Mark Twain was correct when he noted, "He was as shy as a newspaper is when
referring to its own merits."
That's why we appreciate what our readers are saying about Positively Naperville and what they want to share with other readers!
The most recent greetings are posted first. Please scroll down for all of this year's comments.
Greetings from Our Readers / Year 9
We love to catch family, friends and other folks reading PN. In 2002, former first Lady Laura Bush made our day when she told us she read PN!
ARCHIVES:
Here's what our readers are saying about
Positively Naperville and other things...
(Edited for space, of course!)
Thank you for posting the gallery exhibit info on the (Positively Naperville) Web site -- every piece of publicity helps!
—Deborah L. Venezia I Executive Director, Naperville Fine Art Center and Gallery
Positively Naperville just keeps getting better!
—Bev & Bill Frier
Nice photo of Marty (Walker), Deb (Rickert) and Dave (Wentz) in the Positively Naperville and a few other Jaycees, Beth and Al (DeGeeter)... Way to go!! Catch the spirit. Great News.
—Joy Vastola
The 3rd Annual Celebration to Big Band Jazz concert on Satrurday, July 17 was a huge success. The NMB Naperville Big Band & The Chicago Outskirts Big Band wish to express their thanks and appreciation for the publicity and photos of both bands published in Positively Naperville. A large audience turn out was present. You have a great newspaper. It is - Postively Naperville!
—Ken Kalina, Director, NMB Naperville Big Band
Positively Naperville is a great newspaper! I really like reading about all the events around Naperville.
—Kirsten Zilinsky
I have been reading Positively Naperville with great delight. It is really good! ... We are having our VCCA (Vintage Chevy Club) annual picnic at our hangar on Sunday, July 11, and then on to our 50th class reunion from NCHS on July 31. It is a busy time!
—Roberta Priz
I am a ten year resident of Naperville and a long time Positively Naperville reader. My company, namely, The Floor Show (a full service flooring and window treatments company is located in the Roscoe Village area of Chicago. I do however work the shop @ home part of my business right here in Naperville. I bring samples right to the homeowners residence. I would be very interested in having my company profiled in the business profile section of your paper and was wondering both if I qualify and what is involved.
Thanking you in advance.
—Bob Oddo, The Floor Show
Editor's Note: For the most part, we provide space in PN's Business Profile for locally-owned Naperville businesses. We usually try to feature our advertisers as they help us stay in the publishing business, especially during these challenging times! If your business is having a free event open to the public, please send a 250-word press release. Our policy for considering press releases is posted in the lower left of our home page. Thanks for your interest!
You were right a number of month's ago when you said, "Roy, Let me know when/if you get tired of writing your column." I guess my $25/ year subscription each year will be my help to you now. ... You put out a great paper and community asset!!! ... I enjoyed sweating over writing the column, in that I flunked Freshman English at Illinois Institute of Technology a half a century ago... Thank God for dear Dr. Priscilla.
Many hugs, Dr. Roy.
—Roy Grundy
Editor's Note: We enjoy learning about our community via the insights and experiences of our columnists. We have an ongoing and growing waiting list. Roy Grundy's column featuring Century Walk art in the July 2010 issue will be his final one on that subject. We appreciate his stories this past year.
United Way is excited to announce the merger of United Way of the DuPage Area, West Suburban United Way, United Way of Oak Park, River Forest and Forest Park and United Way’s Leyden-Proviso service area effective July 1, 2010. This is an exciting time for our organization as we redeploy our resources to better serve the community. ... I am happy to connect you with our board members, agencies and volunteers to learn more about this organizational transition.
Thanks so much,
—Sarah Frick, Director Media and Community Relations / United Way of Metropolitan Chicago / liveunitedchicago.org / 560 West Lake Street, Chicago, IL 60661 at (312) 906.2231
I work with a national recording artist out of Nashville named Rockie Lynne who is coming to your area on Saturday July 17th. Rockie and his band will be performing at the "Rockin' For The Troops" event in Wheaton, opening for Gary Sinise's 'Lt. Dan Band'. ... Rockie Lynne just released his second album, Songs For Soldiers, and has received a great deal of national media attention. Please visit his website for clips and details. www.rockielynne.com ... I would love to see if we can get something on your website and an article or 'photo mention' in the concert listings in the regular paper. Please let me know.
Kindest Regards,
—Susan Levy, Franklin, TN
The date of the 2010 Kids Best Friend Benefit is November 19 and again being held at the Naperville Lisle Hilton. Norm and Liz Zienty are the Kids Best Friend winners this year! More to come.
With appreciation,
—Cynthia Schmidt
Congratulations (PN) on being recognized by the Naperville Area Homeowners Confederation for your contribution to the community. This is well deserved.
Best wishes,
—Councilman Kenn Miller
We live in White Eagle and often, especially in bad weather, there is an alarm sound that goes off. It just went off today Sunday, June 13 @ 3:10PM CDT. Can you tell me what it is? Its origin? And what it means?
Thanks.
—Ann Hofferberth
Editor's Note: PN consulted Nancy Quigley, a member of the Naperville Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). "That would most likely be the lightning siren which is located on the golf course. It goes off when lightning is within, I think, three miles away. It is to alert the golfers so they can take shelter." In a related note, at 10AM on the first Tuesday of every month Naperville's emergency sirens are tested throughout the city.
Just read your June issue- thanks for including information on our Step Up for Autism walk (June 27).
—Carolyn Hamilton, Director of Marketing & Public Relations, Little Friends, Inc.
To Naperville Nostalgia / June Photo ID: From left are Jim Bergeron, (?), Tom Williams, Tom Bursh, Roy Grundy shaking hands with the Admiral, Andy Ballestra and Frank Allston at a meeting of the Rotary Club of Naperville at Cress Creek Country Club about 10 years ago. The event was to recognize Frank for writing "The History of the U.S. Navy Supply Corps."
—Brand Bobosky, Past President, Rotary Club of Naperville
Greetings to Columnist Barbara Blomquist: Both the column (June issue) and the letter (below in this section of PN) were uplifting. I know exactly what the respondent was talking about when she talked about the old use of quilts, summer quilts and winter quilts. We had only a couple of "store bought" blankets which we used at times (primarily for company), but most of them were either light weight cotton quilts made as summer quilts, or also many were worn into a very soft light weightedness from years of heavy use and frequent laundering of as a previously heavy winter quilt. Although far from rich, we had a furnace, but still used quilts as a way of life, as did most everyone in rural America regardless of economic or social status. I wish we could reinstitute the use it, reuse it, and use it up again attitudes of those earlier days. I do not want to romanticise "the old days" —the people and many of their attitudes could be darned bad, but that attitude was not. ... Thanks for your column — you write about such interesting and varied topics.
—Ann Lewis
To Naperville Nostalgia / June Photo ID: It has fallen upon the memory of my fellow Rotarians to figure out what this photo is all about. (L.to R.) Jim Bergeron, Tom Bursh, and myself came up with the occasion of (name not recalled) a U.S. Navy Supply Corps Admiral, who four years ago came to our Rotary meeting to thank Frank Allston for writing and publishing, "The History of the U.S. Navy Supply Corps" while good old Andy Ballestra looked on from the back row while standing between Frank Allston on the far right and me while I am shaking the Admiral's hand. The other two un-named Rotarians have slipped beyond the pale of our collective memories...and the photo was taken after the meeting was over....because I forgot to put my name badge back in the "Badge Box!!
—Roy Grundy, Rotary Club of Naperville
Just hoping that this little announcement might make its way into the paper or perhaps on your online calendar...our fundraiser with Lisa Madigan on the 27th went extremely well: great weather and fabulous attendance! Thank you for helping us to publicize it. ... Whatever you can do would be appreciated! ,,, I brought my latest issue of Positively Naperville with me to Galena this weekend so I could more read it more in depth and at a more leisurely pace: you do a magnificent job of capturing the many opportunities for doing good in this community, for having a good time, and for self-improvement. Bravo!
—Dianne McGuire
Greetings to Columnist Barbara Blomquist: I read your (June) article this morning and for some reason cannot get it out of my mind. ... First it brought back memories from my youth, we were poor and I lived with my grandparents in a 100-year-old home with coal stoves. ... Quilts were about life. We had summer quilts & winter quilts, all made from old cloths. ... I know quilting has evolved into an art form and lost the meaning of life and survival. ... So I love the fact that you and your quilting group have brought back the true meaning of quilts.
With tears in my eyes I thank you,
—Mary McGarry
I put together info for our upcoming drum corps show (Cavalcade of Brass, Sun., July 11, at Benedetti/Wehrli Stadium at North Central College). I would certainly appreciate it if you could use it in your next edition of Positively Naperville. We do have several young men from the Naperville area in the Cavaliers this year which is great. Let me know...
