Club, downtown stores prepare to pamper women
What a week for women to socialize and pamper themselves. But, of course, it's a challenge without a few good men.
The Naperville Woman's Club hosts an "all women are welcome" open house at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday in its historic clubhouse, 14 S. Washington St. The luncheon will begin with a brief presentation to Mayor George Pradel.
Under the leadership of member and writer Georgiann Baldino, the philanthropic club, founded in 1897, recently published a 132-page history book with images illustrating key events from its first 110 years.
"We wanted our mayor to be among the first to receive this work, written and organized by one of our members," President Joan Hennessy said.
The book officially will be available at 10:30 a.m. Oct. 17 when Barnes and Noble Booksellers hosts a publication party. Proceeds from the sales will go toward arts and education.
Wednesday's program also features Laura Milligan, executive director of Ecumenical Adult Care. Milligan will spotlight the United Way agency that offers "an alternative social daytime environment in a protective setting for frail adults."
In addition, Naperville Unit District 203 Superintendent Alan Leis will attend as part of the community engagement initiative known as Touch the Future. Leis will present recommendations of the district's Facilities Task Force and solicit feedback regarding facilities options.
For reservations, call Jane Wulf at (630) 922-1314.
Night to remember
Downtown Naperville will play host to another Ladies Nite Out Thursday.
The evening promises eclectic opportunities from Main Street Promenade all the way to River Square. So put on comfortable shoes and hit the pavement running to preview what's happening downtown.
For instance, a pajama party -- complete with "sleepover" snacks and giveaways -- is planned from 5 to 8 p.m. at Roseland Draperies and Interiors, 204 S. Washington St.
Owner Mary Ann Junkroski says the interior design shop is introducing another line of bedding called Pine Cone Hill, known for its comfort, sophistication and, get this, matching sleepwear.
"Just for the fun of it, our staff will be wearing pajamas," she said. "And we'll have a pillowcase drawing with chances to win discounts and a free pair of PJs. We'll be serving sleepover junk food -- pizza and candy -- the stuff that keeps you awake all night!"
You'll find it's worth the trip to stop by Lil' J's Bohemia, 104 S. Main St., where peace symbols grace the walls and tie-dye T-shirts fill the shelves. (Remember, it's Celebration of Peace month in Naperville through Oct. 5.)
Owner Jill Rigby chose a theme of "Hats off to the '60s" to offer 15 percent off all funky, original and handmade hats and handbags Thursday evening.
"Our grateful shop is where individuality rocks and colors clash," Rigby said.
Live entertainment by Johnny B. and the Chip & Pals just might be the main attraction for women out on the town who stop at Casa Bella Design Center and Ryan-Hill Realty at 15 W. Jefferson Ave.
"Who better to buy kitchens, buy homes and have a great time?" asked business owner Nick Ryan, who with John Barbush has created a spoof just for women, billed as a combo of the Chippendales and Disney-type chipmunks, complete with professional choreography, music and karaoke.
Nobody I contacted was more pumped than Ryan to organize a catered affair to remember. The showroom action takes place from 5 to 9 p.m., with refreshments by Chef by Request.
Donations from $25 and up will be accepted to benefit Naperville Responds, an all-volunteer initiative in the process of building 20 homes in hurricane-ravaged Pass Christian, Miss.
FYI: Folks from Ryan-Hill Realty are headed to The Pass for a week in late January 2008 to build another new home in the Gulf Coast city.
For other posted events from Amber Waves to Zazu salons, visit www.downtownnaperville.com.