving two consecutive three-year terms. Brown, Garlough, Harder, Hayum-Gross, Mitchell, and Thomas are new Board members elected to a three-year term
Rock band Lifehouse to play North Central's Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium
Multiplatinum-selling alternative band Lifehouse will perform the first outdoor concert in North Central College’s Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium on Sunday, July 26. Gates will open at 6PM. Seating is general admission by section. The evening will include local bands The Lady Upstairs at 6:45PM and Sleeping at Last at 7:30PM, with Lifehouse at 8:30PM.
Lifehouse’s hit, “Hanging by a Moment,” was named the Most Played Song of 2001 by Billboard magazine. Another hit, “You and Me,” stayed on the Billboard Top 40 for more than 60 weeks beginning in 2005 and stretching into 2006.
The group has toured North America and Europe with such artists as Pearl Jam, Everclear and Matchbox Twenty. Critics like the Boston Globe’s Steve Morse have described Lifehouse’s debut album “No Name Face” as “a collection of disarmingly open, innocent, questing, melodic rock songs filled with internal dramas and alternative edges.”
Seventeen magazine says, "Lifehouse infuses adrenaline-fueled anthems with life-affirming mantras," while Billboard has said, “The potent, guitar-based ‘Hanging By A Moment’ stakes out a spot on the same ground as bands like Creed and Pearl Jam, possessing commercial accessibility without shedding the meaty musical substance that weeds out the poseurs from the real thing.”
The band’s fourth album, “Who We Are,” was released on Geffen in 2007. “Broken,” the third single from the album,” has appeared on such TV shows as “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Criminal Minds” and “One Tree Hill.”
Band members—all in their mid-20s—are singer-songwriter-guitarist Jason Wade, drummer Rick Woolstenhulme, bassist Bryce Soderberg and recently added guitarist Ben Carey. Lifehouse is working on its fifth album, set for release later in 2009. Band members are originally from suburban Los Angeles.
Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium is located at 455 S. Brainard St., Naperville.
Tickets are on sale now and available by calling North Central’s box office at 630-637-SHOW (7469) or online at http://www.northcentralcollege.edu/show. Prices are $30 for stadium seating and $40 for field-level seats in advance, or $40/stadium and $50/field on the day of show. (Add $2 per ticket for online sales.) Details, including a seating map, are available online at http://finearts.northcentralcollege.edu/x48437.xml.
Have you recently renovated your Master Suite?
Then HGTV is looking for you right now!
Home & Garden Television¹s (HGTV) BANG FOR YOUR BUCK is coming back for a
second season and we¹re looking for fun and enthusiastic homeowners in the
greater Chicago area RIGHT NOW!
Renovations must have taken place recently (no more than 3 years ago).
Each HGTV episode will tour three similar remodels at similar price points in the
same city. We¹ll bring in our design expert and real estate expert to
determine how the renovation impacts each home¹s value. We¹ll also provide
viewers with expert advice, answers on remodeling values, and inspiring
ideas for design.
Taping will begin shortly, so if you¹re interested, apply immediately!
Send photos of your Master Suite and request an application at:
BSchledewitz@highnoonentertainment.com or Brooke Schledewitz at (303)
712-3168
Bang For Your Buck is produced for HGTV by High Noon Entertainment in
Centennial, CO
Rockin’ for the Troops 2009 will feature family activities
Operation Support Our Troops-Illinois announces its new family entertainment activities for this year’s Rockin’ for the Troops summer benefit concert.
New attractions include: Chris Camp “The Whip Guy”, family magician Tim Adams (“The Amazing Tim Adamz”), The Chicago Hot Rox Dancers, and belly dancing demonstrations with Roxanne’s Dance Studio. The US Army will be returning with a rock wall and football throw, the Marines will display a humvee and inflatable marine, and the Air Force is coming with a table set-up. The Civil Air Patrol will have aerospace crafts displayed.
“We are excited to have this area for our families to share time together in support of our troops,” said Joyce Roberts, family entertainment coordinator.
In addition outreach tents will be set up, so patrons have the opportunity to write letters to the troops and/or learn about OSOTIL’s mission. Booth vendors, sponsor tables and ten food vendors (see below) will also be present.
The event will again feature Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band at Cantigny Park in Wheaton, IL on Sat. July 18. Special guest appearances include: Heartache Tonight (Eagles tribute band), comedian Anita Renfroe, Byrds co-founder and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Chris Hillman, Miss Illinois, Joe Cantafio and the Gaddis Sisters. Chicago Bulls and Chicago Cubs vocalist Ken Karlson will return to sing the National Anthem. Adding to the experience, the Rockin’ for the Troops concert stage will feature two jumbotrons.
Cantigny Park will be closed to the public on Sat. July 18. The park opens at noon, and you must have a ticket to get onto the grounds. Rockin’ for the Troops ticket-holders have the opportunity to enjoy not only the new family entertainment activities, but the magnificent grounds that is Cantigny Park. Enjoy the following at Cantigny: Rose Garden, Idea Garden, Formal Gardens, Robert R. McCormack Museum and First Division Museum. Main stage presentations and performers begin around 3pm.
Proceeds from Rockin’ for the Troops 2009 will continue to fund efforts in supporting deployed and returning troops and their families. Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online at www.osotil.org or at participating Jewel-Osco Food Stores.
For more information about OSOTIL, please visit www.osotil.org
Naperville's Hotel Arista received AAA Four Diamond Award
On the heels of its six month anniversary, Hotel Arista received the coveted Four Diamond Award® from the Automobile Association of America (AAA) this month. The AAA designation rewards exceptional properties across North America based on customer service, quality of accommodations and superior amenities.
