Jeanine’s spirit alive in Naperville walk

On behalf of our family and the Jeanine Nicarico Literacy Fund Committee, we extend heartfelt thanks to all the wonderful supporters of the 10th Annual 5K Run/Walk for Reading that was held on May 15. Despite the weather, the community came out in great numbers. We cannot say enough about the warm spirit of the community and those who participated.

Our special thanks go: Naperville Mayor George Pradel, who gave the pep cheer to the runners and walkers at the start of the race, and who was at the finish line to greet and shake hands with them — he always adds a great spark to the event; Councilman Bob Fiesler for the great job he did as announcer; Brianna Reilly for her beautiful and touching singing of the Star Spangled Banner; the Naperville Police Department for the great job they did of making sure the runners and walkers had a safe route; the city of Naperville for posting the signs and placing the barricades; the many dedicated volunteers who braved the cold, rainy weather to man the food tents and assist with traffic control and parking; the volunteers who handled registration and the many other tasks; Naperville Unit District 203; the principal of River Woods, Robyn Rippel, and the custodial staff; the River Woods neighborhood for their support and patience; Mary Bazan, Tracy Nelson, Chris Roy and Kathy Brown for organizing the event; the Daily Herald and the many other sponsors for their generosity; and last but not least, the runners and walkers for their enthusiasm and excitement.

It is very heartwarming to see the wonderful support the community continues to give to us and to the Jeanine Nicarico Literacy Fund. We can certainly feel Jeanine’s spirit alive in all of those involved.

Pat and Tom Nicarico

formerly of Naperville