We live in vital times in many ways and they are not to be underestimated. Learning to get along with others in difficult settings and find commonality is society’s goal. We can prevail in that quest, even when there are significant sidetracks, determined detours, and organized obstacles. It is true, even with two steps taken back. The goal is to find a way of taking at least three steps forward in the goal of social connections in a positive way.
Discussions of arms control is a positive posture, even with polar opposites in opinions. Differences must be respected. That leads to growth and understanding.
The world, including the United States, in part because of advanced technology and reporting capabilities, can assimilate many activities. Being involved in important discussions in our communities must be encouraged.
• Activities in our respective northern Illinois communities continue to be bold and full throttle since the demise of the carnivorous. Montgomery Fest will be August 19-21. The Elburn Lions Club will hold Elburn Days at Elburn Lions Park he same three days. It is the Club’s largest fundraiser. How many will attend both events in support of communities and to encounter enjoyable events? Activities in both places run the full three days.
There are more worthwhile activities and notes:
• A habitat restoration work day will be held at Bliss Woods Forest Preserve from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 27. Collecting and distributing native seeds will be the main task, reports Mary Ochsensclager, who is a driving force in helping our natural areas improve and survive. “Bliss Woods is a beautiful, high-quality, woodland (with) many unusual plants,” she writes. “Removing invasive species and adding native seeds will help sustain its unique nature.” Volunteers will gather in main parking lot off of Bliss Road in Sugar Grove. Participants should wears sturdy shoes or boots, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and bring garden gloves. Under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
• The Naperville Police Department is accepting applications for a 10-week Citizen Police Academy in the Fall. The Academy will begin Wednesday, Sept. 28, and continue every Wednesday evening, excluding November 23, until December 7. Applications are due by Wednesday, Aug. 31. Send applications to Kris Stockwell by E-mail at stockwellk@naperville.il.us, or, go in person to the Naperville Police Department, 350, Aurora Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540.
• The Robert R. McCormick House at Cantigny Park in Wheaton will continue its Headlines from History series with Benito Juarez: The Nature of Heroism in Complicated Times. Mauricio Tenorio-Trillo will present at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25. The free program will be at the Cantigny Park Visitors Center and include a $5. parking fee. The event will be available online through Zoom. Juarez was president of Mexico from 1858 until his death in 1872,
• Aurora Downtown, nonprofit of downtown business and property owners, announced its annual Board election process for this year. Nomination forms are due by August 26. The downtown organization oversees Special Service Area (SSA) One with a 22-member board. Four at-large seats are up for reelection. Interested candidates must be nominated by property owner in SSA One. The Board meets monthly at 8 a.m. on the third Thursday at 43 W. Galena Boulevard in Aurora. The mission of Aurora Downtown is dedication to a healthy and thriving downtown.
• Michael J. Kilbourne, treasurer of Kane County, reminds homeowners property tax payment is due September 1.