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It was only a few weeks ago that Catherine Zaryczny was blasting 32nd Ward alderman Ted Matlak, calling him an unresponsive and unaccountable individual whose allegiance is to the ward organization that put him in power and to the special interests that keep him in power."
That was when she was one of two candidates running against Matlak in the February 27 election for alderman. Today she pulled a surprising 180 degree turn, endorsing Matlak in the April 27 runoff against Scott Waguespack.
"Are you kidding me?" Waguespack said, when I called him for a comment. "That's the first I've heard of it."
He then jokingly asked for a few minutes to compose himself. "I have to hold on to something to keep myself from falling down from laughter," he said.
During the first round of campaigning Zaryczny routinely criticized Matlak for approving upzoning that allowed developers to overdevelop the ward. "The 32nd Ward is infamous for the present alderman's failure to meaningfully address local citizens', community groups', and businesses' concerns about development," she wrote in her response to the IVI-IPO's aldermanic questionnaire. "Development currently takes place on an ad hoc basis with no consideration for underlying transportation, congestion, and other basic concerns."
She also called reporters--myself included--to point out that Donald Tomczak, the former deputy water commissioner, had assigned patronage workers to help Matlak's 2003 campaign. Tomczak received a four-year prison sentence for taking hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes in connection with the hired truck scandal.
So why the change of heart? Zaryczny did not return calls for comment. But in a press release distributed by Matlak's campaign she said: "We cannot deny Alderman Matlak's overall record of accomplishment. The simple truth is that our ward is one of the most desirable places to live, work and raise a family."
Zaryczny pulled roughly roughly 14 percent of the vote. If every single one of her 1,122 voters follows her endorsement and votes for Matlak, he'll win. But Wauguespack says that's not going to happen.
"I think that many of the people who voted for her because of her reform rhetoric will be even more shocked that I am to hear this news," he said.
COULD THE SAME BE APPLIED TO RICH DALEY, BILL DALEY, TIM DEGNAN AND JERRY JOYCE?
If Ms. Zaryczny were merely personally scornful of Mr. Waguespack's candidacy, or solely disdainful of his positions, then why not sit out the run-off instead of endorsing Matlak whom she’d spent the last six months pummelling as a bent tool? Why go out of her way to endorse Mr. Matlak, and in such a peculiar manner, through his own press release and not one of her own? Was she held hostage in Mr. Matlak's back room and forced to sign, or else? Or was she, and indeed will she be, a frequent visitor to the coven where are the wards sweetheart deals are crafted? In either case, by surreptitiously ducking reporters questions, her endorsement proves she’s in perfect league with Mr. Matlak who is also too aloof to respond to questions.
Mr. Scott Waguespack's candidacy makes April 17th's election that one that matters. An opportunity to vote in a true independent on the city council, someone not beholden to the machine nor monied interest. Even big labor only pitched Mr. Waguespack a tenth of what other machine challenges chalked up, though I expect now they’ll accordingly recognize that Mayor Daley will deploy the patronage army and war chest to the 32nd. Although Mr. Waguespack will need every nickel to unseat Daley’s anointed choice, he’s not one to cavalierly betray the voters trust, nor sell out. He is one of us, the ‘poll-trudgers’ sickened at the corruption, fraud and waste seemingly endemic to the ward and city.
In Mr. Matlak 32nd ward voters have the old machine's flag bearer, in Waguespack the earnest, honest, personable reformer. If there were any doubt, Ms. Zaryczny's endorsement has helped clarify this choice.
Scott Lang, former 32nd ward resident and Rotary World Peace Fellow, Bradford, UK
Scott Waguespack brings real life experience as a Peace Corps volunteer in Kenya who built women’s health clinics and water purification systems; as an advisor in war-torn Kosovo who helped implement much needed judicial reforms in a society torn apart by ethnic hatred; and was instrumental in working with law enforcement officials in clearing out corruption in the City of Berwyn. He understands that city hall belongs to the people of Chicago, that an elected representative needs to be accessible and accountable to the residents who elect them, and that government needs to work for common people like you and I, not just political insiders.
I have every confidence that the residents of the 32nd ward will see through the crass political motives of Ms. Zaryczny’s endorsement. I can only hope that the many open-minded and progressive readers of the Chicago Reader, many who have encouraged me in my own still-born campaign in the 48th Ward, fully understand the opportunity and clear choice present in the 32nd Ward. It is time that the citizens of Chicago insist on elected representatives who possess the courage, candor, and convictions needed to confront the petty corruption that prevents this great city from reaching its full potential. Who better than someone like Mr. Waguespack – a young man with a proud record of fighting for, and succeeding in, such noble causes.
To me the choice is clear – Ted Matlak - the incumbent alderman tied to scandals and convicted felons who have betrayed the trust of this cities decent residents - an alderman who has a history of voting against much need reform and has used city workers to do political work at the taxpayers expense – a public servant who condescends to the very community that put him there - and who’s silence is deafening as homeowners throughout the city have had the tax burden shifted to them, without an opportunity for input on how to spend those dollars or even basic transparency. My support will go to Scott Waguespack.
On April 17th, residents of the 32nd ward should vote for Scott Waguespack – a young man with a promising future and a history of public service he should be proud of. Residents out-side the 32nd ward should volunteer and lend any assistance they can to elect an independent alderman who has never run for political office – but is just the sort of decent individual we desperately need to step forward and reclaim our governments.
Chris Lawrence
OIF, IFOR, KFOR Veteran
Candidate for 48th Ward Alderman
Bye Ted, game over.
Ted Matlak has brought this ward a very long way, and I have witnessed wide reaching programs like new streets, libraries and parks, as well as personalized, specific local actions to clean up the streets and alleys at neighborhood requests to his office. My 9 years in Bucktown have been made much better by the Alderman's leadership.
What has Waugespak done in those years? I'm not sure, but I know he has yet to pass the bar, even though it has been tested for more than a dozen times since he left law school. And now he makes vague accusations in an attempt to remove our local successful leader. A leader that has been key to the rebuilding of several of Chicago's now great neigborhoods.
The notable news in Catheryn's backing of Matlak is that she is simply saying that with herself out of the running, Ted is clearly the best choice. I am not surprised at Scott's nervous laughing. If he wants to earn the right to speak about change, he should have run in a ward that needs improvements like the 32nd ward did a decade ago.
I hope all of the 32nd ward's residents rise up to silence Scott on April 17.
the person defending the Machine stalwart is accusing the challenger of "thinly disguising his desire to steal the ward office"?
You've got to be kidding me, stealing elections is what the Machine is all about.
What Scott Waguespack is doing is running an election campaign, you know, trying to get people to VOTE him into office, what happens in a democracy.
Yes, a democracy, something most Machine folks see as an unpleasant ritual they have to undergo every four years to stay on the gravy train.
And regarding your "long term" residential cred, I don't think so.
