Need to speak one common language
When I go to a Chinese restaurant, I expect to hear their language spoken. When I go to McDonalds, I expect to hear English. However, my order is taken and then translated into Spanish for the people in the back to assemble. Most of the time the order is screwed up and they end up throwing away my sack and remake my order. Do to the lack of communication there is waste. We all need to speak a common language to communicate. English is our nation's choice.
Shocked to read about girl text messaging
I just read about the girl who sent 17,000 text messages and am completely shocked. I am not that far removed from that age and it was never like this. It started with all these video games keeping kids inside and now they are going to forget how to talk to a person. What is so hard about dialing a number and having a normal conversation with your friends? As a graduate of Maine West I really wish they had used the school name in this story. What is it saying about how they are teaching these kids? And how on earth does someone not text during school and get 17,000?!
An example of poor TIF decisions
In TIF 3 in Des Plaines, we paid $16 million for LAD (Land Assembly/Relocation), and then we sold it to a developer for $4 million. That cost us $12 million. Now they want another $900,000 to save over $8 million. All blamed on bad decisions.
If they march I will be there
I just want local veterans to know that if they decide to march the Independence Day parade by themselves I will be there and give them a standing ovation and clap and cheer for them just like I do every year. Everybody else should show up to pay his or her respects for the people who fought for our independence. It would be a shame if there were no floats, or fire trucks, or marching bands because Des Plaines has one of the best parades in the Chicago area.
Has questions about new casino
Is this going to be a 24-hour casino? When is it expected to open?
(Ed. Note: We assume you mean the casino that will probably open in Des Plaines. If final state approval is granted, it could open in 2-1/2 years. We don't know if it will be 24 hours.)
Thanks alderman for her time, effort
Since Laura Murphy's time as alderman in Des Plaines comes to an end soon, I just want to thank her for all the help she has been to our ward. You call or email her and she answers. She follows up on complaints. She has been a great alderman. Thanks Laura.
Reagan made announcement in 1980s
Sorry if it offended someone that Maine West was in the Top 50 schools. President Ronald Reagan announced that information to the entire town when he stopped by in the 80's while he was campaigning. Deal with it. Green is good but not when you're envious.
Appoint Henry grand marshal
I think Henry the Rooster needs to be the grand marshal of the 4th of July parade. He is turning into a good mascot for Des Plaines. Haha. Henry Rules!
Free to leave up Christmas lights
This is America. If they want to leave Christmas lights up all year, they have the freedom to do so. So take your whiney sayings and mind your own business.
Enjoy fact we got casino
I'm a 42 year resident living on the south side of Des Plaines. I voted for the casino to come to Des Plaines and I'm glad we got it over Rosemont. I get tired of anti-gambling people who do not live in our town who come here and say they speak for all the people who live here. Did they also go to Waukegan and Rosemont city council meetings and tell them not to locate the casino in their towns or were we just the lucky ones? With the location on River Rd. having the tollway on one side and the forest preserve on the other, the casino will not bother any residents both in Des Plaines or Park Ridge. We get the economic benefit to our city and we get to help out many other towns. Trust me, Rosemont and its many hotels and the convention center will still benefit from the location of the casino. So people quit complaining and just enjoy the fact that we were awarded the 10th license over so many other locations. Ed Czosek.
