Good morning, Naperville.

On Tuesday, Aug. 12, DuPage Animal Friends announced a $1M donation to help cover the construction costs for DuPage County Animal Services' new 18,000–square-foot animal house that opened in June—County Board members said the gift will support ongoing animal care and community outreach.

OSOT America in Naperville accepts donated items to pack care packages for deployed troops and holds Shop and Drop days at a local Market Meadows Jewel—volunteers will help sort and assemble the packages on Aug.

16, Aug. 28, Sept. 11, and Sept. 25 to ensure service members get needed supplies.

Tom Scarborough, a percussionist in the Naperville Municipal Band for 20 years, works as an IT Director at the YMCA national office and enjoys classic car shows and train journeys with his kids—he said his love for drums began watching his father and grew with guidance from local band mentors.

Administrators explained that Indian Prairie School District 204’s proposed $455 million budget for 2025-26 focuses on a balanced budget with fewer staff, a one-time $12.1 million transfer for classroom technology, and $50 million for facility improvements—officials said rising electricity costs and potential funding cuts influenced the plan, and the board will vote on it Sept.8.

Teachers in Naperville School District 203 voted to authorize a strike but do not plan to leave classrooms today as they continue talks with the board over contract details.

Negotiations will resume on August 19 to address concerns over pay and school day changes—aiming to support students with a better learning environment.

Naperville residents can recycle clothing, electronics and hazardous waste at the City Environmental Collection Campus at 156 Fort Hill Drive until August 29; the program run by RewearAble helps keep textiles out of landfills and offers employment opportunities for adults with disabilities — supporters hope the initiative continues. The drop-offs are available weekdays from 7AM to 3PM, on Saturdays for electronics, and on Sundays for hazardous waste.

Naperville is inviting eligible high school students to gain hands-on experience in local government through civic board positions and a KidsMatter internship as Mayor Scott Wehrli’s Chief of Staff.

Students can apply online to join one of 13 commissions—each offering two student spots—and intern at public events with a leadership academy on October 25.

The Naperville Fire and Police Departments will host a family-friendly Public Safety Open House on Sept.

27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Public Safety Campus—visitors will see technical rescue, K-9 and flashover fire demonstrations that teach fire and crime prevention tips.

Candace Parker (a two-time state champion at Naperville Central) signed a multiyear contract extension with TNT Sports that expands her role to include analyzing NCAA Tournament games and covering Big East and Big 12 basketball, as well as remaining a lead studio analyst on Unrivaled. She said she is grateful for the chance to keep working in the sports field she loves.

Naper Nights Concert Series Featuring School of Rock Elmhurst

5-10 p.m. — Naper Settlement — Check local listings for entry details — Enjoy cold drinks, delicious food, and rock music under the stars.

Grand Opening of CORH Naperville

5-8 p.m. — 1754 N Washington St — Free entry — Celebrate the grand opening with fun activities and surprises for all ages.

Volunteer Morning at Riverview Farmstead Preserve

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Riverview Farmstead Preserve — Registration required — Get fresh air and help your community with seed collection activities.

American Legion Golf Outing 2025

10 a.m. — Tamarack Golf Club — Sponsorships available — Support local veterans while enjoying a day of golf with community impact.

Homecoming Fest 2025

2-10 p.m. — Saints Peter & Paul Catholic School — $5-10 adults, $2 seniors/children — Celebrate 179 years of history with live music, food trucks, and family fun.

Community Conversations Grand Finale

11:30 a.m. — Naper Settlement — Free entry — Celebrate the culmination of diverse community storytelling and insights in this engaging finale.

The Acoustic Circus Live Performance

6-9 p.m. — Potter's Place and Two-Nine Martini Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy acoustic pop/rock covers from talented local musicians featuring classics from Mellencamp to the Eagles.

Author Event with Christine Brown Woolley

7 p.m. — Anderson's Bookshop — Pre-registration required — Celebrate the release of Sister Wife, a memoir about faith, family, and finding freedom.

Naperville Trails Half Marathon & 10k

8:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Danada Forest Preserve — Registration required — Experience the scenic beauty of the trails in this exciting half marathon and 10K run.

Charity Car Show

12-4 p.m. — Noon Whistle Brewing — $20 registration for show vehicles — Enjoy a variety of cars, trucks, and motorcycles while supporting a great cause.