DuPage County Administration Building, Auditorium and Atrium 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Diana Torres Hawken
civic@almascommunity.org&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.almascommunity.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">almascommunity.org</a>
ALMAS to Host "Meet the Candidates: DuPage County" Open House &amp; Candidate Forums on September 9
Naperville, IL — August 28, 2026&nbsp;
ALMAS – Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs is pleased to invite the community to Meet the Candidates: DuPage County, a nonpartisan Open House and Candidate Forums event on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 PM at the DuPage County Administration Building, Auditorium and Atrium (421 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton).
This event brings together candidates from across DuPage County for an evening combining an open-house-style candidate fair with moderated candidate forums. All candidates for participating DuPage County races were invited to take part in this nonpartisan effort to inform and engage voters ahead of the November election.
Open House: All Evening, All Candidates
Throughout the full 5:30–8:30 PM event window, the Atrium will host an open-house-style candidate fair. Every invited candidate, regardless of office, is offered a space to meet one-on-one with residents, share campaign materials, and answer informal questions.
Candidate Forums: County Board Districts, by Scheduled Panel
Given the volume of candidates on this year's ballot and the evening's time constraints, moderated forums in the Auditorium are organized around County Board District races, run in three back-to-back panels:
●&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5:45–6:30 PM — Forum 1: County Board Districts 2 &amp; 4
●&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6:45–7:30 PM — Forum 2: County Board Districts 1 &amp; 6
●&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7:45–8:30 PM — Forum 3: County Board Districts 3 &amp; 5
Each forum is moderated by a trained ALMAS representative to ensure fair, time-limited, equal speaking opportunities for every candidate on the panel.
Community Participation Encouraged
Residents are encouraged to submit questions for the candidates in advance by emailing Civic@ALMAScommunity.org with the subject line "Question for DuPage Candidate Forum." Submitted questions will be reviewed by ALMAS organizers and the moderator to ensure a fair, issue-focused discussion; attendees may also ask candidates questions directly at their Atrium tables throughout the evening.
Accessibility
The event is free and open to the public. Spanish interpretation will be available on-site to ensure inclusive participation for the forums only. Visitors should park in the 421 South Lot and enter through the 421 Main Entrance; all visitors will pass through security screening upon arrival.
“Join us in this important opportunity to engage with local leadership and make informed choices for DuPage County’s future,” said an ALMAS President, Dr. Lili Burciaga. For more information, visit almascommunity.org/event-details/dupage-county-forum.
For more information, please contact info@ALMAScommunity.org.
About ALMAS: The Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs (ALMAS) is the first Latino-led, Latino-serving nonprofit organization based in Naperville. ALMAS celebrates culture, fosters community, and empowers through education, leadership, and civic engagement. Learn more at <a href="https://www.ALMAScommunity.org." rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ALMAScommunity.org.</a>&nbsp;

Local Event: Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9

DuPage County

Naperville

Illinois

Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House &...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Diana Torres Hawken
civic@almascommunity.org 
almascommunity.org
ALMAS to Host "Meet the...

Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9

Wentz Concert Hall & Fine Arts Center

The World Doctors Orchestra (WDO), an internationally acclaimed ensemble composed of physicians from across the globe, will bring its extraordinary fusion of music and medicine to Chicago this September for two special performances dedicated to advancing global health initiatives.

Conducted by renowned artistic director Stefan Willich, the orchestra will perform a compelling program of classical masterworks, showcasing the exceptional musical talents of medical professionals who share a passion for both healing and the arts.&nbsp; The Chicago concert is part of the WDO’s ongoing mission to support humanitarian medical projects worldwide through the power of music.


Proceeds from the concerts will benefit Chi-Care (<a target="_blank" href="https://chi-care.org/" rel="nofollow noopener">chi-care.org</a>)&nbsp; and UIC’s COIP program (<a target="_blank" href="https://coip.uic.edu/" rel="nofollow noopener">coip.uic.edu</a>)&nbsp; supporting critical healthcare programs and medical aid efforts for Chicago’s most vulnerable residents.&nbsp;

Founded in 2008, the World Doctors Orchestra brings together physicians from more than 60 countries, performing in prestigious venues around the world.&nbsp; Each member is a practicing doctor who voluntarily participates, combining professional excellence in medicine with high-level musicianship.

Local Event: World Doctors Orchestra Naperville Charity Concert at Wentz Hall

World Doctors Orchestra Naperville Charity...

The World Doctors Orchestra (WDO), an internationally acclaimed ensemble composed of physicians from across the globe, will...