'A poor way of doing business'
I retired from the Chicago Public Schools as a teacher in 2007. I sold my condo in Des Plaines in April of 2008. I was a client of IOLS (dial-up internet service) for over 15 years! I had an automatic renewal and they would charge my Discover credit card each November for an annual charge of $119.40. I called them on April 29th, 2008 to cancel my service since I was moving to Arizona the next day. I was told since there was still seven months left on my account, they would credit that to my credit card. I received a cancellation confirmation number and listed it with the other numbers I received that morning as was canceling my ComEd electric, phone, etc. Well, with the stress and nervousness of moving out of state, I must have either misplaced or threw out that paper. I moved to Arizona the following day (April 30th). In November of 2008, I checked my Discover card balance and was shocked to see that I was being charged again by IOLS for another year of service...and never received a seven month refund as informed I would. I immediately first contacted Discover card and filed a complaint against the charge. Then I called IOLS...to receive a voicemail to leave a message and they would get back immediately. I also sent an e-mail and completed an online form on their web site at iols.net. This was on or about January 5. I called again, sent a fax, sent an e-mail, and left another message...still no replies. I did this through the 18th of January and this now involved 4 phone messages, 4 faxes, 5 e-mails, a letter sent via regular U.S. postal service, and 4 more online forms completed and sent. I became so frustrated that I filed a complaint with the B.B.B. and then proceeded to contact the city of Joliet government officials (mayor and city councilmen). Then on the 19th I received a phone message from a "Marty" at IOLS first saying he was replying to my letter and fax and phone message...did not get back sooner as they were closed for the M.L. King holiday! What? I was sending these since the 5th! Anyway, he claimed he had no letter of cancellation and that was the means of canceling. I called back...got the voice mail again and said I did not send a letter but called and as a client for over 15 years, could he just cancel the new charge of $119.40...that I would forego the seven months of $9.95 I was suppose to be reimbursed. He called again today (01/21) to say he received now my fax and e-mail to cancel but since it is an early cancellation there is a 30% penalty charge! Come on! This was their fault to begin with. I informed IOLS that I have since cancelled that credit card for fear of them doing this again so they would need to send my refund to my home in Arizona and not debit my credit card. Again, I do not understand this poor way of doing business with a 15 year client! Now waiting to see what happens! Gary W.
Digital signs eat up energy
Digital billboards are not more environmentally friendly then conventional billboards. A study by the U.S. Green Building Council in San Antonio, Texas, found that one digital billboard consumed approximately 49 times the energy of a conventional board. This is because the digital board must be lighted during the day, and in fact the light must be turned up to a high level to make it visible.
City lacks muscle
When I read the Journal, I am sickened to read about the long protracted process of dealing with companies that violate the Des Plaines ordinances. Why do we have to settle with a billboard company? It appears Des Plaines lacks any muscle to deal with violations, especially if Dowd is representing the violator. Dowd's track record in this town representing violators and individuals seeking zoning or variances is pretty damn good. Is it because he is a "good lawyer"? Isn't that an oxymoron? Or is it because our town just does not enforce its own ordinances nor mete fines that would deter other violators.
Why so long to install pastor?
According to the Des Plaines Journal, First Congregational Church is installing their new pastor near the end of January. The article also stated that he started conducting services last May. Why is it taking six months to install him? At that rate, church members get around to celebrating the arrival of year 2009 in July.
Pursuing TIF #5 'nuts'
The City of Des Plaines seems so arrogant! It's bad enough TIF #3 is a financial disaster and developer giveaway, but to keep pursuing TIF #5 is just plain nuts. Do they really believe that just because you build it, people will come? With over 500 empty condominiums and a ghost town in Metropolitan Square, the common sense and prudent approach is to leave the businesses alone in TIF #5 and concentrate on getting rid of the used car lots the city allows to spring up everywhere. Good ordinances requiring landscaping and beautification is the cheaper way to cure blight. You only have to look at Schawke or Pesche's. The businesses should get together. It's cheaper than hiring lawyers to defend yourselves from the vultures at City Hall.
Questions about TIF investigation
I am curious about the proposed investigation concerning TIF #3 and other business that has left Des Plaines holding the bag. Who will be running this investigation? Where are the checks and balances in this City? If I am not mistaken, wasn't our City Attorney, Dave Wiltse, supposed to run the investigation and he found no further business deals during Bill Schneider's time that were shady? I just wonder how Dave Wiltse would have found anything anyway since he must have signed off on the billboards and TIF #3 to begin with.
Needs a vacation---without Henry
Alma & Co-Workers: Henry and I have not moved from wonderful Des Plaines. We are just normal suburbanites that love our town. I have taken Henry on two tropical vacations with me and now it's time for me to vacation alone. I have family members to watch over Henry as I adventure to a warmer climate.
