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It's Starting to Warm Back Up!
Good morning, DuPage! It's a cool start with today's high reaching 57°F and a low of 34°F, so maybe keep a light jacket handy as those clouds roll in.
🐝 Top Stories
Naperville Approves New Aquatics Center
Unofficial results from Tuesday’s primary election indicate strong support for a Naperville Park District bond referendum to fund a new indoor aquatics and fitness facility at Frontier Sports Complex. With 100% of precincts reporting, approximately 54% of DuPage County voters and 60% of Will County voters in Naperville cast ballots in favor of the $120 million measure. The project aims to address decades of resident requests for indoor swimming and additional recreation space in the southern part of the city.
The proposed facility is expected to be a massive addition to the community, featuring a 25-yard lap pool, an activity pool with zero-depth entry, and a warm-water therapy pool. Beyond the water, the center will house a three-court gymnasium, a fitness center, an elevated walking track, and dedicated space for the Western DuPage Special Recreation Association. The referendum also allocates funds for land acquisition, specifically 5.7 acres at Walnut Ridge Park and 6.5 acres at Heritage Woods, to expand open space and local trails.
For the average homeowner with a property valued at $500,000, the approved measure will result in a tax increase of roughly $117 per year over the 20-year duration of the bonds. Park district officials noted that this marks the first time since the district's founding in 1966 that voters have approved a funding measure for such improvements. While results remain unofficial until April 7, the project is currently on track to open within the next three years.
DuPage Youth Jazz Ensemble Hits the Right Notes
The Youth Jazz Ensemble of DuPage (YJED) is preparing for a prestigious trip to New York City after being selected as one of the top 20 high school jazz bands in the nation. The Wheaton-based group will compete in the 31st annual Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival, held from April 30 to May 2 at Jazz at Lincoln Center. This marks the third consecutive year, and the fifth time overall, that the ensemble has reached this elite level of national competition.
Founded in 1998 by director Robert Blazek, the ensemble has grown from representing just three schools to drawing top talent from 15 different high schools across the region. The group focuses on the classics of the genre, particularly works popularized by legends like Duke Ellington and Count Basie. For the upcoming festival, a 25-member group will perform three pieces, including Ellington’s "Harlem Airshaft" and "The Gypsy," the latter of which features a prominent solo by award-winning alto saxophonist Michael Shebar.
Beyond the competition, the YJED serves as a vital social and professional springboard for young musicians, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in jazz. Before departing for New York, the band will host a special send-off concert on April 26 at Shepherd of the Prairie Lutheran Church in Huntley, featuring guest artist Derrick Gardner. The organization is currently holding a fundraiser to help offset the travel and participation costs for the students involved in this milestone event.
Celebrate National Puppy Day on March 23rd
Mark your calendars, dog lovers! National Puppy Day is coming up on March 23rd, and it's the perfect occasion to celebrate our furry friends. Whether you're planning to adopt a new pup or simply shower your current canine companion with extra love, this day is all about raising awareness for puppy adoption and the joy these little furballs bring into our lives. Get ready for some adorable puppy pics and heartwarming stories!
🌿 Quick Hits
- Addison Township Meeting: The Addison Township Board of Trustees is scheduled to meet tonight, March 19, at 6:00 p.m. in the Township Community Room.
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