Veterans should be honored for all sacrifices
My mother was the chief surgical nurse at Hines Veterans Hospital for more than 30 years. She instilled in me the true meaning of Memorial Day and Veterans Day. It was not just another day off of school in our house.

Since this country’s inception, American men and women have been courageously sacrificing their lives to protect the liberties that all United States citizens enjoy.

At this time there are more than 26 million United States veterans, men and women who answered a call to serve their country. Through their selfless actions they advanced democracy, protected United States’ interests here and abroad, and paved the way for a more peaceful world.

This country was won through the valor and determination of American citizens, who saw in their fledgling nation the promise of a liberated land.

I salute the American soldiers, without whose selfless contributions the United States of America would not exist. It is through the actions of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces that our nation remains a beacon of peace and prosperity to the rest of the world … do not ever forget our veterans.

State Sen. Kirk Dillard, R-24th District, of Hinsdale

New ordinance takes rights away from residents
I am deeply offended by the Darien City Council and Mayor Kathleen Weaver’s recent decision to amend the driveway-parking ordinance.

As a long-time and law abiding citizen of the Darien community; a resident who, with no willful intent to offend my neighbors, have been harmed in a needless and cruel manner by their rule.
The council has chosen a path so as to cause my family to incur additional hardship and cost by limiting our private and lawful use of property.

Certainly, any amendment affecting such a broad number of residents should have been voted upon by ballot. Indeed, the amendment, instrumented with seemingly slight-of-hand conduct, has encumbered most all Darien property owners.

With regard to the home rule authority entrusted to the council, this abuse of power is very disturbing. And, especially in use of the term “neighborly,” you should be ashamed.

Robert Smid, Darien