World Doctors Orchestra Naperville Charity Concert at Wentz Hall

.Gift of Wings Proudly Presents The IKEA Frank Mots International Kite Festival
47 Years of Tradition Returns to Veterans Park!
The skies over Milwaukee’s lakefront will once again come alive with color and excitement as Gift of Wings hosts the IKEA Frank Mots International Kite Festival on Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, 2026. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrNgcpp5Mn8" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrNgcpp5Mn8</a>
The event will run from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday (until 5:00 PM on Sunday) at Veterans Park, a beautiful Milwaukee County park on the lakefront. The highlight of each day is the spectacular Grand Launch at Noon, when more than 600 kites will fill the sky at once.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrNgcpp5Mn8" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Watch the excitement of past Grand Launches here</a>
Featured Performers Include:
<ul>
 <li>Too Much Fun – The world-renowned precision kite flying team from California returns, performing four times daily.</li>
 <li>Chicago Fire Kite Team – Celebrating their 38th consecutive year at the festival. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5J5X2dKmr0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Watch them fly →</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5J5X2dKmr0" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5J5X2dKmr0</a></li>
 <li>Kurtis Jones &amp; the Wind Wolves Kite Team (with Dan Jones) – Making their 4th appearance with their massive Super Giant Whale kites, the brand-new 120-foot Trilobite kite, and the all-new IKEA Giant Kites — a Mots Kite Festival exclusive! <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIQHOrtUCrk" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">See the giants in action →</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIQHOrtUCrk" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIQHOrtUCrk</a></li>
 <li>Connor Doran – America’s Got Talent star, returning once again</li>
</ul>
James Almas from Vancouver will attempt to fly 4 kites all at the same time while doing tricks.
<ul>
 <li>Free kite-flying lessons with Jim Cosca</li>
 <li>The high-energy Flaming Emus will be performing with their 4 line kites.</li>
</ul>
Special Kids Activity
The first 100 kids to participate in the Window Nation “Kids Mad Dash” will receive a free kite courtesy of Gift of Wings and Window Nation! Watch as 100 colorful kites launch into the sky at the same time — it’s a sight you won’t want to miss. We will need a volunteer to untangle lines. Can I count on you 😊
Gift of Wings will also have a full selection of kites and delicious food available for purchase throughout the weekend.
The IKEA Frank Mots International Kite Festival is FREE to attend and offers plenty of FREE parking.
We’d love for you to help share this beloved Milwaukee tradition! Please consider listing the event in your community calendar or featuring it in a story. We are open for interviews.
For more information, contact: Scott Fisher Gift of Wings 414-305-3145
Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GiftofWings" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.facebook.com/GiftofWings</a> Website: <a href="https://www.giftofwings.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.giftofwings.com</a>
Come celebrate the end of summer the right way — GO FLY A KITE!


<hr>


*IKEA has stores in Oak Creek, WI, Bolingbrook, IL, Schaumburg, IL..coming soon to Gurnee and Madison

Local Event: IKEA Frank Mots Int'l Kite Festival

Wheaton

IKEA Frank Mots Int'l Kite Festival


.Gift of Wings Proudly Presents The IKEA Frank Mots International Kite Festival
47 Years of Tradition Returns to Veterans...

Grace United Methodist Church

International Champion Vocal Spectrum and Midwest Harmony
Champion Stiletto Will Join Join Chorus of DuPage
An A Capella, 4-Part Harmony Music Production for All Ages

Fans of high-energy a Capella vocal music will be treated to some of the most talented groups in the Midwest on September 12 as the Chorus of DuPage (COD) hosts "Melodies and Memories” -- a show designed to celebrate classic and contemporary tunes and showcase award-winning barbershop groups for Chicago-area audiences. 
At 3 pm at Naperville's Grace United Methodist Church, 300 E. Gartner Road, several award-winning vocal groups will perform with the popular 30-voice Chorus of DuPage, including Vocal Spectrum -- former Barbershop Harmony Society international quartet champion. Also appearing on the show will be Stiletto Quartet -- the Sing United Midwest Harmony 2026 Quartet Champions, as well as two popular Chicago area quartets, the Upside Downers and Stratosphere.
 "We hope to delight area music lovers with a program that features a diverse mix of top talent, and a musical program theme that showcases music we all know and love," said John Morrison, COD chorus manager. The Naperville-based COD chorus, with members from throughout the Chicago area, will perform hits such as Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,
Yesterday, Daydream, and You’re Nobody ‘til Somebody Loves You
– and other favorites, performed in classic 4-part barbershop harmony style.
 The guest quartets will perform separately, and join the host chorus in a mass chorus number to conclude the show. 
 Tickets are available online or by phone at $20
for adults and $15 for students. Children under 5 are free, if accompanied by an adult. There is ample free parking at the church. 
Visit&nbsp; <a href="https://www.chorusofdupage.com/Fallshow" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">chorusofdupage.com/Fallshow</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.chorusofdupage.com/fallshow2026" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"></a>to purchase tickets online or call the ticket hotline at 331.444.2740. 
 Tickets are first come, first served, so early purchase is suggested. If tickets are still available, they will be sold at the door.

