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Naperville
Friday, March 29, 2024

Real places inspired best-known attractions in Naperville

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More than a few times, PN has referenced a stone monument along the Riverwalk engraved with a poem titled “What We Need.” The stone is located along the brick path just steps beyond the old Netzley House, now the Visitors Center for the Moser Tower, west of the footbridge that leads over the DuPage River toward Centennial Beach.

Encourage family, friends and youngsters to visit the stone, engraved with reminders that what we need are a little more kindness with more smiles, laughter and flowers along the pathway of life.

Every seasonal change brings new adventures outdoors. Longer days as summer approaches offer more time to appreciate all that’s created in nature and to discover attractions that welcome visitors just about every day.

Take in the view of Moser Tower from the top of Rotary Hill along the Riverwalk.

Considering Moser Tower since 2000, Century Walk public art since 1996, the Riverwalk since 1981, Naper Settlement since 1969, and Centennial Beach since 1931, our city’s most prominent amenities were inspired by innovative local residents. All five attractions connect relevant history.

Observe Martin Mitchell Mansion at Naper Settlement, overlooking the bed of spring tulips from Rotary Hill along the Riverwalk.

Longtime residents and history buffs also may recall that real places have inspired some of our city’s best-known attractions.

Since 1831, many folks with can-do spirit have arrived on the banks of the west branch of the DuPage River. Risk takers with imaginations and fundraising prowess have found creative inspiration from other locales and have gone out of their way to replicate them here and there for families and visitors to enjoy.

In 1981, the Riverwalk along the DuPage River became the commemorative gift to the citizens of Naperville, recognizing the City’s first 150 years. The plaque at the Civic Plaza helps tell the story of its dedication on Labor Day, Sept. 7, 1981.

From the Riverwalk, inspired by the path in San Antonio, Texas; to Century Walk, modeled after outdoor public art in Vancouver, BC, Canada; to the Millennium Labyrinth, a copy of the labyrinth that dates back to 1205 at Chartes Cathedral in Chartes, France, our local landscape has become more attractive.

In 2031, our city will celebrate its first 200 years. What commemorative will our community present to mark the occasion?

Perhaps individuals with can-do spirit can create a cooperative plan for the City’s bicentennial in 2031. Already some folks have sent ideas our way. Do you have any ideas?

One more thing… Whatever is planned will be better served with a long-range care and maintenance plan from the beginning. Thanks for thinking!

On another positive note… Remember to sing the entire “Happy Birthday” song every time you wash your hands.

Whatever the occasion, always wash your hands thoroughly!

Just don’t wash away your commonsense.

–PN

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PN Ombudsman
PN Ombudsman
An ombudsman is Scandinavian in origin dating back to Viking times; and refers to a community representative; usually acting independently on behalf of an organization, body of elected officials, or civic group. Thanks Scandinavia for inventing ombudsman.

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