Here's what our readers are saying about Positively Naperville...
(Edited for space, of course!)
We would like to extend a hearty thank you for your coverage of CASA’s 15th Anniversary celebration. Thanks for all of your help that you have given to us over the year.
---Curtis Reed, CASA of DuPage Board of Directors, www.dupagecasa.org
You have been so gracious, since 2003, with publishing the NBB press releases in Positively Naperville. Now it's 2008 and we're still going strong. I cannot express, enough, my thanks & appreciation for your support of the NMB/NBB concert. Thank you!
---Ken Kalina, Director of the NMB Naperville Big Band Editor's Note: Salute to the Big Bands concert is at 7:45PM, Thursday, July 17, at the Naperville Community Concert Center in Central Park.
Thank you for letting me write for PN. I am starting to get feedback from the readers and it is very exciting!
---Angel Whitt, Contributing Columnist for CERT
Thank you so much for the ad in Positively Naperville (May issue) for the Run for Reading. You did a beautiful job and the placement is wonderful. Thank you!!!
---Mary E. Bazan
Editor's Note: Run/Walk for Reading steps off at 7:30AM, Sunday, May 18, at River Woods Elementary School, 2607 River Woods Drive. Sign up in advance at www.nicaricoliteracyfund.org.
Volunteers are one of the nation’s most valuable resources who work tirelessly to improve our community. During National Volunteer Week, April 27-May 3, thousands of these dedicated men, women, and young people here in DuPage County will be recognized for their efforts and their commitment to serve others. The week’s theme, “Volunteer to Change the World” reflects the power volunteers have to create positive change in the lives of those they serve!
On behalf of all of us at DuPage PADS, I want to say a special thank you to the many volunteers here in DuPage County who are part of the solution to end homelessness everyday in our communities and in the lives of many of our neighbors.
Over 4,000 volunteers make a difference in the lives of more than 1200 men, women, and children who are homeless or living at risk of becoming homeless in DuPage County . Because of the willingness of people who said, “Yes” to providing food, shelter, and support, we continue to provide critical Interim Overnight Housing, Transitional Housing, Permanent Supportive Housing, and Support Services to move people from homelessness into housing.
Volunteers create a sense of hope and shared responsibility for people’s future. They are the heart and soul of our work and help to bridge the gap between people who are homeless and our communities.
Thank you DuPage PADS Volunteers! Together we are part of the solution to end homelessness in DuPage County !
---Carol Simler, Executive Director, DuPage PADS, Inc.
I fear I have missed your deadline, but here are the events for the Club’s May events: Monthly meeting at john greene Realtor at 7PM, Mon., May 5, and Annual Naperville Community Gardeners Club Plant Sale at the Garden Plots on May 10. Thanks for helping us out. We appreciate it so much.
---Linda M. Thompson, www.napervillecommunitygardeners.org
Editor's Note: More information about these events is posted on PN's monthly calendars.
Please add the following to your community events calendar for the month of May as soon as possible. Thank you so much!
---Carol Anne Kacz, REACH Adult Board Member
Editor's Note: 19th Annual R.E.A.C.H. Duck Race and Carnival Saturday, May 10, 2008 / Carnival runs from 10:AM until Noon near the Riverwalk at the base of Rotary (sled) Hill / Duck Race begins promptly at 1PM.
Your publication does such a great job of letting people know about the good things happening in Naperville. We, therefore, hope it will be possible for you to include the following press release article in your May 2008 issue of Positively Naperville. On Saturday, May 31, 2008 the Women of Naperville Wesley United Methodist Church will be having its second annual "Teatime at Wesley" from 2-4PM in Fellowship Hall.
---Audrey Bueche, VP, Wesley United Methodist Women
Just a quick note to remind you that we have one more coffee and then we take a little break. I'm including the May coffee info (10:30AM, Mon., May 5, at the Naperville Municipal Center, Children welcome) incase you need it.
The Welcome Coffee for April was Monday. Again, attendance was a bit light, but our new members were very enthusiastic. Our membership is now at 379.
About the Bake Off, that is now up in the air. Naper Settlement has said they are changing some things in the Naper Days line up, so we're waiting to hear back from them.
That's all for now. Thank you all for keeping us visible in the community.
---Sue Maloney, Naperville Neighbors and Newcomers
We are planning again for the 3rd Annual Kathryn Bender Memorial Dance Showcase. I have attached an article that I was hoping you would be able to place in the May issue of Positively Naperville. This year, as stated in the article, we are donating some of the proceeds to Midwest Heart Foundation's Young Hearts For Life Cardiac Screening program. We really appreciate your help in spreading the word about this event.
---Doris Bender
Editor's Note: The 3rd Annual Kathryn Bender Memorial Dance Showcase will begin with a raffle preview at 6PM, and show at 7PM, Friday, May 23, 2008 College of DuPage Arts Center Mainstage in Glen Ellyn
TKTS: Call COD Ticket Office at (630) 942-4000 or online at http://www.cod.edu/ArtsCntr/ then click on “Order Tickets Online” / $15 adults, $12 seniors/students.
I hope you can put the following in your Positively Naperville publication. Thanks in advance for any efforts you make on my behalf. Our dad, John Spinner worked 25 years at Kroehler's and then was co-owner the Naperville Liquor Store (where Starbucks is now) until his death in 1961. Our mom, Louis Rechenmacher Spinner worked at Wehrli's Home Appliance for many years.
Chuck Spinner, born and raised in Naperville and now a resident of Ashville, New York, has recently published A Book of Prayers: To the Heavens from the Stars. The book is a collection of beautiful favorite prayers from 118 wonderful celebrities including Oscar winners, Olympic Gold Medallists, four-star generals, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient, and even a Monarch and three former Miss Americas. Prayers have come from the only hurler to ever pitch a perfect World Series game; from the player who hit "the shot heard round the world"; from the only two time Heisman trophy winner; and from the only four time NCAA wrestling champion. Former Cleveland Browns lineman Doug Dieken wrote the Foreword and Spinner added a chapter on the qualities and power of prayer along with engaging introductions to each of the celebrities.