Local Event: "Melodies and Memories" Show Will Bring Barbershop Champion Groups to Naperville 

"Melodies and Memories" Show Will Bring...

International Champion Vocal Spectrum and Midwest Harmony
Champion Stiletto Will Join Join Chorus of DuPage
An A Capella,...

"Melodies and Memories" Show Will Bring Barbershop Champion Groups to Naperville 

Insight Optical, Dr Gail J May, OD

Insight Optical Closing/ Dr May's Retirement

Local Event: Owner

Owner

Insight Optical Closing/ Dr May's Retirement

Smile Obsession is a premier dental clinic located at 4015 P

Smile Obsession

Smile Obsession is a premier dental clinic located at 4015 Plainfield-Naperville Rd #106 in Naperville, IL. The practice provides high-quality, family-friendly dental care to patients of all ages, serving the local community with a focus on comfort and modern clinical excellence. The office offers a comprehensive range of services, including general, preventative, and cosmetic dentistry. Patients can access specialized treatments such as dental implants, Invisalign, root canal therapy, teeth whitening, and custom restorations, all delivered by a team of skilled professionals who are certified in advanced dental techniques. Recognized as a Best Dentist in Naperville for 2024, Smile Obsession prioritizes patient experience by offering flexible financing options through CareCredit and Sunbit, and they accept all PPO insurance plans. With a commitment to compassionate care and a multilingual team fluent in Spanish, the practice ensures every patient receives personalized attention in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Lisa Marie Farver

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Smile Obsession is a premier dental clinic located at 4015 Plainfield-Naperville Rd #106 in Naperville, IL. The practice provides high-quality,...

RowCal - Orland Park

Our mission is simple: make HOA management easier, more transparent, and more human—for boards, homeowners, and neighborhoods across the country. We believe strong communities start with clear communication, dependable service, and tools that help everyone stay connected. We combine local expertise with national resources, giving every community the best of both worlds. Our local teams understand the unique needs of each neighborhood, while our broader network provides the systems, technology, and experience to support communities of every size.

Cook County

Lauren Traut

Orland Park

Our mission is simple: make HOA management easier, more transparent, and more human—for boards, homeowners, and neighborhoods across the country....

Masterworks Painting is a professional residential painting

Masterworks Painting

Masterworks Painting is a professional residential painting and drywall contractor based in Batavia, Illinois. Serving the Fox Valley area since 1995, the company provides expert interior and exterior painting services to homeowners in communities including Naperville, St. Charles, and Wheaton. Their team is dedicated to delivering high-quality craftsmanship and reliable service for projects of all sizes. Beyond standard painting, the company specializes in cabinet refinishing, wood restoration, and comprehensive surface preparation. Their expertise extends to essential home maintenance tasks, including professional wallpaper removal, power washing, and specialized insurance damage repair for interior water issues. Every project begins with meticulous prep work, such as drywall patching and repair, to ensure a durable and polished final finish. Customers can expect a professional experience characterized by clear communication and dependable scheduling from the initial consultation to the final walkthrough. Masterworks Painting offers free, no-obligation project quotes to help homeowners plan their renovations with confidence and transparency.

Kane County

Emily Rosca

Batavia

Masterworks Painting is a professional residential painting and drywall contractor based in Batavia, Illinois. Serving the Fox Valley area since...

Oswego Service Group, LLC

Excellence and professionalism are first when it comes to our Handyman Service. We are constantly improving our services, staying up-to-date on all the latest industry advancements and bringing our knowledge to your doorstep. Since we began, our goal has remained the same—to provide reliable services and make sure our clients know we are professionals they can trust. Services we provide: - On-site Screen Repair - Dryer Vent Maintenance - Mailbox Installation - New Kitchen Faucets - TV Wall Mounting - Your personal project

Kendall County

Oswego

Excellence and professionalism are first when it comes to our Handyman Service. We are constantly improving our services, staying up-to-date on all...

Naperville’s Own Award-Winning Auto & Work Injury Advocates

Marker Law, LLC

Marker Law proudly serves Naperville and the greater Chicagoland area, providing experienced, results-driven representation in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. Founded by attorney Jason Marker, the firm is built on a simple mission: to stand up for injured individuals and guide them through difficult moments with clarity, compassion, and strength. What sets Marker Law apart is its hands-on, client-first approach. Every client works directly with an experienced attorney from start to finish, receiving clear guidance, honest communication, and personalized attention—never left wondering what comes next. While no one can undo the harm caused by an accident, Marker Law is committed to securing maximum financial recovery while helping clients access medical care and return to normalcy. As Mr. Marker says, “We are in the business of putting lives back together.” The firm understands recovery is both physical and financial, helping connect clients with trusted medical providers—even without insurance or immediate resources—so they can focus on healing while the legal team handles the case. With over 25 years of experience, Jason Marker brings valuable insight from his early career representing insurance companies. He now uses that knowledge to anticipate defense strategies and fight for maximum results. The firm has recovered millions for clients and maintains a 97% win rate. Marker Law handles car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, workplace injuries, slip and falls, and other negligence claims. The firm is well known among insurance companies, defense attorneys, and judges. In 2023, Mr. Marker received the AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, recognizing the highest level of professional excellence. Consultations are free, and there are no fees unless compensation is recovered. Call 33-INJURED or visit Marker Law on social media to learn more.

