Programs will celebrate Naperville heritage
Naperville's heritage is meant to be shared by everyone - especially everyone who's lived or worked here since the summer of 1831 when Joe Naper, his brother, John, and their families arrived on the banks of the DuPage River all the way from Ashtabula, Ohio.
That's one of the reasons several local partners have collaborated to spark interest in our hometown's past, present and future during the second annual Community Heritage Month in May.
Whether you've lived here your entire life or you arrived yesterday, the monthlong initiative encourages folks to explore cultural literature, local lore and trivia that connect us.
Plans to celebrate our city's rich history will be broadcast during next Tuesday's city council meeting when Councilman Jim Boyajian is slated to read the Mayor's Proclamation.
In the meantime, visit "Community Heritage Month" at www.naperville.il.us or pick up a 4-fold calendar of events - available at city hall, Naper Settlement, Naperville Park District, DuPage Children's Museum and Naperville Public Library locations - featuring tours and programs that will showcase architectural style, revitalization, growth and plans for development in this risk-taking, can-do community.
You'll be reminded how the DuPage River became the centerpiece for Centennial Beach in 1931 and Naperville's Sesquicentennial Riverwalk in 1981. Ironically, timing of both landmarks coincided with significant downturns in the nation's economy, similar to now. Yet, both times generous benefactors and volunteer spirit brought the community together to celebrate a milestone.
During last Wednesday's open houses hosted by the Riverwalk Commission, Chairman Rick Hitchcock reminisced about that "remarkable leap of faith" during the recession in 1981. He's also already envisioning Naperville's bicentennial in 2031. That's when the Riverwalk will be 50 years old. And that's when commissioners hope all 29 proposed reconstruction projects listed in the recently revised set of Riverwalk Development Guidelines will be complete.
Feedback
After last week's column about singer Susan Boyle, my favorite song from "Les Mis" and the volunteer spirit along the Riverwalk, I received an e-mail from Tim Sleep, Naperville City Carillonneur.
"Just read your column-," wrote Sleep. "We're on the same page. I'm planning on playing selections from the show on the carillon recital Saturday at noon." So, of course, I found myself circling Rotary Hill just after noon where a beautiful blend of bronze bells rang in harmony inside that Moser Tower.
I've attended dozens of traditional carillon concerts since the Naperville Municipal Band and the Naperville Men's Glee Club performed the inaugural Independence Day concert with the Millennium Carillon on June 29, 2000. But I have to say, not since that first concert has any other recital struck me as much as Sleep's mini-pops concert featuring "I Dreamed a Dream."
Historical scene
Sunday afternoon, more history will be made from the municipal center to Moser Tower.
At 2 p.m., in council chambers councilmen Doug Krause, Kenn Miller, Jim Boyajian and Councilmen-elect Judy Brodhead and Paul Hinterlong will take the oath of office to uphold the Constitution. Associate Circuit Judge Neal Cerne will swear in the council members.
At 2:30 p.m., Sleep will perform a 30-minute carillon concert fitting for the memory of Margaret and Harold Moser just before the 3 p.m. dedication of the Century Walk sculpture titled "Mr. and Mrs. Naperville," a tribute to the Mosers.
The 33rd piece for Century Walk was sculpted by Bart Gunderson, the same artist who painted The Great Concerto on the stage door at the Community Concert Center in Central Park.
80-year wonder
The annual Memorial Day Parade, organized by members of the Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873 and the Naperville American Legion Post 43, will step off at 10:30 a.m. May 25.
According to organizer Terry Jelinek, space is still available for Scouts and patriotic groups to participate amid the Naperville Municipal Band and other marching bands. The deadline to enter is May 11. Forms are available at the reception desk in the municipal center.
"There is no fee to participate," said Jelinek. "The only requirement is that it be of a patriotic nature supporting or honoring veterans and their service. No politics or advertising or throwing out candy or the like."
Jelinek also said the Memorial Day Parade has been a Naperville tradition for more than 80 years. Does anybody remember the first one?