War Zone - Iraq? No, Chicago

Nine people died in 36 shootings in Chicago over the last week-end.

But, if you listen to Mayor Daley, you're safe. Yeah, sure. I guess we shouldn't take too many shots (figuratively, of course) at the new police chief, Jody Weis. He has only been in office a short time, so what is going on, has been going on for a long time.

It was interesting to watch a broadcast of his press conference, when he reported - with somewhat of a deadpan expression - that this year wasn't all that much worse than either of the past two years.

We don't have to wonder why the U.S. troops in Iraq can't quell the violence there. We can't even get it stopped in Chicago.

What's the solution? First of all, a huge crackdown, which CPD is trying. But that alone will not do it. Education is one key. Family is another. Religion/church may be another. Opportunity and hope - real opportunity - will help. Real employment will help. Squashing the drug trade will help.

All the fat cats sitting in their offices, many with bodyguards, will not be respected by anyone in the trenches who is trying to fix this problem that has been festering and growing for decades.

Massive investment is needed. Without it, the public will continue to pay the price. The State and the people of Illinois are going to have to step in and rescue Chicago. Without massive investment, services will continue to decline. There is still the price to be paid, and it will be paid in one way or another.

Where is the war zone in Chicago? South of downtown? West of Halsted? I'm not talking a few blocks, but miles!

The people know, for the most part, who the shooters are. Somebody knows them. When they are rounded up, there should be zero tolerance. Sure, the lawyers will scream. Well, too bad, unless they want to move into the war zone and be closer to their clients.

I lived on Chicago's southeast side (75th & Yates) when I first moved to Chicago in 1964. I had an office downtown during the riots of 1968. When I left Chicago in 1970, it was good riddance. And I still feel that way.