Good morning, Naperville.

Mayor Scott Wehrli spoke at a recent Naperville Woman’s Club event—he recalled the 1981 Riverwalk celebration during Naperville’s 150th anniversary and explained his 'Team Naperville' vision for a stronger community while also noting events like Alzheimer’s Walk that bring Naperville residents together. The mayor stayed after his talk to answer questions and discuss ways to shape the community's future.

Community organizers in Naperville are hosting a Diwali party for over 300 guests at Embassy Suites on Sunday, October 12.

Groups across the Chicago area will celebrate the Hindu festival of lights on October 20.

Families in Naperville will enjoy Naper Settlement’s All Hallows Eve festival on October 17-18 from 5:30-9 p.m.—the event offers a costume contest, haunted attractions like a zombie hotel funhouse and headless horseman, live performances, and art displays across a 13-acre site for children 16 and under.

Today, IPSD 204 reported hiring 70 new teachers, lower than last year's 139, as improved teacher retention—rising from 95.1% to 96.1%—and fewer retirements kept most educators in place.

The district is also expanding its Grow Your Own Teacher program to train local students for future teaching roles.

Warm and dry weather has sent mixed signals for trees' leaf color change, Dr. Christine Rollinson from the Morton Arboretum said.

She explained that while warm days may delay color and dry conditions might speed it up, fall colors in the Chicago region may still peak mid-October—residents are advised to water and mulch their trees.

The Naperville Park District held its first open house on Oct.

2 at Fort Hill Activity Center to gather public input on a referendum that would let voters authorize $135 million in bonds for six capital projects — including a new community activity center at Frontier Sports Complex and improvements at Nike Sports Complex. Officials said the plan would add about $139 per year in tax for homeowners with a $500,000 property and more open houses are scheduled on Oct. 11, Oct. 15, and Oct. 21 with a final decision expected by year’s end.

Trick-or-Treat at Safety Town

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Naperville Safety Town — $15 family donation plus a food item — Celebrate Halloween safely with trick-or-treating and activities for kids.

Dine, Drink, Dance! at Danny's Pub

7-11 p.m. — Danny's Pub & Grill — No cover charge — Dance to live music by The Cave Dwellers, a Chicago original garage band since 1964.

Bar Fogo Wine & Wagyu Event

Evening — Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse — Ticket prices vary — Indulge in a night of exquisite steak and VIK wine pairings.