You can find a synopsis of the book, Spinner's biography, and a sample section from the book by going to http://ABookofPrayers.com. The book can be ordered by the online sources listed or can be ordered at Waldenbooks or Border Books.
---Spinlake Spinner
PN is such a great community resource for residents, businesses and non-profits. Keep up the great work!
---Heather G. Wachter, www.ExplorersCommunications.com
As club pro at the Naper Olympic Fitness Center for more than 20 years, I have come across many people who have become good friends. One of those is Christopher "Kit" Lawson, who recently posted and sent me an e-mail with your site. What a great idea to create a nostalgia web site.
I live now in Bolingbrook, and have an avid interest in history, especially local history. I have walked the old cemetery just south of downtown Naperville as well as others... and I once served on the Bolingbrook Historic Preservation commission.
I'll continue to check in on the site to read other interesting articles.
---Don Grigas
Editor's Note: We are grateful to Don Grigas and Christopher Lawson for taking time to write wonderful stories for PN's Naperville Nostalgia on this Web site. Don's tribute to his uncle, "Ed Geary, Educator," is sure to bring back memories for many former students at Ss. Peter and Paul.
By the way, the “Pradelville” April Fool’s joke was very funny.
---Gary Pradel, Founding Member / Naperville Independent Film Festival / http://www.naperfilm.org
Editor's Note: Another Red Carpet NIFF Fundraiser is from 5:30 to 8PM, Mon., April 14, at City Club, located at 1163 E. Ogden Ave. $25 for Adults; $15 for Students.
I am so happy to know that CASA is getting exposure in Naperville. That was a tough nut to crack until Positively Naperville came along! I recently joined the Chamber, hopefully that will help as well.
Kay Hedeen, Executive Director, CASA of DuPage County, Inc., www.dupagecasa.org
Editor's Note: CASA of DuPage is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year during a dinner on April 19 at Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton. Naperville resident Neal Cerne is President of the Board of Directors.
I thought the April fool's joke was to put flowers on the front of PN and NOT have a gardening column inside!
---Ron Ory, Naperville Community Gardeners Club
Editor's Reply to Ory: It's just luck that the gardening column is on page 13 inside PN. Thanks for the e-mail! No joke!
Ory's Reply: Thanks for pointing out the garden column. The speaker at the club's next meeting, "Contrary Mary," is quite interesting and 'down to earth'; I heard her at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show where the room was packed to overflowing.
---Ron Ory, Naperville Community Gardeners Club
Editor's Note: The Naperville Community Gardeners meet at John Greene Realtor, at 7PM on the first Monday of the month. John Greene is located at 1311 S. Route 59 at 83rd St.
I have been volunteering on the Weekday Children's Center Board and have recently been drafted onto the Marketing Committee. One of the items noted in an informational meeting was that there used to be a link on your Web site to Weekday. Was there a change in policy or was there a fee that had to be paid that was neglected?
---Diane Hoffman
Editor's Note: PN posts Web sites for nonprofit organizations at no fee. For-profit businesses can be linked up for a one-time charge for perpetuity of $365 with a presence on both PN companion Web sites, www.positivelynaperville.com and www.pnmonthly.com. Be sure to check out the promotions page on PN Monthly. In April 2008, you'll find savings on potting soil, hair coloring and picture framing!
I just wanted to let you know about the 7th Annual 5K Run/Walk for Reading to benefit the Jeanine Nicarico Literacy Fund that will be held on Sunday, May 18 at River Woods School in Naperville. It is our main fundraiser for the literacy fund. This year we will be awarding over $16,000 in grants to the Naperville schools at the Awards Night for the Naperville Education Foundation on April 22. Proceeds from this 5K Run/Walk for Reading make it possible for us to continue to award these grants. Any help you can give us once again in getting the word out about the event will be greatly appreciated.
---Pat Nicarico
Thanks again for your publicity regarding my show. I can only assume it helped, because we played to packed houses. ... It was a real community event in that we all had types of people in the audience.
---Hilary Decent, Director, Passover the Musical at Congregation Beth Shalom
I am a recent transplant from Lincoln Park and have found I clutch your paper as my Naperville bible for people, places, events, wisdom, etc. ... Looking forward to learning more. Best wishes.
---Elizabeth Page
...What a classy paper Pos!tively Naperville is, too! I read it from the front page to the last and found myself enjoying feature after feature almost as much as if I actually lived in Naperville . It is that kind of feeling your paper generates. Feel proud of what you print and what a good feeling it promotes ...even among relative strangers who happened to spend a couple of nights at the Country Inn Suites!
---Dave and Jan Thompson, Grand Rapids, Michigan
Editor's Note: Positively Naperville received a letter dated March 10, 2008, from the Thompsons who happened upon the "soft opening" fundraiser for the Heritage YMCA and ribbon cutting ceremonies for White Chocolate Grill, during a weekend visit on March 7-8. During festivities, they met Mayor George Pradel, WCG co-owner Chef Robert Kabakoff, Heritage YMCA staff and many community leaders from Naperville. While singing their praises about the "absolutely incredible" experience, Thompson said, "You have a first-rate community and now another first-class restaurant! We hope all of you appreciate what a truly special place Naperville is!"
Happy St. Pat's Day! Thanks very much for the wonderful coverage of our West Suburban Irish events in the March issue of Positively Naperville. We really appreciate the way your publication lets people know the good things that are happening in town.
---Chuck Corrigan
P.S. The KevKev Birdwatch Club article is now viewable on the Chicago Wilderness Magazine Web page.
http://chicagowildernessmag.org/issues/spring2008/naturalYouth.html. Thanks for putting them in touch with Kevin (Corrigan).
Editor's Note: Positively Naperville has featured the story of 9-year-old Kevin Corrigan and his The KevKev Birdwatch Club Web site. For more information about birds, visit http://www.kevkevbirdwatch.org/.
We'd love to have PN attend the Job Fair this Wed., March 19, from 5 - 7 PM at Merner Field House, North Central College. We have 51 businesses registered - lots of options for our youth! Plus this year, in addition to our regular Information Station to give the kids an "edge" in that job searching process, we'll have the Community Career Center and the Department of Labor on hand - as well as Harris' Money Matters table.
