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NO. 1 FOR SO MANY REASONS NAPERVILLE– In a new, 2024 "Best Places to Live" report from ranking and review website Niche, Naperville landed the No. 1  spot on the report's list of " 2024 Best Cities to Live in America. " The Chicago suburb also landed at No. 1 on the report's list of "Best Cities to Raise a Family in America." Niche , a renowned platform for evaluating and ranking cities across the United States, has consistently highlighted Naperville's outstanding attributes that contribute to its top-ranking position. With an A+ rating, Niche underscores Naperville's unique appeal, characterized by a dense suburban feel that provides residents with a perfect blend of urban convenience and tranquil surroundings. The city's rich tapestry of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks adds to the allure of living in Naperville, offering a diverse range of experiences for individuals and families alike. One of the key factors that sets Naperville apart is its strong sense of community and top-tier amenities. Residents benefit from excellent educational opportunities, access to quality healthcare facilities, and a robust economy that supports a high rate of employment. Additionally, Naperville excels in various livability categories, ensuring that residents enjoy a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle. Moreover, Naperville's commitment to safety and family-friendly environments has not gone unnoticed. The city has consistently been recognized for its low crime rates and secure neighborhoods, making it an ideal place for families to thrive and prosper. Niche's thorough evaluation process takes into account these crucial aspects, solidifying Naperville's reputation as a safe and welcoming community for all. For those considering a move or looking to relocate to a city that offers an unparalleled quality of life, Naperville stands out as a prime choice. With its top ranking as the Best Place to Live in 2024 according to Niche's 2024 assessment, Naperville continues to set the standard for excellence and community satisfaction. To learn more about Niche's rankings and explore additional details about Naperville's recognition as the best city to live in, you can visit Niche's website . Explore the comprehensive insights provided by Niche to discover why Naperville remains a standout destination for those seeking a thriving and fulfilling lifestyle. ALSO RANKED– 
 No. 1 spot: “Best Cities to Live in America” list No. 1 spot: “Best Cities to Raise a Family in America” list No. 1 spot: “Cities with the Best Public Schools in America” list The City also ranked No. 3 – for the second year – in the “Best Cities to Buy a House in America” list. Share the good news and take a look at the lists here: https://ow.ly/fBNU50R2ilV

NAPERVILLE | Ranking No. 1 in 3 Niche “Best City” Categories

NO. 1 for So Many Reasons

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TRAGIC ACCIDENT TOOK THE LIFE OF AN 88 YEAR OLD WOMAN IN NAPERVILLE ON WEDNESDAY Police Asking for Witnesses to Contact the Traffic Unit NAPERVILLE–The Naperville Police Department is seeking the public’s help and urging anyone who witnessed Wednesday’s crash at the intersection of 95th Street and Plainfield/Naperville Road to please call the Traffic Unit at (630) 420-8833.   The Naperville Police and Fire Departments were dispatched to the intersection at approximately 11:10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 13, for a report of a two-vehicle crash in the intersection. The initial investigation indicated that a white 2019 Chrysler Pacifica was traveling southbound on Plainfield/Naperville Road and into the intersection at 95th Street when a blue 2007 Dodge Caravan traveling northbound on Plainfield/Naperville Road attempted to turn left onto westbound 95th Street. The vans collided in the intersection. The driver of the Dodge Caravan was transported to a local hospital with apparent minor injuries. The passenger from the Dodge Caravan, an 88-year-old female, was transported to a local hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries.   Due to the nature of the crash, traffic crash reconstruction specialists from the Naperville Police Department’s Traffic Unit responded to the scene to investigate. Portions of Plainfield/Naperville Road and 95th Street were closed until approximately 3:30 p.m. due to the investigation.   Anyone who witnessed the crash, or has information regarding the crash, is urged to contact the Naperville Police Department’s Traffic Unit at (630) 420-8833. Source: City of Naperville

NAPERVILLE | Naperville Police Seek Public’s Help with Fatal Traffic Crash Investigation

Traffic Accident Took the Life of an 88 Year Old Woman in Naperville on Wednesday

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LEARNING FUN IN NAPERVILLE Explore, Wonder, & Discover SO MUCH FUN AWAITS AT DUPAGE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM NAPERVILLE–Kids and adults together have a blast exploring hands-on exhibits, making new discoveries, and creating lasting memories at DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM). Make a splash in AWEsome Water, put on a cape and “fly” through AWEsome Air, build with real tools in the Construction House, explore the forces of gravity in Make it Move, and then refuel for more play at Bean Sprouts Café. A day of play is a day well spent! You and your family will laugh, learn, and love spending time together with a trip to DCM. (630) 637-8000 www.dupagechildrens.org

