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.

DuPage County

Lisa Marie Farver

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Naperville

Illinois

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

RowCal - Arlington Heights

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

Eric DeGrechie

Glenview

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

St. Sophia's Forgotten Felines

he cats we care for at St. Sophia’s come from many different places. The majority of the cats we help are those that are helpless, who have not experienced love or a home, stray, abused, and neglected cats. Primarily we work with high-volume/high-kill animal controls to save cats from needless euthanasia. Our largest partner is Chicago Animal Care and Control. Other ACs we partner with are Aurora, Joliet Township, DuPage, Herrin, Marion, Quincy, Tilton, Union, Jasper, and Whiting. St. Sophia’s also works with local Trap-Neuter-Return organizations. Trap-Neuter-Return (also known as TNR) is a method of humanely trapping unaltered feral cats, neutering them, and releasing them back to the same environment where they were originally found. TNR is promoted by proponents as a humane and more effective alternative for managing and reducing feral cat populations (compared to euthanasia). While most cats trapped are completely feral (wild, without any domestic socialization), some cats—often kittens, or even adults that have been well cared-for outdoors—can, and have, become socialized and adoptable. TNR organizations aren’t equipped to handle the “friendlies” that come in, so we step in to assist those cats looking for homes. Lastly, some of our cats are direct owner surrenders. Sometimes circumstances have it that people are unable to care for their cats due to moving, eviction, financial issues, death, allergies, etc. We accept these cats in when we have space and maintain a waiting list of those who need assistance. If you ever find yourself in this type of position, please read our surrender policies to see how we can help.

Wheaton

he cats we care for at St. Sophia’s come from many different places. The majority of the cats we help are those that are helpless, who have not...

Fourth Avenue Design Group

Interior Design Firm specializing in full scale interior remodels of kitchens, bathrooms, and lower levels, guiding projects from concept to completion.  Other services include new construction selections, custom cabinetry and construction guidance.

Arlington Heights

Interior Design Firm specializing in full scale interior remodels of kitchens, bathrooms, and lower levels, guiding projects from concept to...

Future SCORE events at the West Chicago Public Library February 19th - Getting Started with Email Marketing March 19th - Online Advertising vs. Search Engine Optimization April 16th - Employee vs. Independent Contractor

Future SCORE events at the West Chicago Public Library February 19th - Getting Started with Email Marketing March 19th - Online Advertising vs. Search Engine Optimization April 16th - Employee vs. Independent Contractor

How to Build & Manage a Successful Business Page Using FACEBOOK

Local Voices

Glen Ellyn

Lisle

Downers Grove

Oak Brook

Woodridge

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills

Darien

Kane County

Emily Rosca

Batavia

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

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

.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

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...

Downtown Downers Grove

Experience a vibrant weekend celebrating creativity at this premier juried art festival. Enjoy an impressive showcase of juried artists, live entertainment, and engaging art activities for the kids in the heart of the community.

Local Event: Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival

Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival

Experience a vibrant weekend celebrating creativity at this premier juried art festival. Enjoy an impressive showcase of juried...

Main St & Liberty Dr at west end of French Market

Please join us in a SILENT WALK to bring awareness to the travesty of human trafficking that is present all around us.&nbsp; Posters to carry will be provided, and participation is free.

Local Event: Human Trafficking Awareness Walk

Human Trafficking Awareness Walk

Please join us in a SILENT WALK to bring awareness to the travesty of human trafficking that is present all around us.  Posters...