Easy to put question on the ballot
I guess I don't understand why it so difficult to just put the question to referendum, "at this time do the folks of Park Ridge want to spend the money on a new police station?" Yes or no. Let's just do what we want and word it in such a way as to baffle everyone with. Ald.Wsol is correct. This is why the people do not trust elected officials.
Move casino further away from Park Ridge
Please move the casino location away from Park Ridge and into the heart of Des Plaines. We don't want it, won't benefit from it, and will only suffer as a consequence of its location. Why do you people want this mess anyway? You are asking for all kinds of lowlifes to enter your suburb and ours? This is the beginning of the end for our area.
Park Ridge has no interest in a casino
Park Ridge residents do not want this casino.
Is Frimark afraid?
Regarding Mayor Howard Frimark and his refusal to participate in the regular municipal election cycle CURRB debates: What's the problem Howard? You have participated in two of the CURRB forums previously, why not now? What are you afraid of? The people want to hear from you.
Niles Mayor handled issue in a professional manner
To those blaming Mayor Callero for the recent activities, please, get your facts correct. The mayor of Niles is a part-time position. He does not oversee the day-to-day actions of employees. There is a full-time village manager and he, along with the department heads, handle this. When possible, questionable activities were brought to his attention. He did what a responsible leader would do. He formed an ethics committee to clearly spell out what is expected of all employees. Kudos, Mayor Callero for handling this in a professional manner.
Many women held high positions in Niles
Recently in Speak Out, someone wrote, "Women in Niles government have never been held in high regards. That's the raw truth." The Village of Niles currently has two women on the Board of Trustees. Their former village manager, Mary Kay Morrissey, is also a woman. These are the highest-ranking positions in Niles next to the mayor. I would love to know where this person is getting their information.
Comfortable with way Niles has been
Here we go again. Kim did not sacrifice the top spot on the Niles ballot to be in Washington with the other 3 million people that went to see, if you can call it that, the inauguration. For the record, first spot on the ballot goes to the established parties, ie. Democrat, Republican, etc. Then come the other registered parties, like the Continued Economic Stability Party, which includes Acting Mayor Robert Callero, incumbent village trustees Andrew Przybylo, Louella Preston and restaurant owner George Alpogianis. Finally, the independents are listed. Why isn't the proper research done before a story, which is top-heavy, is published? Seems to me that all you are looking for is more controversy to write about instead of printing the facts. If we wanted to read this kind of fairy tale drama, we would subscribe to a national tabloid. The citizens of Niles need to read about the truth and the hard-core reality of our issues. Acting Mayor Robert Callero has a financial background, which we desperately now need in these trying times. Andrew Przybylo and George Alpogianis are local businessmen who have stood the test of time. Louella Preston is an educator with a legal background who now needed to get our community to the next level. Who really cares if someone went to the inauguration? I listened to it on the radio and saw it umpteen times on TV. How do we citizens benefit from someone standing there in the cold when we need to worry and address our own concerns? It will only happen if we elect the officials who choose to dedicate their time and efforts to our citizens, not the ones who want to be seen or crave the limelight of prancing around with the big shots who have put our country in the mess that we are now in. Mayor Robert Callero and his running mates were in Niles supporting our new president, not spending unnecessary monies to be seen and acknowledged. Once again I ask, what do we really want? Is it the stability of the last five decades that we've enjoyed, or some type of undefined change that Kim is calling for? I like Niles the way it is and am uneasy with an undefined change that is being paraded around. Vote your conscience and keep Niles the way it is. A Niles voter and citizen.
Why didn't he speak out when county raised taxes?
I was surprised to find out that Niles Trustee Andrew Przybylo is the Niles liaison to Cook County. According to and the Cook County web site, he is a member of the Cook County Zoning Board with a high salary. If he is really a liaison for Niles residents, why is the county paying him? Why, as our liaison, did he not speak up when the county raised the sales tax? Officials in other communities spoke out but our liaison that is being paid by the county was silent.