I grew up in and around the 32 ward (those bloody boundaries have been changed more times than Bush's reasons for invading Iraq), and the dissatisfaction with Matlak goes all the way back to day one.
Matlak might be a nice guy in his regular life, but like all aldermen who come into power by being appointed instead of elected, he doesn't seem to feel obligated to listen to his constituents, which I can tell you from first hand experience. Why would he? He owes his office to Hizzoner, whom he has served well by never questioning things like TIFs, property taxes, the condition of the schools, park district fees, etc.
Among my many disappointing (to say the least) experiences with the 32nd ward office under Matlak was when some fly-by-night developer was putting up a half dozen condo buildings on Damen at once (starting too early every day, of course), so it took 6 times as long as it should - for over 3 months we had a homeless boozy campground in one of the dug foundations, not to mention the contractors had left all the excavated dirt/clay in the alley, which after every rain turned the area into Woodstock.
my neighbors had similar problems, Matlak wouldn't respond to complaints that the new buildings were in violation of the height restrictions, the fellow just next door had 20K of damage to his foundation, it just goes on and on and on.
this is what happens when you get a rubber stamp alderman who thinks any development is good development. what the ward needs is someone to look out for people besides the ones making a quick profit.
and Matlak's flunkies answered all of my (and my neighbors') requests with "well, whaddya want us to do?"
frankly, all the "improvements" you describe would have happened if there had been NO alderman in office, it is constituents who demanded the park (which is tucked into a practically private development, btw), and the streets? are you kidding me? Diversey has been torn up every year as the new developments have overwhelmed the infrastructure.
that's what this is all about - getting a representative who can see the bigger picture.
Take your time Ted, no rush on being fair, responsive, and representing the residents of your ward - it's not like I am going to find 10 people to vote for Scott because of your arrogance.
Ohh..maybe you should just tell the media the story about your "solar panel" excuse for allowing a zoning variance... What about the mansion at the Artful Dodger site, what about the street by street split block construction of boring and sub par condos, what about congestion when you approve a 4 flat in a 3 flat zone???? What are people going to say in 10 years about our neighborhood of "new construction"? It seems like there is only one thing you consider - What about campaign contributions from developers?
The final irony of this all. When you do lose the election - Dan or King Rick will pull some strings..and I'm sure you'll be appointed to a 150K+ 20 hour a week job.
Finally, if Ted Matlak wins this election, I have only one option. I am moving out of Chicago, and I think if you live in Chicago you should move too. Do you want to live in a city where our "elected" officials work for the machine and not us, and think there goverment position is a right and not a privilege
I have lived in the 32nd ward for 9 years and in this time I have seen Matlack’s ability to get things done. My block's two vacant lots have been turned into beautiful homes and many homes have been rehabbed and refaced. We have a newly paved street, a relit alley, abandoned cars have been towed, and an alley rat problem resolved.
Beyond my block enhancements Bucktown has received --- thanks to Matlack …
a new library
new parks
a rejuvenated business district
a revamped manufacturing area now turned residential
newly paved streets
new curbs
new alley lights
new street lights
rat proof garbage cans
new stop signs and streetscapes
a redone el stop
upgrades to street drainage
I have seen it all happen due to Matlack’s ability to get things done and because of this he deserves to win re-election. Waguespack brings no experience to the table, just empty mud-slinging and unrealistic goals. I don't think he even understands the zoning process – it is not as easy as he says it is to rezone--- but I would expect a lack of understanding from someone with no experience. If Waguespack wants to improve Chicago neighborhoods I challenge him to prove himself in a ward that lacks all the improvements that Matlack has secured for us --- then at least he would have a track record that 32nd ward residents could evaluate, until then he has nothing to offer; so I am sticking to results and experience, I am sticking with Matlack!
All of that would have happened anyway, and in fact has happened all over the North Side. And take a look at the size of Chicago's budget, it's not like these things are being done for free.
What on earth does Matlak have to do with houses being built or rehabbed?
I'll give credit - in a bad way - for enabling all the crappy cinder-block cookie-cutter condos, but an alderman has zilch to do with single family homes and rehabs.
Abandoned cars? How about the car with the incessant alarms that kept going off on my block for a week and a half a few months back? 4 DAYS after myself and several neighbors called Matlaks office to have it removed, it was still there! After the office worker promised it would be removed THAT day!
I used to live in Logan Square. Alderman Colon was helpful on any issue I brought to his office. Matlak's office ignores you.
And you want to talk about the EL?!?! Why the hell do I get stuck standing on the Damen platform for 30 minutes at rush hour on a semi regular basis?!?! Redone my aunt petunia!!!
All the new construction on my block can be summed up in one word: eyesore. That giant condo building at the end of the block takes the cake though.
Matlak is nothing more than a machine hack. And I'm sick of machine hacks. Its time for a change in the 32nd.
-He coached Little League in Bucktown BEFORE it was gentrified.
-He spent two years in the Peace Corps in villages in Kenya building WATER SYSTEMS so villagers would have fresh water.
-He also worked with the villages' WOMEN'S GROUPS to help them form CO-OPSs to exchange produce, products and services at a local level.
-He helped TRACK REFUGEES in post-war Kosovo & Albania.
-He MEDIDATED between warring parties in Kosovo.
-He advised the new government in Kosovo about needed INFRASTRUCTURE after the war.
-He campaigned for new leadership in a very corrupt Berwyn.
-He has worked in Berwyn (while living in Bucktown) to end the local goverment WASTING, MISMANAGING, and ILLEGALY USING taxpayers' money.
-He has worked with the new city government in Berwyn to update their POLICE & FIRE response systems.
-Has worked with STATE government to bring ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT to Berwyn.
Yes, Scott Waguespack has EARNED the right to talk about CHANGE.
I'm a graduate student working full time. I should have spent my day studying. Instead, I'm happy to report I had a very productive day registering 15 friends to vote for Scott Waguespack.
Your selfish, unwarranted, corrupt reign has come to an end!
I like where I live. The schools are 300% better than 10 years ago, , parks, libraries. I wish all the condos would go too, but this is the market. When I sell my house, I, like everyone else, want the most money. Our neighbors sell to the developers because they get the most money. I hear zoning and want to know what realistic proposal there is to stop people from selling to the highest bidder.
I do know that much of Ukranian Village is now landmarked/protected. I also know that despite some media, no one came forward to save the Arrtful Dodger building. Where was Waguespack then?
I'm just tired the whole thing. Give me the guy that's actually done something.
What a wonderful opportunity to get rid of EVERY incumbent seeking to keep his/her job!
How about it, apathetic citizens of Chicago?
Get your butts off the couch and feel the thrill of actually voting for the winners!
The clout minions get to feel this thrill all the time, so why shouldn't you?
On April 17th, vote ONLY for the CHALLENGER!