—Stan Boduch, Drum Corp/Cavalcade of Brass
To Dr. Music: WOW! Doc! Thanks for the mention of my name in in your (June) column. I'm honored! ...Our Joint Big Band Celebration to Big Band Jazz concert on Saturday, July 17. I have attached a press release for you to review. Also, on Thursday, July 8, the NMB Naperville Big Band will perform a Salute to the Big Bands of the 30's, 40's, & 50's. Pleased that PN has a columnist writing about musical scenes/ventures in Naperville. Congrats to you!
—Ken Kalina, Director, NMB Big Band
PN is a must read for me so thanks again for all of your efforts to keep it such a useful and enjoyable newspaper. Best regards.
—Frank Slocumb
Just picked up the June issue of PN at Oswald's tonight! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! ... It looks GREAT!! Both the ad & the photo of Shannon and me! THANK YOU SO MUCH!
I really appreciate your support of The Woman's Club! I don't know what will happen next year, as the Settlement will be under construction, so we may either have to skip a year or have it at a different venue (hard decision!). ... We'll see what happens! I hate to compromise the integrity of the event, but they still need to raise funds, so it's a tough decision!
Thanks again, I'm bringing PN to the meeting Wednesday to show everyone!
—Roxanne Lang, Chairman, Naperville Woman's Club Fine Arts Fair, 10AM-5PM, July 10-11
I read your (June) copy of PN, and enjoyed it. An article caught my eye for my 90 year old dad: "WWII Battalion will host annual reunion in Naperville." This past Memorial Day my dad was once again telling me his wonderful stories of his 4 war years, where he left for the service 3 months after he married my mom!
Dad always tells me that he just might have some of his old buddies from the war living around here, as the outfit originated from here (??). He and mother used to visit/write to some from Aurora, years ago. So I thought how nice it would be to see if I could at least get some names or something to share with dad.
Enter your PN article! Ah-ha! Is there any way I can find out names for my dad, who was in the 33rd Infantry div. of the 123rd Regiment Infantry, Company "D" which he said was stationed out of this area and/or Aurora, IL? Maybe YOU could give me a lead: the man featured in the article, Paul Junkroski, Sr, who might know of other guys from this Div?
This is the info on his division: http://www.33rdinfantrydivision.org/123rdhistory.htm .
My dad loves to tell his stories. He lived in Omaha, NE all of his life. His name is William Bovick.
If you have any idea how I might pursue this for him, he would be so overjoyed. These were fond years of his, as he literally rubbed elbows with some great soldier friends. Over the years he lost contact with them, and it would be so fun to bring joy to these wonderful service men, who offered their lives to save ours!
I am a recent resident to Naperville. ...Thanks for ANY leads that you might have! God bless you.
—Lynne Albrecht
Editor's Note: If you can help make connections, please send reply to Albrechtjmj@aol.com.
You have been gracious in past years to publicize the NMB Naperville Big Band concerts. Besides our usual Thursday, July 8 concert at the Naperville Community Concert Center , the 3rd Celebration to a Joint Big Band Jazz Concert will be held on Saturday, July 17 at 7:30PM at the NCCC, also. The host band, the NMB Naperville Big Band has invited, as our guest big band, the popular all female big band, The Chicago Outskirts Big Band. Our first and second joint big band concerts were very successful with a large audience in attendance, and this third concert should even be better. Katie Woods, Downtown Naperville Alliance has been a great source to me to help me publicize this joint big band concert. I hope that you'll be able to find some space in your July issue of Postively Naperville. ... Thanks for all you have done for the NMB Naperville Big Band in past years.
—Ken Kalina, Director, NMB Big Band
On behalf of Stedman Graham, he says "Thank you." He appreciates your support (25th Annual Gala & Golf Outing for Athletes Against Drugs at Hotel Arista and White Eagle Golf Club June 5-7). Have a wonderful day!
—Gwendolyn Walker, www.athletesagainstdrugs.com
Some time ago, I mentioned to you that the Illinois State Crime Commission dinner was coming up and some of the new awardees. Well, we have two from Naperville this year.
John Zediker, the President and CEO of Moser Enterprises will receive the Award of Excellence in Government. He is on the Dupage County board and does a great job and spent several years working for the city of Naperville in Community Development and other higher level positions.
When I saw the list of awardees, I was very suprised to see my own name on there! I am stepping down from the Commission as President, a position that I have held over eight years and will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for my work with the commission in law enforcement and in government affairs. In my positions with the ISCC, I have worked with federal, state, and local governments as well as numerous law enforcement agencies at all levels. I also work in labor relations in state government.
Just thought I would drop you a note on this.
—Mike Prueter, Current President of the Illinois State Crime Commission
P.S. The dinner is Tuesday, June 15 at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. Tickets are $150 each and you can get tickets and more information from our dinner committee, Ms. Wanda Brunke at (630) 248-8709. Cocktail hour is 6PM and dinner at 7PM. FYI, one of the other awardees is Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher!
To Naperville Nostalgia: I remember how my dad would always find out when I got a traffic ticket because he could read about it in the Naperville Sun.
—Jeff Moffatt
...I spoke to you last week regarding Nicor Volunteer Day. We’re very appreciative that you put up a calendar listing, and I just wanted to follow up with you and see if you’re interested in including post-event coverage as well. You had told me to send in pictures of the event, so I want to direct you to a website with all event photos at http://clients.jtpr.net/nicor2010/. Photos are organized by location and have captions provided. There are several from Naperville.
Please let me know if you will be able to include any photos in Positively Naperville, and if you need any additional information or quotes for a story, do not hesitate to let me know. Thanks so much
—Adam Mesirow
I had tons of positive comments about my (May 2010) column in last week's Positively Naperville newspaper. I told all my Weakly friends, "Never know, you might also enjoy it too. Go to this Web site, pnmonthly.com, and download it. PN Archives! Page 24."
—Ed Channell
To Naperville Nostalgia: I am looking at a wooden yardstick from Soukup Hardware. 204 S Washington St with phone number. On the back are Frank and Ray's home phone numbers and the phrase, "$500.00 Fine If Used For Spanking"
—Jody Henry, jody1614@gmail.com
Wow! Thank you for acting so fast and getting our listing on the Web site. We really appreciate all the exposure that Positively Naperville provides our non-profit organization.
—Melanie Mackin, Families Helping Families
Editor's Note: Our Web master aims to please!
I'm one of positivelynaperville.com readers. I'd like to thank you for the excellent information I've found on your website, especially your healthy resources are my favorites.
...I live in Kansas where I have the passion to share with family and friends recipes to help them eat healthy and try to prevent high cholesterol and heart disease. ... I figured you might be interested in including a guest article about the most common questions related to high Cholesterol levels as well (i.e. difference between good and bad, cholesterol test, vitamin E, healthy foods and plant sterols).
...With your help we can educate the public about the dangers of unhealthy eating
and hopefully save some life. ... Either way, thanks for reading and keep posting your excellent information on positivelynaperville.com. ... Hope you a good week.
—Deborah Land
Editor's Note: We always like to open our e-mails in the morning to find this type of inquiry that shows folks from near and far read our Web site. PN Columnist Patty Minta fills this nitch at the moment, but we will consider this opportunity.
Greetings to Doctor Music: I was in the train station reading your article and I really appreciated the summertime feel you left me with. ... I also am a musician that lives here in Naperville close to downtown and I bring my guitar down there sometimes and play on a bench by the river also. ... You mentioned baseball also so I attached two songs I just recorded last summer. One is a tribute to John Lee Hooker called "The John Lee Hooker Train" and the other is a song called "The Crosstown Clash" about the Cubs vs Sox series. Both have received air play and the JLH train has received Rave reviews which I attached. I am forming a Naperville blues band called "The Cool Customers" If you know any local musicians that would be interested please let me know. Thank you, Doc, for your article again and I hope you like my songs. Peace and blues from Naperville.
—Michael Hannan
Editor's Note: Scott Itter (AKA Dr. Music) can be contacted via e-mail at DrMusic@wowway.com OR doc@drmusic.org .
Thanks for your quick response. ... Thanks so much for supporting the Girl Scouts. We do appreciate it !!
—Kathleen Suda, Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago & Northwest Indiana
Editor's Note: Visit the June & July calendars for postings about registration on June 15 for Girl Scout Summer Camp July 20-22.
Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID May 2010 / The reason Barb knows that CARES accepts car donations is because Barb was the first CARES volunteer to work on the Car Program. Her husband, Al, just retired from working on the Car Program after many years of service.
—Margie Tarpey
Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID May 2010 / The three people in the photo taken at the first Cuisine for a Cause in 2004 are: Mayor George Pradel, WGN radio personality Steve Cochran, MC at the event, and me, Barbara Dinon. The first Cuisine was held in the Municipal Building, thanks to the City Council. The location helped to draw a crowd, for many Naperville residents had not yet seen the building. And yes, I do know that Naperville CARES accepts car donations!
