TIP IT: Flip Flop Based on Demographics?

Lipinski Joins Dems To Vote Against Bill To Keep Government Open
Congressman Dan Lipinski has taken a lot of heat from fellow Democrats for what is considered a too conservative voting record compared to the party’s faithful. With a credible challenge in the primary, Lipinski has flip flopped on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program which he once opposed but now supports. The Democrats in the House, including Lipinski, voted no last Friday to keep the government open and operating because the Republicans refused to include a provision to allow illegal immigrants brought to the USA by their parents to remain in the USA and have a path to citizenship. Lipinski has previously denied that his change of heart on illegal immigration has anything to do with a growing Hispanic population now estimated at about 30 percent in his congressional district.

He has stated publicly that his views are consistent with the views of his constituents so perhaps his Congressional District believes that DACA should be passed without any trade off on border security or immigration reforms. We may find out soon because after Friday’s vote to let the government shut down a compromise was reached to extend the spending until February 8th. In the meantime, Republicans have agreed to allow a debate on the immigration issue.

Worth Township Senior Bus Trip – Wednesday, March 7th,
A Theatre & Luncheon Package featuring Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Drury Lane in Oak Brook is planned for Wednesday March 7th. The price of $78 includes the ticket, lunch and coach bus. The bus leaves Worth Township at 11:00 a.m. Lunch includes soup, choice of Sautéed Tilapia, Herb Roasted Chicken Breast, or Bistro Steak, dessert, coffee, hot or iced tea. The 1:30 p.m. show allows seniors to arrive back at Worth Township at about 5:00 p.m. Registration is required and payment is due upon registration. Call 708-371-2900 x28 for more information or to reserve your seat.

Oak Lawn Park District All Inclusive Playground Phase 2
The Oak Lawn Park District continues to make progress on an All Inclusive Playground project at Columbus Manor Park, 99th & Moody Ave., in Oak Lawn. Phase two of the project will begin Spring 2018 with an estimated completion in summer of this year.
An inclusive playground will help the Park District to continue the mission of enhancing recreational opportunities, not only for people with disabilities, but for the entire community. In addition, it is the Park District’s hope that this inclusive playground aids in developing attitudes that promote tolerance and appreciation of differences; everyone can be together and have fun regardless of ability level. Fundraising efforts continue. If your organization is interested in sponsoring this All Inclusive Playground, please contact 708-857-2225.

District 123 Student Inspires Change through Change
Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School Student Brenden Sheedy is at it again. Following the success of “The Penny Way” last year, Sheedy decided to collect money again this year, for Almost Home, an organization that helps the homeless, needy, food insecure and broken.

“I wanted to do this again this year because there was so much of an impact last year and I wanted to do it again. I wanted to help more people and I knew the school/students would up to the challenge again this year,” he said. The idea initially came about during the school day came about through a Global Studies assignment; what is one problem we face, and how can you fix it? For Brenden, that issue was hunger. This year the fundraiser presented Almost Home with a check for $2,220. In addition to students raising money, Brenden’s church, Christ Community Church gave as well.

“My goal at the end of the fundraiser is to collect as much as possible to help those in need. I didn’t set a specific money goal, my goal is to continue to help those in need with the help of all the kids and staff at OLHMS,” said Sheedy.

Representative Burke’s Condo/Townhome Owners’ Workshop
Representative Kelly Burke is hosting a Condo/Townhome Owners Workshop at the Oak Lawn Public Library on Saturday February 10th at 10 a.m. Burke has promised that an attorney who specializes in association law and the new Illinois Condominium Ombudsperson will provide information, discuss new laws affecting associations and owners, and answer your questions. Great for owners, board members and managers.