Break the cycle of the same old, same old and feel the power of your vote.
And what do you define 'no one would do anything' as?
Did you call the Com Ed emergency number?
Was this 'power line' you say 'fell down' hot?
Was it still attached to the transformer?
Was it even a power line?
Do you even live in the city?
Are you the one in a thousand residents of the ward that 'merits' such special treatment?
And what does this minor event, even if true, have to do with the issue at hand, namely, why would anyone think that the incumbent alderman Matlik's priorities have anything to do with the interests of any of his constituents, other than the moneyed gentry and profiteering speculators?
Unless you want higher and higher property taxes, (wasted more and more often on expenditures meant only to enrich the already wealthy and empower the already powerful), to continue to fall for the same old crap from these machine hacks, who dole out minor league favors to the easily placated and save the truly profitable favors for themselves and their own, you'll take this rare opportunity to dump this bum Matlik back into the private sector, where he'll have to sink or swim like the rest of us working people.
In a sea of weak comments, the one attempting to blast "new resident" is the weakest. Does she "merit" special treatment? IT WAS A DOWNED POWER LINE!! I think Waguespack, himself, would acknowledge that Matlak was acting appropriately as an alderman in that instance, even if his supporters would not agree.
Some malcontents just can't see ANY situation fairly. Stupid is as stupid does.
this is baloney, Streets and San don't fix power lines!
I have a neighbor who couldn't even get Matlak's attention when he went and waited hours in his ward office.
so I'll tell you what - let's all call Matlak tonight at 8 p.m. with a similar request and see what happens.
"Matlak was acting appropriately as an alderman in that instance"
Alderman are not paid $100K a year to babysit Com Ed (or Streets and San, although they don't fix power lines, duh).
That is actually a perfect example of the discrepancy between what machine alderman think is their job, and what their job really is.
1) I did not 'blast' anyone, other than, perhaps, our disingenuous alderman Matlik. I merely expressed my doubts as to the reality of 'new resident's' post.
2) Further, I pointed out the very real possibility that some people may not know who to call concerning problems such as described in her post.
3) I also wondered how much time passed before she decided that 'no one would do anything'. Or if she, indeed, had called Com Ed, the entity responsible for the power lines. And also the only authority employing thousands of qualified individuals, with vastly more experience in safely handling the problem she described.
4) Since her post implied that the stated actions of alderman Matlik constituted proof that not only are the 32nd wards' citizens well served by him, but that his heroism should be rewarded by the ward's voters ensuring his reelection, I believe my further comments pertaining to his history of treating many, to most, of his constituents like so many sheeple was/is relevant.
5) Finally, why do we all seem to assume that, just because 'new resident' makes reference to 'my husband' in the post, that 'new resident' is a woman?
Being the alderman at the time, why didn't HE save the Dodger building?
Yes, it's a delicate issue, when some homeowners want their properties to bring 10 - 50 times what they originally paid for them and others, who want to continue to live here, can't afford the property tax increases, which, as we all know, is based on these same amazing increases in property values.
But, as is also well known, property values would not be so high if the speculators/builders were not able to get zoning variances on these 'tear-downs' they buy and build on.
And the granting of zoning variances is, effectively, solely in the hands of the alderman.
So, the alderman could be a powerful source of impeding the granting of variances and, by doing so, discourage much of the current buying, demolishing and building bigger frenzy.
This would, no doubt, displease those residents who had planned to sell and retire on their windfall, as well as those 'new residents' who bought their old or new homes primarily as an investment.
The speculators/builders would not be happy, but they'd survive and prosper by moving their activities elsewhere, likely stimulating developement/redevelopement in areas of our city sorely in need of improvements.
So, as is often the case, it's difficult to please everybody.
But I'd like to think that my alderman's highest priority is to please those residents of his/her ward who desire to live there, not just visit until they can cash in on their investment.
That is becoming more and more difficult to do, for reasons well known to all who have been here longer than a few years.
thus we get back to the question dodged by so many politicians- who should have the loudest voice when it comes to development decisions that affect our day to day lives, people who are here for the long haul, or people here to make some cash, find a mate and skadoodle?
The line in question (it turned out to be a Comcast line, but was live, sorry for the lack of specificity earlier)came down Sunday afternoon and stayed down until Tuesday night when Matlak came out and waited for streets and San. to show up to make sure that they actaully did show up and do something. I called Comed, Comcast, 311 (all several times, do you need me to define "several"?) as well as 911. With the 911 call a police officer showed up and put yellow "caution" tape around the alley portion of the downed line thereby blocking the alley. Other than that police officer, no one did anything to fix it (granted he didn't fix it but at least tried to block the area around it). Matlak called streets and san. to put the cable up because it was a hazard to the community (nearby school, dog park and bars so lots of foot traffic and it was hanging low enough in the street that if something the size of a moving truck had gone by it would have snagged it and yanked everything down)and then followed up with Comcast to do their jobs and take care of their own cables.
For the record: yes I do live in the city, I am a woman, I am not naive, I don't need Matlak to walk my dog or mow my yard, I do not think that I merit special attention from him or anyone else for that matter, just so we are clear the line was down for 2 full days and it was live (although low voltage), and I believe I answered the rest of your questions with the above recounting of events. Additionally to Nick, I say thank you for pointing out that I WAS being blasted by a malcontent. I thought this blog was about government and Matlak, and merely wanted to bring to light a particular situation involving him. I didn't think I would be attacked personally and have my IQ and residency questioned.
Anyone note the irony that I posted:
"what else did Matlak do you for you, walk your dog? mow your grass? install your Comcast line?"
I'm glad this got taken care of, but this doesn't exactly dissuade me from my opinion that this guy's priorities are completely wacked.
If he spent as much time and energy talking to the people who have been feeling the negative effects of his "devil may care" attitude about development as he apparently does fixing Comcast cable lines, maybe he'd be a better alderman worth keeping.
Growing up Italian has made me immune to all levels of 'ball-busting', so sometinmes I forget that my typically experienced forms of conversation might be perceived as being overly abrasive. My bad.
Also, if, as I suspect, you've had relatively little experience in both Chicago political banter, and, especially that engaged in on the Net, you can't really appreciate how civilized the majority of posts on this site truly are. Believe me, it can get pretty rough and tumble sometimes and it's a gift that some exchanges are conducted in this medium, and not face-to-face.
Thank you for taking the time to thoroughly clarify your posting and please forgive me if I, in any way offended you personally.
==THE ABUSES THAT ARE MATLIK==
sounds like the title of a horror movie.
It might wake up those who've been bamboozled by his lies and misrepresentations.
my parting comment, particularly aimed at the newer resident demographic, is yes, the 32 ward is a great place to live.
the question is, is Matlak actually responsible for that, or is he exploiting that for personal gain?