—Barbara Dinon
Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID May 2010 / Thank you for featuring Naperville CARES in your Naperville Nostalgia column! Sincerely appreciate it. All the best.
—Jeanne M. Buddingh
I just spent a few hours learning about Naperville on your site. I'm a real estate broker from Hartford and one our clients is moving to the Chicago area and asked us about Naperville. ... Thanks for this assemblage of information. It was most helpful.
—P. Puchiari
My whole body shook when I heard Sammy Hagar was coming to Ribfest. He really is a very special artist to me.
—Scott Itter
Sunday was a great day for another outstanding race held on the beautiful Calamos property. What a terrific event with over 1,200+ runners, 130 volunteers and perfect weather for the running of the 11th Annual NCO Spring Ahead 5K and 10K Run. ... Without the tremendous support of all of our sponsors, we could not have had such a successful event this year.
We are pleased to say we raised about $35,000 from the race to go toward programs and services of NCO Youth and Family Services. Again thank you for your support of NCO and the youth and families we serve.
—Ron Hume, Executive Director, NCO Youth & Family Services
—Julie Lichter, Development Director
Our beloved kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Vicki Doman, is retiring this year. ... Mrs. Doman has been teaching at Scott School for 22 years. She's has been a kindergarten teacher for as long as I can remember, but she has also taught 1st and 2nd grade as well. Overall, Mrs. Doman has taught for 31 years in other Illinois towns...Morton, Chatham and Normal. ... She is the type of teacher that makes cameo celebrity appearances to soccer games (for the older kids too!) softball games and swim meets - especially when Farmstead swims Naper Carriage Hill. She is iconic and will be missed. ... My youngest daughter was lucky enough to have Mrs. Doman, and it is great fun for her to talk about her with neighbors and babysitters who are now in college and had her too!
We are hosting a retirement party for her at Scott School from 3:30 to 5:30PM, Wed., May 12. Those who wish to come by to thank her and wish her well are invited.
—Linda Hansen, Secretary - Scott Home & School
Editor's Note: Scott School is located at 500 Warwick Drive. For more information, call
(630) 420-6477.
Xilin's 2010 Lantern Festival was held at Pfeiffer Hall of North Central College on Sunday, April 18, at 5PM in Naperville. With a full-house audience, the stage show was another big success! ... Xilin Art Center would like to express its deepest appreciation to all the performers, volunteers, and everyone who helped on the event! The Lantern Festival is a result of great team work and community efforts. ... Thank you all! ... We will meet again in 2011!
—Xilin Asian Community, 1163 E. Ogden Ave., Suite 300A, Naperville
I just wanted to mention that I love being (literally) on the same page with Emily Riederer. I think I mentioned before that we are huge opera fans. She does a fabulous job of highlighting such a wonderful art form and is hopefully engaging the next generation as well. La Traviata is one of our very favorites. Please let her know how much we appreciate her insight. Great job, Emily!
—Nancy Wiersum, Community Development Director, NCTV17
Editor's Note: Positively Naperville is grateful to feature more than 25 community columnists who bring a wide array of passions and best interests to the pages of our monthly publication. Thanks to all of our contributing writers.
I heard that there was a parade on Memorial Day weekend. Is that true? If so, where and when?
—Steven Devlin
Editor's Note: At 10:30AM, Mon., May 31, the Memorial Day Parade will advance through downtown, followed by a patriotic observance in Central Park at 12:15. This year it begins at Ewing at Jackson, runs along Jackson Ave., turns north on Washington and east on Benton to Court Street. The veterans and the Naperville Municipal Band end at Central Park. ... To check out what's happening in Naperville, simply visit our the monthly Web calendars that are filled with all the traditions and happenings in this community.
We live in Naperville since we move from Hong Kong in 1996---- It's been a wonderful experience for the family. Naperville Cares..... Positively Naperville. We have learn a lot from Stephanie Penick. I love reading your writing. We are now retire from Asia.... We love to serve the International community. ... My dad left China as a teacher, I'm grateful because of that. He later became the classmate of Dr. Robert Schuller in the fifties. He never says no to anything. So he answers God's call. He is still serving the Lord in the Philippines among Chinese immigrants.... I would love to invite Chinese to visit us. We have a library in our home. Nubby Bob is also an interesting person. You could interview him. .drbob of SEND.
—Esther Martin
We hear over and over how special our welcome homes are to the returning Soldier/ Marine and their family---it is all because of your continued support. Consider yourself hugged and thanked for your continued and special support of our homecomings. THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
—Donna Morsovillo, Operation Welcome You Home, (630) 302-2638
Web site/Calendar: www.welcomeyouhome.org
Editor's Note: We continue to thank Donna and her group for their dedication to "Welcome Home!" the troops.
...And thank you for including us (on the May 1 online calendar of events).
—Barbara Yahnke
Editor's Note: The Naperville Chorus will perform at 8PM, Sat., May 1, in the new Wentz Concert Hall at North Central College’s Fine Arts Center, 171 E. Chicago Ave.
Is their a fireworks display on Memorial Day weekend? If so, where and when?
—Steven Devlin
Editor's Note: There is no city-sanctioned fireworks display over Memorial Day Weekend. Naperville's spectacular fireworks display hosted at Knoch Park is traditionally on Independence Day, July 4. This year, the display will be the grand finale of Ribfest.
I appreciate your willingness to publish the information on the Car Care Clinic in Positively Naperville. ... Web site exposure will also be great. ... The Naperville/Lisle Township TRIAD will offer a Free Car Care Clinic For Seniors on Saturday, May 1, 2010 from 8AM -12PM. The clinic, sponsored by: Naperville/Lisle Township TRIAD, DuPage County Sheriff’s Office, Village of Lisle Fleet Services, and Lisle Police Department will be held at the Lisle Public Works Garage located at 4905 Yackley Rd in Lisle. ... I’m so pleased to have learned about your publication and hope to contact you about events in the future. Thanks.
—Meg Romberg, Director of Senior Services, Naperville Township
I would like to get our information on your web site for the 2nd annual Ron Buonauro Golf Outing for the Ron Buonauro Memorial Foundation. It will be held Aug.16th at Springbrook Golf Course. They can contact me at cafebuonaros@comcast.net. Thanks.
—Tina Marie Buonauro McConnaughey, www.cafebuonaros.com
Editor's Note: For a pretty complete listing of all golf outings that benefit local causes, see our Golf page. Visit regularly as we update often as we receive new listings.
We appreciate all you do for us. What a delight to see the articles in the latest (April 2010) Positively Naperville! You provide a wonderful service to our community, as well as all the organizations in it.
—Jody Bender, Community Relations Director, Loaves & Fishes Community Pantry
What a nice spread on Herb's (Nadelhoffer) world premiere of "Farmers, Corn, Cows & Hazy Memories." It was an amazing afternoon. Loaves & Fishes received 310 pounds of food and $535. Many of the attendees enjoyed the beauty of Meiley-Swallow Hall for the first time. As an NCTV Community Producer, Herb worked for three years to pull the film together. NCTV staff were patient teachers. Truly a labor of love. Naperville Public Library will carry the DVD and NCTV will be airing it soon on Channel 17. Thanks for committing some of the day's memories to ink in April PN. Aunt Joanne (Nadelhoffer) called all aglow when she saw it on the back page.
—Mary Lou Wehrli
As everyone knows, Peg Yonker is a wonderfully accomplished and kind lady; I am privledged to call her my friend. Those who know me know that I do talk too fast. In Peg's PN letter (April 2010 Greetings to PN), I see that, with a stroke of her pen, she's made me 30+ years younger. As ego-boosting as that is, I do need to straighten it out: I take complete responsibility for confusing Peg. I was referring to my Terlep grandsons and not my Stephens granddaughters. The Terleps are Neuqua students and alums, one of whom attended that highschool when Evan Lysacek was there. The family knew Evan's siblings and all enthusiastically followed his marvelous career. The Stephens girls are proud Waubonsie alums. And, of course we're all proud that Evan's a Napervillian! Sorry, Peg. I promise to slow down. Blessings!
—Kay Stephens
Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: The three men in the April PN are Al Rubin, John Neesley, Arlo Schilling. All three were on the board of The Bank of Naperville. Arlo was Chairman of the Board.They were probably at a bank board meeting.
---Brand and Mary Ann Bobosky
Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: In the picture are Al Rubin, John Neesley and Arlo Schilling.
—Barb Dwyer
Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: Norris identified Al Rubin, Bill Frier and Arlo Shilliing. ... Did you know that every time a Lions member's name appears in a newspaper, he is fined one dollar? Norris is going to go broke with all the publicity in your April edition! ... Prepare yourself to receive a bill!
—Peg Yonker
Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: In the April 1, 2020 edition of PN I recognized, in "Naperville Nostalgia", my 3 friends: L to Right. Al Rubin, John Neesley, and Arlo Schilling. Only John is still around. Cheers!
