Greetings From Our Readers

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Mark Twain was correct when he noted, “He was as shy as a newspaper is when referring to its own merits.” That’s why we appreciate what readers say about Positively Naperville and this active place many spirited folks call home.

A positive story for Positively Naperville

This past weekend (early July) I was invited to a volleyball tournament held in the Naperville backyard of Eric and Laura Liljehorn organized by their children, Ethan, Aiden and Emma. It was so refreshing to see 50+ young people having such a good time — young adults who were respectful, courteous and enjoying good wholesome competition. It gives one encouragement and hope for the coming generation in light of the negative news concerning young people these days.

Thanks,Pat Lawrence

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To PN:

A lot can be said about the Fourth of July celebration in Naperville—food, fun, live music and community. As we arrived, we were greeted by Naperville volunteers from the community and noticed the presence of Police and Fire Department Medic group.

The gift to those who attended was live music and a community coming together to say thank you to Veterans and First Responders. Above and beyond, if you attended, you saw the Naperville Police Officers approachable and building community and holding a watchful eye over the event. Also, there was an area for Veterans and Responders to eat, drink and share stories.

An inspirational moment in the evening, Dick Miller 97, Navy Veterans WWII led all in the Pledge of Allegiance and the song, “God Bless America.” Choked up, I sang along.I thank the organizers, Naperville Responds for Veterans. I also again acknowledge the Naperville First Responders, both Fire & Police officers for making the community event a safe and celebratory event and approaching families with children and giving the families with kids greetings.

Naperville Salute, you hit a home run for the Fourth of July.

—Jack & Diane PersinPlainfield, IL

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To PN & Weakly Readers:

Every Thursday, all summer, the Naperville Municipal Band has a concert in the downtown band shell. Kath and I went to the 4th of July concert that was cancelled last week because of the bad air floating down from Canada so they had the program Thursday night; along with the six cannons they shot off three times during the patriotic event. Semper Fi.

One of the things that stood out to me was the camaraderie of hundreds of people having a good time together. The crowd was about 90% senior citizens that seemed not to have a care in the world. Everyone was shaking hands, slapping backs and smiling from ear-to-ear. I even ran into a number of people I knew…

During the concert the band played a tribute to each branch of military service. If you were a veteran, you were asked to stand during the music of your branch. I couldn’t believe how few veterans were in attendance. In fact, when “From the Halls of Montezuma to the Shores of Tripoli” started playing, I was one of about six Marines standing. But the highlight was when a number of people shook my hand and thanked me as Kath and I were leaving.

I understand this is Ron Keller’s last summer as lead conductor since 1966. Let me say thanks to Ron.

—Ed ChannellNaperville

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To PN:

Community Access Naperville is thrilled to invite you to our Fall Fundraiser at the picturesque Naperville Country Club on September 28, 2023, from 6-9PM. General Admission is $125 per ticket.

Guests can expect an exquisite culinary experience and a delightful evening filled with socializing, networking, and laughter. This year’s silent auction will feature a wide selection of fascinating items curated especially for our CAN community. Be sure to participate in the exciting wine pull, and don’t miss the chance to be a part of the popular Giving Tree.

We are committed to supporting young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Naperville area, and this annual fundraiser is an invaluable tool to bridge the financial gap between the cost of running Community Access Naperville and the income we receive from tuition fees. With this in mind, your presence and contributions are essential to making the next CAN year a success.

Join us at the Naperville Country Club, bask in the stunning natural beauty of the surroundings, and celebrate the amazing work done by Community Access Naperville. We can’t wait to see you there!

—Simbo Toukourouswww.communityaccessnaperville.org

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To PN:

I strongly oppose the extension of the Riverwalk along the DuPage River south of Hillside Road toward Martin Avenue.

For public safety, it is my opinion that any extension should go in front of Dunkin Donuts and extend to Martin Avenue. That can be done without disrupting any of the homes that back up to the river or disturbing the river bank.

It’s hard to imagine that an engineer has given an opinion on the extension of the Riverwalk. Any extension along the river south of the Hillside bridge would be unfeasible given the slope and width of the available land behind Dunkin Donuts. It should also be noted that the foundation under the Hillside Bridge is often underwater. And there is already a problem with graffiti under the bridge that would only get worse if a path is built under the bridge.

A better use of potential funding for the Riverwalk extension would be to maintain the existing Riverwalk and to fix the fountain at Fredenhagen Park and add Security cameras along the Riverwalk.

Thank you for reversing any decision to extend the Riverwalk.

—Alice Wood and FamilyNaperville

Inquiring minds have been asking… where to pick up printed copies of PN.