This is the populace Matlak is kissing up to, and who keep his campaign coffers fat and overflowing - can any of you afford these homes?
http://yochicago.com/today/new-construction/row-of...
"Looks like Chicago's newest millionaires' row is going to be on a private drive off North Paulina Street between Wolfram and George Streets in Lake View. JDL Development Corporation is building 11 single-family homes with five or six bedrooms and 5,600 to 8,300 square feet. The development, going by the name The Estates at Columbia Place, also has a common area with a swimming pool, spa and fitness area. Staggering as these houses may appear, they could be the carriage homes of the castles we spotted a few blocks over at Surf Street and Hermitage Avenue."
Do you really think Matlak has a vision for the ward? As a middle, if not upper-middle class citizen, I don't find "money talks" to be a vision. I like the diversity of the City, I like different people of all kinds, and this reinvention of the City as some sort of exclusive gated millionaire's club just sickens me.
Thanks I'll keep an eye out for it and grab one.
re: Longer time Resident
You are completely correct. I love living here and I love the neighborhood, but I can't afford to buy a home in the 32nd ward (not even taking into consideration the property taxes). On the other hand though, I'd rather rent an apartment, older and with a little charcter, than buy something ugly that I can barely afford (if at all) that looks like everything else on the street. But that could just be me.
Thanks everyone for your comments and for educating "the new kid".
All true Chicagoans LOVE the old architecture and the atmosphere of history they so generously provide us with.
And the variety of cultures and people that we live with, in this greatest of all cities, bar none.
And being a 'true' Chicagoan is a matter of the heart, of how much respect you sincerely feel for the great builders of the past, not how long you've lived here.
And of how much respect you feel for your fellow Chicagoans.
While it is still sadly true that we, as Chicagoans, are separated by many less important issues, I like to believe that, at heart, we all would like to feel that sense of unity that many enjoy in being 'family'.
Let's hope, and work towards that hope, that by doing the things that unite us all, and by avoiding those things that continue to separate us, we can all help make this the place to live.
That is, after all is said and done, what our leaders, elected and otherwise, are supposed to be helping us to do.
"On the other hand though, I'd rather rent an apartment, older and with a little charcter, than buy something ugly that I can barely afford (if at all) that looks like everything else on the street. But that could just be me. "
god bless you. part of what makes this ward so great is that there are good rental options. but if Mathack stays in office another 4 years, I guarantee you more and more of those rental units will disappear.
Or maybe madam Zaryczny is more of a 'if you can't beat 'em, join 'em' kinda gal.
One-on-one runoffs are the voters best opportunity to unseat entrenched incumbents.
Do the residents of the ward really want to go through 4 more years of Matlik's bullshit?
It's time to flush the toilet, and start with a fresh bowl.
Whether you vote FOR Scott Waguespack, or AGAINST Matlik, show up on April 27th and cast your vote.
You KNOW that Matlik's Minions will out and about casting their's.
Mr. Waguespack claims to be a long-time Bucktown resident and looking back on what Bucktown was like 20-30 years ago, he came into an area the was already gentrifying and getting better than what it used to be during the 1970's and 1980's. He claims that he has seen many transformations in our neighborhood and ward, yet he does not explain if they are good at all? Well, I for one, have been a resident for nearly 30 years and I can say that Ted Matlak has done a fantastic job for this ward. It is in great shape, thanks to his leadership.
Mr. Waguespack claims that his knowledge of ward issues and his unique background makes him well suited to steward the 32nd Ward through the changes that are going on today? Where was he 10 years ago when we had gang bangers and drug dealers on the street corners. Where was he when we had dilapdated streets, sewers and curbside garbage all over the ward?
I can say that Mr. Waguespack has no plan and he has no vision. It will take more than a man with a political science degree and an organizer who runs a little league baseball team to run a city ward and it's day to day operations. Ted Matlak has the experience and my family and my neighbors support him. You should as well. Thank you for your time.
Never once did I see Super Matlik out and about, battling the gang bangers.
They and the dope peddlers, (often one and the same), were moved out by the effects that the 'urban pioneers' have had on the neighborhoods' attractiveness and property values.
How many life-long residents were bought-out and/or cheated-out, by the heavily connected, few, real estate hustlers Matlik and his predecessors shilled for?
Why did it take the astronomical appreciation of land/property values to get the routine maintenance and repairs done in this ward?
Was it a case of 'no need to fix things up for the niggers, spics and old-timers, let's wait until they've moved and/or died and we can tax and spend the dollars of the new influx of 'urban pioneer wannabees!'?
Oh, and the real 'urban pioneers? The people who moved here because the low cost of housing and beautiful architecture offset the risks the said gang-bangers/dope-dealers posed to them every day?
They'll just have to pony-up, too!
Or move their asses out, with the rest of the 'deadbeats' and 'undesirables'.
Ted, the Machine, Matlik sure has the experience, alright.
The poster above nailed it, just nailed it.
10 years ago Scott Waguespack was working in the Peace Corp, this is the kind of commitment he brings to the table, one based on compassion, not on property values.
The poster above nailed it, just nailed it.
10 years ago Scott Waguespack was working in the Peace Corp, this is the kind of commitment he brings to the table, one based on compassion, not on property values.
Fabulous Flanagan!!!!!!!!!
(the disappearing poster!)
Neat magic trick, John, the same one the 'Magnificent Matlik' is adept at pulling, whenever any of his less fortunate constituents came begging for a little help from the warden's, I mean alderman's, lackeys.
Hey, didn't the Irish remain 'neutral' during WW II?
You know, neutral, that half-assed way of helping Herr Adolf pummel the rest of the British Isles.
Heil Flanagan!
Heil Matlik!!
Heil little Richie!!!
Heil the almighty 'Payola'!!!
Who else but Daddy Ted-Bucks$ could give the gift of larger homes for the hundreds of orphans who call the 32nd Ward home. (This message sponsored by the Developers and Builders made wealthy by Ted Matlak, Inc.)
32nd Ward candidates focus on zoning, development in debate
By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER
Staff Writer
Alderman Ted Matlak accused his opponent Scott Waguespack of making promises on zoning that he can't keep as alderman at a Tuesday night debate between the two candidates running for the 32nd Ward spot.
And Waguespack told the roughly 100 people who turned out for the debate that Matlak is beholden to developers who are contributing hundreds of thousands of dollars to the alderman's campaign.
It was the first match-up between incumbent Matlak and challenger Waguespack since the Feb. 27 election. In that race, Matlak won 47 percent of the vote, Waguespack took 39 percent and challenger Catherine Zaryczny won 14 percent. Since none of the three won a majority of the vote, the two top candidates will face each other in a runoff election set for April 17.
Matlak, who has been criticized by opponents for the 2006 teardown of the Artful Dodger, a Queen Anne-style building in Bucktown, said neither he nor his opponent would have been able to stop the demolition. Both Waguespack and Zaryczny criticized Matlak in the campaign for allowing the teardown of the historic building to make way for a large single-family home.
