Naperville’s own community news outlet, Positively Naperville, proudly marks its 25th anniversary in the September issue. The publication, now in its 301st edition, reflects on a quarter‑century of highlighting local volunteers, small businesses, and the city’s resilient spirit.
Honoring Service and Sponsorship
From early‑morning volunteers who set up community events to late‑night staff keeping the newsroom running, the article emphasizes that without these civic‑minded citizens Naperville would be “just another ever‑changing city.” Sponsors who have stood by the paper through “thick and thin” are also lauded for helping keep the independent news source alive.
A Tribute to Dolly Parton
While the piece briefly mentions Dolly Parton’s recent passing at age 80, the focus is on her lasting impact through the Imagination Library. By 2025 the program had gifted over 304 million books to children since its 1995 launch, fostering literacy across the nation. The article notes Parton’s old‑fashioned communication style—favoring fax over smartphones—as a charming anecdote.
Local Economy and Quality of Life
The anniversary issue underscores the importance of shopping and dining locally, noting that such choices bolster the city’s economy and sales‑tax revenues. It also highlights Naperville’s outdoor amenities, from the Riverwalk to May Watts Park, encouraging residents to enjoy the “great outdoors” that define the city’s character.
Looking Ahead
Positively Naperville reaffirms its mission to “preview rather than review,” promising continued coverage of local people, places, and projects. Future stories will spotlight special events, fundraisers, service clubs, nonprofit agencies, and the many reasons to support local businesses. The publication also invites reader feedback to keep the community informed about local issues, governance, and voting.
Stephanie Penick, the publisher, closes the note with gratitude for contributors, designers, photographers, printers, and the support team that make the paper possible. She reminds readers that the spirit of Naperville began with founder Joe Naper and his family in 1831, and that the city’s legacy continues through the collective efforts of its residents.
Original reporting: Positively Naperville (Aurora area) — read the source article.