NAPERVILLE | Explore, Wonder, & Discover at DuPage Children's Museum

Beat those Winter Blues with a New Exhibit and More at DuPage Children's Museum

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Redesigned Wonder Room at DuPage Children’s Museum Opens as a Calming Nature-Inspired Space. NAPERVILLE–On Friday, December 15, 2023 DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM) held the opening celebration for the redesigned Wonder Room . As a calming, nature-inspired space, the Wonder Room  offers guests a place to pause for some respite while being inspired and feeling a sense of awe. The project started with conversations involving several of the Museum’s community partners. DCM held focus groups with organizations who serve people with sensory needs and Museum member families who attend Adaptive Play Time – dedicated Museum hours that provide a modified environment for play and learning intended for families with disabilities, on the autism spectrum, and/or sensory processing disorders. Through these listening sessions, it became clear that a calming space where guests could have a sense of quiet wonder amidst the exciting Museum experiences was needed. The ideas of wonder and playful nature experiences took several twists and turns through the exhibit development process. DCM’s Arts & Maker Specialist, Dustin Thacker, led this project, working with the Museum exhibits and graphics teams, Squawk Productions video design company, and local artist Rachel Davis. “We’ve been busy dreaming up and creating a brand new Wonder Room ,” Thacker said. “We look forward to all guests finding a moment of peace in this thoughtful and beautifully designed space.” The outcome offers a truly immersive experience. Upon entering the space, guests are met with tranquil music, dimmed lighting, and images of landscapes projected on the wall. The video design was implemented by Squawk productions, a video production company specializing in outstandingly creative content. “While creating the visuals for the Wonder Room , we took inspiration from all the textures the Midwest landscape has to offer. We wanted to play with scale, projecting what it feels like to experience all of these natural elements up close while also celebrating the patterns and beauty nature offers from a distance. By interacting with the tactile panels, viewers are welcomed to combine and overlay these elements - such as stones and clouds or tree bark and shooting stars - to create their own, unique landscapes,” Sam and Caitlin of Squawk Productions shared. In addition to the tactile sensory panels activating the overlay of images, the room is filled with natural wonder. Loose parts in the exhibit add more hands-on play, while the beautifully lit sound panel mural and hand crafted live-edge bench extenuates the dreamy, yet grounded, feel of the room. A bookshelf full of nature-inspired reading and big squishy seating round out the room as a relaxing place for quiet contemplation. The opening of the redesigned Wonder Room  was celebrated with many friends of the Museum including Naperville’s Mayor Scott Wehrli as well as City Council members and legislators Congressman Bill Foster and State Representative Janet Yang-Rohr. Special guests, students from Little Friends in Warrenville, were among the first children invited to play. Lori Deichstetter, Vice President of Educational Services, Little Friends, observed that some of their most difficult to engage students were actively involved in exploring the different elements of the Wonder Room . DCM has something for everyone! Visit DuPage Children’s Museum and experience the Wonder Room  for yourself. dupagechildrens.org The Wonder Room is supported by the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation and a grant from City of Naperville Special Events and Community Arts (SECA) Fund. About DuPage Children’s Museum The Museum helps develop curiosity, creativity, thinking, and problem solving in young children through its mission to nurture joyful discovery and learning. Interactive exhibits and programs make learning fun for children and adults playing together. DCM reaches over 500,000 people annually; visitors hail from all 50 states and 575 zip codes in Illinois. The Museum’s impact extends across cultural, financial, and educational boundaries well beyond the Chicagoland area. DCM endeavors to ensure that all children thrive through access to extraordinary learning experiences. The Museum is located at 301 N. Washington Street in Naperville, www.dupagechildrens.org  or call (630) 637-8000.

NAPERVILLE | Space Inspiring Wonder, Awe, and Respite Opens at DuPage Children’s Museum

Redesigned Wonder Room at DuPage Children’s Museum Opens as a Calming Nature-Inspired Space

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WINTER BREAK CAMPS NAPERVILLE–Looking for some winter break and holiday fun for your child? Naperville Park District has you covered with Winter Break Camp programs for ages 3-15. Choose from a variety of sports, arts, and fun, hands-on experience-based camps. Registration is in progress. www.napervilleparks.org/camps

NAPERVILLE | Looking for Fun Winter Break Camps for the Kids? You'll Love Naperville Park District

Winter Break Camps

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OCTOBER 13, FRIDAY NIGHT Get Ready for a Night of Spooky Haunts Around Town NAPERVILLE–Hunt ghosts on a spooky walking tour of haunted Naperville, Illinois. Winner of "Best Attraction in Naperville" award three years in a row! Spooky family-friendly fun! Several events dates. View link for more details. LEARN MORE