"If you do not own a building, and it is not landmarked, and they have the zoning, and they want to tear it down, then they can do it," Matlak said. "It's called property rights and it's guaranteed in the Constitution."
He said the case was similar with sale and redevelopment of the Association House, an historic building at 2150 W. North where developers are constructing more than a dozen condominiums on a nearby playground. But Matlak said there's no legal way to stop them.
"People wanted to use the landmark to stop it," he said. "You can't landmark and empty lot. People bought that lot, they can build what they want.
"There are limits to what the alderman can do, and you have to work within the law and the system to get things the best you can, and you just can't say, 'I'm going to do this and I'm going to do that.'"
Waguespack said he would work more openly with community organizations to make them aware of teardowns and major developments before they happen.
"A lot of these issues can be resolved by working together with the community, working together with the residents who live around here to make sure they know what's going on before these things happen, so they have a voice in what's happening in this ward," Waguespack said. "As far as building what people in their own taste want to build, that's up to them. We have a lot of modern homes here. We have a lot of green homes that are being built, and I think people should have that. They should be allowed to build whatever they want within those zoning rights, and I won't stop that."
Waguespack, however, said he would be skeptical of developers requesting zoning changes in order to build new structures that are out of scale with neighboring homes. He said City Hall just rewrote the city zoning code in 2004, but developers still come asking for zoning changes to maximize their profit.
Matlak argued that many of the zoning changes he's approved have simply allowed larger homes for families who want to stay in the neighborhood. Waguespack, however, described it as a payoff to developers.
"I'm pretty sure [the City] spent a few million dollars just rewriting the 1957 [zoning] code," Waguespack said. "Now, the alderman, as my campaign literature says, has made 300 zoning changes just in the last few years, and he's taken well over $300,000 in campaign contributions. What I ask you is how many of those developers have orphans that they've picked up off the street or have a few extra kids that they needed a rezone for?"
"The City Council did their job a few years ago and what our alderman has gone back and done is spot-zoned throughout this ward wherever he needed a campaign contribution."
Matlak said some of the zoning changes allowed for new developments such as parks and the new Bucktown-Wicker Park Library.
"Three hundred zoning changes and every one was a crooked payoff to Matlak," Matlak said. "I guess when I had to change the zoning for the library to go in here, I got paid off then. When I had to change the zoning to build a park that was crooked. ... A lot of people who are new to this neighborhood, there is a better than average chance that the house you're living in today needed a zoning change to go there, and I resent the implication that I'm taking payoffs, and if you can prove something, prove it."
http://www.chicagojournal.com/main.asp?SectionID=2...
First, what it takes to 'run' a ward:
== The authority to enable the granting of zoning variances, selectively doled out to those who pay, and play the game with discretion.
== City, county and state jobs, to be given to those who are especially helpful in the gaining and retaining of public office for those who 'play the game'.
== No-bid, or ridiculously Low-bid, contracts, with ample 'cost over-run allowances', (unheard-of in the private sector), discretely granted to those who 'qualify'.
== Selective, efficient services, provided to the same 'qualified' residents / property owners, for the same reasons.
== 'People' skills, primarily those helpful in 'blowing off' the wards' common residents' complaints and concerns in such a way as to avoid stirring up any significant number of residents' resentment of same. ('cause there are always those pesky elections every four years!)
== Skilled liars on staff, to do what skilled liars do, lie, in as believable a manner as needed.
== Personality, the kind that inspires confidence in those of like-mind, that you're a 'one-hand-washes-the-other' and 'you-scratch-my-back, I'll-scratch-yours' kinda guy/gal.
(anyone who wants to 'wiki' this post and add your own elaborations, feel free to do so.)
Now, what it takes to serve the residents of a ward:
== Honesty
== Integrity
== Humility
== Moral Intelligence
== Fairness
== Common Sense
== Common Decency
== Tolerance
== Patience
== Empathy
== Commitment
== Wisdom
== Knowledge
== Kindness
== Strength of Character
== Respect
== Honor
== Appreciation
== Responsibility
== Dedication to the above
We sleep in the bed we make for ourselves.
Are you sleeping in the bed of your choice?
And lord spare me, Matlak has nothing to do with the real estate market, except for providing quick profit opportunities for the fly-by-night condo developers.
So is the ousted corrupt regime in Berwyn also your idea of a working system, John?
The only effect that "how well their property values have soared" has had on the 'residents' of our ward has been SOARING PROPERTY TAX BILLS.
For those of us who LIVE HERE, and intend to CONTINUE TO LIVE HERE, the incredible appreciation of the value of our HOMES, which you refer to as 'property', is to make it MORE difficult to remain where we are.
So, how do you figure we, the RESIDENTS, are "better off"?
The only minorities that warrant the use of "foul language" are the FUCKING SPECULATORS and FLY-BY-NIGHT 'INVESTORS' whose activities are driving out those long-term residents who consider their neighborhood to be the place WHERE THEY LIVE. And would like to CONTINUE TO LIVE, if only they could still afford to.
Your statements, and Matlik's ACTIONS over the years, have shown that HE has more in common with the GOP than anyone.
As for the insinuation that it would be a bad thing for a 'member' of the 'minority' political party to be elected to the city council, well, what party affiliation do you think most of the above mentioned 'investors' belong to?
Also, as far as your comment of "Peace Corps? That's his track record Pfffft."
Geez, John, get your head outa your ass! Do you have ANY idea of what the Peace Corps is all about?
Even if you never would, or could, consider participating in activities such as this, do you have any idea what it takes to do so?
The personal sacrifices made?
The intelligence and abilities to GET THINGS DONE, without the vast resources available to the Matliks of this world, (said resources routinely wasted, stolen and misused by same)?
Whatever Scott's plans are, we already have seen what Matlik's priorities are.
See YOU on election day.
Well, Ive lived in the ward a long time. 30 years to be exact, on Henderson, by Ravenswood. Roscoe Village was a hole for a long time. Today, it is one of the better places to live in Chicago. As far as his Scott being in the Peace Corps, so what? I served 6 years in the US Navy for my country on board a Navy Warship for 5 years. That was my personal Sacrifice. What about you? Does it matter in his quest for a job as Alderman? Is that the skill set we are looking for here? No. You talk about property taxes. Matlak has nothing to do with property taxes, if you have a beef with it, go to the General Assembly, your State Representative. They are the ones who won't continue the 7% tax caps. What's Scott's plan on all of this that we have been talking about? All he states are vague descriptions and attacks, just like what I see on this very board. He is nothing more than a GOP candidate saying he is a Democrat. Well, we shall see on election day who the victor will be. If you don't like living in Chicago, move out. Scott did. He's in Berwyn.
