letters
Comic books and social justice
On the opening weekend of the latest comic book epic, “The Avengers,” I read more than a few reviews referencing the writers’ own nostalgia for the comic books of their youth. I can relate, but to me, the transcendence to mega-movie blockbuster status of the …
WSSRA thanks its many volunteers
The week of April 15 through April 21 is National Volunteer Week. Sponsored by the Points of Light Institute and the Hands on Network, National Volunteer Week celebrates the positive impact volunteer actions have on communities. This year’s theme is “Celebrating People in Action.” Volunteers …
Join pilgrimage for Dream Act on April 29
When you see the word “Dreamer,” what do you think of? Do you think of a person who daydreams a lot? Or, do you think of the dreamers in the Bible, like St. Joseph and the Magi, who received messages from God in their dreams? …
Join pilgrimage for Dream Act on April 29
When you see the word “Dreamer,” what do you think of? Do you think of a person who daydreams a lot? Or, do you think of the dreamers in the Bible, like St. Joseph and the Magi, who received messages from God in their dreams? …
Thanks for your support in judicial race
Congratulations to Lisa Marino, the new Circuit Court judge from the 11th subcircuit, Urso vacancy. I know you all join me in wishing the best for her and for our justice system. With your help I won 36 of the 38 Oak Park precincts, but …
The cost of government in Elmwood Park
The village of Elmwood Park’s water rates and tax levy have received a lot of attention in the past few weeks, and I am certain that many residents are now confused. This is unfortunate, so in the effort to clarify both issues, here is a …
Taxes like sun rise at Hemingway’s house
A beloved American literary icon’s home is up for sale. Ernest Hemingway’s boyhood home in Oak Park, Illinois is on the market for $525,000. The lucky or not so lucky buyer will be attached to a $19,027 property tax bill, unless they file a successful …
Village cares for 61 miles of water, sewer lines
A postcard was recently sent out by a political party to many Village of Elmwood Park residents which referred to the new village water bill rates. The card only told half of the story. I will explain the other half. Every dollar we pay for …
Support local leader Lilly for state rep
Our area needs jobs and that’s why I am voting for Camille Lilly as state representative. She supports programs to train and employ local people who are out of work to rehab old buildings, making them more energy efficient, lowering our energy bills. Lilly is …
Letters to the Editor
A response to Alan Bennett’s letter In an Elm Leaves letter to the editor (Feb. 16), Alan Bennett writes there are political motives behind people’s criticism of village policies. He would know! All his lectures are all politically motivated to make excuses for 35+ years …
Stop attacking, start explaining
The Feb. 23 article (“Political storm erupts over tax levy in Elmwood Park”) contained some material misquotes and omissions that turned an honest discussion about taxes into more politics as usual. The result: Another tax discussion avoided in town. Contrary to what was written in …
More spending equals more taxes
I read, with disappointment, Alan Bennett’s letter “Correcting Misinformation about Elmwood Park’s Tax Levy” (Feb. 16 Elm Leaves). The important issue is not whether the levy went up 1.9 percent, 4.43 percent, 20 percent or even 100 percent. The important issue, conveniently ignored by Mr. …
Correcting misinformation about Elmwood Park’s tax levy
I would like to take this opportunity to set the record straight regarding the Village of Elmwood Park Property Tax Levy that was passed by the Village Board on Dec. 5. Contrary to the statements being presented on the Neighborhood Voice Party website, this Property …
Get involved year-round, not just at Christmas
Thanks to the generous efforts of Chicago residents, thousands of hurting children worldwide will have the opportunity to experience the joy of Christmas. Chicago-area residents joined Operation Christmas Child, the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind, to pack 63,347 shoe boxes with toys, school …
No clowning around; give to your local food pantry
I would like to thank all the people who live in the neighborhood by Gene & Jude’s hot dogs for opening up their doors to see a clown and friends singing jingles bells out of tune and still contributed canned goods and other nonperishables. I …