Southminster Presbyterian Church

Come enjoy an awesome Blues and R&amp;B Band consisting of some of Chicago's best musicians! An incredible live show featuring performer and vocalist, Cat Gaddis, accompanied by an amazing rhythm section and 3-piece horn section. The Cat Gaddis Project performance is a fun experience - with audiences tapping their feet, dancing, and grooving to the music.
Cat has performed all around the world with Wayne Cochran and the CC Riders, What the Funk, the Chi-Town Showstoppers and many more! Recently, the Cat Gaddis Project has performed at Epiphany Center for the Arts, Buddy Guy's Legends, Duke's Blues and BBQ Fest, Old Elburn Hall, the Montrose Saloon, Alley Art Festival in Aurora, IL, and Northcenter Town Square in Chicago.
Come for the music, and stay for refreshments following the concert. Meet the musicians, make a new friend in the community, and enjoy a snack!
This free concert is for the whole family, with optional science activities for children 5 and older during the concert (please arrive by 12:45 to check children in for the science program). Free child care will be available for younger children. However, you are welcome to keep your children with you during the concert.
We are collecting unexpired can goods for the People's Resource Center food pantry, serving DuPage County. The People's Resource Center community exists to respond to basic human needs, promote dignity and justice, and create a future of hope and opportunity for the residents of DuPage County.&nbsp;&nbsp;
For more information:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.southminsterpc.org/blues-r-b-concert" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">southminsterpc.org/blues-r-b-concert</a>&nbsp;
Or contact Blair Nelson by email at blair@southminsterpc.org, or call Southminster Presbyterian Church at (630) 469-9149.

Local Event: Free R&B Concert - Cat Gaddis Project Concert

Free R&B Concert - Cat Gaddis Project Concert

Come enjoy an awesome Blues and R&B Band consisting of some of Chicago's best musicians! An incredible live show featuring...

Experience an afternoon of rhythm, blues, and science with a special live performance by the Cat Gaddis Project. This soulful concert benefits the People's Resource Center, combining great music with a great cause.

Local Event: Free Blues Concert - The Cat Gaddis Project

Free Blues Concert - The Cat Gaddis Project

Experience an afternoon of rhythm, blues, and science with a special live performance by the Cat Gaddis Project. This soulful...

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 

Experience a weekend of creativity featuring juried artists and live entertainment in the heart of the community. Families can enjoy a special kids' art activity, making this a perfect outing! Sunday, September 13th, 11:00am-1:00pm, snap a picture with Cinderella and/or Spiderman as they stroll the Art Festival.

Experience a weekend of creativity featuring juried artists and live entertainment in the heart of the community. Families can...

Noon Whistle Brewing

Join us Sunday, September 13 from 12pm to 5pm at Noon Whistle Brewing, 1748 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540, for the Hot Ghoul Summer Market.
Wander through a carefully curated indoor and outdoor space filled with hauntingly beautiful artwork, handcrafted jewelry, sculptural oddities, dark decor, stickers, books, and real insect taxidermy. No live spiders this year, yet!
Sip cold beer. Embrace the unusual. Support local artists.
Current Artist List: 4ever Linked permanent Jewelry Adorable Oracle Art of Alex Kujawa Avijo Design Bea-Hooked Cin's Crafty Creations Daisy.Brand.Arts LTD DK Custom Woodwork Co. EZ Angel Creations Forests nook FrankenWerks Studios Geekbit Creations Ghost Owl Studio Good Spirits Vintage I Just Wet My Plants Jen Watson Art Masterclass Savory Sweet Foods Melanie Klegerman Fersko - Author and Artist Memento Moira Michelle Anne Art MoozToonz My Dark Victoria Nerdy Kitten LLC Primtentions Robin Monique Rios Art Roczilla Records Rogue Relics Safe Sam's Scary Terri's Crafts Secondhand Nightmares Sew-Kerry Embroidered Creations Snowingstars Stormy's Happy Place Ten Cups Tarot The art of Joel Robinson The Crooked Workbench The Raven's House Thorns &amp; Decay Tuxedo Man Adventures, LLC Wicked Art LLC Wicked Fun Crafts +More to be added
Free to attend. Rain or shine. All indoors and very likely outdoors too! More details to be advised!
Full details: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2007795726529216/?active_tab=discussion" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">facebook.com/events/2007795726529216/?active_tab=discussion</a> Main website: <a href="https://www.streetzartzalliance.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">streetzartzalliance.com/</a> Artists: WE WANT YOU! Link to application: <a href="https://forms.gle/yYCPFPpKv8Y2hYJ6A" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">forms.gle/yYCPFPpKv8Y2hYJ6A</a>
#hotghoulsummer #NapervilleEvents #darkartsandoddities #sipandshop #streetzartzalliance

Local Event: Hot Ghoul Summer Market

Hot Ghoul Summer Market

Join us Sunday, September 13 from 12pm to 5pm at Noon Whistle Brewing, 1748 W Jefferson Ave, Naperville, IL 60540, for the Hot...