(Ed. Note: Years ago the Journal & Topics reported on Mr. Przybylo's job with the county.)
They run another woman to confuse voters
Niles voters beware. The Niles political machine is at it again with their dirty tricks to confuse voters. They are so afraid of Kim Biederman's campaign for mayor that they run another woman, Carol Harczak, to fool voters. I hope the media will research this and connect the dots.
Has nothing to do with running schools
Kim Biederman doesn't understand Illinois' system of government. She made a promise to improve our schools. Their elected school boards, not by mayors or trustees, run our District 63 and 64 schools. The children from Niles live in the same districts as kids from other towns. How can we have a mayor who doesn't understand her responsibilities? We all want better schools, and we should all be following what the school boards do. Sorry Kim, that's not what the mayor is elected to do.
Does she really know how to fix flooding problem?
Kim says she can fix Niles' flooding problems. That's really great. Has she had an engineering study done? Does she know the cost of fixing the problem? Does she have any idea what will be needed to eliminate flooding? We all know she's done no investigating and has no idea what it would take in time and money to stop flooding once and for all. Talk is cheap. Results aren't. Mayor Callero has gotten results. We don't need a fast talking idle promise maker as mayor. Don't be charmed by her words. Look instead to her accomplishments. There aren't any.
Doesn't she know we have a local school board?
I have lived in Niles more than 30 years, and Kim Biederman scares me. It is very clear that she does not understand what village government can and cannot do. She wants to take over education. Doesn't she know we have an elected school board? We just threw a governor out of office for abuse of power. We don't need a power abuser as mayor.
Chickens have now come home to roost
Will Blago's troubles hurt the Maine Township Dems? Probably. They were all over George Ryan and made a lot of "hay" over the corruption in state government under the Republicans. Well, the chickens have come home to roost, baby. Blago and the Dems who backtracked on Burris and sacked the taxpayer's pocketbooks don't look so high and mighty now. No more holier than thou now. The current leaders in our township are good people with long histories of community service. The garbage pick-up, the senior programs which I love, and overall assistance to people in need like my daughter who is an unemployed single parent, and lots more have all improved in recent years. If it ain't broke, don't fix it as the saying goes.
Of course, his job was to do some lobbying
Whoever said Rob Biederman didn't do lobbying is totally misinformed. He was director of Public Affairs for the Illinois Restaurant Association, and lobbied in that capacity. He may or may not have registered, but he sure lobbied.
Really enjoyed St. John Brebeuf Super Bowl party
I would like to commend Dennis O'Donovan and the rest of the Saint John Brebeuf Holy Name Men's Club for throwing a fantastic Super Bowl party. The party was well attended, very fun and best of all affordable.
She was only one to stand with us
Kim Sychowski Biederman is the only candidate for Niles mayor who votes for residents. She voted against the new $80 million development at Milwaukee and Ballard that is way too big for that already crowded area. I live near there. Traffic is already so bad and this will only make it worse. Hundreds of residents opposed this, and only Kim Biederman stood with us. I'm voting for Kim so we have a Mayor that actually listens to the people they represent.
No reason to make changes in Niles Park District
Change is not always good. Why do we want a change in the current Niles Park District commissioner race? Facilities are first class, programs are numerous and taxes have not been raised in years. There's no scandal with the park, so why change a group of commissioners with a winning track record? If Hynes is in, Terpinas, Barbaglia and Hynes have been wonderful so far so let's keep the Park District commissioners as is and in turn our park as is, the jewel of the park districts.
Looks like the fix is in
I read your article on January 30 regarding the fire district trustee appointments. It appears that there are four names remaining on the list. Rodney Pace, Gerald Anderson, Shawn Clisham and Marty Kennelly. According to your article you only spoke with the ex-mayor of Prospect Heights for his comments and not the remaining three. Rodney Pace resigned abruptly from the City of Prospect Heights because of health reasons, leaving the city's financial situation in his same sick condition. Looks like the Journal and Richard Mayer have made their choice for the next Fire District trustee.
