Naperville Jaycees Last Fling of summer
Thousands of people came together Saturday to squeeze every last bit of the food, carnival rides, games and activities that only summer can bring at the Naperville Jaycees Last Fling this weekend.
Despite the fact that the event's name means that summer is nearly over, families, friends, adults and teenagers joined together to make sure this summer goes out with a bang.
Eighty-five year old Ray Donovan of Batavia was hoping to win a trophy and bragging rights at this year's Horseshoe Toss Contest, which included 12 teams of two. Donovan stumbled across the contest the first year he came to the Fling, paired up with a stranger and won. His luck hasn't been as good since then, but admits he's been playing the game for a long time. "Well, I'm 85, so does that tell you anything?" Donovan said.
Lainey Prendiville, 13, of Wheaton, played horseshoes for the first time Saturday, teaming up with her mom after finding out extra players were needed. Lainey didn't win but noted that she nearly got a ringer. Donovan had some advice for the younger players: "You learn from your mistakes and adjust ... you adapt, and you don't give up."
Last Fling organizers say they're hoping a couple hundred thousand people make their way downtown for the four-day festival that runs through Monday. It includes several concerts by big-name artists, a large carnival, free performances and activities for children, a beer garden, dozens of food vendors and a business expo.
The Naperville Jaycees assigned approximate 475 volunteers various shifts in areas all around the Last Fling, with the beer tent staking its claim as the place volunteers prefer to serve their shift.
One of the largest draws will be the Main Stage located on Rotary Hill off Aurora Avenue, where nationally known artists perform throughout the weekend. Headliners perform from 8 to 10 p.m., with Train taking the stage on Sunday.
Last Fling is sponsored by the Naperville Jaycees with support from the city of Naperville and the Naperville Park District. Proceeds benefit local charities.
For event times and locations, ticket prices, parking details and a complete schedule of events, visit Last Fling's Web site at lastfling.org.