Rough! Rough! Rough! Resounding and recurring Dog Days are known as the hottest and muggiest period of the year in the Midwest – arriving to cover the 40 days and 40 nights from July 3 to August 11, summer after summer.
Some almanacs describe these oppressive days as sultry, sweltering and sticky. It’s nothing new. Since ancient times, observers in countries bordering the Mediterranean have recognized Dog Days as extending from 20 days before to 20 days after the conjunction of Sirius and the Sun. Back then, Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky, located in the constellation Canis Major (meaning “Greater Dog” in Latin) was thought to provide heat to the Earth.
Onward bright stars
More than once, we’ve mentioned our intention to slow down during summer. We aim to find time for a good read, check in with nature (or… Walden; or Life in the Woods) and reset before gearing up for school days. Plus, in 2025 residents may need to address local challenges whether your kids attend Naperville schools or not—and that’s another story.
Quite by coincidence, in mid-July we received a re-issue of an old Ted Talk titled “What Reading Taught Me About Writing,” beautifully spoken by Jacqueline Woodson in 2019. Back before TikTok and the multitude of podcasts now featured online, for many years beginning in 2006, we regularly received Ted Talks on Saturdays, some better than most, but with information worth knowing. Woodson’s words truly struck a chord. She talked about running her finger below and along every sentence to appreciate every chosen word. She talked about reading slowly.
And we wondered about timed reading. Is speedreading the best way to learn?
Our thoughts of gratitude go to all readers and supporters of this publication who take time to read. Some readers say they begin on the back page. Others turn right to middle. And many tell us they keep the monthly issue handy until the next one goes to print. Still others say they read cover to cover.
Last month, we were struck by an email from a PN reader who wrote, “I didn’t read the trolley article—it was too long for my limited time — just so you know.”
Yes, we knew “Trolley-la-la-la in July” was long compared to most of PN’s stories that are 350 words or less. And we were heartened by dozens of readers who took time to comment about how much they enjoyed reading the story about a popular attraction and family enterprise with deep roots in local history that’s been entertaining the community for 30 years.
In a moment of serendipity, we also literally were impressed that a quote by J.K. Rowling had arrived a day earlier: “There’s always room for a story that can transport people to another place.”
Moving right along
At the same time, we’re mindful that our community is positively different from most communities in our state. Thankfully, it’s always growing and attracting risk-takers who open new businesses. Houses sell quickly. One-hundred-forty parks are welcoming retreats.
Yet, July public meetings and workshops for our local taxing bodies—City Council, 203 and 204 School Boards and Naperville Park District—presented issues and challenges that need every resident to pay attention in August.
Beyond Naperville, residents also need to become familiar with all the hopefuls who begin circulating nominating petitions on Aug. 5, seeking signatures to help put them on the Primary Election Ballot for March 17, 2026. (Check out PN’s “2025 Government Guide” recently updated at www.positivelynaperville.com.)
Let us suggest that to sustain Naperville, Illinois, as a desirable place to live, work and play, it’s time for adult education before the kids go back to school.
And we wonder… What’s set Naperville apart from most Illinois cities? Are those strengths and differences still intact? Will we benefit if we preserve them?
Meanwhile, we consider ourselves doggone fortunate every time we think about our first responders and their passions to keep our community safe.
Pay attention!
As PN wraps up our 24th year in print and online, aiming to begin again in September, still concerned about accuracy and showcasing independence during these times of constant distractions and information overload. It’s already been a summer to remember. And this season doesn’t end until September 21.
Thanks for supporting PN and your local business community as well as charity events that aim to fund unmet needs that make a difference.
Stay strong. Stay hydrated. Stay informed. Stay safe. Continue to walk (and drive) on the right side, the bright side of life, and to reignite the can-do spirit of longstanding community attractions such as the Jaycees Last Fling, Aug. 29 through Sept. 1. And catch up with Frank E. Fling, the Jaycees’ bun-loving mascot since 2011!
Thanks for reading PN in print monthly and digitally daily.
– Stephanie Penick
PN Publisher