“Hotel Arista means the best in Greece and it’s our goal to be the best in everything we do,” said Jeff Wardlaw, general manager, Hotel Arista, in a release. “This award represents an important milestone on this journey, and we are proud to represent Naperville in achieving this important designation. We enjoy making each guest experience a special one and it’s exciting to have these efforts recognized.”
The property is only a select group of AAA Four Diamond Award® winners, as less than 4% of the more than 31,000 AAA rated lodgings received the prestigious designation this year. “The AAA Four Diamond Award represents an important tier of the hospitality industry, offering guests superior experiences with a high level of luxurious surroundings,” says Michael Petrone, AAA director of Tourism Information Development.
AAA’s Diamond Rating System is the only ratings system that covers all of North America and one of only two that conduct physical, on-site evaluations. It is the only system that uses full-time, professionally trained evaluators to inspect each property on an annual basis using a set of guidelines that are made available to all establishments. AAA rates more properties than any other rating entity.
For more information, visit www.aaa.com/diamonds.
In related news, following an extensive evaluation process, Hotel Arista has received official LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) this month, becoming the state of Illinois’ first
hotel to achieve this extraordinary status in green design.
FYI: The Hotel Arista is also the home of the acclaimed SugarToad where Chef
Jimmy Sneed cooks up crazy good menus. The hotel’s signature restaurant also
utilizes many organic and locally-sourced products, in addition to an on-site garden,
and all guestrooms offer a “Nosh Box” which is stocked with local, regional and
organic food items.The hotel and restaurant are located at 2139 CityGate Lane, just
off Route 59 and I-88. Look for the SugarToad billboard at Ferry Road along I-88.
Rotary Club pitches a hit for college scholarships
The Naperville Rotary Club of Naperville/Downtown and the DuPage Dragons will throw a special
“Night at the Ballpark” at 5:05PM, Sun., July 19. Proceeds from ticket sales will
benefit the Rotary College of DuPage Scholarship Fund.
The will be played at the Lisle - Benedictine University Sports Complex.
Tickets for the skybox are $30 per person. The price includes 1 admission ticket, two drinks & buffet. ($5 from each purchased ticket will be donated to the College of DuPage Scholarship Fund offered by the Rotary Club of Naperville)
This evening of ballpark fun is a chance to watch some of the top college baseball players from across the country.
During the , the Rotary Club also will be host a 50/50 raffle in which you can win autographed Dragons merchandise and more.
General admission seating in the grand stand is also available for $6 per ticket.
For more information, contact Rotarian Kenn Miller at (630) 544-1211 OR visit www.dupagedragons.com and order tickets online. To reach the box office, call (630) 241-2255.
Cooling Centers are available to help Naperville residents deal
with heat
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for the Chicago area effective from now through Wednesday evening. Temperatures are expected to rise into the 90s today and Wednesday, with afternoon heat index values rising to near 105 degrees both days. A Heat Advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected and that heat illnesses are possible.
The Naperville Municipal Center, located at 400 S. Eagle St., can be used as a cooling center Monday through Friday during normal business hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents can also seek shelter at the following locations:
- County administrative buildings
- Libraries
- Park District facilities
- Senior Centers
- Township offices
- Shopping malls
- Other public places
After hours and on weekends, residents can immediately go to any of the city’s nine fire stations to seek relief from the heat. If extreme hot weather were to continue for an extended period of time, the city’s emergency response plan would be activated and additional cooling centers would open.
“It's important to remember that during periods of extreme hot weather, our elderly population, those taking medications for chronic illnesses and those with special needs are among the most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses,” Community Relations Manager Nadja Lalvani said. “Be extra vigilant and check on those individuals often. If you usually check on them once a week, make it once or more a day. Let them know about the cooling centers available.”
During hot weather, it is important to become familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and what to do if you or someone you know is suffering from either of these conditions. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, light-headedness, headache, cool and clammy skin, heavy perspiration, shallow breathing, muscle tremors and cramping.
Additional symptoms for heat stroke, which can be fatal, include severe headache, a red and dry face, skin that is hot to the touch, rapid and shallow breathing, significantly elevated body temperature, weak pulse, changes in consciousness and seizures or cardiac arrhythmias. Any person suffering from these symptoms is in a life-threatening situation and 9-1-1 should be called immediately.
The following are hot weather tips to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses:
- Stay in an air-conditioned space at home, the library, the mall, movie theater or at a cooling center.
- Drink lots of water and natural juices. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and soft drinks.
- Keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but keep windows slightly open.
- Stay out of the sun and avoid going out in the heat.
- Keep electric lights off or turned down.
- Take cool baths or showers.
- Wear loose, light cotton clothing.
- Do not eat heavy meals. Avoid cooking with your oven.
- Avoid or minimize physical exertion.
- Do not sit in a hot car, even for a short time. Never leave a child in a hot car.
- Check on family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they stay cool and safe.
- If you or anyone you know needs emergency medical attention, call 9-1-1.
- It is against the law to open a fire hydrant. An open hydrant hinders the fire department's ability to fight fires, reduces water pressure in your home and may cause basement flooding.
- Special Keeping Cool Tips for Seniors
- During heat emergencies, seniors are urged to contact their local area
- agencies on Aging or the Senior HelpLine at (800) 252-8966 for
- assistance with locating senior centers, adult day service sites and other
buildings that serve as cooling centers. - Humidity combined with temperature make up the heat index, which is similar
to the wind chill factor in winter. If the temperature is in the 90s with high humidity, it can feel like it is well over 100 degrees. - Keeping Cool Tips for Your Pets
- Provide water and shelter from the sun at all times.
- Restrict activity during extreme heat.
