Reaction to Tribune article

http://tinyurl.com/m5kyn4

Above is a link to the article in the Tribune by Elizabeth Schiele. My wife and I had the following impressions:

1. The article accurately captured what we said and nicely portrayed our vulnerability as homeowners.

2. We thought the comment from the State Farm PR person in regard to our rider cancellation was interesting. She said, "It became apparent that what was causing each of these claims was not being remedied." This is an accurate statement. The City knows the remedy, and we are asking that they take the necessary action.

3. We liked Monica's quote. It emphasizes that residents really want to work collaboratively with the City, and we need our public officials to reciprocate.

4. The article just touches the tip of the iceberg. Marshall Drive and Pennsylvania Avenue are known problems. We don't want to forget the rest of our neighbors in the 8th Ward, and the rest of the City

5. We did not understand Tim Oakley's comment that the cost of the project would double if the work were accelerated. The scope of the project isn't changing. Clarification from Mr. Oakley would be appreciated.

6. We were surprised that federal funding is being sought by the City. I guess we could call it the Des Plaines Bailout Program. Instead of Cash for Clunkers, we can have a Cash for Flooders program. Turn in our old flooded houses for new water-protected homes.

7. We liked the title and the somber note the article ended with.

8. The cover photo was a bit daunting. The reason my wife and I came forward was not to elicit sympathy. Rather, it was to wake up our public officials and encourage others to tell their own story. I think a lot of people have just given up, but we are not. We love our neighbors and our neighborhood, and are seeking a solution to the problem which can be fixed with a focused commitment on the City's part.

Regards,

Jim and Julie Vinci