Letters to the Editor

As a resident of Naperville, I subscribe to The Sun. It helps me feel like part of the community that we hold to be so special and not just because we have won awards, but because we walk the talk. In Naperville we try to endorse opportunities to enrich the lives of those in this community. And I would like to think that is why people who grow up here and live here have made so many contributions to our city, our state, our country, and even the world.

I live in Winding Creek, but I have also lived in four other subdivisions in the nearly 15 years that I lived in Naperville. In any of the addresses I have had here, there has been one common thread: We are a community -- a community who cares about those with whom we live.

I read the Oct. 19 article about the proposal to rename Winding Creek Park in honor of Sgt. Jack Hennessy, and I thought: What a great idea. The park renovations already were under way, but wouldn't renaming the park after Sgt. Hennessy be a greater designation than the label of the subdivision where the park is located? My son played baseball, soccer and just plain played in this park -- probably just like a young Jack Hennessy.

Why not bestow this honor on someone who grew up in Naperville and played in this park? And what greater lesson could we teach our children -- and adults, for that matter?

I read the comments posted on this article, and I am incredulous that there are people who would not want to honor someone who has paid the ultimate price and who has served this nation in the most selfless of ways.

While I didn't personally know Sgt. Hennessy, I hit my knees every night thankful that there are others who will put themselves in harm's way to make sure that our world is a safer place. And I think it would be a great honor and privilege to have a park in Naperville named after someone who has made such a sacrifice.

Pat O'Donnell

Naperville

On behalf of the Rotary Club of Naperville and the many needy families in the area, I would like to thank The Sun for publicizing last Sunday's Soup's On! fundraiser.

More than 1,800 people attended the event, and we were able to raise approximately $100,000, with proceeds going to Hesed House, Loaves & Fishes, and DuPage PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) in this difficult economic time.

We also owe special thanks to the 27 restaurants and merchants who generously donated all the food and beverages for the event; Tellabs for providing the location; generous donors for the silent auction items; DuPage Children's Museum for providing fun activities for the children; and to the musical ensembles from Naperville School District 203 and Indian Prairie School District 204 for their excellent entertainment.

We also would like to thank the many volunteers and attendees, as we could not have done this without your joyful support!

What a kind and generous community this is!

Pat Merryweather

President

Rotary Club of Naperville