- Never leave pets in parked vehicles. Even moderate heat rapidly increases
and can kill the pet quickly. Anyone needing assistance during a period of extreme heat should call City Dispatch
at (630) 420-6187.
Open letter to constituents from State Rep. Darlene Senger, 96th District
I returned from Springfield with quite an eye-opening education to the state’s budget process, as well as how to survive on minimal sleep. It is so great to be back in my district to catch up with the people I represent in Springfield . I can honestly tell you that my experience in local government and public service in Aurora and Naperville was extremely significant in preparing me for my role as a state representative. In fact, the state leaders in Springfield could take lessons from local leaders here about how to run government!
The primary difference about Springfield is the played by Speaker Michael Madigan and the Democrat leaders who control every branch of state government. There are many bullies on the playground in Springfield and it seems they enjoy picking on the “new kid on the block.” The bullies demonstrated their power by squashing some of my most important bills that would greatly assist the people of this district. Some of this legislation would have jumpstarted the housing market, cleaned up state government, implemented pension reforms, helped keep our school children safe, and offered property tax relief, to name a few.
However, the new kid on the block was still able to scream loud and fight hard enough to advance several important reforms. Among them being a bill to help our police officers secure recorded cell phone conversations of sexual predators with children. The bill makes it easier for police officers to catch sexual predators in their tracks before adding to unfortunate statistics.
Many of my legislative initiatives came to me through the request of constituents. Your opinions are so important to me, and I look forward to hearing many of your thoughts on state government as I see you out and about in Aurora and Naperville this summer.
---Submitted June 8, 2009
Wi-Fi Network is back in downtown Naperville!
The City of Naperville announced Friday that it has successfully reactivated the
Wireless Fidelity (“Wi-Fi”) network that was launched as a pilot program in the downtown area in 2007. Residents and visitors can use the network to obtain information about downtown shops and restaurants and other community-related activities.
The area covered by the Wi-Fi network reaches approximately from Douglas Avenue/School Street in the north to Martin Avenue in the south and Ewing Street/West Street in the west to Wright Street in the east. The coverage map is available on the city’s Web site at www.naperville.il.us/emplibrary/wifimap.pdf.
In 2007, the City of Naperville contracted with MetroFi to provide a free Wi-Fi network to the downtown area. The launch of the network was well received by users. However, MetroFi’s management changed hands and the new company attempted to
change the terms of the contract they negotiated with the city, resulting in a
significant investment of taxpayer dollars. The city opted instead to
investigate other options. MetroFi, claiming that removal costs would be too
great, abandoned the equipment that they had set up throughout the downtown
area.
Instead of removing the equipment, the city teamed up with WOW Access (not
affiliated with Wide Open West, one of the city’s franchise cable partners) to
again provide wireless Web connectivity to residents, businesspeople and other
visitors to downtown Naperville. The network was unofficially reactivated in April of
this year for a cost of $7,000.
“We are exploring ways to support public safety, create efficiencies in city
services and realize cost-savings, while also providing a valuable service to our
residents, businesses and visitors,” Telecommunications Manager Dan Voiland
said.
As with any wireless system, the network is open-access and users should take precautions for online security, including turning off file-sharing, establishing a
firewall and using anti-virus software.
A municipal wireless network allows city mobile workers, such as building inspectors, to be more efficient, provides new evidence gathering tools for police and fire, supports traffic monitoring and management and delivers free Wi-Fi to the city’s residents, local businesses and visitors.
For more information, including a pilot area map, visit www.naperville.il.us/wifi.aspx.
It's wild and for everyone! Sign up now for NPL Summer Reading Program
The new Nintendo DSi portable gaming system, a Wii console and other prizes are all part of the Naperville Public Library’s Summer Reading Program, now in progress. Take part in the Naperville Public Library’s Summer Reading Program with its theme of “Read on the Wild Side!”
It’s easy. Visit www.naperville-lib.org. Click on the Summer Reading Program box on the right side of the page. Teens and adults, make sure you have your Library card and PIN numbers ready. Of course, you can still register at one of our buildings - Nichols Library, 200 W. Jefferson Ave.; the Naper Boulevard Library, 2035 S. Naper Blvd.; and the 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr. Children ages birth to entering fifth grade will need to register in person.
This is the first year that teens and adults are able to register for the program online.
The Naperville Public Library’s Summer Reading Program is for all ages and is divided into three levels:
Children from birth through 5th grade can register and receive a Safari Trail, a log. In addition to recording reading and listening time, the log includes fun activities that promote early literacy and lifelong learning. Incentive prizes will be given out as each Safari Trail is completed on the reading log. At the end of the program, grand raffle prizes will be awarded; one winner at each of our three buildings. The more weeks a child participates in the program, the more chances to win the raffle prize.
- Students entering grades 6 through 12 read or listen to your favorite books and win prizes for reading. Also earn chances to win one of our grand prizes.
- Adults (everyone else!). Read or listen and participate in a fabulous grand prize raffle at the end of the eight-week program.
- The 8-week summer reading program ends at 5PM, Sunday, Aug. 2.
- To participate in the Summer Reading Program, everyone must have a current Naperville Public Library Card.
Scott's Walk will step off from Elmwood School on July 26
Scott's Walk, hosted by friends and family of Scott Zager, will begin with check-in registration at 7:30AM, Sun., July 26, at Elmwood Elementary School. The two-mile walk begins at 8:30AM.
Thanks to amazing sponsor support in memory of 19-year-old Zager who lost his battle with testicular cancer in 2008, 100 percent of the $25 registration fee will go directly to the Lance Armstrong Foundation to help win the fight against cancer.