Thanks for all you continue to do to help NFP like KidsMatter through your positively encouraging positively informing newspaper!
---IdaLynn Wenhold, Executive Director, KidsMatter
Please pass on to your readers this information regarding Naper School's Spring Adult Clothing Resale. I am a fourth generation Naperville resident and I love and appreciate your paper! Keep up the great work!
---Leigh Finnegan
Editor's Note: The Naper School Spring Clothing Resale runs April 17-19. 6-8:30, April 17; 9AM- 2:30PM, April 18 and 8-11:30AM, April 19. Scroll down OVERFLOW NEWS for more details.
Thank you from We Grow Dreams Bowl-A-Thon! Thanks to everyone who participated in our Bowlathon this year! We had a record number of bowlers, lane sponsors, corporate and community supporters! Congratulations to our prize winners! www.wegrowdreams.org
---Donna F. Jarmusz, We Grow Dreams Greenhouse and Garden Center, West Chicago
Thank you so much for putting the notice in Positively Naperville about the Gin Blossoms! We had a nice turnout at our volunteer meeting the other day. Things are coming together. I'll keep you updated,
---Sara Snyder, Naper Days PR
Editor's Note: Naper Days will be held at Naper Settlement Father's Day Weekend, June 13-15.
Been so busy with the show that I have forgotten if I have thanked you or not for the photo and article (Passover: The Musical on 8PM, March 15 and 3PM, March 16, at Congregation Beth Shalom) in this month's PN. So just in case I did, many thanks, it's much appreciated!
---Hilary Decent
TO ED CHANNELL: I really enjoyed your latest ("Ed's Many Hats"). It was creative, clever, and humorous. I never knew you to be such a grammarian. I always used to tell my students that the verb is the most important word in a sentence. If writers use strong verbs and nouns, they don't have to use many modifiers. And, yes, Naperville can be used as both a noun and an adjective. (I did, however, see one error that your editor should have caught: "There was some grumbling among the shorter sentence's...." It may have been a typing error. The word sentence's should not have an apostrophe. Using an apostrophe means possession. Sentences is plural in the way that you have used it.) Anyway, I really think that you did an outstanding job. Keep those articles coming.
---Marilyn Vonch
TO DR. MUSIC, SCOTT ITTER: I read your article about the Millennium Carillon in (March) PN and wanted to take a moment to thank you for such a sensitive reaction to the carillon's music. It was a short article but I could tell it came from the heart of a writer and, more importantly to me, the heart of a music lover.
From the beginning, the carillon has been a project filled with emotion, passion, and the devotion of hundreds of people. This is what makes it so special and personal for me and has been the best part of the ten year journey. As you know, there have been some criticisms of the project along the way. We knew, from the beginning, that this would be the case. You can't do something so big and monumental and not become a lightning rod for some negative comments. The negatives have always been greatly outweighed by the positives. And, when the remarks come from the heart; when they reflect passion and a sincere appreciation for this unique musical format, the few negative comments become a faint and insignificant memory.
Tim Sleep cc'd me on his email to you. I was going to extent the same invitation to you and your family. However, Tim will be a much better guide for you as he will undoubtedly treat you to a mini-recital while you're in the players' cabin. I'm certain you would enjoy that very much.
Once again, thank you for sharing your feelings about the carillon with so many Napervillians via PN.
---Chuck Seidel, Founding Member of the Millennium Carillon
TO DR. MUSIC, SCOTT ITTER: My name is Tim Sleep and I am the Naperville City Carillonneur. I enjoyed your article in Positively Naperville. I'd like to offer to take you and your family up in the tower and give you a first hand tour of the instrument and how it's played. I think you'd like it, the view is amazing and the instrument elegant. I am, however, positively biased towards the instrument. ...I look forward to getting together. ...Thanks.
---Tim Sleep, Naperville City Carilloneur, Millennium Carillon
PN: Looks like a WINNER! Nice, clean, layout. Good ad ratio. Quigley's Irish Pub on Jefferson Street looks like my kind of joint.
---James Gower
As you may recall, the Naperville Memory Walk was in the Positively Naperville calendar listing last September in the web version at www.pnblogs.com. (It was the first year that we held a Memory Walk route in Naperville starting at the Riverwalk Grand Pavilion … and more than tripled the original goal and raised $167,000!) I’m writing to ask you to include our 2008 Naperville Memory Walk again this year on Sept. 28. I’ve included a short blurb, similar to last year, and an event description if space allows.
---Teresa Gruber, Manager, Special Events, Alzheimer's Association - Greater Illinois Chapter
Editor's Note: Naperville Memory Walk begins at 9AM, Sept. 28, hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Illinois Chapter / Register at (847) 933-2413 or visit http://napervillememorywalk.kintera.org/2008.
Will you be joining us on March 7? I know that you folks have promoted the event heavily over the past three years, and I'd like to meet you and thank you for your support of the St. Baldrick's Foundation - Shaving the Way to Conquer Kids' Cancer!
---Tim Jordan, Training Sergeant, NPD and Co-organizer of the Naperville St. Baldrick's
Editor's Note: Doors to St. Baldrick's will open at 6:30PM, Friday, March 7, 2008 at the Holiday Inn Select, 1801 N. Naper Blvd. Ceremony starts at 7PM with Naperville Fire and Police Honor Guards posting the Colors. INFO: http://www.stbaldricks.org/
Positively Naperville: it's just chock full of information and a delight to read! Bravo!
---Dianne McGuire
Last year you were kind enough to help us spread the word about Troop 100's Pancake Breakfast. I was wondering if we could ask for your help again. I am sending the info for our upcoming breakfast, basically the same as last year, with obvious updates. Thanks again.
---Tom Perzentka Jr., Boy Scout Troop 100, Naperville
Editor's Note: The All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast, is from 7AM to Noon, Sat. March 15, at the Wesley United Methodist Church, 21 East Franlkin Ave. Tickets at the door are $5.