You put in your tour, followed orders, never thinking above your pay grade, always had plenty of what you needed to do your job, three plus squares a day, room and board and plenty of skivvies, 30 plus years ago.
Sounds like you never kicked the habit of taking orders.
Neither has Ted.
"Well, Ive lived in the ward a long time. 30 years to be exact, on Henderson, by Ravenswood. Roscoe Village was a hole for a long time. Today, it is one of the better places to live in Chicago."
But you forgot to answer the more relevant question, ie, what in the hell does Matlak have to do with it?
I'd say Roscoe Village has improved in *spite* of Ted Matlak, not due to him. And I know plenty of people who grew up in the neighborhood who would dispute your "hellhole" description of Roscoe Villae (which in fact until no more than 10 years ago referred exclusively to a few blocks on Roscoe St itself, between Damen & Western).
nice try, apparently you've spent 30 years holed up in a bubble and oblivious to Chicago politics and corruption.
Does that include the CIA overthrowing the democratically elected politician Mossadegh, and then reinstalling a dictator along th elikes of Saddam Hussein?
Sounds like your concept of politics
In a word yuppies. And that is the problem not the alderman.
This always boggles people, and provokes a lot of defensiveness, but if you don't understand your neighborhood as it is seen from the POV of kids and the elderly, you don't know the neighborhood.
The 32nd Ward is not the only area that has seen urban renewal in the past two decades - every major city in this nation has seen an influx of private capital and new residents who have revitalized most neighborhoods in our urban centers - Chicago is no different, except for the gross misuse of our tax dollars through the TIF program, as Mr. Joravsky has been documenting. (Some south and west side wards in the city desperately need such programs in order to entice investment into those neglected neighborhoods - while private investment follows those "yuppies" on the north side and the in and around the loop)
The strongest argument that is made for reelecting Mr. Matlak seems to be a few antidotal remarks that he pays attention to the residents of the ward by patrolling the allies or getting a library built - most wards have a new library - it is one of the mayors "proud accomplishments" - so I don't think this Alderman should claim he did anything spectacular.
Contrasted to the 1st ward, (just to the south of the 32nd ward) which has an alderman for only four years, he has introduced over 70 CPAN units to try and balance the effects of gentrification. The 32nd ward has zero. What gives?
The residents of the 32nd Ward should ask what Mr. Matlak has accomplished given 9 years as an alderman - any ordinances that distinguish him from his colleges? How has he helped our public safety, public schools, public transit, lent any help toward transparency of were are tax dollars are spent? I don't see any evidence he has done anything to help - It is time for a change!
http://www.chicagojournal.com/main.asp?SectionID=2...
I had to laugh at the History Major's comments though. I was only referring to 1979 when our embassy was taken over in Tehran and he had to go back to the 1950's to one up me for "points" on a blog for Christ sakes.
Although some may agree that it is time for change, I am not one of them. I know about the other candidate and his motives and who he represents. He represents the State and County GOP, posing as a Democrat, yet he does not live in the 32nd ward, however, he really lives and works for a GOP Mayor in Berwyn Illinois. To me, that does not represent the ward, it only represents his and his friends interests. Good Day.
Roscoe was a hell hole 10 years ago and it is a better place to live. Hamilton school is better as well.
I don't know where you live, and let's face it, the 32nd is a wide ranging area and very different from say the Ukrainian Village or North Ave. Not everyone will agree. So far, I can see you are probably more like someone who is on Scott's staff, rather than a concerned resident. You are a phony.
did you grow up in the 32nd ward? what are you basing your assessment of the public schools on, because last I checked, they still are subpar, and most people who can afford to place their children elsewhere. What has Matlak done, if anything, for the kids in this ward?
and just what are "better vernaculars" anyway?
Your post contains so many points of light and truth that the best thing I can do is suggest it be re-read, as many times as it takes, by all voters sincerely interested in fully comprehending the pervasiveness of the corruption which Matlik is, and has been, a participant in.
It's been the old game here, of 'money talks and all else walks', BECAUSE the aldermen/women take their orders NOT from their constituents, but from their 'machine' bosses.
Granted, areas whose residents lack the financial means to revive their neighborhoods on their own need the influx of private capitol, but this private capitol will never be invested for the benefit of those lacking same.
That's what government is supposed to do, fairly and wisely use PUBLIC capitol to improve those areas, or, at least maintain the infrastructure of same.
The earlier post on 'Da Chicago Way' hits it right on the head.
There has been DECADES of DELIBERATE NEGLECT of basic services in selected areas of our city, for the purposes stated in that post.
It's not that difficult to figure out which neighborhoods are being 'worked' in this way today.
Those truly desperately-in-need areas will continue to be neglected, per the 'Da Chicago Way' game plan, until such time as those with 'private capitol' deem the area is 'ripe' enough for plucking.
Until such time as the voters choose to elect individuals of honesty, integrity and sincere commitment to truly serving the PRESENT residents, which IS, after all, what an elected representative is supposed to do, nothing will change.
With only a very few exceptions, the current incumbent aldermen represent ONLY those they take their orders from, 'those' being everyone BUT their constituents.
Until the residents of those wards of decades-old neglect use their brains and the power of their votes to elect independent-of-the-machine candidates, they'll continue to experience deliberate neglect, for the purposes previously referred to, said purposes intended to depress property values and encourage current residents to 'move out of Chicago'.
I won't even try to elaborate on the illegal and immoral misuse of billions of tax dollars over the decades; it would be like trying to count the stars in the sky.
I've read a phrase elsewhere that rings true:
"FLUSH THE TOILET AND START WITH A FRESH BOWL"
Whatever one thinks a challenger candidate might do if elected, one KNOWS what the incumbents HAVE done and will CONTINUE to do, namely, FOLLOW THE ORDERS OF THEIR BOSSES, which are NOT the residents of their ward.
There is no need to wait for these crooks to be caught and convicted, just fire the bastards!
WHEN IN DOUBT, VOTE THEM OUT.
well excu-u-u-u-use me.
you brought up events in 1979, apparently under the delusion that they're relevant to a Chicago aldermanic race in 2007, so it seemed quite appropriate to put those events in context.
so let's refresh - why did the Iranian people revolt in the 70s? because they were living under the oppressive thumb of a dictator the USA imposed on them. read "All the Shah's Men" if you'd like more detail.
But if you want Relevance, here you go:
About the other Candidate:
http://www.berwyn-il.gov/administration.htm
Department Heads
Scott Waguespack Administrative Coordinator 708-788-2660 x-291
Working for a Republican Mayor
and why does he do so:
http://www.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll/Illinois/be...
242.09 RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT.
(a) Except as otherwise provided by State statute, no person shall be eligible for any City office who is not a qualified elector of the City and who has not resided therein at least one year immediately preceding his or her appointment.
~Because he has to live there!
Don't be fooled by Scott and the posters who claim he's living here. He owns a building here and that is all he has done. He's a GOP monkey and his friends are the GOP in this county.