—Roy Grundy
P.S. Al Rubin looks like he was in his 50's, (say 56) and he died what 7-9 years ago at about what? 72? So the photo, probably taken at the Holiday Inn, is dated about 1986.
I lived in Naperville for 35 years, retired to Florida and recently came back to Illinois. ... A friend gave me a copy of PN. I'd like to try it for a year (check for subscription enclosed).
... Thanks for doing something different.
—Elsie Hutton
It was great to see (PN) at Herb Nadelhoffer’s video premiere! What a wonderful presentation of a time and lifestyle that did so much to build this community but is largely forgotten!
I have an item to share about the terrific Naperville Jaycees and how our holiday meal collaboration is growing. (Jaycees delivered holiday meals to 131 senior and disabled households served by the Naperville food pantry on March 27, 2010.) We are so grateful to them for their enthusiasm and commitment to ending hunger in our community!
—Jody Bender, Community Relations Director, Loaves & Fishes Community Pantry
Thank you! Great photos and story ... I was so excited when I saw the photos and article in the March issue of PN!!!! We so appreciate your help in getting the word out.
—Debbie Grinnell, Director of Preservation Services, Naper Settlement
To PN Columnist Barb Dwyer: Just read your article in Positively Naperville about Girl Scout cookies and was flooded with my own memories--very similar to yours.
I was in my glory, selling cookies to everyone I encountered--with no regard to where they lived and how difficult and time-consuming it might be for my parents to find their houses on delivery day.
One year we never could locate the last few people, so my dad finally dug a few dollars out of his pocket and bought the cookies himself so the whole ordeal could finally be over. That night he came into my room after I'd gone to bed and slowly and seriously said, "I was just wondering if you could tell me how many boxes of cookies you plan to sell next year, because I think I'd like to just write a check to your troop for that amount..."
Loved what you had to say about skills gained, parental encouragement (only), and healthy competition. Hooray for Girl Scouts, s'mores, and sit-upons!
Be prepared,
—Sue Colbert
To PN Columnist Barb Dwyer: Just wanted to say that I totally agreed with your latest article in the Positively Naperville newspaper. You do realize that Keebler Grasshopper cookies are the same thing as the Thin Mints, right? I was a Campfire Girl which is the knock off version of the Girl Scouts. My parents never helped me sell my candy. I had to go door to door on the weekends and after school. I had to conquer my fears and I had to learn to be personable and persuasive. ... Anyway, your article really struck a chord with me. Thank you.
—Shannon Sanders
On your websites listed of restaurant is Bangkok village. We are happy you have it listed there. However to the right of the listings, at the bottom, you have named a handful of restaurants that have closed. We are suprised to see Bangkok village listed with other that have closed. Bangkok village had been in business since 1989, never out of business. I began workind there during its first year. It was opened by a family friend from my home town in Thailand. I worked there until I was married in 1995. I have always lived in downtown Naperville and four years ago, I took over the business. I am proud of the changes I have made. Please come in to visit us. We are in the same location for 20 years now. Never out of business, please come in and see why we are still going strong after all this time. Thank you.
—Wijid Fay- Owner Bangkok village
Editor's Note: OOPS! Thanks for bringing it to our attention.
Thanks for taking such a clear, and rather larger sized photo (March issue) of the "River of Life' on Anderson's Bookshop.
—Roy Grundy, Century Walk
Hats off to you!
March issue looks great and I really appreciate all the great coverage you gave to our Girls Weekend event (March 4-6). Thank You!
—Katie Wood, Executive Director, Downtown Naperville Alliance
Thank you for the mention that ran in the March edition of PN on Cuisine for a Cause (Sat., April 24 at Tellabs)! Sincerely appreciate it! Thanks a million.
---Jeanne M. Buddingh, Buddingh & Associates, Inc.
Naperville Nostalgia Your pictures and write-up article are very nice and hope we get some feed back from those who remember. Would love to know what the price was.
Your March Pos issue has a lot of good stuff in it. Keep up the good work.
Enjoyed reading Bob Atkins Faithful Reflections. I had a similar experience on the slopes and then I took up knitting.
AND what about our hometown Olympic Gold winner! Evan really put Naperville on the map. Kay Stephen's told me her daughters were in his highschool class!
—Peg Yonker
I'm taking you up on your offer to submit events around town for inclusion in Positively Naperville. I don't know how to go about this, so I'm starting with this e-mail.
1. Naperville for Clean Energy and Conservation (NCEC) is going to have an Earth Day event at North Central College on Saturday, April 24 from 10AM - 2PM. We will have an exhibit area and are still formulating sponsors, speakers. I've copied Stephanie Hastings who is coordinating the event. Not sure how the promotional activity is going to go, but wanted to get you two together.
2. Neuqua Valley Interact Club Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, April 17. This is jointly sponsored with the Rotary Club of Naperville South and details will follow shortly.
Thanks for all you do for the Naperville community.
—Jeff B. Davis, President, Rotary Club of Naperville/South A.M.
Editor's Note: Submitting calendar info and press releases is simple when folks follow the instructions posted in the lower left of the Main Page of this Web site.
I am the Publicity chairman for the Cress Creek Garden Club, and would be most grateful if you could include this in your next edition of Posivitely Naperville, which I POSITIVELY LOVE!!!! Thank you.
—Kathy Jackson
Editor's Note: Please visit the scholarship page accessible from the Main Page on this Web site for information about the April 1, 2010 deadline to submit an application.
From Facebook Regarding Coyotes: Our dog Annie and our Winding Creek coyote had a confrontation. Annie, who never goes out of the yard, ran into the park when she saw it and scared the crap out of us! Luckily when she got to him, he turned toward her and she ran home. He hasn't been back!!! Maybe she was telling him something!
—Jo Lundeen
I just wanted to thank you for the lovely article you did on our resale shop. We really appreciate any help to spread the word about our shop/mission. We will be open for one year in this location as of March 17, 2010. ...Thanks again.
—Kath Camasto, Manager, Second Chance Resale Shop, Naperville, (630) 955-9599
Would you mind posting this to the Web? Because you worked here, you understand the need for adult costumed volunteers. We’re having an information meeting next Wednesday, Feb. 10 at the Chapel. I’m sending you a very brief release – please feel free to edit it down as much as you want! (Don’t you have a Victorian dress in your closet?!!) ... Thanks so much!
—Donna DeFalco, Marketing Coordinator at Naper Settlement
Editor's Note: Adult Volunteer Meeting, 7PM, Wed., Feb. 10, at Naper Settlement’s Century Memorial Chapel, 523 S. Webster St. INFO: call Mary Hudspeath at (630) 305-5256.
From Facebook Regarding Coyotes: A few weeks ago we had a coyote hanging out on our wicker furniture on our porch in Buttonwood...seemed very comfortable there?! we called animal control. They came and tried to scare away, but it kept coming back...haven't seen it for a few weeks though...officer told us unless it posed a direct threat to people, there was nothing they could do. :(
—Tonya Miller Wentz
From Facebook Regarding Coyotes: As we continue to build south and east of Naper Blvd and Bailey, we are forcing the wildlife to find other sources of food and shelter. We have an abundance of skunks and possums in this area. Sometimes makes it difficult to sit outside in the evening, these animals are not very afraid of people.
—Nancy Houghtby
From Facebook Regarding Coyotes: This is quite surprising to read this about coyotes in Naperville. Lived in Naperville in the early to mid 1970's and lived on Bailey Road (before it connected from then Barkdoll Road--Naper Blvd--to farther east) when the houses there were new. The first two years we were there, there were no houses south of us. Just open farm fields for as ... See Morefar as you could see, add neither ourselves or our neighbors ever had any trouble with coyotes. Only field mice everywhere. I thought it was just us in Southern California who had coyote trouble.
—Mike Weyhrich
From Facebook Regarding Coyotes: Coyote's and other wild animals have been making their way into the suburbs because we provide a source of food. Also the increase in rodents since the cat leash laws were put into effect provides natural food for the higherups in the food chain. Have you noticed the amazing increase in birds of prey? It's very entertaining to watch "wild Naperville"
---Deb Valstad-Lund
I read the blog on coyotes. Some time ago I looked at the Springbrook II Creek watershed with Brook McDonald, Dawn Banks and Bill Novack (and others). It's a hodge-podge of owners and types of maintenance/flow, although it's considered to be one of the better quality streams in the area, especially since the flooding from the old K-Mart/Venture parking lot has been alleviated by the down-stream ponds. It is probably one of the courses the coyotes follow in seeking prey/food.
