….IN NAPERVILLE!

Saturday, Nov. 1st – Bridal Sampler Show

If you are looking for a great experience with quality vendors dedicated to listening to you and an opportunity to ask questions and be informed face-to-face, then this is the bridal show for you! NIU Conference Center, 1120 E. Diehl Rd., Naperville www.bridalsampler.com .

Saturday, Nov. 1st – Naperville Woman’s Club Fall Fashion Show

See all the latest fashions at White Eagle Golf Club, 3400 Club Drive, Naperville, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. All are welcome. All proceeds will benefit local charities. In 2007, the event raised $9,000. Every year, different local charities are the beneficiaries of the popular fashion show. For more information about this event, visit www.napervillewomansclub.com.

Tuesday, Nov. 4th – 2008 PRESEDENTIAL ELECTION DAY

Remember to vote, it’s your right!

Friday, Nov. 7th – 8th – Weed Ladies Winter Floral Sale

Just in time for holiday shopping, the Winter Sale features the Weed Ladies creative seasonal arrangements with silk and dried flowers. Admission to the sale is free. Held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Naper Settlement, 523 South Webster Street. For more information, call (630) 420-6010 or visit www.napersettlement.museum.

Saturday, Nov. 8th – Naperville Junior Woman’s Club 37th Annual Fall Fashion Event The Naperville Junior Woman's Club is proud to bring you "An Afternoon in Paris" on Saturday, November 8th at the Drury Lane Theatre & Conference Center. Doors open at 10 a.m. for Silent Auction, Raffle Packages, and Fabulous Grand Prizes. The luncheon begins at noon followed by a professionally produced Fashion Show by ZZAZZ Productions featuring furs by York Furrier. Tickets are $50 before September 30th and $60 after. Tables seat 10 guests. Don't miss this gala afternoon! For more information, visit www.napervillejuniors.com or call (630) 729-9644.

Saturday, Nov. 8th – Victorian Secrets at the Settlement

Tour the Mansion and then find out what's under those hoop skirts! Take a special behind-the-scenes tour of the beautifully restored Victorian Martin Mitchell Mansion, on the grounds of Naper Settlement in downtown Naperville. Discover how the DuPage County family who lived in this opulent home, helped rebuild Chicago after the Great Fire of 1871. Then take a peek inside a traveling trunk as beauty and clothing secrets are revealed in our "Victorian Lady" presentation. Relax and enjoy the show, while sipping lemonade and nibbling sweets in the cozy Pre-Emption House. This program is in celebration of the Naperville Heritage Society's 40th anniversary. Limit 30. 10a.m. to noon. Tickets are $30/person – ages 18 and over. For more information, call (630) 420-6010 or visit www.napersettlement.museum.

Saturday, Nov.8th – Santa Train Tickets On Sale

The Naperville Jaycees will be hosting their annual Santa Train rides in December. The popular one-hour train rides will depart from the Fifth Avenue Train Station and feature favorite characters, sing-a-longs and a visit from Santa Claus. Tickets for this event will be sold on November 8th at 9:00 a.m. at 200 E 5th Avenue inside the old Kroehler Building. Tickets are $15 each and please CASH ONLY for ticket sales. Everyone riding, regardless of age, will need a ticket. For more information or if you would like to volunteer for this event, please email us at santatrain@naperjaycees.org, call (630) 961-9375 or log onto: www.naperjaycees.org.

Saturday, Nov. 8th – Uncork a Cure For Cycstic Fibrosis Foundation

From wine novices to advanced wine enthusiasts, “Uncork A Cure,” is a casual and fun evening for all experience levels.  Along with delicious hors d’oeuvres and wine pairings, sip upscale wines poured by renowned master sommelier Arthur Black.  Guests will also be treated to bid on a variety of auction items that will be sure to grab the interest of all attendees! Event will take place at Tango, 5 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. 6-10 p.m. www.uncorkacure.com.

Monday, Nov. 10th – 233rd Birthday of the United States Marines

Thank you for your service to our country!

Monday, Nov. 10th – Toasting For A Cause

In partnership with My Chef Catering and Sullivan's Steakhouse, the Third Annual Toasting for a Cause fundraiser to benefit Naperville CARES, will be held on Monday, November 10th from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m at Sullivan's Steakhouse in downtown Naperville. Attendees will partake in a five course dinner paired with the finest of wines. Cost: $125 per ticket and includes food, drink and live auction. Tickets are available by calling Margie Tarpety at (630) 718-0708.

Tuesday, Nov. 11th – Veteran’s Day at Brookfield Zoo

To honor those who have proudly served our nation, the Chicago Zoological Foundation, which manages Brookfield Zoo, a recognition ceremony and all are invited to attend. For more information, visit www.czf.org or call (630) 355-4141

Wednesday, Nov. 12th – KidsMatter Honorary Event

KidsMatter, along with the Mayor and City Council will hold an honorary event to recognize youth who demonstrate exemplary service to their community. Ceremony to take place at the Naperville Municipal Center from 5:30 to 8:30p.m.