NAPERVILLE HAUNTINGS GHOST WALK | Starting at Quigley's in Downtown Naperville

OCTOBER 13, FRIDAY NIGHT
Get Ready for a Night of Spooky Haunts Around Town

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SOMETHING YUMMY IS WAITING FOR YOU DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE JoJo's Is Re-Introducing The Pumpkin Patch Shake Starting Sept. 22 Through Nov. 3. This Classic Fall Shake Is A Pumpkin Graham Cracker Shake Topped With Toasted Marshmallow, A Taffy Apple, Toffee Pretzel, And An Entire Slice Of Pumpkin Pie. For Reservations, https://bit.ly/3sSGI6E

NAPERVILLE | Spice, Spice, Baby! Who's Ready for The Pumpkin Shake at JoJo's ShakeBAR?

AVAILABLE IN OCTOBER
Something Yummy Is Waiting for You Downtown Naperville

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OCTOBER 8 • SUPPORT A.D.O.P.T. PET SHELTER Join us at Solemn Oath Brewery on Sunday October 8th for a day of fun, food, and live music in support of a great cause! This vibrant event is not only about good music and great food, but also about supporting a meaningful cause - A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter. Sip on some refreshing beers while you sway to the tunes, and don't miss the chance to win exciting prizes at the raffle. Join us for a day of enjoyment and giving back to our furry friends in need! Click the link above to purchase beverage wristbands, raffle tickets & for more info. We can't wait to see you there! Note: You do not need to be present to win the raffle, but prize must be picked up at A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter. Dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio! RSVP

A.D.O.P.T. FUNDRAISER | Growlers for Howlers: Beer, Bites, and Beats for The Animals at Solemn Oath

OCTOBER 8 • Support A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter while Enjoying Good Music and Great Food at Solemn Oath Brewery

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Naperville Police Investigate Armed Robbery NAPERVILLE––Area residents are alarmed as they learn about an armed robbery taking place over the weekend in their community. On September 9, 2023 around 9pm, a disturbing armed robbery was reported in Naperville prompting the  Naperville Police Department to respond to the 1500 block of W. Ogden Avenue. The report indicates that the offender, armed with a handgun and wearing a mask, approached two victims at the same time, and stole an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency and a cellular phone. A dark-colored SUV was seen leaving the area at a high rate of speed. No one was injured during this incident and the suspect is described as: Male, Black, wearing black pants, a black shirt, and a mask, armed with a handgun. If anyone has information regarding this crime, they are encouraged to contact the Naperville Police Department at (630) 420-6666 and ask for the Investigations Division. 
 This type of crime is not common in the area, though it has many residents very concerned. Residents should always be vigilant and aware of their surroundings when out at night or in less-populated areas. As a precaution, it's recommended to keep your smartphone charged at all times and carry a personal alarm. Additionally, people should always travel in groups whenever possible and report any suspicious activity to the local authorities. The Naperville community is strong and united, and by working together they can ensure a safe and secure city. Citizens are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, trust their instincts, and report suspicious activities to the police. Together we can keep Naperville safe.

NAPERVILLE | Police Investigating Armed Robbery that Happened Over the Weekend

Area Residents Alarmed as They Learn about an Armed Robbery Taking Place Over the Weekend in their Community

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Sunday, October 15, 2023 HALLOWEEN THEMED 5K NAPERVILLE–One step at a time, that’s how the Academy of the Arts is closing in on its goal to open a high-level performing arts school in Naperville. Whether you want to race, run, walk or stroll, you’ll be guaranteed a fun morning out as we partner with Shred 415 for our second annual Fall for the Arts 5K. The dream of three educators who believe the arts can benefit children when they influence their entire curriculum, we’ve been testing ideas and inviting Broadway notables to work with students since 2021. Now we’re just a beat away from opening a new space but need your help as we continue to fundraise. Take your Halloween costume out for a spin and join the fun! www.illinoisartsacademy.org/run

NAPERVILLE | Fall for the Arts Run-5K-Walk

OCTOBER 15 • Have Fun at this Halloween Themed 5K Event Supporting Academy of the Arts