---Ron Ory
A Naperville resident created this snow dog in their front yard. (Picture of a gigantic snow dog will appear in the February issue of PN) I thought it was fun as everyone is out taking pictures of it. It’s on 11th and Wright in a subdivision just north of Ogden behind Nicky’s Gyros and Jewel area. ... I have NO IDEA who did it. Some folks outside also taking pictures said they saw kids working on it. We knocked but no one was home. Probably working on another masterpiece!! The address is 620 11th Ave Naperville 60540 is all that I have! We are Naperville residents that just happened on it! Our lucky day! ... And oh yeah that is my handy work behind the camera. I am not a photographer at all!!!! I took a bunch so I attached them all in case you wanted them. My facebook friends are already responding too! ... Have a great day!
---Julie Acanfora-Hamning
...We always appreciate the support that Positively Naperville provides for this critical school fundraiser. We hope we can be included in your calendar again for March. Please let me know if you would like to do a feature as well. I am available at your convenience. ... Thank you again for your continued support!
---Wendy Serafin
Editor's Note: The Highlands Elementary Clothing Winter Exchange Sale will take place from 9AM- 2PM and 6:30PM - 8:30PM, Thurs., March 18 AND 9AM-1PM, Fri., March 19. Friday’s sale will feature some items at 50% off original prices. The event seeks volunteers to work at the Clothing Exchange. Volunteers will earn credits to attend the pre-shopping event from 6:30 – 8:30PM, Wed., March 17. See posting on the March calendar.
From Facebook: Positively Perfect in every way!
---Dolly Caravette McCarthy
From Facebook: Meson Sabika will host all-day benefit for Haitian relief with 100% of the sales going to the American Red Cross / Tuesday, Jan. 19 ...
---PN Post
Thank you, Hossein. You are amazing.
---Roxanne Lang
Hossein, you are the man. You step up for so many causes. You are the very best friend of Naperville. May God bless you and your lovely family.
---Tom Falcone
CITY RECOMMENDS ELECTION CENTRAL TO RESIDENT / You are welcome – I think you will really like the Positively Naperville site, and I have copied the editor/publisher Stephanie Penick on this message. She does an excellent job each election cycle keeping our residents informed!
---Nadja P. Lalvani, Community Relations Manager
I saw the website about DuPage elections and thought you should be aware of a book I have written called " Getting Elected." It is based on being an elected public official for over 14 years in two different states. ... I am a business owner in Naperville and would be interested in publisizing this book, which may be of great use to candidates. ... I sell it direct and it is available on Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com.
---Thomas F. Renk
Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 is doing their People’s Choice Awards for 2010. It is called Kendall Honors. You can buy an Oscar, Grammy or Golden Globe but what makes this award so prestigious is that it is from the people. Any citizen of Naperville can nominate a fireman, policeman or teacher for the award. We read and hear about these unsung men and women going the extra mile. Now is the time to honor them.
On January 9, the forms will be interactive on our website www.napervfw3873. The forms will be on the left side below Kendall Honors. ...
The Kendall Honors Banquet is on March 6. Make plans now to attend. The last Kendall Honors Banquet was SRO so get your reservations in early.
---Mike Barbour, Event Chairman
That was cute of the boys and Karl! (Front page of January 2010 issue) We look forward to the coming edition. I called Angie and she said that the boys enjoyed seeing it on the Internet. Thanks!
---Barbara Crookston
Editor's Note: If you live outside the Positively Naperville distribution area and do not receive the hard copy of the monthly publication, you can view it on the Internet at www.pnmonthly.com. The PDF pages can be downloaded.
Have had some comments about the column – takes time to build a following – mostly from friends, Rotarians, etc. Although we did have a comment from someone at the Loaves and Fishes donors reception asking “Are you the people that write the food column in Positively Naperville?" ... We’re at the Quigley Quiz night every month – we have a team. Last week, we won best team name – “I Quizzed in my pants” – you should have heard the laughs every time our team was announced. ... When I walked into Quigley’s, Joe Lichter said “Hey, you’re a celebrity.” – He had just seen the Jan PN with the picture of us with Guy (Fieri of the Food Network). ... Laurie and I are having great fun with “Your Table is Ready” and thanks for the opportunity.
---Mark Rice
It seems that everyone that I run into has seen your recent (January 2010) Positively Naperville. They love the piece on Ruth (Hammersmith). Maybe you could feature other "special" people. I know you already have but...
---Nancy Davis
From Facebook: Sure do miss positively WONDERFUL Naperville....it will be great to catch up on this great city.
---Elane McNabb
From Facebook: PN is one of the things that makes Naperville so great!!
---Grant Wehrli
From Facebook: Make that 6 cheers!
---Patti Paulsen Mathewson
From Facebook: Three cheers for PN!
---Melody Mathewson
From Facebook: Positively Naperville needs 2000 Facebook fans!!! Help Positively Naperville have the most fans on Facebook of any independent Naperville monthly publication!
---Gil Puffer
From Facebook: Happy New Year PN !! Keep on doing what you're doing. We love ya!!
---Paul Hinterlong
From Facebook: Happy and Healthy New Year to everyone... Positively Naperville... I am working on too :) Thank you!!
--Jae Hyeon Jeon
From Facebook: So glad we have a place in Naperville where the news in Naperville is POSITIVE. Keep up the great work! Spread the word and pay it forward!
---Mary Hibbard Morrissey
From Facebook: Just read it yesterday & I look forward to it each month. Well done!
---Greg Eisel
From Facebook: Always looking for the positives! ---Mike Reilly
From Facebook: Thanks for Mentioning the SugarToad's Finally Famous Crabcakes in the PN pop-quiz!
---Gil Puffer
This year we are combining all of the events to host one Kickoff Celebration for the start of the season, and we are very excited about it! ... Thank you for all your continued support with all of our events in Naperville!
---Ashley Carlson, American Cancer Society
Editor’s Note: Here’s the calendar listing…AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY RELAY FOR LIFE KICKOFF CELEBRATION / 6PM, Thurs., Feb. 11, 2010, Hotel Arista at CityGate Centre, Sponsored by the American Cancer Society and Hotel Arista / INFO: (630) 932-1141 / Ashley.Carlson@cancer.org.
You might also want to know that Jo Raoul is sincerely wishing you a Happy and Exciting New Year.
---Jo Raoul
From Facebook: Happy New Year, PN!
---Chuck Corrigan
From Facebook: Read it last night.
---Curtis Reed
From Facebook: I'm reading it right now!
---Don Carlsen
From Facebook: PN does a wonderful job keeping Naperville connected!
---Gary Vician
From Facebook: LOVE, LOVE, LOVE PN!
---Nettie Bebb McFarlan Badgley
From Facebook: Keep up the GREAT work Step! It's all you girl!
---Patti Roberts
From Facebook: Welcome PN!
---Anna Granko Zimmerman
Editor's Note: Dan the Man set up PN's Facebook account on Jan. 2, 2010.
Rip sends memories for Naperville Nostalgia / I can remember the Naperville stockyards just a short distance west of the end of Spring Street, and the Naperville Post Office that was just a hole in the wall, located on Chicago Ave just west of Stafelts butcher shop (Lantern) where I was sent to buy one gallon of milk for twenty-five cents, quite often. I remember seeing the Naper Academy being taken down to be replaced by the Naper school. And the soup-kitchen that was in the electric light plant on Jackson Street and the old Pre Emption House where Pres.Lincoln supposedly gave a speech. And why is it no one mentioned this pretty girl, Rosemary Barrenbrugy, who sold popcorn on Washington Street?
---Rip, Ripskate@juno.com
Our wish for you is a very Merry Christmas and a special thank you to each of you for being a part of our "welcome home team." Your support helps each of our returning Servicemen and Womens homecoming special! When we see the smiles of the Soldier and their Families face we know why we continue to do what we do.......And for those who were able to join us in caroling at Hines Hospital last week, you brought smiles and tears to our Veterans and helped make their Christmas brighter! MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!
----Donna Morsovillo, Operation Welcome You Home, www.welcomeyouhome.org
For Naperville Nostalgia / I was born in Naperville on Dec. 22, 1926, and lived in my Grandfather's home on Spring Ave. Rufus Netzley. At about age 10 we moved to 339 W Jefferson Ave. the sight of Mr. Naper's home. My parents Earl and Lucile Fry lived their until about 1970. ... I attended Naper Elementary School and Naperville High School. Graduated with the class of 1945. ... I remember swimming every day at the beach,and playing by the roaring DuPage River. ... In 1947 I was married in the Church of the Brethren, then located on Benton Ave. I have many happy memories of Naperville.
---Arlene Cook
Editor's Note: See many other thoughtful and fun memories on the Naperville Nostalgia pages of this Web site, accessible from the "Main" page.
Thanks for joining us at the CityGate Grille and participating in the Toys for Tots benefit.