Friday, November 14th – Naperville Park District’s Parent’s Night Out

Mom and dad are out having fun, and we'll be having fun, too! Crafts, gym games, pizza and a video will keep kids ages 4-10 entertained. Registration required. Cowlishaw School Gym, 1212 Sanctuary Lane, Naperville. (630) 848-5000 www.napervilleparks.org.

Friday, November 14th – Education Center’s Annual Kids Best Friend Award Dinner & Benefit Auction The Education Center of Developmental Resources provides a nontraditional form of counseling — life coaching — that helps children and teens gain self-confidence, independence and skills to last a lifetime. Come celebrate their achievements and help support at their annual Kids Best Friend Award Dinner and Benefit Auction to be held at the Lisle/Naperville Hilton, 3003 Corporate West Dr., Lisle www.theeducationcenter.org.

Thursday, Nov. 20th – DuPage Children’s Museum Special Program For Autism

Third Thursday is a special time each month for families with children who have autism spectrum disorders to enjoy play at the Dupage Children’s Museum. DCM is an ideal location for learning, with exhibits and facilitation that offer ways to work on language development, social skills, and purposeful play. Photo Books are available to help visitors structure a visit. Come experience an outing the entire family can enjoy while you take advantage of the Museum during a typically quieter time. Held from 5 to 7p.m. every third Thursday of the month. Please call our CAN Coordinator for more information. (630) 637-8000, extension #4800. www.dupagechildrensmuseum.org.

Nov. 22, 23, 25th – NPD’s Radio City Christmas Spectacular

Day Trip to The Rosemont Theatre The Rockettes are back in Chicago, but not the same! They’re better! They’ve brought a new show with them. Trip is open to families with children ages 8 and up and departs from the Riverwalk Warming House Parking Lot, 736 Sindt Ct. at 6:30 p.m. Registration required. www.napervilleparks.org (630) 848-5000

Thursday, Nov. 27th – HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Special thanks to our countless readers, advertisers and community supporters. We owe our success to you and we look so forward to working with you again in 2009!

Thursday, Nov. 27th – 11th Annual 5k Turkey Trot

The Naperville Noon Lions 11th annual 5K Turkey Trot, sponsored by The Naperville Running Co. and New Balance, will be held at Naperville Central High School, 440 W. Aurora Ave. The race will start at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day and is expected to last approximately one hour. The route, certified by U.S.A. Track & Field, will take runners through a scenic, flat course in the west-central part of Naperville. Pre-registration on-line is $25; pre-registration in person, mail or fax is $30; and registration on the day of the race is $35. For more information or to register online, go to www.NapervilleTurkeyTrot.com, call (630) 364-3922 or e-mail turkeytrot@napervillenoonlions.org.

Friday, Nov. 28th – 29th – Hometown Holidays 2008
Hometown Holidays kicks off on Friday, November 28th at 4:30 p.m. with the Friends of Little Friends Electric Lights Parade, followed by the Grand Illumination and a chance to visit with Santa and his reindeer. Downtown businesses will have "Surprising Holiday Offers" all weekend along with a Winter Window Walk. For more information on this special holiday event, call (630) 544-3372 or log onto:www.downtownnaperville.com.

….IN WHEATON/GLEN ELLYN!

Saturday, Nov. 1st – Sleep Out Saturday To help raise awareness and create empathy for homeless families in DuPage County, come participate in Sleep Out Saturday. Last year, SOS raised nearly $110,000! This annual charity event is sponsored by Bridge Communities, Inc. On Nov 1st, everyone is invited to attend the SOS Rally at Bridge Communities at 505 Crescent Blvd. in Glen Ellyn. After the Rally, sleepers will disperse throughout DuPage County to spend the night outside in tents, cars or boxes. Pledges are collected by sleepers prior to the event to sponsor the sleepers. Rally begins at 6:30 p.m. For more information to to register online, visit www.sleepoutsaturday.org

Saturday, Nov. 1st – Last French Market of the Season

Visit downtown Wheaton to find flowers, locally grown produce, jewelry, crafts and more from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Saturday through Nov. 1 at Wheaton's French Market. The popular outdoor market will take place at Main Street and Liberty Drive in downtown Wheaton. For information, contact Bensidoun USA at (630) 784-0862 Vendors can download the French Market Vendors Application (pdf).