What a cool website!! ... The info regarding the Rosemary Martin Democracy in Action Award looks great---thanks for getting it out there for us!
---Karin Snodgrass, Naperville League of Women Voters
Editor's Note: The Rosemary Martin Democracy in Action Award is presented during The LWV State of the Community Dinner at 6:30PM, Wed., March 5, at White Eagle Golf Club. For tickets, call 630-820-0255.
I just wanted to thank you for the wonderful ways you included our “Decision 2008: Primary Election” coverage in Positively Naperville. It was great to see the live coverage listed on the calendar page. The crew swelled to nearly 60 for the production so it was so nice to see it highlighted. As you know, NCTV17 is very committed to keeping the community educated and informed; you helped us do that by pointing them to the broadcast. I loved the fantastic way you presented our program in “Overflow News”, too. And of course, continued thanks for including our column. We always appreciate being a part of Positively Naperville. ...Keep up the great work!
---Nancy Wiersum, Community Development Director, NCTV, Channel 17
We have a unique opportunity. We have a chance to honor both a person and an organization that honors the military on a daily basis. Deb Rickert has been nominated as the Woman of the Year in the Chicago area. I know Deb well enough to know that she will say that if I win I am accepting on behalf of OSOT and all the volunteers. ... Visit www.chicagowoy.com every day and vote for Deb. Send this to your friends and relatives and have them vote too. Soldiers on active duty who have received packages from OSOT can vote too.
---Mike Barbour, Past Commander, Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873, www.napervfw.org
I picked up a copy of PN (while voting in a heavy turnout for the Primary at City Hall), and loved it, as usual. I always look forward to both Ed Channell and Hilary Decent.
---Shirley Pace, 42-year resident of Naperville
On to the next show! Here is the information for Naperville North's spring play The Philadelphia Story. I'm thinking this is early enough to make your print version of PN, and, of course, your web page. We sure got a great position in your last issue covering the musical Once Upon a Mattress,so I thank you for that.Take care, and stay warm :)
---Gale Ganet, Publicist, Naperville North High School Theatre Department
Editor's Note: The Philadelphia Story will be performed at 7PM, May 1, 2, 3, 2008., on stage at Naperville North High School. Tickets available one hour before show time. $6 students and seniors; $7 adults.
This press release about a significant, multi-year grant might be a great feature article in Positively Naperville about a new collaborative relationship with RR Donnelley and the Heritage YMCA Group. I know Tom and Jen would be happy to comment further about it. As always, thanks for elevating the good work of the Heritage YMCA Group in your publication.
---Dee Dee McDevitt, Director of Marketing & Customer Satisfaction, Heritage YMCA Group
Editor's Note: The gift announcement is being made as the YMCA begins its 2008 Strong Kids Campaign to raise $500,000 to provide the funding necessary to insure that no child or family will ever be denied YMCA services because of an inability to pay the cost of participation in Y programs. The Strong Kids Campaign kicks off with a breakfast at 7AM, Tues., Feb. 19, at the Naperville Country Club. Free with RSVP by calling(630) 420-3988.
Congratulations on your growth and circulation.Yes, we are PROUD that NAHC is part of PN with our Page 10 every issue article. It has been widely read and promoted, as a result a lot more residents go to our NAHC website or call me on various issues to help on. We are also PROUD that we have a top NAHC PR/Communications/Web site Director as Bob Fischer. THANKS again!! What a solid relationship we have with you and you with all in the City.
---Chuck Schlabach, President, Naperville Area Homeowners Confederation
Thank you so much for the wonderful coverage on the front page of the Positively Naperville paper! The electronic ad looks great too! We really, really appreciate all of your support and are hoping for the biggest turnout ever this year! I'll let you know how we did after the event. Again, thanks for helping us out so much!
---Sue Rickert, International Programs, North Central College
Editor's Note: The International Festival is from noon to 4PM, Sun., Feb. 10, at Merner Field House, on the campus of North Central College. Follow the signs from E. Chicago Ave. that day.
The Roseland Shares ad in the February PN looks great! Also, I enjoyed reading the story both in PN and the Daily Herald today about the YMCA. I really got a lot out of that bus trip. There are so many things we just don’t realize. And seeing that pool in Kroehler was amazing. We pass that building (Kroehler YMCA with a swimming pool built in 1910, the oldest indoor pool in DuPage County) all the time and never realize the history. Thanks again.
---Mary Ann Junkroski, Roseland Draperies and Interiors
Editor's Note: During 2008, Roseland Draperies is celebrating its 25th anniversary in downtown Naperville. Month by month, the store will feature different nonprofit organizations in its window and a portion of profits from sales will be donated to different charities during its yearlong Roseland Shares promotion.
BTW -- I have already sent one person to your Web site for that AWESOME election information page that you have set up! Thanks for doing that....
Nadja Lalvani, Community Relations Manager, City of Naperville
45-year Naperville newcomer wants answers!
As a newcomer, 45 years here since birth, so much of the older things are just at the edge of my memory. I could write all day but instead I'll just ask a question and mention a few things not mentioned.
Someone mentioned A&W Root beer.
I thought it was a Dog 'n Suds and remember it was East of the Animal Hospital (my dad used to joke about that). Which one was it?
No one mentioned the outdoor roller rink West of the Swap Shop, Bart's Hobby shop in Naper Plaza, the old pop machine that dropped the cup at Naper Theater, listening to the Civil Defense group during the 71(?) flood on my walkie talkie and all the debris piled up in a huge mound near Sportsman Park the next day, Tasty Bakery was good but Lora Mae's donuts were better, even though the place was smoke filled.
There were snowball fights in summer when Cock Robin defrosted their freezer, watching the houses moved to the Settlement, the sprays coming out of the beach bathhouse, the "bubblers" at the beach, YMCA Day Camp at McDowell Woods, Park District summer program at Elmwood School.
The Hippies on the bridge? I too wish I had a picture of Wheel o Meal. My mom said the only person that she saw win a free meal (next visit) was a relative with out of state plates. My brother worked as a bus boy at Golden Bear where Pizza Hut is now at Odgen Mall.
