Matt Hawkins

DuPage County

Lisa Marie Farver

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Naperville

Illinois

Lisle

Will County

Andrea Earnest

Bolingbrook

Woodridge

Kane County

Emily Rosca

Aurora

Wheaton

Downers Grove

Romeoville

Plainfield

Kendall County

Oswego

David Giuliani

Darien

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

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

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 

St. James Farm Forest Preserve

Join NAMI DuPage for our 2026 NAMIWalks
Help break the stigma associated with mental illness at the 2026 NAMIWalks (Runs) 5K and 1 Mile Color Run. Before, between, or after the runs, visit the Kids Zone and Health Fair.
This highly anticipated event will be held on Sunday, September 13th, at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/St.+James+Farm+Forest+Preserve/@41.8333486,-88.1619043,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x880e55f0b0b22935:0xa5ed064d126e1387!8m2!3d41.8333486!4d-88.1619043!16s%2Fg%2F1hf70yd7b?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDcwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">St. James Farm Forest Preserve</a> in Warrenville on their USATF Certified course. Participants with wheelchairs, strollers, and leashed pets are welcome.
The event is free.Earn money, win prizes!
9:00 – 5K 
9:00 – Kids Zone &amp; Health Fair 
10:45 – 1 Mile Color Run (in partnership with the DuPage Prevention Leadership Team, led by local high school students as part of our Anti-Stigma Campaign)
Don’t miss out on this exciting event – it’s sure to be a blast while making a meaningful difference in the mental health community! All proceeds from this event will go directly to supporting mental health programs and services in our community. Your participation helps rase awareness and provides crucial support to individuals and families affected by mental illness.
For more information or to buy tickets, go to the Race Webpage <a href="https://namidupage.org/run-for-the-mind/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">namidupage.org/run</a>!
*In the event of inclement and/or severe weather, this event will be canceled, and there will not be a rain date. 
No refunds, no exchanges.

Local Event: NAMIWalks DuPage

NAMIWalks DuPage

Join NAMI DuPage for our 2026 NAMIWalks
Help break the stigma associated with mental illness at the 2026 NAMIWalks (Runs) 5K...

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Matt Hawkins, Neighbor

Posting Activity

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

NAMIWalks DuPage

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