Saturday, Nov. 1st – Autumn Adventures at the Lincoln Marsh

It's a family autumn adventure at Lincoln Marsh! Go on a nature scavenger hunt and discover the fall happenings surrounding us. Held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The afternoon adventure will end around a blazing fire roasting marshmallows and sipping hot chocolate. Families of all ages welcome! For more information and to find out how to register, visit www.lincolnmarsh.org

Saturday, Nov. 1st – Cantigny 5k Run/Walk

Get in shape and run Cantigny’s 5th Annual Veterans Day 5K Run/Walk. Registrations for the race will be accepted through their website at www.cantigny.org Race will be limited to the first 700 runners. Race fee is $22 per runner. There will be a youth and tot run with a fee of $8. All proceeds will benefit local veteran's charities. Event will take place from 9 to 10 a.m. at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd. in Wheaton. For more information, visit Cantigny’s official website or call (630) 668-5161

Sunday, Nov. 2nd – CCM Brass Concert at the Morton Arboretum

CCM BRASS, the resident brass quintet of The Chicago Chamber Musicians, is one of the foremost interpreters of the brass quintet repertoire. Comprised of five of North America's leading brass players, they will perform works by Bach, Reynolds, Copland, and Bernstein at this opening concert. Event scheduled to take place at the Morton Arboretum at 2:15 p.m. To order tickets online or for more information ,visit www.mortonarb.org (630) 725-2066

Sunday, Nov. 2nd – The Song & Dance Ensemble of West Africa

Painting a colorful picture of the oral and musical rites of the diverse peoples of West Africa, The Song and Dance Ensemble uniquely blend their traditional melodies and musical styles with a contemporary dance edge which makes them as hip as any international big band. Mcaninch Arts Center College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn www.cod.edu/ArtsCntr Sunday, Nov. 2nd – Toy Solider Show at Cantigny Toy soldier enthusiasts will display collections of small-scale soldiers and armaments for sale and demonstrate painting techniques. 10:00-4:00 p.m. at the Cantigny Visitors Center, 1s151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton. www.cantigny.org

Tuesday, Nov. 4th – 2008 PRESEDENTIAL ELECTION DAY

Wednesday, Nov. 5th – Tiny Tails at Cosley Zoo
It’s never too early to introduce your young ones to animals and the wonders of nature. Together, you and your child have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate animals through a combination of structured time and exploring interactive nature stations at your own pace. Each session has different activities and is held indoors. Please meet the instructor by the gift shop. Limit 12 couples. Ages 18 mos.-3 years w/adult. Held every Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. $9/res.; $14/nonres. $8/res. Cosley Zoo member; $13/nonres. For more information, visit www.cosleyzoo.org

Saturday, Nov. 8th – The Great Toddini Magic and Illusion Show

Come be entertained by the Great Toddini at the Glen Ellyn Public Library. 2 to 3 p.m. Registration required. All ages welcome! www.gepl.org

Sunday, Nov. 9th – East Village Opera Company Performance at College of DuPage Come enjoy the voices of the East Village Opera Company in an exhilarating live performance at the Collect of DuPage’s McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawlle Blvd., Glen Ellyn. www.eastvillageoperacompany.com

Sunday, Nov. 16th- Michael Miles: From Senegal to Seeger/Stories of the American Banjo

Enjoy this free outdoor concert at the Wheaton Public Library. Make sure to bring chairs and warm blankets. This concert will be sure to be a hit! www.wheaton.lib.il.us/wpl.html

Sunday, November 16th – Festival of Friends

Come help raise money for teenage parenting programs and prevention education. Event to be held at the Klein Creek Golf Club, 1N333 Pleasant Rd., Winfield. Contact Lora Vitek at lorav@teenparentconnection.org for more information.

Friday, Nov. 23rd – Holiday Walk Glen Ellyn – “Home for the Holidays”
From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in downtown Glen Ellyn see "The Frozen Robins", led by WGN's Mike Nowak, sing carols and entertain as the crowd awaits Santa's arrival. Then at 6:00 p.m. Santa will arrive to unveil the new Village of Glen Ellyn Christmas Tree and to light up the town for the holiday season. Stores and restaurants throughout downtown Glen Ellyn will be open late and will have plenty of treats for holiday shoppers. Merchants will feature holiday services exclusively for the Holiday Walk and special offers through the end of the year. Don’t miss this very special holiday event! For more information, visit www.glenellynchamber.org.

Friday, Nov. 28th – Festival of Lights & Trees at Cosley Zoo

20,000 twinkling lights and spectacular displays transform Cosley Zoo into a fairy tale winter wonderland from Thanksgiving Friday through the month of December. The lights come on at 3 p.m. and the zoo closes at 9 p.m. Visit the animals and please purchase your tree (several types available), wreath and holiday gifts! It’s tax deductible to the full extent of the law. Zoo members…be sure to take advantage of your membership discount!

Friday, Nov. 28th -- 25th Annual Dickens of a Christmas Parade and Celebration Scrooge himselft won't be able to stay out of Downtown Wheaton during the 25th Annual Dickens of a Christmas Celebration. Wheaton residents will join together for the Grand Illumination of the Great Tree at Martin Plaze on Friday, November 28th at 5:45pm followed by the Ligthed Holiday Parade at 6pm featuring some favorite children's movie and storybook characters. No parade would be complete without Santa, so keep and eye out for Santa and Mrs. Claus strolling Downtown Wheaton. Downtown merchants will also be offering holiday hospitality and will remain open until 9pm.