... We exceeded the attendance from last year and collected a record amount of toys that required a military truck to transport and collected over $800 in donations to support our Marines and their Toys for Tots Foundation. And, we had a fun time doing it…who was that MC, he was really good! Wish I could have spent some additional time with you but the demands of Santa, the Elves and the event kept me moving. ... Thanks again for coming and supporting our event and I hope your holidays are happy and safe.
---Dave Hilderbrand, CityGate Centre, Co-Host of Toys for Tots
We wish you health and happiness this Holiday Season and in the New Year! Thank you for the gift of your support every single day -- we could not serve the teen parents of DuPage County without you. ... All the best to you, your family, and your organization.
---Santa's Elves at Teen Parent Connection, www.teenparentconnection.org
As I drive around town this year, I am really bowled over by the great spirit that seems to be in the air! Even during the hard times that so many are going through, the Christmas spirit still seems alive and well in our community. I am so very thankful for that. ... All the best to you and your family, and thanks so much for giving me a voice every month.
---Scott "Dr. Music" Itter
Thanks for all your support of the Naperville Garden Club! We appreciate you adding our Cup of Cheer House Walk and Holiday Market to the calendar and your personal interest and attendance at our events. Thank you for including the Blue Star Memorial Marker in the article about honoring our veterans. ... I enjoyed The Pairing Process article and will look forward to learning more. ... Happy holidays!
---Marilyn Krueger
ID for the December 2009 Naperville Nostalgia Photo / At first I thought the picture could be the Baltierra family, a family from Mexico that lived in box cars during the 1930s. I have a photo of them and the photo in Positively Naperville looked similar. Then the more I compared the two photos, I thought of the Wehrli family. I think the photo is the Wehrlis before the family had 13 children.
---Marge Meisinger
The front page looks great (December issue of PN with photos of the Grand Illumination). You guys were inspired. I picked it up at Casey's since it didn't come to our neighborhood this time. They were gone quickly there. I suppose you keep them replenished! Good Job! ... Happy Santa Lucia Day (December 13)!
---Jo Lundeen
Editor's Note: Jo Lundeen is one of PN's photographers who submitted photos for our December issue.
I just wanted to keep you posted on the Newcomer's upcoming events and programs. ... I believe you have the Welcome Coffee information for January. It's on Monday, January 4, usual time and place. We will also be having a coffee on February 1. ... We are happy to continue our tradition of awarding four $500.00 college scholarships to Naperville area high school students. We will start running the info in February. ... Yes, Naper Days has been canceled for 2010, but the Annual Blue Ribbon Baking Competition will live on, yeah! It will now take place during the Woman's Club Fine Art Fair at Naper Settlement on Sunday, July 11. We will be at the Meeting House as usual. ... Thank you all for your continued support. We're looking forward to a fun and rewarding 2010.
Sue Maloney, NNNC Publicity, mmal8175@aol.com
Great publication! The Pairing Process (column written by the Sommelier and the Chef de Cuisine at SugarToad in the Hotel Arista at CityGate Centre) was interesting. ... I saw where Sugar Toad will be open Christmas Day. ... I felt sure that you had written the editorial on page 2 and I applaud your view.
---Barbara Crookston
Thanks for coverage in Dec issue on page 4 about winter/spring sessions! Dynamite. In your Jan publication, could you do me a favor by noting we also have a session that runs April 18-June 6 that is found in the 2010 Winter/Spring catalog. Greatly appreciate any mention of this session in your Jan pub. You have been such a great supporter of our work and so appreciate all that you do for the Y. ... Hope you enjoyed the event (Mayor's Prayer Breakfast) today and have a very blessed and peaceful holiday season.
---Dee Dee McDevitt, Director of Marketing & Customer Satisfaction
Heritage YMCA Group
Thank you so much for mentioning my Web site, mypaintedsmiles.com in PN. I can't
believe it, but I got a call this morning for an order for 10 soaps as a direct
response to the PN mention. It was someone at church whom I know, but she
didn't know I painted and sold the soaps (even though I always donate soaps to
Mistletoe Marketplace). When she called me, she was on the Web site. I have just
printed her order and will fill it this afternoon. ... Thanks loads!
---Sue Schofield, www.mypaintedsmiles.com
For Naperville Nostalgia: A portion of the Stenger Brewery existed as an apartment building stretching west from Eagle street along Jackson to just about Mill St.
In 1959 my brother and I snuck in (I'm sure it was unoccupied-perhaps abandoned by that time and went down a long limestone twisting stairwell that opened into the aging tunnels that at one time housed beer kegs in the 1800s, followed by dirt racks used for growing mushrooms. The tunnels were quite elaborate all lined with cut limestone from the quarries. As we made our way North toward the original brewery site at Washington Jr. High School, we were buried (momentarily) when a rack fell over. We scrambled out and got back home. Funny after all these years to think a 10 and 11-year-old kid could have gone missing and never been found. The tunnels below the town still exist, and I remember seeing the entrance way covered over by bulldozers when the apartments were razed in 1968.
---Dennis Frantzen - dkf7142@comcast.net
To PN Presentiaton Designer Lynette Klingbeil: The December Positively Naperville was in my driveway this morning. It was a great way to start my day. Amazing job, Lynette!
---Dawn Loomis
I received my Positively Naperville on my driveway this morning. Thanks. It's good to see that's going right!
---Grant Wehrli
Saw old friends today at Bridge. They raved about PN!! I told them to write their thoughts to you. One who was badly injured in a fall several months ago wasn't able to get her PN's for Aug and Sept. How could she get those old copies?
---Rita Harvard
Editor's Note: We keep 12 copies every month for such requests. Depending on the number of back issues, we simply charge a mailing and handling fee to be determined with each individual request.
If you go to this web site, www.LetsSayThanks.com, you can pick out a thank you card and Xerox will print it and it will be sent to a soldier that is currently serving in Iraq. You can't pick out who gets it, but it will go to a member of the armed services. It's quick and easy!
---Nancy Davis
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Thanksgiving 2009 was the most memorable of all. It began 9AM at Meson Sabika restaurant. The owner, Hossein Jamali and his staff welcomed almost 100 volunteers with coffee and doughnuts as we filled out our name tags and were assigned to teams. The occasion was the annual holiday feast for area residents who could not afford a celebration worthy of the tradition. Each team set 6 tables for 10 with silverware, cloth napkins, bread, butter and ice water. We served salads, coffee, wine, beer, entrees and dessert. Over and over we removed empty dishes and reset tables. Guests had been assigned arrival times and table numbers. Close to 1,800 people were served salad, turkey, yams, vegetables, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream and cranberry sauce.
Around 4PM, we cleared the last tables and stacked the chairs. As I headed for the coat room I was surprised to learn it wasn't over! A line was forming for a delicious buffet turkey dinner for the volunteers, and as we turned to be seated, Mr. Jamali himself was slicing a beautiful roast beef to top off our plates. It was my first time as a volunteer but he said he has been doing this for 8 or 9 years.
I asked him why he did it. He smiled, saying he was "brought up to give back" to the community he calls home. "Actually, it's selfishness," he said, "because it makes me happy. And I'll do it as long as I Iive. I'm so glad to be able to."
And I will be so glad to be among next Thanksgiving's volunteers.
--Glenna Holloway, Nov. 30, 2009
EverGreen Theatre Ensemble will present a new adaptation of O.Henry's short story, "Gift of The Magi" as the third production in their 2009-2010 season. The play follows a mischievous and spirited elf that, after having fallen short on a few promises, receives an order from Prancer to learn about giving by helping a poor young couple find and purchase Christmas gifts for one another. The play runs Dec.4-Dec.19 at the Naperville Woman's Club.
---Margaret Pretkelis, EverGreen Theatre Ensemble, www.evergreentheatreensemble.org
I know it's Nov. 20, but it looked like you may consider this news. ... A group of neighborhood residents in Naperville would like to see Winding Creek Park get a new name. A request has been made to the Naperville Park Board to rename Winding Creek Park to honor fallen soldier Jack Hennessy. Sgt. Jack Hennessy was killed in Iraq on Oct. 1, 2004.
Winding Creek Park is a neighborhood park and is surrounded by Maplebrook Subdivisions and Winding Creek Subdivision. Jack Hennessy grew up in the Maplebrook subdivision and neighbors fondly remember him. ...
We also have a page on Facebook, search "Remember-Jack-Hennessy" and become a fan!
---Renata Gozdziak, http://remember-jack-hennessy.com/petition/ .
Thanks for including those photos about Dad's birthday in your October paper. Nice of you to recognize Dad. I think Dad's classmates gathering was a highlight of the evening -- a lot of fun.
---Ann Rubin, Daughter of Norm Rubin
Thank you for the nice write up in Positively Naperville about the ISMTA. It was concise, accurate, and I thought you did a nice job. ... I appreciate your help in calling attention to the independent music teachers.
