The Parks

Another news story for you today. Buzz Magazine today had an article in it addressing an issue that I had just heard about this past weekend. The Governor of our fine state of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, has passed down a ruling closing 11 state parks and 13 state historical sites. These sites are primarily in the heart of our great state. Some are in our very capital, and are old stomping grounds of the inspiration for the state motto, Abraham Lincoln.

Now, I am all for small government, but one of the things I really do enjoy about taxes is the resources they give us and help protect. There are plenty of other ways to cut our bloated government without taking away valuable resources to the heartland as well as historical sites to help us remember how we got here. Obviously, I am definitely affected by this myself by the closing of Weldon Springs State Park, a favorite place to go for day camp and in evenings with my family.

Now, I definitely believe a couple of courses of action are required. While I definitely am disappointed at the ruling of Rod, I believe that we need to pursue all avenues. The first is to petition to him. To show to him that the heart of this state matters. The fact is, as Governor of Illinois, he doesn't even spend his time in the capital of Springfield, but rather in his Chicago home. This is intensely disagreeable and disregards a standard asked of a public servant. A public servant who is to serve the ENTIRE state. If he will not budge, and allow for a funding solution, then I believe it is the call of those that want a park, to push for a park in their own means. Perhaps this means charging user fees, but it will allow us to preserve the nature we so dearly love, and the outdoor recreation we need. As Barack Obama is encouraging parents to tell kids to turn off the tv and go outside, we are, in Illinois, taking away the outside...

Please consider writing to the Governor with me as this person has. Take the initiative to help preserve the entire state of Illinois, from the Northeast, which gets most attention, all the way to the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.

Email Governor Blagojevich here.