Does anyone else remember a short lived Steak n Shake at corner of Ogden and Iriquois where the liquor store is now?
I, too, de-tasseled corn, but they bused us South. We'd show up in the morning with a container frozen solid and by lunch you'd have water. My friend's crew got left in a field on his birthday once. I'm starting to write down complete stories from events and adventures from my youth. I guess I'll see if the Settlement wants them. Growing up here in the 60's and 70's was amazing.
I will always love this town because of such a great childhood here.
---Daniel Bulley, dbulley@wideopenwest.com
We are so glad that your publication is still going strong after all these years.
---Debbi Polivka, Organizer, Spring for a Cure, 7PM, Sat., March 1, The Pavilion of Meson Sabika
Editor's Note: Spring for a Cure will benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. For tickets ($100 each), contact springforacure@hotmail.com or (630) 355-1029.
I would like to thank the Naperville Exchange Club for their generous holiday contribution to Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) and the Drop In Center program held at the Riverwalk Community Center.
The Drop In Center provides individuals with mental illness an opportunity to spend leisure time together in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. WDSRA provides activities every Wednesday evening.
...Recently, the Exchange Club donation made it possible for each of the 40 clients that attend the program to receive a personalized gift. I would especially like to thank Dee Bingham and Cindy Allston of the Exchange Club for taking time out of their own busy holiday schedules to shop and wrap each gift so beautifully.
...Thank you ... for providing that excitement and showing the clients that there are people that care. The Naperville Exchange Club is truly a group of outstanding people!
---Becca Mruk, Coordinator of Cultural Art & Social Programs, WDSRA
I was talking to Thomas Genin the chef at Shaggy’s (in Pass Christian, Miss.) this morning and mentioned his restaurant was mentioned in your paper. He asked if I could bring a few copies for him and his family to see. It is the volume 7. No. 5 edition.
---Jack Persin, Ryan-Hill Realty
Editor's Note: After their successful event that raised $24,000 for Naperville Responds in December, brokers at Ryan-Hill Realty are headed to Pass Christian on a 4-day work mission trip in late January.
This letter represents why the Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 supports OSOT-IL with both funds and time.
“Thank you for the box I received. The box was in good condition and filled with more than enough to help lift my day. It is always great to receive mail at anytime of the year. Both my soldiers and myself appreciate all that you at OSOTIL do for us. We are due to return in the May '08 time frame. Here are my soldiers’ names and we all share the same address. (he listed eight names) Thanks again and we all love you and appreciate all that you do. God Bless. ---SSG Eric, FOB Hammer”
---Mike Barbour, Past Commander, Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873
Editor’s Note: To participate in Operation Support Our Troops - Illinois, Inc., call their office at 630-971-1150 or visit www.osotil.org. Send checks to help mail packages to 1807 South Washington Street, Suite 110, #359, Naperville, IL 60565.
I hope you are doing well in this very strange January weather. Thanks for providing us with the ongoing forum to talk about ourselves!
Bob Fischer, Publicity, Naperville Area Homeowners Confederation
Editor's Note: The Naperville Area Homeowners Confederation holds monthly meetings from September through May on the third Saturday of the month. A NAHC meeting will be Jan. 19 at the Municipal Center and on Feb. 16, the meeting will be at the 95th Street Library. For updates, visit www.napervillehomeowners.com.
Jody and I were just talking about the great job you did tying everything together in your recent article about the pantry in PN. We appreciate your highlighting a summary of our year end results and recognizing the outstanding philanthropy of the Exchange Club and ConAgra. Folks like you and Jake (Reporter Jake Griffin of the Daily Herald) do such a great service for the community.
Joanne Mitrenga, Executive Director, Loaves & Fishes Community Pantry
I just noticed the January issue of Positively Naperville online at www.pnmonthly.com. You need to let people know. ... I've used your Web site instead of other search features online for some time because it takes me directly to Naperville sites I want to visit, but I didn't know the newspaper was online. ... Keep it up. ...Thank you.
---Penelope Weitz
Editor's Note: PN just started posting the pages of the publication online in October. We're doing our best to let people know via the monthly publication. www.pnmonthly.com
I can hardly wait each month to read PN. Especially when I'm out of town.
Ed Channell, Snowbirding in University Park, Florida
Many, many thanks for the wonderful publicity you gave us for our lecture on the Book of Kells in December at the Naperville Library. Because of your help, we had a full house of 118 on a very "iffy" weather evening! ... I send your newspaper each month to two former Napervillians. Hope the holidays are good ones.
---Bettye Wehrli
Merry Christmas to you and yours. Thanks so much for the PN, too.
---Tim Drendel
I would like to compliment you on the content of the December PN. It was particularly interesting to me to read the columnists’ holiday greetings. That was a nice idea. Have a great holiday.
---Patti Koltes
Just a heads up! Our Evening Kiwanis Pancake Festival in ’08 will be on Sat. March 08, 2008 at Naperville Central. Tickets are $5 in advance at National City Bank, Park National Bank, and Casey's Foods. $6 at the door. Thank you.
---Millie Mika, Naperville Evening Kiwanis
Thanks again for that nice Christmas ad. We had two concerts that were sold out. I am sure the ad in PN was a big contribution. Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!
---Bonnie Roberts, Director, Naperville Men's Glee Club
The DuPage County Historical Museum is in danger of closing due to the crisis in the 2008 County Budget, if this happens it will be a great lost to the residents of DuPage County.
I encourage you to visit the Museum. You will be amazed at the building’s architecture, the beautiful craftsmanship, the DuPage County Exhibit that details the development of the county, the auditorium with its vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows….but you will never forget the trains.
The Museum has a model train display with over 2000 foot of track that is one of the largest train exhibits in the country. They are HO-gauge trains that are designed to model the railways of DuPage County and the communities of DuPage. It is an authentic reproduction that delights people of all ages. It is something you have to see.
