A Lot to Be Thankful For: Good News in Plainfield

It's Thanksgiving — time to take stock of all the good things that happened this year and count your blessings.

And in Plainfield, there's no shortage of good news, from generous residents who rushed to the aid of tornado survivors to great stories about kids doing amazing things. Here's a roundup of some recent "good news" from Plainfield Patch:

• 'Complete Devastation' in Washington: Plainfield Relief Efforts Continue: Thousands were left homeless by tornadoes in central Illinois, but Plainfield's first responders show how much heart they have by rolling up their sleeves and pitching in — and, in the days and weeks to come, they plan to continue offering help.

• Tornado Debris Travels 100 Miles — and Sparks Act of Kindness: Incredibly, one family lost not one, but TWO homes to the killer storm in Washington. But what happened next brought them joy.

• Plainfield Park District’s Bettin is ‘Professional of the Year': Cameron Bettin's hard work was recognized by his peers at nearby park districts earlier this month.

• Wish Come True: Plainfield Teen Publishes Children's Book: Ravina Thakkar isn't letting her illness stop her from making her dreams come true; the gifted teen will soon be a published author.

• Bright Christmas: With Dad Deployed, Plainfield Home Gets Holiday Makeover: A local dad won't be home for the holidays, but an area business wants to make sure it's a bright Christmas for the Plainfield family.

• Plainfield North Named Grand Champs at Music Bowl: An impressive showing by the Marching Tigers.

• Plainfield South Softball Star Medo Signs to Play at USF: Congrats to a PSHS softball star who's looking to shine close to home next fall.

• Volunteers Turn Plastic Bags into Sleeping Mats for Homeless: The Plainfield chapter of New Life for Old Bags meets regularly to help the homeless.