Letters from our February 22, 2012 Issue
Dear Editor:
Although I am elated that the South Side Irish Parade is back and is being better policed, I am also very skeptical about it. The fact that the one rule in place is that no alcohol is allowed might seem far-fetched for some. Most people are used to the tradition of waking up early, going to the parade and enjoying themselves with a couple of beers. However, over the past few years, the many who cannot control their alcohol have ruined this for the few that can. Many people, especially those living in the neighborhood, have lost a fun day due to irresponsible and ignorant people. It is not fair to those who live in the neighborhood that they have to clean up and deal with these said people. People should learn their limits instead of having to involve the police in what is supposed to be an enjoyable day for everyone.
I do not foresee people abiding by this new no-alcohol-allowed rule. People are most likely going to drink alcohol and cause chaos like they do every year because realistically, police are not going to arrest every single person with an alcoholic beverage. If that were the case, almost all of the parade-goers would be under arrest. Besides the obvious alcohol problem, the parade has mostly been a success and I am sure that many people are glad that it is back. However, it should not be held if all it is going to do is cause problems with the police. It does not seem worth it to have the parade when it will only be about the police patrolling the area for people drinking alcohol. I see this as a distraction from the parade and a nuisance to those trying to enjoy themselves without alcohol.
Shannon Allen
Dear Editor:
At their meeting on Wednesday, February 8th, the Blue Island Park Board commissioners discussed renaming the rebuilt Memorial Park statement. It is our opinion that the board should not be solely responsible for this—the people should have some say. Remember in the past, when the fieldhouse was named after a person, then park commissioners decided to remove and change that name upsetting a lot of people, even the Mayor if we remember correctly.
We wish the people who live in Blue Island and pay taxes for the Park District could have the right to re-name the facility. Also, the right to keep the name as Memorial Park if they choose. Either way, let the people choose, not five people on the park district board.
We do think that all the commissioners and the staff have made the parks better and safer for our children. But we just think the people should have a say in choosing a name. Thanks.
From the People!
Letters from our January 11, 2012 Issue
Dear Editor:
Your continued publicity about the Clark Oil Class Action suit played a part, I’m sure, in keeping the issue in front of the Attorney General and led to a settlement. Although we have been living near Galena for the past 33 years (wow!-how time files) we continue to keep interest in the Blue Island community. As an expression of thanks for your part in publicizing the Clark Oil lawsuit I’m enclosing a donation. Happy Holiday to you and all our friends in Blue Island.
Ray and Peg Ruthenberg
Dear Editor:
I would like to pay tribute to a wonderful lady that helped with the Tiny Tots program at the Blue Island Park District between 1970 and the late 1990’s. Regina Graskopf was employed by the park prior to 1974 but in Sept. 1974 she worked with me. Over the years she was a great friend and the children that attended the Tiny Tots program adored her. Regina passed away December 23, 2011 at the age of 93 years. Even through she had long moved out of Blue Island, we still kept in touch every week. She will always be remembered! Regina, in loving memory.
Bonnie Readon Tiny Tots Director 1974-2004
Dear Editor:
We would like to thank all the generous Merchants of Blue Island including; Begger’s Pizza, Guiseppe’s Pizza, Iversen’s Bakery, Stefanelli and Sons, Pierre’s Bakery and the people of the Blue Island area. If it had not been for all of you, we would not have been able to have our 4th Annual Christmas Party and collection drive for Homeless Veterans and wounded Soldiers and their Families. Items collected are being given to Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Hines VA and Manteno Hospitals. This event was a great success. The soldiers and their families are so grateful for remembering them at this special time.
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.
Rev Becky Sperry Deacon
St Joseph’s and Aidan’s Episcopal Church Blue Island
Dear Editor:
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to Melissa Vargas and Lisa Arroyo who not only found our stolen purse but so quickly returned to its frantic owner. After a traumatic event, you renewed our faith in humanity.
Dear Editor:
On behalf of my two congregations, I give thanks for the many individuals, churches and organizations who continue to give so much to help homeless and struggling veterans. Your generosity and kindness mean so much to the men and women who gave so much for us. May God bless you all with a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
The Rev. Rodney Reinhart
Dear Editor:
Many thanks’ to the residents of Blue Island for coming out to the events in town this past year: TGIF Picnic’s, Concerts, Hiking Theaters, Pumpkin Lighting & Scarecrow Judging, Cardinal Hall of Terror and the Christmas Light Parade just to name few.
These events help bring the community together and people out to shop in town.
With the help of sponsorship from MetroSouth Medical Center, Great Lakes Bank, Moraine Valley Community College, Kaleidoscope, Calumet Paint, Mayor Donald E Peloquin & the Coalition Party, The Blue Island Library, Dr. Pavilion, The Blue Island Park District these event are made possible.
A few more thanks to all the people behind the scenes, Blue Island Police & Fire Departments, ESDA, Public Works, men from the Guild Haus & lots of volunteers who help set up, keep the events safe, secure and possible.
If you have any ideas, suggestions or comments please give us a call at 708.388.5735.
Thank you all for a great year, as we look forward to another year of events in 2012.
Rita Pacyga, City of Blue Island Special Events Coordinator