Elmwood Elementary School is located at 1023 Magnolia Lane. For more information, visit http://web.me.com/carolspencer/www.scottswalkLAF.com/Welcome.html
Be mindful of city's lawn care regulations
The City of Naperville would like to remind residents of the lawn care regulations that are in effect year-round as part of the city’s water conservation ordinance and grass height ordinance.
Lawn Sprinkling
Lawn sprinkling is only permitted during the hours of 6 to 10 a.m. and 6 to 10 p.m. Residents with odd-numbered street addresses may use sprinklers on odd-numbered days of the month. Property owners with even-numbered street addresses may use sprinklers on even-numbered days of the month.
These restrictions are in effect 365 days a year. Property owners are responsible for setting automatic timers accordingly and/or notifying lawn care services. Residents may use hand held hoses at any time to water trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetable gardens; to fill wading pools up to 50 gallons and to wash cars. Root feeders for trees are also allowed at any time.
Regulation of lawn sprinkling protects the public water supply by limiting the demands placed on the system on any given day. This protection is especially important on hot summer days when the overall demand is high.
The city does provide additional sprinkling opportunities for property owners who have
fully sod or seeded their lawn. Property owners may use lawn sprinklers for eight hours on the day the sod or seed is placed on the lawn. For the next nine days, lawn sprinkling is permitted anytime between the hours of 6 to 10 a.m. and 6 to 10 p.m. On the eleventh day, property owners must adhere to the general sprinkling regulations. This opportunity does not include small patches of sod or seed, which should be hand watered.
Grass Height Ordinance
Grass and/or weeds on all properties must be less than eight inches in height. Property owners in violation of this regulation will be notified and must cut the grass and/or weeds within five days. If the grass and/or weeds are not cut to less than eight inches within the specified period of time, the city will have them cut and all expenses incurred will be billed to the property owner.
Residents must also maintain the front and/or rear parkway adjacent to their home. Grass in the parkway may not exceed five inches in height.
For more information on lawn sprinkling, visit www.naperville.il.us/lawnsprinkling.aspx. For more information on grass height regulations, visit www.naperville.il.us/codeenforcement.aspx.
It's road surfacing season! Stay alert, expect delays, use caution and abide by local speed limits and traffic rules in construction zones
The City of Naperville has begun its annual Road Resurfacing Program to maintain, renovate and reconstruct some of the city’s 450 miles of streets the week of May 4, 2009, weather permitting. Minor construction-related activities are currently underway in some areas to prepare for the upcoming road work. All of the work included in the 2009 Roadway Resurfacing Program is slated for completion by early October.
Each year, Naperville’s roadways are evaluated. Based on this evaluation, the city determines which ones need preventative maintenance -- a cost-effective way to
extend the life of the road through patching and crack-filling; renovation -- the repair and replacement of portions of the pavement, sidewalk and curb; or reconstruction -- the complete replacement of the entire street surface layer.
Downtown Naperville is first to receive resurfacing. Work on the streets in the downtown is slated for completion ahead of Memorial Day Weekend. These streets include: Jackson Avenue, from West Street to Main Street; Jefferson Avenue, from Eagle Street to Webster Street; and Eagle Street, from Jackson Street to Jefferson Avenue.
Some streets in Cinnamon Creek, Country Lakes, East Highlands, Farmstead, Glens, Hobson Village, Saybrook, Springbrook Estates, University Heights, and Walnut Woods subdivisions are also scheduled for maintenance, renovation or restoration this year. Letters outlining the specific construction activities will be sent to residents in these neighborhoods. In addition, door hangers will be hand delivered to those residents who may have limited access to their driveway at times during construction.
In addition to roadway improvements in the residential areas, several of the city’s major roads are also slated for construction work, including: Aurora Avenue, from just east of Route 59 to Ogden Avenue; Bauer Road, from Mill Street to East Avenue; Diehl Road, from Mill Street to Freedom Drive; North Aurora Road, from Route 59 to Ogden Avenue; and West Street, from Rickert Drive to Aurora Avenue.
A map detailing the roads scheduled for maintenance is available on the city’s Web site at www.naperville.il.us/mip.aspx.
Indian Prairie School Board Elects New Officers, seats new members
Indian Prairie School District 204's new Board of Education was seated on May 4 and the following officers were elected: Curt Bradshaw, president; Alka Tyle, vice president and Chris Vickers, secretary.
Curt Bradshaw, a Waubonsie Valley High School graduate, first joined the board when he was appointed to fill an unexpired term in 2005 and was later elected in 2007. He earned a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Illinois and graduated first in his class with an MBA in finance and strategic management from University of Chicago Graduate School of Business. Bradshaw is currently employed as Executive Director of Product Strategy for Morgan Stanley.
Alka Tyle was appointed to the board in 2006 and the community elected her to serve in 2007. She holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from the University of Melbourne and a master's degree in computer science from Rutgers University. Tyle has lived in, worked in, and visited over a dozen countries, including India, Australia and Saudi Arabia.
Chris Vickers was elected to her first term as a board member in 2005 and her second term in 2009. She has been an active volunteer in the school district and the community. Vickers is currently employed as an IT administrator and paralegal for the Chicago law firm of Wiedner and McAuliffe, Ltd.
The new officers join fellow board members Mark Metzger, Cathy Piehl, Dawn DeSart and Sue Rasmus. Piehl, DeSart and Rasmus were elected to serve on April 7.
More information is available at http://board.ipsd.org
City of Naperville is working with State, Federal and Regional Health Departments to keep residents informed regarding swine flu outbreak
The City of Naperville is working closely with the DuPage County Health Department, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention to monitor the recent swine flu outbreak in an effort to keep Naperville residents informed of the developing situation.
It is important to note that there have been no confirmed cases of the swine virus in Illinois, as of Monday, April 27.
