LETTERS

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MAYOR ON THE MUSEUM I would like to provide an update regarding the actions I have taken as mayor for the City of Springfield, along with the aldermen, in support of keeping the Illinois State Museum system open.

It was agreed at the council meeting on June 21 that the city would take a more proactive stance and create a resolution that would be presented to the governor and the General Assembly in support of keeping the Illinois State Museum open.

On July 7 I met with the governor and presented a copy of the resolution that the city council is presently considering.

I am also testifying this afternoon at the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability on behalf of the Illinois State Museum system and have created a video that will be released tomorrow [July 14] about the city’s support for keeping the institution open.

Even though these actions have not been picked up in the media, the city is actively working to keep the museum open. James O. Langfelder Mayor

BRITT DEPENDABLE It appears to be God’s will that we have legislators and smalltown political cartoonists. I know God is infinitely wise, but I’ll admit I have been tempted to question his judgment on account of both.

I’ll pass by legislators for now, but I do want to congratulate Chris Britt. He displays a dependability that is unrivaled by other political cartoonists. Others occasionally surprise the reader with their take on an issue, while Mr. Britt is like an old dog I once had who could be depended on to relieve himself in the same spot every day. Yes, sir, if consistent narrowness of view were meritorious, Mr. Britt would be covered with shiny medals.

Twain once asked “Who reviews a book? People who never wrote one.” In the same vein, I would likewise ask who would draw a cartoon about Dave Bourland’s appointment? I would answer, someone who hasn’t met him and doesn’t know anything about him or his post except what gossips at a weekly newspaper whisper in the lunch room.

I will admit that I glance at Mr. Britt’s cartoons periodically, as I relish small-minded, small town clothesline chatter that borders on defamation as much as any man I’ve met. But, I have taken to repenting of my small-mindedness at times, as it makes me feel dirty if I wallow in a muddy, shallow pool for a length of time. I wonder if Mr. Britt does the same?

Dave Bourland was an excellent choice, not just a good choice, and he can rest easy knowing that, as the old proverb says, a man should be judged by the reputation of his enemies. Bill Moore Loami

GO SEE MARY Mary Poppins, The Broadway Musical, will take your breath away with its quality of performance, dancing and singing. The show is very interesting and moves along with many complex scenes and very entertaining special effects. Costume changes are frequent and different and colorful. The leads are excellent performers, singers and dancers, and are on stage for extended periods, generally except when changing costumes. Scott Richardson directed Mary Poppins and is the driving force behind the Legacy Theatre. The small, intimate atmosphere lends to enjoying the production. I highly recommend the show. George Michael Springfield