(Ed. Note: No fix is in.)
Doesn't seem like he makes a lot of money
Many members of the community have been upset by the comments written about the Prospect Heights Fire Department. I personally only have positive experiences, but I have had limited engagement. I did have a question for the Journal - when I read the articles about Chief Gould and read about the amount of money he makes that doesn't seem like a huge amount considering his position. Does the Journal know what other fire chiefs in the area are making? Personally, I would like to know. I don't see what all the fuss is about but I have only started reading the articles after I heard friends talking about it. I guess I have become nosey too. Thanks, Logan.
He was such a nice teacher
I went to MacArthur Middle School for 6th 7th and 8th grade, and had Mr. Vos all three years as my computer teacher. Two days ago, a friend of mine told me the news about the whole thing and I was in utter disbelief. He was such a nice teacher.
You need to do your homework
I would like to comment on the resignation of the Fire Department trustees. In your articles you keep saying that your "sources" say that the resignations were because of Chief Gould. Do your homework and stop printing gossip. Sometimes the people pointing the finger are covering up for something they did.
Fire district is doing a good job
Regarding your article on Jan. 28, "Wheeling Township To Name Prospect Heights Board Replacement": The candidates for replacement trustee include former Mayor Rodney Pace. Are you kidding me? He resigned from the city and they are now financially sinking like "the Titanic". The last thing the citizens need is to have Rodney Pace politics brought into the Fire District. The Fire District is well run, financially stable, properly equipped and staffed. We owe the brave men and women that protect us support, not bad politics.
Your articles read like the National Enquirer
In reference to your editorial on Jan. 21, "What's with the Fire District?" Your comments are so unprofessional and inaccurate. Your articles are like reading the National Enquirer. Mr. Arends stated he resigned because of work issues. Tony Carlin and Tom Weidman both resigned and gave no reason. Maybe you should write about their backgrounds. Also your comment, "The Fire District could use some of the same kind of medicine." Mr. Mayer what kind of medicine are you on? Not everything is negative and you continually write only the negative. Why don't you ever print anything nice about the fire chief, his staff and the firefighter/paramedics who are dedicated to this community and risk their lives to keep us safe?
I was not upset about new contract
My name is Robert Arends. The January 21, 2009 issue of the Prospect Heights Journal contained an article and an editorial on the Prospect Heights Fire Protection District that makes reference to my recent resignation from the Board of Trustees. The article states that "individuals knowledgeable about this situation" have advised the Journal that I was "extremely upset" about a discussion of the renewal of the fire chief's contract. I do not know whom these unnamed individuals are, but I would like to set their minds at ease. I am not upset. My letter of resignation, quoted in the article, presents my reason for resigning. Recent changes in my business require a significant increase in travel, so I am no longer able to participate regularly in board meetings. This is the reason for my resignation, and the only reason. Renewal of the fire chief's contract is a routine task of the Board of Trustees. The Board is an exemplary group of capable and public-spirited citizens, and I have complete confidence in them. My only regret is that I am no longer able to serve with them.
What happened to Mt. Prospect restaurant?
Just curious what happened to the Egg Factory Restaurant next to Borders on the outlot of the Randhurst Mall in Mt. Prospect? We tried to go there one day in December for breakfast only to find a handwritten closed sign on the door. We were very disappointed as we used to frequent the place for breakfast and sometimes lunch. The food was outstanding. Did they move or close down completely?
Some observations about Prospect Hts.
Lets look deeper into this: Is the Fire Protection District better run than the City of Prospect Heights? It might be, but only because the residents of these towns who depend on them vote all of their tax increases in. Have you had a chance to look into their administration there? There is one fire chief, two deputy chiefs, and four captains along with a host of other people that call themselves bosses. Way too many chiefs and not enough Indians. As far as Public Works breaking their backs and removing snow? Have you looked at our streets? I was out shoveling my drive and saw a plow truck drive down my street with no plow on the truck. They were spreading salt with 2-plus inches of snow on the ground. I don't think that works. Were they out filling sand bags? Yes, they were at time and a half of their regular salary, and no they really don't fix any water mains because there aren't any in town. Do you see the police at the 7-11? I'm sure you do, but let's remember that they are on shift for long hours. I think 12 hours per shift and they deserve a break too. They have a lot of work to do since they are the only ones losing employees with the recent talk of job cuts. Meanwhile, the Public Works director just (within the last 6 months) was lucky enough to pick up a $40,000 a year pay raise. That's the job I want. Where do I apply?