Glen Arbor Community Church

Randy Stonehill, one of the pioneering voices of the Jesus Music movement, helped usher in Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). For over five decades, his thoughtful songwriting, engaging storytelling, and unmistakable sense of humor have inspired audiences around the world. &nbsp;Don't miss this opportunity to see one of Christian music’s most enduring and influential singer-songwriters! &nbsp;This is a free concert (a freewill offering will be taken).

Local Event: Randy Stonehill - Free Concert

West Chicago

Randy Stonehill - Free Concert

Randy Stonehill, one of the pioneering voices of the Jesus Music movement, helped usher in Contemporary Christian Music (CCM)....

Glen Art Theatre

29th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival
WHAT: You be the Judge! Discover your inner film critic voting with film lovers across the globe&nbsp;
 WHEN:&nbsp;Thursday, October 1, 2026&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;TIMES: 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM
&nbsp;WHERE: Glen Art Theatre 540 Crescent Blvd, Glen Ellyn, IL&nbsp; 60137 
Be part of a global cinematic celebration as Glen Ellyn joins more than 500 locations worldwide for the MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival. Watch the Top 10 international short‑film finalists, each under 20 minutes and spanning drama, comedy, and animation.
After the screening, cast your vote for Best Film and Best Actor. Your ballot, combined with audiences around the world, will determine this year’s festival winners. &nbsp;This event is sponsored by The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Wheaton-Glen Ellyn Branch. 
TICKETS:&nbsp; $25/each plus processing fees. To purchase tickets, click on&nbsp; "More Info Here" in the Event Details section at the top. Tickets are expected to sell out. Secure yours in advance to guarantee your seat.&nbsp;

Local Event: 29th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival

29th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival

29th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival
WHAT: You be the Judge! Discover your inner film critic voting with film lovers...

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

New Feature Added As Vintage Cars, Food Trucks...

This year, Cantigny Park will feature a new sale and display as part of its annual car show. 

New Feature Added As Vintage Cars, Food Trucks To Cruise Into Cantigny 2026 Car Show

Arts & Entertainment

🌱 Patch AM: How did Wheaton’s volleyball...

Be sure to catch Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9 on the Wheaton Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: How did Wheaton’s volleyball powerhouses fare in conference play?

Community Corner

Witches Walk To Take Over Downtown Glen Ellyn...

The Halloween-themed event features drinks, drawings, tarot readings and other witchy activities.


Witches Walk To Take Over Downtown Glen Ellyn In October

Seasonal & Holidays

More Than 60 Tickets Issued During Labor Day...

The DuPage County Sheriff's Office also made one arrest during its 2026 Labor Day traffic safety campaign. 

More Than 60 Tickets Issued During Labor Day Crackdown In DuPage County

Traffic & Transit

Investigation Underway After Shots Fired...

Police say they have interviewed "several subjects" who they believed were involved in the shots fired incident. 

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Local Voices

How to Build & Manage a Successful Business Page Using FACEBOOK

PCS, Neighbor

More from Wheaton

New Feature Added As Vintage Cars, Food Trucks To Cruise Into Cantigny 2026 Car Show

More Than 60 Tickets Issued During Labor Day Crackdown In DuPage County

Trio Of Retail Thefts Reported In Wheaton

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

IKEA Frank Mots Int'l Kite Festival

Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival

Human Trafficking Awareness Walk

Free R&B Concert - Cat Gaddis Project Concert

Free Blues Concert - The Cat Gaddis Project

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

Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival

Hot Ghoul Summer Market

Randy Stonehill - Free Concert

29th Annual MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival

Owner

RowCal - Arlington Heights

St. Sophia's Forgotten Felines

Prairie Paideia, NFP

Fourth Avenue Design Group