The trains run on a limited basis when the Museum is open, however, the third Saturday of every month is Train Day. This month, on Saturday, December 15 the Museum will be hosting “TrainFest”. All the trains will be in action, there will be train memorabilia dating back to the 1800’s, as well as special programming and activities with a train theme.
The Museum will be open from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm for TrainFest, the trains will run from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Come and see one of the largest and best train exhibits this country has to offer and it is right in your own backyard!
---Veronica Porter, President, DuPage County Historical Museum Association, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton
Thank you so much for the excellent coverage of Our Mystery Event in this month’s Positively Naperville as well as the Coat Drive.
---Nicki Scott, Rotary Club of Naperville/Sunrise
Editor's Note: The next Rotary fundraiser is a Naperpalooza on Feb. 9 at the warehouse of Jackson Moving and Storage, located at 740 Frontenac Road off East Aurora Road. Admission to the rock 'n' roll fundraiser is $150 per person. The Play Doctors and The Ides of March are scheduled to play. For more information, visit www.napervillesunrise.com.
Thanks for linking your site to www.ncyyouth.org. Also, we appreciate the picture of our float on the back page (Friends of Little Friends Hometown Holidays Parade featured in the December issue.) It looks great.
--- Julie Lichter, jlichter@ncoyouth.org
Editor's Note: If you'd like to request that your nonprofit organization Web site be posted on "Useful Links" on the PN Web site, please send your Web site address to pnpartners@positivelynaperville.com and tell us what category best suits your organization.
Somehow the incorrect prices got published in the Dec. issue. They are correct as submitted below. Anything we can do about a correction?
Thank you ---
---Patty Samojedny
Editor's Note: DanceWest Ballet Company presents its 15th annual production of the Nutcracker on 7PM, December 14; 1PM and 5PM, December 15 and December 16 on the campus of North Central College at Pfeiffer Hall. Ticket prices are $29 Adults, $23 for Seniors and Children 12 and under, $22 for Group Rate of 20 or more for same performance. For Tickets call (630) 637-SHOW.
A quick thank you for dropping Bubble Bash Blast onto page two of the December issue of Positively Naperville. We really appreciate it. Wishing you a delightful holiday season.
---Lynne Jele, DuPage Children's Museum Marketing and Membership
“Wow! Talk about an extraordinary man! The 2-day workshop and concert (Dec. 1) by Kirk Whalum were a tremendous success. You guys gave us great press coverage and for that we are truly grateful. We sold over 600 tickets (at $25 each) and made over $2,000 in the donation jars that night. Our kitty is growing. We have some expenses but this was a resounding success in terms of impact on community and provision of creative academic exposure for over 1,300 kids.
---Dr. Joy Ross, Assistant Principal, Waubonsie Valley High School
As always, we could not reach out to the community without you, so thank you for your continued support. ...The January coffee is Monday, January 7, 2008, at 10:30AM at the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle Street, Lower Level. Children are Welcome. February's will be held on February 4.
---Sue Maloney, Publicity
Thank you very much for including our events in your paper. We are paling the Chanukah event to be big and hope to have nice crowd. FYI: The holiday comes from the Hebrew word Chanukah. Some people have a hard time saying it so they just say Hanukkah and by now a lot of people spell it Hanukkah, too.
All the best!
---Rabbi Mendy Goldstein
To Dr. Music: "I loved the article that you wrote in Positively Naperville about music in our schools! I've been passing it out to all my principals. Thank you for your support of music education."
---Robert Provost, Band and Orchestra Teacher, Clow Elementary School,
District 204
Now I know where to check local events! I need to look deeper into your website.
---Laura Bratkovskyte
On behalf of the Naperville Noon Lions Club, I would like to thank you for your support this year and to wish you a very happy holiday season and the very best for the New Year.
---Mike Hollman, Naperville Noon Lions Club
I love the paper. Positively Naperville is extremely informative about the City.
---Millie Mika, Woodridge
Rob Davidson, our National Exchange Club President (from Tucson AZ) and Christopher Rice, our National Executive Director (from Toledo) were in Chicago this past week for an international service club convention organized by Rotary International. Once a year all of the national and international directors and presidents from all service clubs in the world gather together in one place. This year it was in Chicago.
A couple of really cool things happened later that afternoon. After our luncheon I gave our esteemed guests a brief tour of Naperville. We first stopped by Minuteman Press where Mike McManus and I gave President Davidson and Director Rice a copy of the latest edition of Positively Naperville.
They were extremely impressed with the marketing opportunities you provide to all not for profits in our community. They told me they have never seen anything like your newspaper anywhere in the country. I then drove them over to Freidenhagen Park to show the two most powerful Exchange Club leaders on Earth our little piece of the world. Words cannot describe their reaction or the pride I felt at that moment. I think both of them will be buying a brick as their way of saying thank you to the Exchange Club of Naperville for the impact our club has had on other clubs across the nation.
Thanks again for all you do to help promote the Exchange Club and other service clubs in Naperville.
---Dave Wentz, Past President of Naperville Exchange Club, President of Lincoln Land District Exchange Club
Just wanted to send a quick e-mail to say thank you for your continued support of Little Friends. I picked up a copy of Positively Naperville today- and we really appreciate all of the coverage on the parade and our volunteer needs…
---Carolyn Hamilton, Director of Marketing and PR, Little Friends, Inc.
Thank you for plugging our Picnic event in Positively Naperville on Dec. 1. Dave Savini is emceeing and we have some amazing silent auction items, including a studio tour with Dave!
Happy Thanksgiving, and thanks for all you do to recognize organizations such as ours. It's appreciated!
---Jody Bender, Loaves and Fishes Community Pantry, www.loavesandfishespantry.com
Even though I am in Downers Grove, I always smile when I end up with a copy of Positively Naperville.
---Michelle Eppley, Director , The Sound Center, Inc.
I am still in shock how a conversation I had with Coach Whelan about where I work, Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA), turned into a Ss. Peter & Paul School volleyball fundraiser. The 8th grade volleyball teams played to raise money for WDSRA.