Hopes everyone else got a 4.5% pay raise
Nice to see that Michael Janonis is getting a bonus, additional village contributions toward deferred compensation, car allowance and a $172,000 salary in times when people are losing their jobs and not getting raises/bonuses. If you did the math, it's near $200,000. I hope everyone else in that village got at least 4.5% raises too just to be fair.
What's with this whiner?
Why don't we lay off police or firefighters? The whiner on patrol again. Sure whiner, and bring back the old Wild West.
He was such a cool teacher
This whole thing is just so sad and wrong. Everyone thought he was such a cool teacher. I know I did. His poor family.
Too bad they didn't do it right in the first place
Yes, you're correct, Mt. Prospect is more caring about their residents. I think this is the third new fire station in the same place since I moved here. Too bad they can't do it right in the first place, and are so abusive with their taxes.
Time stoplights better
Is it possible that you could get the stoplight at Lee and Algonquin to read, "Stop" at the same time as the one at Lee and Oakton? This way the people can get out of Forest Avenue better. As it is now the one at Lee and Oakton is red and the one at Algonquin reads green and we are trapped at Forest. I went to the state last year, but they would not change the one on Algonquin to read at the same time as Oakton. The only stop light is over on Wolf and the other one is way over on River Road so you don't see a problem.
Thank God for President Bush
I finally had to respond to the hateful articles about President Bush. Did you already forget what happened on 9-11? Do you have any idea what it must have been like not knowing when the terrorists would strike again? President Bush had to protect our country and he did. He stood for what he believed in and didn't waver. I wonder how many people know what is going on in this country. The TV and news media are all liberal except a few. I guess you are so involved in the garbage on TV that you don't know what is happening in the real world. Canada knew who Bill Ayres was and turned him away at the booth. We don't seem to mind that he is teaching his socialistic views at the University of Illinois. Thank God that President Bush was our president.
Probably will let Obama slide
Don't speak in regards to not missing Bush, I for one happened to like him as president. I understand he wasn't perfect but he's made American safe for the last eight years. So far the only change Mr. Obama has made is bringing back the Clinton administration. Why? They weren't anything special. They basically reduced our military and made us look like wimps. President Bush at least had the "balls" to fight back by building up our military and showing the world we are a powerful nation. But I bet no matter what Obama does wrong everyone who is fooled by his antics will just let it go. Just like you all did with Mr. Clinton. Remember he lied under oath and made us a laughing stock. Whatever. You've all been brainwashed, so were the Germans with Hitler. Just you wait and see. I can't wait.
Stop with Obama, Rooster stuff
Enough with the Obama stuff. Every day it's Obama. Watch he's going to turn out just like Blagojevich. Enough with the rooster stuff, too.
Questions Arredia
Tony Arredia applauds the courage of aldermen for approving new fees and increased taxes. He treats the citizen/taxpayer poorly. We always pay the most and we get beat down. You won't publish this because you are Tony Arredia's lap dog and do not cover the news in an objective way. The Journal & Topics treats new fees and tax increases like it is the citizens' civic duty. It's patriotic for cops to get 5% raises when the cost of living only increases 0.1%.
(Ed. Note: You must be joking. We're lap dogs?)
We must act on high pensions
It is time for taxpayers to insist that immediate downward adjustments be made in the full pension benefits that the federal, state, and local officials and publicly paid professionals receive today. I can support more taxes for more services but that is not the case with the current public employment contracts regarding pensions. The pension payments are stripping away our means to conduct business and stay and own homes in our towns. We can no longer support the status quo and it is time for change.
