Rick Motta Barber Shop

RICK MOTTA BARBER SHOP (a name synonymous with The Last Fling)

Rick accepted the full-time offer almost immediately after coming to town in 1957 to work at the Venos Barber Shop on a part-time basis. Naperville really impressed him, and by Labor Day of 1959 he purchased an older home and moved his family here. Mark, his oldest, was about to begin school. Michele and Lenny would soon follow, and when his youngest, Julie was born, he celebrated by opening his own barber shop at 117 S. Washington St.

Rick grew up in Chicago during the depression. So, when he moved into Naperville, which then boasted a thriving population of 7000, he fell in love with its charm and friendliness. It became his town! Some of his many credits: General Chairman of United Way for two consecutive years - Soloist many times while a member of Saints Peter and Paul choir - Starred in "Chicken Every Sunday", the very first production of The Summer Place - Designed a special area in his second barber shop at 16 W. Jefferson for the Naperville Art League to display their works and called it "The New Master's Nook and Cranny."

All the above and more were nestled in with the feather he is most proud of wearing -The Last Fling of Summer. Rick conceived the idea of the Labor day celebration while on the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Commerce. A sporting events' weekend had been suggested. He felt the city deserved more, so why not have the merchants do as they did in the wonderful movie, "Picnic". He was given the reigns with full authority to move with it.

So, in 1966 The Last Fling was born with the best parade ever and some festivities in the beach parking area. He added 2 more*days the next year and another one the following year. His perseverance made it last. Rick served as chairman through 1972. He left town in 1976 and returned to open a barber shop again in 1997. Naperville! Here he comes again!