I realize this could not have happened so quickly without the willing support of so many: Coach Whelan, Mr. Glowaty, Mike Chiarito, John Larson and the Athletic Association, Nancy Fitzgerald, Mike & Cindy Rafferty, and all the 8th grade coaches and players who rallied around the cause. WDSRA thanks you all!
I was truly touched by all the fans that gave their support, many who gave more than the $2 admissions fee. The total raised was $1,137.
I take great pride in where I work and equal pride in where I send my children to school. It was incredible to see these two great organizations join together for a wonderful cause. I cannot thank you all enough!
---Sharon J. Gedvilas, Superintendent of Finance & Personnel, Western DuPage Special Recreation Association and Proud SSPP Parent
Thanks for your October issue of PN and the promotion of public safety in our community. As a downtown Naperville business owner, I respect, support and count on the protection provided by the men and women who serve in our police and fire departments.
Since 2003 I have served on the Naperville Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and at the Naperville Police Department volunteering alongside many first responders, learning how to assist at the scene in the event of a disaster. I've always been impressed by their professionalism, integrity and accountability, often under risky and dangerous conditions.
I wish I'd thought to write this letter in October during Crime and Fire Prevention Month, but any day of every month is appropriate to show appreciation to the dedicated law enforcement officers and firefighters who put their lives on the line for us every day.
I am co-chairing the St. Patrick's Day parade, along with Chuck Corrigan, and this year we decided to dedicate the parade to public safety, to honor both of these great departments.
---Nancy Quigley
We look forward to reading Positively Naperville every month. I think the most fun is to open up the publication and look at all the pictures to see if you recognize anyone. Thank you so much for listing the Naperville United Way Partner Agencies in the publication each month. I am attaching an updated file of our Partner Agencies for you to publish. Thank you again.
---Deena Manna, Assistant Director, Naperville United Way, www.napervilleunitedway.org
Thanks for ("Open Letter to the Community ...Just in Time for Veterans Day, 11-11-11" included on Overflow News) the inspiring letter. We are a long way from home and it's nice to keep in touch with Naperville and to again remind us of why it is such a great city to be "from".
Just got our PN in the mail with Bruce's picture receiving Jo's picture on the back page. Keep up the good work!
---Chuck George, Arizona in Autumn
I got my copy of Positively today, and it's great, as usual! I especially liked the way you incorporated the PN Web site into the front page. The Web site looks fabulous, and I hope more folks will take advantage of it.
---Shirley Pace
Editor's Note: Shirley Pace has lived in Naperville for 40-plus years. She has been a great source of constructive comments as the PN Web site has been constructed and the paper has developed since 2001. We always appreciate her feedback. We also appreciate it when she discovers a broken Web link!
Thanks for running the Lions Club Turkey Trot release (Turkey Trot 5K is Thanksgiving morning at 8.). Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
---Mike Hollman, Naperville Noon Lions Club
I trust all is going great with PN. I venture to the PN web site occasionally to see what’s going on in Naperville . Never a dull moment as usual J Have a great day!
--- Sharon Mahoney
Editor's Note: Former Naperville Jaycee Sharon Mahoney wrote a column titled "Career Corner" for PN for several years until she relocated out West. We always enjoy hearing from our friends!
Thanks for the PN info. I hope to use it for both the school and the theatre, if you don’t mind! I’ll try to keep you up to date in a timely manner for both as well. Our next show (for The Grounded Theatre, Inc.) is Crimes of the Heart and it opens March 8.
---Karen E. Rosenberg, The Grounded Theatre
How appropriate and what a perfect time for me to pay respect to the silent independent business person, Camille Hoffmann. The November Issue of PN acknowledged Local Independent Business owners. My name appearing on a street sign in the Kinloch subdivision is due to a very dedicated local firm, the Oliver-Hoffmann Corporation. Camille and her late husband, Paul, have remained anonymous while being very generous to support many worthwhile projects in and around Naperville. The Oliver-Hoffmann organization quietly with discretion is the true benchmark of philanthropic activity.
---Gene Darfler
In the past month our VFW Post has had some hard times. Beloved members passing and other members have the audacity to get sick. A lot of our members have been down because of those circumstances. Today, the Crazy Eights from Kennedy Junior High came to the Post to do the fall clean up. They do spring and fall clean up every year but for some reason this year it was especially welcome. A lot of us have the enthusiasm but not the physical wherewithal to get the job done. Ah, youth!
The Post is standing tall! All the beds have been weeded and are ready to go for spring planting. We even planted daffodils.
Thank you Kennedy and The Crazy Eights! You have made veterans happy!
---Mike Barbour, Past Commander, Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873
We will be hosting a big public program Tuesday, Dec. 11 in the Community Room, Nichols Library, 200 W. Jefferson Ave. Coffee served at 7:00 p.m. ; the program starts at 7:30 p.m. I hope we can get some coverage from Positively Naperville. The event is a public lecture about The Book of Kells, the beautifully illustrated manuscript of The Bible that was created in the Middle Ages. A lecturer from the Art Institute of Chicago will be presenting the slide lecture. I think it’s the perfect personal holiday gift – an hour of enjoying something wonderful without the clean-u eed to exercise!
---Susan Greenwood, Community Relations Coordinator
Open Letter to Citizens of Naperville
The citizens of Naperville have a long track record of
doing great things when presented with challenges.
In the depths of the Great Depression, city leaders
established Centennial Beach. Also in the 1930s, Caroline Martin-
Mitchell gave the public 212 acres in what today is the center of
town. And 25 years ago, faced with a slumping downtown, people worked
together to establish the Riverwalk, the envy of many other cities.
Today we once again have the opportunity to do something
great. Thanks to the foresight of School District 203 leaders,
discussion is underway about the future of the Martin-Mitchell property.
The District 203 school board has responded to the fact
that the community needs to invest in the improvement of our
educational facilities, especially Naperville Central High School,
which has been cobbled together with more than a half dozen additions
since being opened in 1950.
School district leaders believe time is of the essence
and want to decide soon whether to renovate Central or replace it
with a new school perhaps elsewhere on the Martin-Mitchell property.