The Du Page County Office of Emergency Management activated the Du Page County Public Health Incident Command on Sunday to monitor all developments in this situation. The Du Page County Health Department has distributed swine flu information to physicians, hospital emergency rooms, laboratories and infection control practitioners as well as local municipalities.
“While there are no reported cases in the City of Naperville and the State of Illinois of the swine flu, the city is prepared with a pandemic plan in place should we need to mobilize and respond quickly,” said Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Dave Szablewski. “Our top priority is to keep our residents informed of any developments and ensure they have the proper resources to obtain additional information.”
Swine influenza, swine flu, is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus. Typically, humans are not infected with swine flu but infections can occur. Human cases typically involve people who have had direct contact with pigs, but the CDC has established human-to-human transmission among these recent cases.
Health officials are working to determine the source of human infection, if additional people have been infected with similar swine flu viruses and to fully assess the health impact of this swine flu virus.
Seasonal flu symptoms include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Reported swine flu symptoms also include runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
A seasonal flu shot is not expected to protect against swine flu and therefore the Illinois Department of Public Health recommends taking the following precautions: cover your cough or sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and see your doctor if you have fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. If you get sick, stay home, call your doctor and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
Swine flu is not transmitted by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork products, however it is always recommended to thoroughly cook pork to avoid food borne illness.
For more information, please visit DuPage County’s emergency management Web site at www.protectdupage.org for regular updates in English as well as Spanish; the Will County Health Department at http://www.willcountyhealth.org/en/do.jsp; the Illinois Department of Public Health at www.idph.state.il.us; Edward Hospital at http://edward.org/default.cfm; and the federal Center for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov/flu/swine or call 1(800) CDC-INFO. In Spanish, http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/espanol/swine_espanol.htm. You may also visit the City of Naperville Web site at www.naperville.il.us/swineflu.aspx.
Local blood supply could use support of healthy, eligible donors.
As potential cases of swine flu reach the Chicagoland area, schools and public facilities will continue to take precautionary actions and close until any suspected cases can be confirmed. Blood drives scheduled to be held at these locations will likewise be cancelled. Case in point, yesterday a blood drive scheduled for a school in Kane County which closed while confirmatory tests are performed, was cancelled. As the prospect for additional closings is likely, officials at Heartland Blood Centers are concerned about the impact on the blood supply.
"It is even more important today for all healthy, eligible blood donors to step forward and donate blood", said Dominique Bazile, M.D., Medical Director for Heartland Blood Centers. "Heartland Blood Centers must be ready to respond to all routine and emergent blood product requests."
In recent weeks, inventory levels of O positive, O negative, B negative and A negative blood types have begun to drop nationwide. Heartland Blood Centers has seen similar patterns in their blood collections.
While the four types listed above are in the greatest demand, blood donors of all types are asked to give as soon as possible. To find a donor center or blood drive near you, visit www.heartlandbc.org or call 1-800-7TO-GIVE
Perhaps now is a good time to share the basics about good hygiene
Our world is better prepared for any global influenza that may spread to Naperville. Every resident can help by
reviewing basic hygiene practices with all family members, students and people in your workplace.
These good habits, common sense practices that should be followed whether there's the threat of flu or not, include covering your nose and mouth with a tissue if you cough or sneeze and promptly throwing the tissue in the trash. Washing your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing is also important. You also need to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent spreading germs.
If your place of business has public washrooms, be sure they are clean and supplied with soap and other necessary hygiene items. Keep the wastebasket emptied. Keep the sink scrubbed.
Most important, if you or your children are ill, stay home. A child must be fever free without taking fever-reducing medications for 24 hours before returning to school. Church will be OK without you for a week if you are coughing and sneezing. Be prudent. All that said, good hygiene needs to be a way of life.
Visit the Centers for Disease Control online for more information:
Positively Naperville aims to keep you informed and in good health.
'Top 30' District 204 students name teachers who inspired them
The Indian Prairie Educational Foundation (IPEF) recently recognized this year's "Top 30" high school seniors from Neuqua Valley and Waubonsie Valley. The IPEF has recognized outstanding students, based on their grade point average, for the past 21 years. The students represent approximately the top 3 percent of Indian Prairie's graduating seniors.
As part of the recognition, each student is asked to name a teacher who served as a source of inspiration for his or her academic success. Mary Anne Castro, IPEF secretary, said the program is special because it not only honors the students hard work, but it provides a platform for the students to thank their teachers. "This honor is often the highlight of a teaching career, and we've had teachers travel from across the country to participate in this recognition."
This year's Neuqua Valley students, followed by their influential educators, are: Wasfia Alikhan (Katie Ricca), Lindsay Andsager (Michael Kennedy), Rob Bauer (Bill Yanisch), Siyue Chen (Laura Dabezic), Mathew Doerfler (Tom McManamen), Alistair Duncan (Jonathan Lauff), Laken Edwards (Matt Grigas), Tanay Ganga (Hugh Flanders), Kevin Gao (Casey Solgos), Nishi Garg (Mark Cummings), Hannah Haines (Janice Hawkins), Josiah Han (Gail Derrow), Matthew Heller (Gail Derrow), Heather Herzog (Michael Kennedy), Carol Li (Hugh Flanders), Alexander Lincoln (James Fox), Winshen Liu (Michael Rossi), Chris Olen (Taveras Crump), Alex Onsager (Lisa Ryder), Caitlyn Pater (Bill Yanisch), Andrea Palella (Laura Dabezic), Bhavani Pokala (Katie Ricca), Shivani Rangwala (Adam Law), Kareem Saleh (James Fox), Nicole Su (Kelli Tufo-Jarnagin), Rohit Subramanian (Michael Rossi), Cassandra Thomson (Timothy McCoskey), Nivedita Umasankar (Casey Solgos), Rahul Varshney (Michael Rossi), and Justin Zahraee
(Hugh Flanders).