Try living in the Austin, Garfield, Grand Crossing, Chatham, or Douglas Park neighborhoods, or in any of the 'projects'. (you know, those warehouses for the 'undesirables' built for the sole purpose of racial segregation, all political claims to the contrary)
Sounds to me like Mr. Flanagan has been, and is, a loyal participant in the 'Da Chicago Way' strategies.
So, we should all be thrilled and happy with being ruled by a one-party city government, right?
Actung!
Heil Da Maya'!
Heil Da Machine!
Heil Da 'benevolent dictatorship'!
Heil da 'rule of law'! ('machine law', dat is!)
Heil da machine monkeys!
Heil da 'Chicago Way'!
And Rogers Park now?
Mr. Flanagan - I am a loyal Democrat who has worked for Gov. Mario Cuomo - volunteered on campaigns for Sen. Feingold – Maj. Paul Hackett for Congress (a decorated Marine Major running in a special election in Ohio that is overwhelmingly Republican and we came close to winning) Paul Vallas for Gov of IL and for Maj. Tammy Duckworth - I can assure you that Scott is a true a Democrat and that those working with him are as well - we are from a new generation of Democrats who reject the notion that only those born into the Democratic establishment of Cook County qualify as Democrats - and that there are better folks than the Todd Stroger’s of this world who best exemplify and will fight for OUR party and its principles.
The residents of the 32nd Ward have one of the few opportunities within Chicago to show that the tired old ways of the machine are coming to an end – four years from now we are going to have a real fight throughout this city (and if things don’t improve in Springfield – It may get ugly even sooner) The truth is we live in a state-county-and city that have serious budgetary problems – and an infrastructure that can not cope with the current demands, much less any increase in future demands – a public pension system that is a ticking time bomb. Reelecting anyone who has not worked toward solving any of these issues – but is linked to the patronage system that Federal prosecutors have had to focus on dismantling – seems to me one more missed opportunity – I don’t know Alderman Matlik – and don’t care to – so I have no particular axe to grind with the wards administration, but do sincerely believe he is the type of undistinguished representation that we can no longer afford. We need people who are going to shake things up – and I am confidant that Scott will not just go along to get along – but will work hard and with the residents of the 32nd ward to empower them so that they have real input in the direction of the ward and the city.
Chris Lawrence
No need to ask forgiveness, alias is the norm in this arena of ideas, as it is conducive to focusing on the idea, and not the personality source of same.
After all, a poster's agenda is apparent in the nature of the ideas being posted, as is the poster's perspective.
It is a refreshing thought that the 20 - 30 somethings are beginning to realize the inherent flaws in playing the 'game' of politics by the same old rules, rules which are designed to perpetuate control OF the people, not control BY the people, of their governance.
Is the time ripe for change?
Only on election days do we have a chance of knowing the answer to this question.
Tho I may not live long enough to know the answer to this question, I'm doing my best to keep breathing. :)
Second: Re: Mr. Flanagan
I almost have to gag myself to refrain from expletives! Will idiot suffice? I'm a 20+year resident
of Bucktown. I've been watching Scott walk his dog, rake his leaves and shovel his snow for years. Including the morning of the last snowfall. I guess he rushed in from his residence in Berwyn (most likely a GOP coven).
Finally. Being a 5th generation Chicagoan, I certainly can claim to love this city at least as much as the teary eyed Daly clan. And I say that I detest the form of backroom ,closed door mob style politics that have been practiced by this Mayor and his lackeys like Matlak.
If sunlight is the best disinfectant-Scott , Let the sunshine in!
1) is there a 'john flanagan' on the city, county or state payroll?
2) is there a 'john flanagan' listed as an employee of Matlik's political office, ward organization, or any businesses Matlik owns or has an interest in?
Or any supporters of Matlik?
Or any of the many 'connected' politicos and their associates?
3) is there a 'john flanagan' listed as having an interest in any business, LLC, or financial entity either doing business with the city, county or state?
Or doing business with anyone doing business with the city, county or state?
Or as an employee of any of the above?
4) is there a 'john flanagan' listed as having an interest in any of the 'connected' real estate 'investment' firms presently profiting from the 'Chicago Way' schemes?
Or as an employee of same?
Or any of the builders / contractors participating in the current 'building boom', especially those accused of or being investigated for bribery of city officials?
Just who IS this staunch supporter of Matlik?
And does it really matter, anyway?
Maybe someone should check the public records for the following: (A) Maybe you are not smart enough to do it yourself or are you lazy?
1) is there a 'john flanagan' on the city, county or state payroll? (A) No, I work for myself as a Computer Specialist.
2) is there a 'john flanagan' listed as an employee of Matlik's political office, ward organization, or any businesses Matlik owns or has an interest in?
Or any supporters of Matlik?
Or any of the many 'connected' politicos and their associates? (A) No, I am a resident of 30 years in Roscoe Village who feels that there has to be more than empty promises from a person who does not even work in Chicago.
3) is there a 'john flanagan' listed as having an interest in any business, LLC, or financial entity either doing business with the city, county or state?
Or doing business with anyone doing business with the city, county or state?
Or as an employee of any of the above? (A) No. I don't do business with any government or political organization.
4) is there a 'john flanagan' listed as having an interest in any of the 'connected' real estate 'investment' firms presently profiting from the 'Chicago Way' schemes?
Or as an employee of same?
Or any of the builders / contractors participating in the current 'building boom', especially those accused of or being investigated for bribery of city officials? (A) No. I only own a two flat that I purchased in 1984.
Just who IS this staunch supporter of Matlik? (A) He's someone who really knows the other candidate for what he is: A Republican who works and lives in another area of Chicago land and has no plan and no vision.
And does it really matter, anyway? (A) It will with my vote on election day, when Alderman Matalak takes this phony to the woodshed on election day. Funny, what do yo have to say about the fact that Scott works and lives in Berwyn, you know, the Residency requirement in Berwyn, yet no one here has made any claim to say otherwise? Is it just fireman and police officers in Berwyn that have to live there or did Scott get a pass from da mayor in Berwyn?
Does this mean that you're looking forward to cashing in on your 'investment' soon?
Maybe you'll take your windfall and move to Berwyn.
You seem to know it so well.
Property Taxes, (part of your rent, if you don't own property AND part of the price you pay for everything you buy, goods and services, 'cause the businesses you buy from pay the same or greater taxes than you do.)
Sales taxes of all kinds.
Income taxes, both state and federal.
Licenses, Fees, Fines, Permits, etc. (also passed on to the consumers)
Utility taxes, in addition to the sales taxes, which juice your utility bills.
Mystery taxes you may or may not see, and couldn't know what they're for anyway.
What's the calculation now, something like 40% - 45% of our GROSS income is taken from us in taxes.