Hard to beat job Mayor Brad is doing
I just want to say that it makes no sense to me that someone thinks they can do better for Rosemont than Brad Stephens. Our taxes are low, our services high and our quality of life is off the charts.
Obama now is our commander in chief
I am white and I voted for McCain. But I did not vote for him because of his race. I voted because I thought McCain was the right man. Now we have a new president. And I have to admit, I am glad to see Obama win. He has proven to me that he loves America. I am proud to say he is my president. And I will pray for him and his family. Anyone who says he is not your president because of his race or just because you don't like him, well guess what, he is the president of these United States of America. He is your commander-in-chief and if you say he is not your president then leave my country. You are not an American. We have a struggle ahead of us. And only the strong will survive. We can no longer have differences between us. We either stand united or fall divided. We have four years of Obama, He wants change. We want change. Let's all work together and make a change. God bless the new president and God bless America.
Too much glitter and flash calls for reevaluation
They say clothes make the man: Yep, $200 gym shoes, $150 gym shoes, nice leather shoes, nice car, $3,000 rims and tires. But you live with your mom. You don't own a home. I sold my boats and toys, now I have a riding tractor mower. I'll keep my New Balance gym shoes, $40. So about the clothes thing, too much glitter and flash. Re-evaluate your life.
He should focuson party issues
I cannot believe Mark Thompson is running for mayor of Des Plaines. As the Republican committeeman of Maine Township, he should be focusing his efforts for the party in the township races. How can Thompson do this while campaigning for mayor of Des Plaines? The township is veering to the Democrats and he is busy wanting to add more titles to his name. He should be focusing his energies in raising money for the township GOP and not for his own personal political gain---or he should give up his post if he intends to serve in an office. You cannot ethically serve as a party leader in a partisan election while running for a non-partisan post. This is irresponsible for the party and selfish on Mark Thompson.
Oh boy, we're now in trouble
What a list of candidates for mayor. We're in trouble.
Some are taking votes away from more qualified
Serious people running for mayor. Several of you have no experience at all and you're wasting time and expenses by running. You're also taking votes away from the more qualified people. Please consider removing yourself from the race.
Really likes local sled hill
The Arndt Park sled hill is terrific. Great job park district.
Likes recent job snow plowing local streets
Great job on the snowplowing these past few weeks. You've done wonderfully.
Always better to have a choice on Election Day
I was happy to hear that the Maine Township Democrats announced their slate of candidates for the upcoming elections. We need to have a choice each and every election. I know that when April rolls around I will be voting the Democratic slate as we need some serious change in this township.
Bring on July 4th parade in DP
The parade should continue. There was no problem before the Special Events Commission took over, so why now? I don't get as to why so much importance is showered on one group. Have beer at any event and it will make money. Our ex-alderman said to that. This group has gotten too big for its britches. Other suburbs don't have these problems. Can we ever just be normal without all the drama? I am sure the city has better things to do and has serious matters to attend to. Maybe the party should be over but not the parade. We all will be proud to walk with our vets and think we can do it without this group's help.
(Ed. Note: While Des Plaines' July 4th parade has been around for years, the Special Events Commission was first on the scene to organize and manage the Taste of Des Plaines.)
Crack down on those who blow stop sign
Stop means stop. Is there a restriction on when Stop signs are to be obeyed because the signs on Walnut between Lee and Third are being ignored. Any day as soon as rush hour begins, where are Des Plaines Police? This is a gold mine for the city. They blow through at 30 mph. Why don't we just have them removed because we have more important things to do in this city like saving that eyesore of a theater that no one goes to anyway. I am going to film it and put it on Youtube because it is a joke.
Fixing world won't take a couple of years
I have news for everyone. The world was not screwed up in a couple of years and it is not going to be fixed in a couple either. Save your money. Stop spending because someone else has something you do not and you have to have it. Million dollar houses are foreclosing. Get rid of the plastic in your wallet.