But there is a larger issue: the future of the entire Martin-Mitchell
property. Over the years, the city has sold or leased parts of her
donation. Uses include NCHS, Knoch Park, Naper Settlement, the garden
plots, Sportsman’s Club, Ribfest and parts of Naperville Cemetery and
Edward Hospital. The Von Oven Scout Reservation is on land deeded to
the city and to be made available to the scouts of Naperville.
We urge those who use or administer these facilities to remember that
Caroline Martin-Mitchell did not give them the property; rather, she
gave it to the public. Therefore, we believe it is imperative that
the public be involved in the planning process.
To date, the school district has held numerous information sessions
and conducted surveys about the future of NCHS, but there has not
been any forum for public input regarding the future of the entire
212 acres. We call for such a “town hall” meeting—possibly sponsored
by the League of Women Voters and the Naperville Homeowners
Confederation--to take place in the very near future.
We do not want to sidetrack progress on Naperville Central, nor do we
know what will come out of a public participation effort for the
larger property. But we do know this: Once again, Naperville has the
opportunity to do something great.
---Mary Lou Wehrli, Judith Brodhead, Bob Hofmann, Joe McElroy and Bruce Lund
Thank you for including previous news releases of mine and the Authors Marketing Group. Please include the information below in Positively Naperville. Any consideration is greatly appreciated. Thanks again.
Jim Durkin, Founder, Authors Marketing Group
Editor’s Note: The Authors Marketing Group will hold its next meeting at 7PM, Thurs.,
Nov. 29 at the Woodridge Public Library. Need info: www.authormarketinggroup.org
It is so wonderful that you say in the PN calendar, "Let your kids catch you reading...and when it's PN, let them know it's for pleasure." An important way that kids are going to get hooked on reading is seeing adults do it! Thanks! ---Susan Greenwood, Community Relations Coordinator, Naperville Public Library
As I sit here typing and looking out my window, it makes me even more aware of why I love Positively Naperville. The beauty of our surroundings in this community is reflected through the words of your articles, many writers, and inspirational reminders that there are many POSITIVE things in our community of Naperville to be thankful for, in the midst of what sometimes appears to be a very chaotic world.
It was a pleasure to hear you speak last Tuesday (at the Naperville Sun offices) and shed some light on the inner workings of our key media outlets. Thanks for all you continue to do to keep us positively informed!
---IdaLynn Wenhold, KidsMatter Executive Director
The article you placed in the October issue was awesome!! Thank you very much.
---Cindy Brennan, Walk to School Day Coordinator, May Watts Elementary School
I navigated most of Positively's web-site today, with no problems, and no criticism at all. It's gorgeous, and full of tons of information.
You'll find this particularly interesting. When I read in the paper about the new film festival, I mentioned it to our friend in Chicago who has been making independent films for years. He also performed with Second City.
Anyhow, when mentioning it, our friend said "forget about it," since it's already pre-arranged. So I did just that, and "forgot about it." I was thrilled to see it on your site, and forwarded the address to Eric, so he could decide if this is something he might like to do.
Thanks again for all the great information you provide, not only for me, but the whole town.
---Shirley Pace
Loved the Naperville Nostalgia!!! That picture is of the very beginnings of Kidz Kabaret - that wonderful youth theatre troupe that is taking Naperville by a storm (and growing in leaps and bounds!). And, of course, Crossroads is where the now Comedy Shrine exists!! So fun to see the old photos!
---Lynn Hodak
Can someone help me get a copy of your September issue? My brother's restaurant Tapas Gitana is written up on page 32. I would like to buy a paper for him. How can I get a current paper?
---Cynthia Bock
PN is looking super!
---Jeanne Johnson, Oswego
I just received the current issue of Positively Naperville - very nice work indeed! My daughter was on the outside back cover as part of your "Walk to School Day" article. Cheers!
---Karen Pomazal
Our deepest gratitude to all the volunteers who made the PADS Run/Walk 2007 run so smoothly and to our event co-chairs, Mary Schulte and Steve Essig, who devoted countless hours and plenty of sweat equity to take this race to the next level! We are gearing up for PADS Run/Walk 2008. (Close to 400 runners and walkers took to the streets of Wheaton on September 9 and raised over $63,000 to help end and prevent homelessness in DuPage County .) Join us and help plan for next year’s success!
---Maureen Gallagher, 682-3846, ext. 242
Thank you so much for the great PN front page coverage of the Crime Prevention Calendar! We really appreciate the publicity. It is so nice to give our sponsors the recognition they deserve. Thanks!
---Marcia Schild, Crime Prevention Specialist, Community Education/Crime Prevention Unit
Thanks for the parade picture in the October edition!!!
---Gerry Cassioppi
We visited Naperville once during the summer and again two weeks ago. We love it! It is our new favorite weekend getaway---maybe someday our new home. We are very interested in the activities that go on. Thanks for Positively Naperville.
---Lynn Bedeker, Streater, Illinois
Thank you for running the nice press release about Stephanie. (Stephanie Colbert recently became the third generation to join the family business, Colbert Custom Framing.) Of all the local media I contacted, you were the first who responded. Thank you so much.
---Sue Colbert
We are writing you on behalf of Naperville Central High School's fall show. Our theatre program will be putting on a show called It Was a Dark and Stormy Night. The show dates are November 1, 2 and 3, with a matinee performance on October 31. The show is about several innocent people who unknowingly get caught up in the frights and fears that occur in a Massachusetts hotel, known as the Ye Olde Wayside Inn. They must come together and outwit an insane old man and his crazy tactics. We were wondering if you would be able to come to learn more about the show and if you would be willing to let more people know about it through an article in your newspaper. Thanks for your time.
---Shannon March, Lindsey March, and Sarah Lipski
A Tribute to Chicago's Wrigley Field
It is a place where ivy grows.
A field of dreams where Santo knows
that baseball fans of every team
can't help but feel at home.
It is a park where home runs sail
when fly balls catch a west-east gale.
The Friendly Confines really are
when home team bats prevail.
It is a refuge near the Lake
with class and charm much like The Drake*
that calls to mind the glory years
that made Chicago great.
It is a storied stadium
the oldest park except for one