This year's Waubonsie Valley students, followed by their influential educators, are: Usha Appalaneni (James Donahue), Cvetomir Cankov (Andrew Petermen), Jeffrey Carlson (Ryan Doherty), Sonam Dodhia (Joy Braun), Alissa Fahrenz (Mark Liu), Amelia Haj (Kim Haake), Natalia Hajnas (Mark Liu), Rebecca Horton (Mark Liu), Andrew Huh (Chris Ruffulo), Matt Jachimiec (Scott Gregory), Philip Jones (Tom Tait), Malini Kartha (Mark Myers), Gregory Keating (Scott Gregory), Alia Khan (Elaine Modine), Adam Kozak (Mike DiTella), Emily Kreiner (Edna Roberts), Edwin Lee (Chris Ruffulo), Michael Lyons (Brad Caldwell), Sean Lyons (Kim Haake), Alana Moore (Natalie Johnson), Leah North (Christopher Wolak), Ben Rudolph (Mike DiTella), Abigail Sefton (Libby Henderson), Shivali Shah (David Sieh), Justine Shiou (Heather Friedman), Steven Troscinski (Randy Lange), Edith Wong (Kelly Rose), Piali Yang (Kevin Kennedy), and Brianna Zrinsky (Megan LoPresto).
The Indian Prairie Educational Foundation was created in 1988 to complement and enhance the educational opportunities provided to students attending schools in Indian Prairie District 204. With the help of private donations received from District businesses, civic organizations, parents and staff members, the Foundation supports the development of program enrichments and services not normally financed with tax dollars. A vital part of the Indian Prairie community, the IPEF provides "educational extras" that make the difference between a very good school system and an excellent one.
Chamber of Commerce will honor Jones with 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award
Long time Naperville resident and local funeral director, Ray Jones, has been named as the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient by the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce. Jones was chosen for this honor based on his extensive community involvement and his dedication to providing compassionate service as a local funeral director to the Naperville Area.
Ray has served as a licensed funeral director since 1966. He is a graduate of Worsham College of Mortuary Science, and began his career at Friedrich Funeral Home in Naperville in 1965. Ray purchased Friedrich Funeral Home in 1977 and Overman Funeral Home in 1982. Later the Jones name was added to both locations to reflect the Jones family ownership.
Jones' commitment to the Naperville community is demonstrated by the many organizations he is and has been engaged in including, but not limited to, Director of First Community Bank of Naperville, Commissioner of the Naperville Police and Fire Board, Founder and Chairman of the St. Patrick's Residence "Gold Key Gala," Edward Hospital Foundation Board Member, Founder and Chairman of the SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church's "Light the Way," Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Board Member, Naperville United Way Fund Drive Board Member and Chairman, Naperville Heritage YMCA Board Member, President of Little Friends Community and member of the Rotary Club of Naperville.
Jones has sponsored the Naperville Little League Team for over thirty years and supports various other local not-for-profit organizations including the DuPage Children's Museum, SS Peter & Paul Church and School, Misercordia Home of Chicago, Loaves & Fishes, DuPage PADS, NCO Youth and Family Services, and Naperville Cares to name a few.
Actively involved in St. Patrick's Residence of Naperville, Mr. Jones is the Founder and Chairman of the St. Patrick's Residence Gala. As a member of the steering committee, he was an integral part of the relocation of St. Patrick's residence relocation from Joliet to Naperville and currently serves on the Board of Directors.
Ray resides in Naperville with his wife Marilyn and son Dan who is attending Marquette University. Ray is a longtime member and usher at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church.
The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to Ray Jones at the 2009 Small Business of the Year Awards on May 8 at the Wyndham Lisle.
For more information on the Small Business of the Year Awards, contact Lisa Livingston at 630-544-3365 or llivingston@naperville.net.
Naperville-area Fire fans can take hassle-free bus rides to home
Remember when the Chicago Fire, a then-new professional soccer team, played its home at Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium at North Central College for two years during the expansion and renovation of Soldier Field?
While those fun days are gone, fans can once again enjoy a convenient way to get to Chicago Fire home at Toyota Park in the Village of Bridgeview.
Luxury coaches have begun running from Quigley’s Irish Pub, located at 43 E Jefferson.
Bus seats can be purchased in conjunction with a ticket for $37.50, or on their own for only $20 – only $5 more than parking at the stadium.
For the young adult fans who are 21, beer also is available at no additional cost during the ride to the .
To reserve your seat on the bus or learn more, visit www.wcwfc.com/firebus or call (888) MLS-FIRE (657-3473).
City now features DuPage County and Will County Board meetings on WCNC cable TV
The City of Naperville is now broadcasting DuPage County and Will County Board meetings on its government access TV station, WCNC (Channel 6 – WOW, Channel 10 – Comcast and Channel 99 – AT&T). These meetings can be viewed at the following times:
DuPage County Board – 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of the month
Will County Board – 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the fourth and first Friday of the month
“The City of Naperville is committed to transparency in government,” Mayor A. George Pradel said. “We’re proud to be able to broadcast our city government meetings to our residents, and we are excited to have the opportunity to rebroadcast county government meetings via our TV station. Residents deserve to know the decisions being made at the county level that affect them, and this is an easy and convenient way for them to access these meetings.”
The DuPage County Board meets at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in County Board room of the Jack T. Knuepfer Administration Building, 421 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton. Four meetings throughout the year are scheduled at 7:30 at night. A full meeting schedule is available at www.dupageco.org/cobrd/generic.cfm?doc_id=294.