---Diane Mayr, Teacher Referral Chairman, (630) 416-9540
Thank you for coverage of the Fashion Show! The ladies were over the moon when they saw it in PN, especially when I mentioned we were one of fifteen shoots you had that day. Your commitment to this community is evident in your professionalism and willingness to go the extra mile. You are very appreciated!
---Jody Bender, Publicity, Naperville Woman's Club
Thank you for the article on Toasting for a Cause! Sincerely appreciate your kind consideration to the topic. Thanks a million!
---Jeanne M. Buddingh
Editor's Note: Sullivan's Steakhouse will host Toasting for a Cause on Mon., Nov. 9, to benefit Naperville CARES.
I really appreciate your posting Brother John playing at Quigley's on Nov 13. There is a slight typo, it says Mike and should say Mark. Thanks and take care.
---Mark Riordan
Editor's Note: We love it when folks read our monthly calendars and if they find our unintentional mistakes, we appreciate it when they correct us. Thanks.
Is this the Chamber of Commerce? I was looking at North Central with my son , noticed some Naperville Chamber of Commerce things- A name caught my eye---Deb Shaughnessy. I think I may have worked with her a while back . Petite Blonde? Just wanted to say hi if it is the same person. No big deal My name is Tom Urie.
---Tom Urie
Editor's: Note: Nope. Positively Naperville is not the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, but PN is a member of the Chamber. That said, PN was able to make connections for the inquiring mind.
Your publication is fantastic and I will definitely promote it within the club.
---Mary-Alice Bier, Public Relations Director, Amici Naperville Area Italian American Club
Editor's Note: Visit PN's December 2009 online calendar to find various Amici Club events posted throughout the month.
You've just published another wonderful edition (Nov. 2009) of Postively Naperville! Thanks for all you do to highlight all the good things about Naperville.
---Jini Clare
I just want to thank you for posting the images in Positively Naperville for Mary's Morrissey's Couch for the Cause shoot. I believe in the cause and every day grow more inspired due to the wonderful people I am meeting. I am on a mission to hear stories of those affected from all walks of life. We are all affected in one way or another, whether it be a friend, relative or co-worker. Important to me is to make those affected have some sort of healing from sitting on the couch and for those of us who aren't dealing with cancer in our day-to-day lives and don't ask ourselves daily, "when is it coming back or has it shrunk" are the lucky ones. These people I have met have made me realize more than ever that life is good. What is even more inspiring are those people, such as Mary, who want to give back. Always willing to help without the need for recognition. I could go on and on, but if you've had a chance to go back to the beginning of the blog, I hope you can feel the energy from this campaign. Thanks again for spreading the "Couch" word and for spreading "positive" news. We need more positive!
---Lori Brooks, www.loribrooksphotography.com
NAMI DuPage, the local chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is pleased to announce its fall fundraising event, "Hope For The Holidays". ... (Performances at 3PM and 7PM, Sun., Nov. 29 at The Wentz). NAMI DuPage counts on the success of special events such as this to fund our important mission of assisting those afflicted with mental illness and their families. We would really appreciate your assistance in publicizing our event, Hope For The Holidays. ... Thanks for your help.
---Ann M. Flechter, NAMI DuPage
My wife and I went to see the local band One More Time at Last Fling mostly out of curiosity about whether they were any good. Wow! Not just good for a bunch of old guys (like me), they are a flat-out tight rock band. Great version of "I Saw Her Standing There." I doubt that Paul McCartney could hit the high notes in that song any more, but this band's drummer--an excellent singer--nailed it. I saw them again at Oktoberfest (as featured in the October PN); another good show.
---Joe McElroy
In the month of Oct, the Hindu (Indian) community worldwide celebrates the festival of light,"Diwali." This year, in Naperville-Aurora area, the nonprofit organizations---HSS and SEWA USA--- are celebrating this festival in very innovative and meaningful way. In this tough economical times, HSS and SEWA volunteers have organized "Diwali Food Drive" with the help of local community, grocery stores and Loaves and Fishes Community Pantry. Volunteers will be collecting the vegetarian food during Sep. 28 to Oct. 24 in Naperville and Aurora area. The food will be donated to the food bank on Oct 2009.
Naperville Mayor George Pradel will be announcing the Diwali proclamation in support of this food drive on the eve of Oct. 20, 2009. ... Your support for this noble cause will help us in reaching out to larger community for this food drive.
---Siddhesh Shevade
Editor's Note: Find information at http://www.sewausa.org/diwali-food-drive-2009
Tuesday's Volley for a Cure at NCHS is gonna be huge!!! Thanks for your help!!
---Ray Kinney
Editor's Note: Volley for a Cure & Pack the Place Pink is slated to begin at 5PM, Tues., Oct. 6 in the Naperville Central High School Main Gym / $10 Admission / Breast Cancer Survivors FREE / INFO: Colleen Abrahamovich at (630) 428-9422 or jeahoops@aol.com or Ray Kinney (630) 369-1360.
Many thanks! Our Naperville Woman’s Club Fashion Show Committee met this morning, and everyone is overjoyed with the exposure you gave our event in the October Positively Naperville! Thanks so much for promoting this fun and worthwhile event!
---Jody Bender, Publicity, Naperville Woman's Club Fashion Show
Editor's Note: The Naperville Woman’s Club Fashion Show will be held at The White Eagle Club beginning at 10:30AM, Sat., Oct. 24. Tickets are $45 each. TKT INFO: (630) 355-4417.
Saw the (Soups On!) ad yesterday in the October PN issue and it looked great. Thank you!
---Bill Garlough, Past President-Rotary Club of Naperville
Editor's Note: Soups On! will serve from 11:30AM to 5PM, Sun., Oct. 18, at Tellabs. INFO: http://www.soupsonrotary.com/
During these tough economic times – CARES is hoping to raise funds to help those Naperville families in need. ... Thank you for your kind consideration to this topic and for your coverage in the past. We sincerely appreciate it.
----Jeanne M. Buddingh, Naperville CARES
Editor's Note: Naperville CARES will host its fourth annual gourmet wine pairing at Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Toasting for a Cause from 6:30 to 9:30PM, Mon., Nov. 9. The evening will feature a gourmet five-course meal and wine pairing. TKTS: $125 each / RSVP: (630) 718-0708.
I thought you might be interested in covering the annual Ron Santo Walk to Cure Diabetes, taking place in five Chicagoland areas on Oct. 4.... There are a number of Naperville families in your area affected by Type 1 Diabetes who, year after year, participate in the walk to raise money to help find a cure. Thanks.
---Kasey Salt, On behalf of JDRF
Editor's Note: The Step-By-Step: 31st Annual Ron Santo Walk to Cure Diabetes is set for Sun., Oct. 4. Five events, including the Chicago Lakefront, Libertyville, Schaumburg, Orland Park and Lisle,.aim to raise $5.6 million for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. In Lisle, the walk is at Community Park– 4Km Start/Finish: 1825 Short St. Check-in: 8:30AM. Start: 9:30AM. INFO: www.jdrfillinois.org
Thanks so much--I really love Positively Naperville!
--Todd Mertz
Friends of mine have been working for 3 years on a Youth Center and Ranch and they are finally at a point where it may be a reality...They are having a fundraiser on Oct 23 at Calvary Church and, of course, it is such a POSITIVE thing to be helping hurt and troubled kids without charging...
---Kathy Dorn, www.voiceofhopeyouthranch.org
Editor's Note: The fundraising event is plannted at 6PM, Fri., Oct. 23, 2009 at Calvary Church in Fellowship Hall at 9S200 Route 59 at Montgomery (83rd St).
I want to thank you again for the opportunity to write. More and more people have commented to me how much they enjoy reading your paper.
---Mary Corrigan
Editor's Note: Columnist Mary Corrigan who writes "Off the Shelf" will begin another chapter of her life when she celebrates her 50th birthday at the end of September. Happy Birthday, dear Mary!
Thank you so much (for posting our Pink Tea on Oct. 1, 2009). We appreciate your support in the fight against breast cancer.
---Dave Harshal, www.cancer.org
I am looking for a dog training coupon that I think was in your publication. It was for $50 off an in-home training session that was originally $95. ... Do you remember anything about this? I could not find it on your Web site. It was either August or September issue. Thank you.
---Jane Muscato
Editor's Note: The Promotions Page at www.pnmonthly.com had many offers and ads. That's where you'll find the information about the dog trainer that appeared in the September 2009 issue of PN.
I am an avid reader of "Positively Naperville" and look forward to it's arrival at the beginning of the month. I know we have met at least once. I was at the Doughboy statue re-dedication back in 2003. I am also aware of your writings in the Daily Herald. ... I DO have a lot of Naperville memories. I suppose I should start documenting these while they're still fresh in my head. What's this leading to... a book?
---Paul Mejia
Editor's Note: See Some of Paul Mejia's memories in the Naperville Nostalgia section of this Web site.