Still a lot more snow to be cleared
The snow has been here long enough. Time for the snow covered cars on the street to be towed, ticketed and impounded. Time for public works to get back out and clean up the snow they missed. This looks sloppy. What about the businesses that have not shoveled? I almost hit someone walking on Lee Street recently buy Foremost Liquors at night wearing a white jacket. What is wrong with these people?
Seems like more rude people around
Yes, there is a reason to learn English. It is for communication. The nation was founded and fought for the slogan "One Nation, One Flag, One Language." I for one am tired of seeing and hearing other languages. My parents taught me it was rude to speak another language in public. It is apparent that we have a lot of new rude people in my country.
He had courage
Let's hear it for Steve Schaefer. He took on the mayor and the city council of Des Plaines demanding a 4th of July parade. That showed guts and leadership, something seriously lacking in the council chamber. This guy should run for mayor.
Wants to see a new mayor
Palatine needs a new mayor.
(Ed. Note: Well, you have a chance to make a difference on Election Day, Apr. 7.)
Never ending waste
The village needs the 3.75% tax increase to pay for the never-ending waste of money. This board has approved a non-stop flow of money foolishly. Financial responsibility and a mind to look out for the tax paying public is not a consideration of this board. Grandiose ideals seem to have taken over the mind set here without any consideration to fiscal responsibility. It is OK to say no to a new statue, no to a money hole like the Metropolis, no to pay raises this year, a few less flowers in the gardens. The list goes on and on. By the way the downtown area looks great. I hope one day someone realizes that other parts of Arlington Heights north, south, east or west need some attention also.
Seems like he has no idea
Manola speaks like someone who has no idea how things work. Being for a Barnes & Noble in Palatine but against TIFs is like saying I want a new car but I don't have a license or money. I live and work in an adjacent town, but I have been around long enough to know that a town doesn't get big boxes like Barnes & Noble without TIFs.
If kid gets hurt, cost will be a lot higher
For the savings of merely $60,000 the city is willing to risk the safety of children. When there is an accident at one of these intersections, the city attorney defending Rolling Meadows alone will cost a lot more than 60K.
Elk Grove mayor is a ham
Too bad we can't find someone to run against Mayor Craig Johnson. He's a ham and makes sure he gets credit for everything that goes on in Elk Grove.
Candidate seems like someone I could support
Vito Manola sounds like someone I would vote for. Rita Mullins always seems to be fighting with people and never has any answers. I am looking forward to learning more about Manola and his views. Thank you Journal & Topics for covering our local news.
Candidate does not know what he's talking about
The Mayor is right. Mr. Manola does not know what he is talking about. He should come up with some solid innovative ideas, not "I am sincerely for the residents of Palatine," "I want to do what they want, not what I want." Does this guy think he's running for 6th grade class president? There is a lot at stake for the residents of Palatine.
Palatine should be worried
Thanks for an excellent article, Richard. This was Vito at his insightful best. The mayor should be worried, as it appears there's a stronger voice for the people in our town. Tim D., Palatine.
My best to man in EG
I can't believe what has happened. While I have been living on Avon Road in Elk Grove for almost 12 years this is the most devastating thing that has happened on our block. This poor man has been in the hospital for almost 5 months. During this time he has lost his most beloved dog and now his home and everything that he has worked for in his lifetime. I send my best wishes to Ken and his family that things hopefully will get better. As a neighbor and a friend I am here to help with whatever I can. I am terribly sorry for this tragedy and I hope that Ken and his family can be as strong as ever. Best wishes Ken.
Appreciates coverage of fire
Thank you for being the only paper, or web site for that matter, to cover the fire on Avon in Elk Grove on Saturday. No other local paper cares, I guess. Keep up the great work on covering our news.
Being first is not always the best
I hope his kids and other family members were notified before this came out on the web. Being the first to announce it isn't always such a great thing.
Good job to police, boo to YMCA
Boooooooooooo to the YMCA management for making questionable decisions and trying to pass the buck onto the police department. Good job to the Palatine Police.
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