Marker Law proudly serves Naperville and the greater Chicagoland area, providing experienced, results-driven representation in personal injury and...

Wallaby Wash and Detail

We come to you! Wallaby Wash and Detail provides quality vehicle wash and detail services at the convenience of your home! Forget waiting at a detail shop, you're busy enough, let us take care of it. Check out our website to schedule!

We come to you! Wallaby Wash and Detail provides quality vehicle wash and detail services at the convenience of your home! Forget waiting at a...

A secular, college-prep microschool through grade 12

Prairie Paideia, NFP

A secular, diverse, college prep, alternative learning community focusing on critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity for students elementary through high school (full-time, part-time or hybrid). We emphasize critical thinking, communication and collaboration skills across all levels. We have three levels of mixed-aged small cohorts that allow for differentiation that ensures all students are stretched without being stressed. We are college-prep without college pressure. Students are placed by ability vs. age and we are low-tech, but not no-tech. Our students use real books and writing utensils. Bullying is not tolerated here and we have a longstanding community culture of respect and encouragement among students and adults. Classes are taught in an eclectic combination of styles that includes themed, project-based, Modeling Instruction drawn from various pedagogies. We offer Advanced Placement (many project-based) and dual-enrollment. Let's talk about how to change your child's trajectory.

A secular, diverse, college prep, alternative learning community focusing on critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity for...

Authentic Arabic Sweets Taste of Tradition

Al Basha Sweets Co

Welcome to Al Basha Sweets Co, we pride ourselves in being one of the oldest sweet stores in the Chicago-land area est 1989. We offer a delicious array of desserts crafted from passed down Palestinian family recipes and reflect the heritage of the Middle Eastern region. Sometimes, the simplest sweets bring the greatest joy. Experience the beauty of our Oriental-Arabic treats that celebrate the essence of simplicity. Try Bridgeview’s most celebrated and innovative dessert trays for your table with tradition of sharing and community, open 7 days a week. Our desserts are authentic, distinctive, and made with the highest quality regionally sourced traditional ingredients. We have the most varieties of knafeh around and served fresh every morning, including both hot and chilled sweets. With the most authentic and unique selection of arabic desserts anywhere, be sure to visit for our seasonal specials. Al Basha Sweets Co is the taste of heritage and hospitality whether you’re celebrating Ramadan, birthday, wedding, holiday, or simply treating yourself, their sweets bring people together and turn moments into memories.

Will County

Andrea Earnest

Bolingbrook

Welcome to Al Basha Sweets Co, we pride ourselves in being one of the oldest sweet stores in the Chicago-land area est 1989. We offer a delicious...

🌱 Patch AM: What police learned after gunshots...

Also check out Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9 on the Naperville Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: What police learned after gunshots were reported along Route 59 Friday

Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: What neighbors should know about...

Happening soon: Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9 on the Naperville Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: What neighbors should know about Friday night’s Route 59 gunfire report

🌱 Patch AM: Could your Naperville program earn...

Also check out Great American Dog Show on the Naperville Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Could your Naperville program earn a Rotary grant this fall?

🌱 Patch AM: Naperville Sunrise Rotary Offers...

Happening soon: Great American Dog Show on the Naperville Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Naperville Sunrise Rotary Offers Grants For Youth, Family Initiatives 

Naperville Sunrise Rotary Offers Grants For...

Applications for these Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise grants will be close Oct. 23 at 5 p.m.


Naperville Sunrise Rotary Offers Grants For Youth, Family Initiatives 

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Where To Eat Easter Brunch In Naperville

Take a break on Easter and let someone else do the cooking at these local brunches. 

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The restaurant will serve up homemade pasta, artisanal pizza, imported wine, and more. 

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Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9

World Doctors Orchestra Naperville Charity Concert at Wentz Hall

IKEA Frank Mots Int'l Kite Festival

"Melodies and Memories" Show Will Bring Barbershop Champion Groups to Naperville

Owner

Smile Obsession

RowCal - Orland Park

Masterworks Painting

Oswego Service Group, LLC

Marker Law, LLC

Wallaby Wash and Detail

Prairie Paideia, NFP

Al Basha Sweets Co