“Providing residents with the opportunity to view our meetings continues our commitment to being the most open and transparent county government in the State of Illinois,” DuPage County Board Chairman Robert J. Schillerstrom said.
The Will County Board meets on the third Thursday of each month at 9:30 a.m. in the County Board Room of the Will County Office Building, 302 N. Chicago St., Joliet. A full meeting schedule is available at www.willcountyillinois.com.
American Legion named Morsovillo as ‘Citizen of the Year’
American Legion Post No. 43 has selected Donna Morsovillo to receive its annual Citizen-of-the-Year Award on Sat., April 18.
The Citizen-of-the-year Award recognizes extraordinary service to the Naperville community and to the nation.
“In a word, Donna Morsovillo is ‘Special!’” said Wayne Fischer, Chairman of the Citizen-of-the-Year Award Committee.
“She’s ‘Special’ in many ways,” continued Fischer in a press release. “But at the top of the list, I’d put her tireless efforts as a driving force behind helping families with a ‘Homecoming’ of their loved ones. Donna’s organized numerous spectacular ‘Welcome Home’ ceremonies for troops coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan. Who wouldn’t feel appreciated after receiving a massive military salute, a huge escort home from the airport, American Flags flying, gigantic banners, a personal greeting by the Mayor, delicious food and so much more?”
Fischer is also looking toward the award next year. “I want to remind everyone that candidates for our award need not be Veterans,” said Fischer. “As long as someone is caring, giving, involved and determined, they’re a great candidate for the award.”
For more information, contact Fischer at (630) 240-8868.
Auto repair business offers free maintenance services and oil change for $10 during tough times for safety on the road
Fox Valley business owner is reaching out to families in need through several area churches. Fonda Vamvakas, owner of Sterling Automotive Repair, would like to help families who face unexpected car repairs or are just trying to keep their cars on the road a little longer.
Vamvakas has reached out to a number of local pastors, offering assistance with repair rates and payment plans for parishioners faced with auto repair needs. He is also offering free safety Checks, brake Inspections and tire rotation as well as $10 oil changes with any other repair service. “I’d feel better knowing people are having their cars checked out and not putting off repairs which can keep them safe and going,”
Sterling Automotive Repair is a family-owned, ASE certified, full-service automotive repair service offering certified master technicians. The firm is a member of the Better Business Bureau and AAA, offers a nationwide warranty and free shuttle service.
Located at 9 South Rt. 59, off of McCoy at the Fox Valley Mall in Aurora, Sterling Automotive Repair is open Monday through Saturday at (630) 851-3610.
“We have been blessed to run a successful business for many years,” said Vamvakas in a press release. “This is a way I can give back to community that has supported me and my family.”
Longtime Naperville business man and resident will lead the chamber of commerce
The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announced Thursday that it has elected a new President and CEO to lead the Chamber going forward. The Board unanimously elected long time Naperville resident and community leader, John Schmitt to replace outgoing President Richard Greene, who recently decided to pursue other career opportunities.
Schmitt has been involved in the Chamber since 1985, including Chairmen of the Board in 2000. In 2004, he accepted the Small Business of the Year Award in 2004 for his employer of 23 years, john greene Realty, where he also was president for five years. Since December, Schmitt has been working for Ryan Hill Realty.
Prior to his real estate career John was an air traffic controller. As a member of his union he was elected the top local representative by the 700 controllers serving the Aurora facility.
Schmitt is a committed advocate for the Naperville area community having served in leadership capacity for the Naperville United Way, Naperville Sunrise Rotary Club, Naperville Education Foundation, Naperville Development Partnership and the Riverwalk Foundation.
Schmitt will start full time with the Chamber on May 1. Don Emery, senior consultant to the Board of Directors, will continue to oversee the day to day operations of the Chamber during Schmitt’s transition.
Recycling Drop-Off Center is moving to Multi-Purpose Public Works Service Center to 180 Fort Hill Drive
Beginning Tuesday, April 14, the City of Naperville’s recycling drop-off center will be located within the Multi-Purpose Public Works Service Center, located at 180 Fort Hill Drive, at the intersection of Jefferson Ave.
The current recycling drop-off center located at 1600 W. Jefferson Ave. will close at 4PM, Sat. April 11. Until then, materials are accepted on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8AM to 4PM.
Afterward materials will only be accepted during those hours at the new location.
MATERIALS ACCEPTED: Newspapers, Advertisements, Junk mail, Magazines, Catalogs, Phone books, Books (notebooks, novels, hard or soft textbooks), Office paper, Post-It Notes™, Gift wrap, Paper bags, Chipboard boxes such as gift boxes, tissue boxes and cereal boxes, Corrugated cardboard boxes, including frozen food boxes, Glass bottles and jars, Aluminum cans, foil and trays, Tin or steel cans, including empty aerosol cans and paint cans, Plastic containers numbered No. 1 through No. 7, with the exception of those labeled No. 6,Plastic six-pack rings, Milk cartons and drink boxes, Cast iron, Aluminum or steel scrap pieces, Metal drain spouts, Metal siding, Metal fencing, Metal pipes, Metal fixtures and Metal hangers.
The handy recycling drop-off center is free, and an attendant is on site to help residents and answer any questions.
NOTE: Appliances are not accepted at the drop-off center. If you have any questions regarding recyclable materials, call (630) 420-6095 or visit www.naperville.il.us/recyclecenter.aspx.
ALERT: Residents looking to dispose of items such as oil-based paint, pesticides and automotive fluids must utilize the Household Hazardous Waste drop-off, located behind Fire Station No. 4, 1971 Brookdale Road. That facility is open from 9AM to 2PM on Saturdays and Sundays, excluding holidays. For more information on the Household Hazardous Waste Facility, visit www.naperville.il.us/hhw.aspx.