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A Naperville man is the first confirmed person in Will County to contract West Nile Virus this year, the county health department said. The 74-year-old was diagnosed in the first week of August, needed to be hospitalized and is now recovering, according to a Will County Health Department. JOLIET–The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced the first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Will County. In the Will County case, a 74-year-old male from Naperville has been diagnosed with West Nile neuroinvasive disease. He became ill the first week of August, was hospitalized, and is recovering. The Will County Health Department’s Environmental Health Division has also reported that mosquito batches in ten different Will County communities have tested positive for WNV this summer. 
 IDPH reported a total of 12 human cases of WNV have now been detected throughout the state. In addition to the case in Will County, seven were reported in Cook County while Kane, Macon, Madison and Woodford counties all reported one positive case. Additionally, IDPH announced the first human WNV-related death in the state of Illinois. An individual, who was in their 90’s and lived in suburban Cook County, had an onset of symptoms of WNV in early August and died soon after. 
 “We are sad to report the first death of the year from West Nile virus in Illinois,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “This death and the 11 additional cases are a stark reminder that West Nile virus poses a serious risk, especially to older people and those with weakened immune systems. While the weather is warm and mosquitoes are breeding, we should all take precautions to ‘Fight the Bite’. Please protect yourself and your loved ones by reducing exposures, repelling insects with clothing and repellants, and reporting locations at high risk for producing mosquitoes.” 
 So far in 2023, there have been 1,817 WNV-positive mosquito batches and 13 positive birds from 42 counties throughout the state. In Will County, mosquitoes trapped in Crete, Frankfort, Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Lockport, Joliet, Homer Glen, Mokena, Shorewood and Manhattan have tested positive for WNV this summer. Additionally, the first dead bird to test positive for WNV was recently collected in Plainfield. 
 WNV typically causes mild, flu-like symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people [8 out of 10] infected with West Nile virus do not develop any symptoms. About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever with other symptoms such as headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Most people who develop symptoms from WNV recover completely, but fatigue and weakness can last for weeks or months. 
 However, according to the CDC, about 1 in 150 people who are infected develop a severe illness that affects the central nervous system such as inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord [meningitis). Severe illness can occur in people of any age, however people over 60 years of age are at greater risk for severe illness if they are infected. People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and people who have received organ transplants, are also at greater risk. 
 Because there is no vaccine available to prevent West Nile virus, it is important to avoid mosquito bites. IDPH encourages the public to Fight the Bite by practicing the three “R’s” – reduce, repel, and report: 
 REDUCE  – make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or other openings. Try to keep doors and windows shut. Eliminate, or refresh each week, all sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed, including water in bird baths, ponds, flowerpots, wading pools, old tires, and any other containers. REPEL  – when outdoors, wear shoes and socks, long pants and a light-colored, long-sleeved shirt, and apply an EPA-registered insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR 3535 according to label instructions. Consult a physician before using repellents on infants. REPORT  – report locations where you see water sitting stagnant for more than a week such as roadside ditches, flooded yards, and similar locations that may produce mosquitoes. The local health department or city government may be able to add larvicide to the water, which will kill any mosquito larvae.

NAPERVILLE | Naperville Man the First Confirmed Person in Will County to Contract West Nile Virus

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced the first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) in Will County

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NAPERVILLE MUNICIPAL BAND DIRECTOR NAMED PARADE MARSHALL FOR 2023 LAST FLING PARADE NAPERVILLE–Join the  Naperville Jaycees  and Parade Marshal Ron Keller on Monday, September 4, 2023, to celebrate his decades long-standing commitment to the musical education of the Naperville Community at the  Last Fling  Labor Day Parade! Mr. Keller has been a member of the Naperville Municipal Band  for more than 70 years; starting as a soloist and soon after joining the tuba section while still in middle school.  He took over the role of Director in his late 20s, continuing that role for 57 years.  In that time, he’s become an accomplished musician with mastery of many instruments.            In addition to the numerous awards bestowed upon the band under his leadership, Ron has gained the respect of many when he’s taught grade school, junior and senior high school students as well as college level and even church choirs’ members. In 2003, Mr. Keller created “The Spirit of the Jaycees”, a march to commemorate the Naperville Jaycees monetary donation to support the Community Concert Center which was newly built at the time. The Last Fling Labor Day Parade starts its journey through Downtown Naperville at 10AM on Monday, September 4, 2023 . For further information, to view a map of the parade route, to register, or to become a sponsor, please visit Naperville Last Fling - Labor Day Parade The Naperville Jaycees are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees of the Last Fling . As in prior years, the organization is working closely with Naperville Emergency Response Teams to ensure the most up to date security measures are instituted in effort to achieve a secure and enjoyable Labor Day Weekend for volunteers, participants, and patrons. Please contact Naperville Last Fling - Public Relations with any questions or concerns.

NAPERVILLE | The Naperville Jaycees Announce Ron Keller as 2003 Last Fling Parade Marshall

Naperville Municipal Band Director Named Parade Marshall for 2023 Last Fling Labor Day Parade

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Latest Issue
March 2024

Glancer Magazine March 2024

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► March 2024 Issue, Western Suburbs

► DuPage Feature

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