Every year we work from January 1st until mid May and ALL of our income earned during that time goes directly into the pockets of some government agency.
Granted, many things that government uses our tax dollars for are beneficial to us all.
Many, however, are not.
Yet, year after year, decade after decade, there still seems to be a steady 70% - 80% of our fellow citizens who either don't vote or don't even bother to register.
Our 'elected officials' pay lip service to 'getting more people to register', and only make efforts to do so that benefit their particular political party.
WAKE UP, WAKE UP, SLEEPY VOTERS!
Our fates are in our own hands.
For that matter, another post noted that Mr. Matlik was appointed? Where does he live? How long's he been there?
I'd really like to know these things before I decide how to vote. Thanks.
A nice thought, one that SEEMS intuitively valid.
And yet, as the old song goes 'it t'aint necessarily so'.
Frankly, I don't care where my elected official lives, 'cause that doesn't assure me of anything, other than that he/she is complying with a rule that, in no way, insures what it pretends to insure, namely, a greater responsiveness and understanding of the represented areas' citizens concerns and desires.
Where either, or neither, of these two candidates live in my ward is of MUCH less importance to me than what each of their abilities to govern are.
Which INCLUDES what the incumbent has SHOWN, by his previous actions, to be his priorities and loyalties.
The questions I ask, when deciding who to cast my vote for, are those whose answers convince me of the quality of that person, not just how well they can/have complied with the 'letter' of law, and not the 'spirit' of same.
I don't know where Matlik or Waguespack lives or owns property, where each fellow takes the majority of his daily shits.
I do know that no human being is 100% honest, 100% of the time.
Not even the J.H. post is completely honest. Read it carefully and you'll see.
I do know that I'd rather consider the forest as a whole, than focus on a single bug crawling down a branch on one of the many trees in that forest.
The big picture here is Chicago Machine Rule and the outrageous burdens it has imposed on most of the citizens of our great city.
I'd vote for a friggin' Martian over a Machine Hack, just to disrupt the rhythm of corruption we've been dancing to for generations.
The machine hacks' minions' only response to criticism is to shout loudly, 'if ya don't like livin' here, ya' can MOVE to da 'burbs!!!!'
Merely another way to say 'fuck you, you ain't got no clout!'
If J.H. really believes that the 'Residency Requirement' insures honesty, integrity and loyalty to his constituents needs, in an alderman, or any elected official, if it's that important an issue for him, then he'll cast his vote on that issue and be one more voter who 'can't see the forest for the trees'.
The very definition of 'a breath of fresh air' REQUIRES that air to come from somewhere other than the fetid, stench-filled atmosphere of the 'smoke-filled room', ie. from OUTSIDE that room.
MATLIK STINKS OF THAT SMOKE-FILLED ROOM.
SCOTT WAGUESPACK IS THAT BREATH OF FRESH AIR.
I know who I'M voting for and why.
Yes, this is the number 1 major issue that the challenger to the Alderman's job has yet to actually talk about in any forum and in any meeting. He promises alot, but what has he delivered really in the community he represents, lives and works in the town of Berwyn?
I'm a person who would like to see action, we get plenty of words from politicians and alot of promises.
For me, the area I live in is a heck of alot better than it used to be since I moved here in the 1980's.
From what I understand, Matlak grew up in the 32nd ward. That's really no difference to me, it's more of what he has done to Roscoe Village, the old Wiebolt Store area on Lincoln, etc.
Yet, from some of the pundits here, (or it is probably just one individual, making themselves into several people speaking out) all I hear about is the machine politics and anyone who speaks plainly about the ward and the person who runs it for us, gets nothing more than shout downs, knocking of your heritage and foul language.
Yes folks, those are the people who support SCOTT WAGUESPACK.
If you liked Alan Keyes, the outsider the GOP in this state who chose for Senator in 2004, you'll like this guy just the same.
If you like what Matlik has "done to Roscoe Village, the old Wiebolt Store area on Lincoln, etc." , than your priorities are crystal clear; encourage the domination and influx of the moneyed gentry, the astronomical rise in property taxes, the proliferation of millionaire mansions and the driving out of all who can no longer afford to live here.
Sure, you'll get some big bucks for your tear-down shack and, if moving is what your end goal is, so be it.
Just don't claim to be one of the many who want to continue to live here, but find it harder and harder to afford to do so.
All thanks to the 'machine' strategies Matlik is a vital participant in.
The only foul language present here are the outright lies and the lies coated in less relevant truth that 'da machine' is so skilled at propagating.
How about addressing the issues that hit the voters who want to live here in the pocketbook?
The corruption via payoffs, bribes, sweetheart contracts, selective zoning variances, and all the usual antics practiced by the 'machine' and it's members?
I choose NOT to wait around for the indictments to come down, not when I can vote the bastardly crooks out of office, even if it's only one crook at a time.
You say you served in the Navy, so foul language isn't new to your ears.
Following orders and doing what you're told apparently is.
Ah so it has been you with the blogging of so many, yet you are one LOL. What a phony.
I think your beef all along are people of wealth and people, who not born here or are considered professional are the ones you are pissed off at here today and all of last week.
You see, I have no problem with the people who have moved into the neighborhood, along with them, came the expensive homes, and with them, came a better environment.
Will I get big $$$ for my house? Probably will, when I choose it is time, but why would you think I have a home that would be considered a tear down? Is it because of what you have seen? That perhaps many of the homes you have seen torn down in your neighborhood, should have been a long time ago?
I think you have read too many news papers and have yet to prove Mr. Matlak is connected to any of the things you have stated.
Your accusations are baseless, just as the challenger's claim that he will actually do something about the fantasies you both claim exist.
I think I struck a nerve here bud. Tell Scott at the Campaign office tomorrow morning there are people who know that there is more to being an elected official than living in his mothers home and claim he is a resident.
Tell him to study harder for the Bar exam, who knows, he may make it the sixth time around?
As far as the Navy crack, he guy, this is a blogger, not a war ship. There's a difference swab.
The anonymous nature of this venue is what encourages discussion; the consideration and analysis of ideas, not petty, personal, agenda-driven nit-picking is what a 'blog' is all about.
Some fail to appreciate this facet of the medium and remain stuck in the ruts of their own opinions.
My "beef" is not with those who work for a living, nor with those whose talents and skills honestly gain them wealth.
It IS with those who shamelessly exploit the hard work and life-long efforts of their fellow citizens, without even a 'thank you' and do so without conscience.
That describes the policies and actions of 'machine' politics to a tee, said 'machine' of which Ted Matlik is an active member.
You say that along with the "expensive homes", and their occupants, came "a better environment".
Does this mean you considered your previous neighbors 'undesirable'?
Perhaps the neighborhood is now more to your liking.
Tell that to all of the lessor income folks who have been displaced, folks who enjoyed living in the neighborhood of their birth and of their parents births.
Oh,