Turnout a credit to attentive public
We understand that this space isn’t where our readers turn for opinions on national issues, but bear with us a moment-there’s a compliment coming your way.
Last week’s primary voting in Illinois and more than 20 other states across the U.S. was remarkably exciting for a number of reasons. It’s the closest this country has ever been to holding a national primary, it was the earliest date for such polling in this state’s history, the turnout was tremendous and there’s a palpable level of interest within every demographic group.
The likelihood that Democrats will nominate the first woman or the first black man to be the next president has already guaranteed this election a prominent place in history.
But the level of local interest in the presidential contest and others is worth praising. Over the years, Forest Park has always scored well in the category of voter turnout and Feb. 5 was no exception. Residents here shattered the impressive suburban average of 43 percent with a voter turnout mark in excess of 52 percent. That figure is a credit to the politically active spirit that lives here.
Despite earlier laments nationwide that this year’s campaign season would be too long to hold Joe Citizen’s attention, the general elections on Nov. 4 will surely draw an even greater number of those who wish to be heard. Whoever your candidate, be sure to lend a voice.
… Except when it’s irrelevant
Another poll that has captured Forest Park’s attention was conducted online recently by the Chicago Tribune. Editors there were attempting to learn which neighborhood was the best for dining out, and if you haven’t heard already, Forest Park romped Lincoln Square and Logan Square.
The outcome of this online contest is practically irrelevant, but Forest Park should take heart that it was even in the running. Now that may sound like something of a booby prize, but when you consider all the Chicago neighborhoods with great eats it’s no small victory to be on the list.
“I think that Forest Parkians stuffed the ballot box at the beginning, middle and end,” Tribune editor Linda Bergstrom said. “But you’re right, there’s more going on there now than there has ever been.”
At length, this paper has written of the economic turnaround that’s evident on Madison Street and that coverage certainly has been appreciated by our readers. But it’s always exciting to see your name in lights and these prosperous times have garnered this little town some well deserved accolades.