New daily 'fee' parking spaces available at Downtown Naperville Station
As of March 10, 17 additional daily fee parking spaces are available at the downtown Naperville Metra station. The spaces are located in a parking lot south of 5th Avenue and east of the City of Naperville’s Water Tower West site. The daily fee pay stations are located on the platforms of the downtown Naperville Metra station.
To view a map of the location of the new parking spaces, visit www.naperville.il.us/commuterparking.aspx.
For more information on the City of Naperville’s public transit options, visit www.naperville.il.us/transit.aspx. To sign up to receive the latest commuter news via e-mail, visit www.naperville.il.us/enews.aspx.
Attention all residents interested in Downtown Gift Certificates
Among the most purchased gifts in Naperville are the downtown Naperville gift certificates.
Think Valentine’s Day! Think Mardi Gras! Think birthdays! Think St. Patrick’s Day. Think of any occasion or make up one.
Good at nearly 150 locations throughout downtown Naperville around the clock, the gift certificates come in increments of $10, 25, 50 and 100 to make the perfect gift for any occasion.
Think Valentine’s Day! Think Mardi Gras! Think birthdays! Think of any occasion.
Downtown Naperville Gift Certificates can be purchased online through the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Web site at www.naperville.net.
Gift certificates also may be purchased in person at the following locations during business hours: Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce on the third floor of the Main Street Promenade, 55 S. Main Street, Suite 351, and Roseland Draperies & Interiors, located at 204 S. Washington.
Gift certificates are exchangeable for food, beverages, merchandise and services only. If the full amount of the certificate is not used, change will be refunded.
For more information about the Gift Certificates or other events and activities in downtown Naperville, visit www.downtownnaperville.com.
Naperville Country Club scores high as 2009 Golf Inc. Renovation of the Year Winner
Naperville resident and golfer Mike Krol who is a member of the historic Naperville Country Club recently sent news that the newly renovated course has been selected as the winner of the "private club category" for the Golf Inc. Renovation of the Year Competition.
The editors of Golf Inc. magazine informed the Naperville Country Club on January 29.
Among the stiff competition in that category was runner-up Ballenisles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Other finalists were Olympia Fields Country Club South Course, Glenwood Country Club in Old Bridge, N.J., and The Water's Edge Country Club in Penhook, VA.
According to the congratulatory e-mail, all the winners and finalists will be recognized in the March-April issue of Golf Inc. An awards ceremony is planned at the Spring Golf Inc. Conference on March 30-April 1, 2009 at the Renaissance Resort at the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, FL.
The Naperville Country Club, featuring over 120 acres for members to enjoy its 18-hole golf course, is located at 25W570 Chicago Ave.
Naperville Lyceum journal available on the Illinois Digital Archives
Thanks to the Naperville Public Library and a number of local attorneys, the Proceedings of the Naperville Lyceum, a journal of weekly meetings held from 1836 to 1843, acquired in 2006 by the Naperville Heritage Society, is now available on-line. The book was conserved to stabilize the fragile document and then the pages were scanned. The book is now available electronically through the Illinois Digital Archives, www.idaillinois.org.
Members of the lyceum, which met in several locations in Naperville shortly after the town was founded in 1831, gathered to debate important issues of the era and also held philosophical discussions. Included in the roster are recognizable citizens such as Naperville’s founder Joseph Naper and early pioneers Stephen Scott, Lewis Ellsworth and Nelson Murray.
The minutes of Naperville’s lyceum can be compared to other lyceums of the era, important in that they embody the thoughts and actions of a large constituent group of Napervillians at the time the town was being formed.
Future plans include a transcription of the manuscript, which also will be digitized, so it can be searchable by word. The full title of the manuscript on the Illinois Digital Archives in The Naperville Heritage Collection is “Proceedings of the Naperville Lyceum.”
The journal was conserved and digitized through the cooperation of the Naperville Public Library and the generosity of Brooks, Adams and Tarulis; Kuhn, Heap and Monson; Gerry Cassioppi; Ronald Nyberg; DuPage County Bar Foundation; Day & Robert, P.C.; Theodore Desch and Mark Miller.
HEAVY RAINFALL EVENTS
The City of Naperville values and relies on its customers to provide information. If you are experiencing a sanitary sewer backup and/or have flooding problems during heavy rainfall events, call the City at the numbers listed below.
customers to provide information. If you are experiencing a sanitary sewer backup and/or have flooding problems during heavy rainfall events, call the City at the numbers listed below. During significant weather events, heavy call volumes may prevent us from responding to your concern within the same day or evening. Be advised, all calls will be returned based on the urgency of the concern.
In an effort to reduce the amount of flooding in the streets, residents may assist with cleaning off their storm grates before a rain event. Residents should never remove the storm grate covers. If you see a storm sewer grate cover that has been removed, please contact the Department of Public Works at (630) 420-6095 so we can quickly rectify the situation.
Your call and information is important to determine the full impact of the weather event. Additionally, your calls and concerns help plan future budgets and maintenance and repair work in your area.
If you experience a sanitary sewer backup or flooding problem, please call the following numbers:
- Sanitary Sewer backups (water bubbling up from the lowest level floor drains) (DPU-Water and Wastewater) – (630) 420-6137
- Surcharging storm drains (water bubbling up from the street or yard drains) (DPW) – (630) 420-6095
- Storm sewer and street flooding (DPW) – (630) 420-6095
- Dispatch (after normal work hours) – (630) 420-6187
LOCAL WEEKEND GARAGE SALES LISTED HERE
RIBFEST 2009!
