Good morning, Naperville.

Indian Prairie School District 204 is looking at installing solar panels on two more schools — the Birkett Center in Naperville and White Eagle Elementary in Aurora — to lower energy bills before federal incentives end; the district plans to draw up designs and contracts within the next year.

Indian Prairie School District 204’s Wayne Builta Elementary was selected as a 2026 Governor’s Blue Ribbon School by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Governor’s Office, honoring its high academic achievement.

Officials say the award recognizes years of effort by staff, students, and families.

The Morton Arboretum began installing a solar array this month that will generate over 3 million kWh annually — a project built by Madison Energy Infrastructure on a south-facing hill using less land than a traditional setup to lower operating costs and boost sustainability.

At its Oct. 14 meeting, the Naperville Riverwalk Commission supported the full south extension from Hillside Road to Martin Avenue despite rising costs from $3 million to over $6.8 million.

Commissioners said the continuous design preserves the Riverwalk’s legacy.

Illinois officials advised drivers to stay alert as deer activity climbs this fall, with 41% of 2025 deer crashes reported between October and December.

They urge drivers to slow down and watch for deer at night (such as eye shine) to reduce risk.