Parade Planned To Recognize Former D202 Community Relations Director

PLAINFIELD, IL — The beloved Hometown Irish Parade on Sunday isn't the only procession happening this weekend in Plainfield. Staff at Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202 are planning a car parade to recognize one of its own: former Director of Community Relations Tom Hernandez.

Hernandez, who joined District 202 in 2006, announced in June 2022 that he was diagnosed with astrocytoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer from tumors that attack the astrocytes. He has since undergone surgery and chemotherapy, according to a post originally published on Caring Bridge, Patch reported.

"Help us show Tom and his family how amazing and appreciated he is," reads a flyer about the parade stepping off at 10 a.m. Saturday from Lakewood Falls and Creekside elementary schools, off South Budler Road.

People participating can decorate their cars, create posters or play music to show their support for Hernandez, who officials said loves music, including Prince and Kiss. The procession will drive from the elementary schools past Hernandez's house a few blocks away on West Petoskey Court.

Organizers are anticipating a high turnout for the parade, so they are encouraging event-goers to carpool together. District officials are asking one person from each car or carpool attending to register online to give police a headcount for traffic control.

Participants will line up between 9:15 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. at Lakewood Falls Elementary. When its lot fills up, the remaining cars can line up in the Creekside Elementary lot.

Attendees are asked to stay in their cars for the event. Those who would like to give the Hernandez family gift cards or donations should hand them off to the person designated by the district.