Good morning, Naperville.

Naperville will hold a Sept.

11 remembrance event starting at 5:45 p.m. Thursday at the Dan Shanower/Sept. 11 Memorial behind the Municipal Center at 400 S. Eagle Street. The Naperville Municipal Band is set to play — if weather forces a change, the ceremony will move to Council Chambers.

The Naperville Fire Department urges families to create an emergency plan and assemble a kit—water, food, flashlights, and medications—to be ready for storms, power outages, fires, or medical emergencies.

It also advises residents to sign up for local alerts and review procedures at work, school or daycare so everyone knows what to do when unexpected events occur.

Abiódún Gòkè-Pariolá, who was appointed president of North Central College in July 2024, started his second year today and introduced himself to Positively Naperville readers—highlighting his nine years as provost and vice president and his deep Naperville roots, with his family and daughters attending the college as undergraduates and in its MBA program. He stressed that the college offers both big opportunities and a close-knit community environment.

Teens who volunteer build social skills and confidence while improving their mental health and academic growth.

KidsMatter 2 Us will host a volunteer fair on Sept. 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Fort Hill Activity Center—20 Fort Hill Drive.

At Monday’s board meeting, IPSD 204 officials presented an analysis of their restorative practices model to address student misbehavior, showing slight increases in voice and accountability alongside a drop in suspensions for middle and high schoolers — however, areas like belonging and expectations still need work. The district will add digital supports and strengthen student relationships to further reduce disciplinary issues.

Centennial Beach had lower admissions this summer because stormy weather kept many visitors away, but other park district programs like fitness memberships and golf continued to perform strongly.

Park District officials said membership sales are on track and they are preparing the 2026 budget—with public displays on Oct. 31 and Nov. 3 and a board vote on Dec. 11.

North Central College coach Al Carius passed away at 83 after a long fight with cancer.

He spent over 50 years coaching cross country and track and earned 19 national titles in cross country & 12 in track while inspiring student-athletes with his Run for Fun and Personal Bests motto.

The Chicagoland Regional Boccia Tournament will be held September 27—28 at Elmhurst University's RA Faganel Hall as athletes, coaches, and volunteers meet to compete and share strategies.

This free event is hosted by Synergy Adaptive Athletics and will also offer referee training for local students.

USA Pickleball Showdown

5-8 p.m. — Sure Shot Pickleball — Entry fee required — Compete in doubles matches while supporting veterans and first responders in a fun community event.

Second Annual Plant Market

12-5 p.m. — Noon Whistle Brewing — Free entry — Discover a variety of plants, accessories, and local goodies while enjoying craft beer and seasonal vibes.

Bollywood Beyond Music Concert Featuring Kavita Krishnamurti & L. Subramaniam

8:00 PM – 11:30 PM — The Matrix Club — Fundraiser event — Experience an unforgettable concert for a noble cause with legendary musicians.

Riverwalk Fine Art Fair

9:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Riverwalk Park — Check official website for entry fees — Explore a showcase of original artwork from 110 selected artists in a vibrant community setting.

Author Event with SenLinYu for Alchemised

7 p.m. — Pfeiffer Hall at North Central College — Pre-registration required — Celebrate the debut of SenLinYu's dark fantasy novel Alchemised with a presentation and Q&A.

Farm to Fork Feast 2025

3-6 p.m. — McDonald Farm — Admission details not specified — Celebrate local agriculture with farmers and food leaders at a community feast.

Ludacris 'How Low' Poms Dance Workshop

12-1:30 p.m. — Arthur Murray Dance Studio Naperville — $20 — Enjoy a high-energy dance workshop focusing on technique and original choreography.

Hallow-Fest 2025

5 PM – 6 PM — Sheraton Lisle Naperville Hotel — $46.34 until October 9th — Immerse yourself in the vibrant worlds of anime and gaming at this exciting convention.