Eggs. Doughnuts. Roses. They all come by the dozen. As portrayed in his biography, Frank Galbraith’s 12 children came “Cheaper by the Dozen.”
Twelve months make a year. Minutes are tracked on a 12-hour clock. And folks who consult the stars daily, know 12 astrological signs in the Western and Chinese zodiacs.
And now we can say Positively Naperville comes by a dozen dozen as the monthly preview of good news marks its 12th anniversary.
We’d like to think our 145th edition is another authentic compendium of the latest upcoming events—theater, art exhibits, nonprofit fundraisers, public meetings, etc.—that contributes to the thriving traditions and culture of this city. Everyone is invited to participate here to make the most of everyday living where quality education, public safety and health care top the list because so many residents care.
If you consider PN’s resounding message to be a dime a dozen, note that if you search online, you’ll discover “decimal dozen,” a compact 10-pact carton for bottled wine that holds two rows of five bottles, developed by the Helm winery in Australia. Cheers!
At any rate, after more than 12 months of planning, PN was launched 11 days before the horrific terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. PN’s history is tied closely to that world-changing event that inspired us to persevere with positive messages despite the uncertainty and adversity that followed.
PN’s planning year also witnessed the collapse of the dot.com bubble that took place during 2000–2001, a time when more than a dozen initiatives were competing for local dollars in what became known as the “Challenges that Unite Us.” Our aim was to help connect local community spirit.
Since then, the Naperville Riverwalk Extension, Fredenhagen Park, Community Concert Center, North Central College Performing and Fine Arts Center, Century Walk, restoration of Martin-Mitchell Mansion and the DuPage Children’s Museum—and more—have been checked off the city’s to-do list.
Economic activity in Naperville has increased steadily over the past several years, thanks, in part, to a strong hospitality industry that has created an inviting destination.
Today the city is producing more sales tax revenue than before the collapse of the housing bubble and economic downfall in 2008—so that means “more than ever.” Naperville’s retail economy continues to grow and PN passionately reminds residents to shop locally in support of independently-owned businesses whenever possible. Remember, your local business community can assist you online, too.
We found it curious that a baker’s dozen, one more than a standard dozen, came into use by bakers to avoid being “blamed for shorting their customers.” With any luck— and if we pay attention and mind our own business—we’ll keep our pages chock full to make it through another year.