Congratulations...on your (Naperville) Healing Field of Honor. ... I read your monthly Positively Naperville News and I’m so impressed by all of the community activities. It just seems like there is always something for everyone of any age or interest. There are always people and projects that are reaching out to help others. It does my heart good to read through that newspaper. Especially when the majority of the news these days is so negative and try to convince us that America, the Constitution and God are all “going to hell in a hand basket.” Take care and have a great weekend!
---Sawn Swenson, Colonial Flag Foundation, www.healingfield.org
I need to make a correction to an event I have already posted on your calendar. The event is "Marching Classic Marching Band Competition" on October 17 (at Benedictine University. Info: www.nchsbands.info / click '09 Marching Classic). The 5PM start time is incorrect. The correct start time is 4:30PM. Please make this change for me. ... Thank you.
---Kay Truemper, NCHS Bands Publicity
Editor's Note: We appreciate it when our readers correct mistakes, find errors and/or disabled links on our Web site and in our publication. We aim to publish correct information. If you send us incorrect information, please let us know. We also regret errors that slip through the cracks of spell check and proof-reading.
It's that time of year again and hopefully I have attached our press release for our Fall Clothing Resale. Let me know if there are any problems or questions. As always I enjoy Positively Naperville, both in print and online!
---Leigh Finnegan
Editor's Note: The Naper School Fall Clothing Resale runs runs from 6-8:30PM, Thurs., Oct. 2; 9AM-2:30PM, Fri., Oct. 3 and from 8-11:30AM, Sat., Oct. 4. Naper School is located at 39 S. Eagle Street in downtown Naperville. For more information, call (630) 848-3990.
I drove to Casey's yesterday and took your paper. I read it in the car ... I could not wait. I love it. I gave it to my neighbor to read, so I would like to ask you if I could get an email with a subscription form? If not, don't worry I will go back and get another paper. I live in Aurora, but your work is so positive. Your work is great.
---Madeline Bikus
Thanks for all the "smiles" you shared on the front cover - and all the joy you shared within your pages. You are truly a messenger of significance in this community. On behalf of KidsMatter, we thank you once again for including our programs in your pages. It amazes us how much you can fit into PN each and every month!
---IdaLynn Wenhold, Executive Director, KidsMatter
First of all, HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Positively Naperville. Eight years and going strong! Way to go! ... I want to thank you for the PN coverage of the NAL Century Walk mural. This is an exciting time for us, and right about now (one week before the Riverwalk Fine Art Fair, 10AM-5PM, Sept. 19 & 29) is when I have to start taking a sleep aid because the details in my head won't stop circulating. See you soon!
---Laura Rivas, President, Naperville Art League
You'll be pleased that many people have commented about my picture on the front page of PN (Sept. 2009). More than one person asked if I really had a Playboy inside the cover!
---Joe Lichter
Wow! (Upon noticing his performance at 9PM, Fri., Sept. 11, at Quigley's Irish Pub was posted on the September online calendar.) Thanks a lot!
---Mark Riordan
TO ED'S MANY HATS: Good article. This PN (September 2009) was one of the better ones. Tami did a good job.
---K. J. Nothacker
I hope you are having a relaxing Labor Day weekend. Check out the Web site. (www.napervfw3873.org) Scott Holley has done a great job of updating the Web site. It now has music. Our Municipal Band Director has graciously provided us with the music from the piece he wrote for our Post. ... Thanks to Ron Keller for the music titled The Judd Kendall March.
---Mike Barbour, PR, Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873
Editor's Note: Barbour also coordinates visits to Hines VA Hospital on the second Tuesday of every month, September through June. The bus leaves from the post canteen no later than 6:15PM and usually returns by 9PM. INFO: www.napervfw3873.org
Awesome! Thanks!
---Mike Connelly, repconnelly48@gmail.com
Editor's Note: State Rep. Connelly is responding to a listing on PN's September 2009 calendar. Senator Kirk Dillard and Connelly will host a Kid's Fair from 9AM-12PM, Sat., Sept. 12 at Lincoln Junior High School (1320 S. Olympus Drive). Tabletops with information about programs, immunizations, etc. for children; entertainment, demonstrations and more regarding Illinois' 48th District. INFO: (630) 579-4848.
I was watching Fox News TV at 8:25AM today (Fri., Sept 3) and the national news featured Harry Buenger of Harry's Café at the Naperville Metra station. The feature was about Harry's 32 years of uninterrupted coffee service to commuters from Downtown Naperville, Illinois! ... Congratulations to Harry!
---Kenn Miller
Your Web site is looking terrific and is very easy to navigate. It's changed since I saw it last. I went on it to check if I could submit a press release of sorts about the figure drawing workshops. Thanks!
---Ronnie Maziarek
Editors Note: Contact Ronnie Maziarek at (630) 408-8055 or rmaziarek@hotmail.com for more info, directions, and to sign up to attend Figure Drawing Workshops at the Naperville Woman's Club and Scholl Hall at Benedictine University. Space is limited.
Congratulations! I am so happy for you and all of PN! Glad to have known you from the start (September 2001) and watch you and PN grow so beautifully. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it.
---Heather Wachter
Thank you so much for the picture of Rosie and me in PN (on the patio of Quigley's Irish Pub). I have gotten a lot of feedback; they want to know if I will be bringing Rosie to Quigley’s soon, apparently I am not necessary, she is the true star. When you get a chance, can you send me that photo (I want to put it in a frame).
---Erin O'Donnell
I just wanted to thank you for the resources/information that your publication provides. Also, I was very excited to see a picture of my husband, Chuck, and daughters, Hannah and Olivia, featured in the “Hey Bicyclists! Now you can park at the Naperville train station” article (September 2009 edition). They were on the “bicycle build for three”. I think there’s at least one other family in Naperville that has a triple bicycle. My girls are always very happy to see other cycling families on the road. Thank you again for posting the picture.
----Julie Nelson
Dick and I were wondering if it would be possible to get copies of two photos that appeared in your article, "Century Walk mural celebrates art"? It is a great article-- PN did a great job covering it. What terrific photos!! The two pictures we are interested in are the one of Mayor Pradel with Chester Gould's daughter (Jean O'Connell) and the one of Dick painting Dick Tracy on the wall. ... Thanks.
---Mary Locher
Editor's Note: When you're in Naperville, be sure to visit the colorful and whimsical mural, "World's Greatest Artists," designed by Mike Venezia and painted by Marianne Lisson Kuhn. It's located on the southern exterior of the Naperville Art League Gallery at the corner of Center and Fifth, just north of the Train Station.
Happy Birthday, PN!
---Tom Tortorich, TTDesigns / Graphic Design / www.ttdesigns.net
Congratulations on a “fabulous eight” years of PN. Wow – where have all those years gone? Thank you for allowing me and Paul and Roseland to be a part of your brainchild! You have outdone yourself with this anniversary issue! All our best for the years to come.
---Mary Ann Junkroski, Roseland Draperies and Interiors
Editor's Note: Roseland Draperies was among the eight sponsoring businesses that helped to launch Positively Naperville in September 2001 during the Jaycees Labor Day Parade. Other "founding" sponsors were Ray Kinney at Minuteman Press; Rick Spencer at North Central College; Sue Wehrli at Wehrli World Travel; Steve Chirico at Great Western Flooring; Jeanne Johnson at Art & Frame/Naperville; Ellen Haake and Dan Haake of Newstar Jewelers; Dick Kuhn, Attorney at Law; and Ruth Yackley and Dwight Yackley of Main Street Promenade and BBM. We are grateful to all!
I did see your article in PN this morning, and was impressed that you were out ahead of the press release. ... Thank you for your ongoing support of the Garage Sale to Cure SMA! Cheers!
---Karen Pomazal
Editor's Note: The Neighborhood Garage Sale is slated from 8AM to 2PM, Sat., Sept. 19, at 1401 Ambleside Circle in West Wind.
Thanks for publishing my article exactly the way I wanted. ... I sold advertising space for three years for "Pulp & Paper" magazine, a Trade Journal, back in the late '50's. A fun job...while I was single!
---Roy Grundy
Sounds great! Thank you so much for your help!
--- Megan Berck, A Walk to Remember Coordinator, www.napervillewalktoremember.org
Editor's Note: Naperville’s 5th Annual A Walk to Remember will start at 8:30AM, on Saturday, October 17, 2009, at the Riverwalk Grand Pavilion. The mission is to raise public awareness, promote research, and provide support to parents and families whose lives have been touched by miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal loss. To register, donate, or for more information, visit napervillewalktoremember.org.
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In the January 2010 issue delivered on Jan. 4, ad man Dan announced PN is now on Facebook.
Thanks to all "fans" and for your many kind thoughts.
When you leave us messages on Facebook, we'll try to retrieve them for this Greetings to PN page to save them for perpituity.
If you want information about print or online advertising, contact Dan at (630) 204-9175 or
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