ON TURNING 40

I don't seem to get things anymore.

Like why there's only one sport that celebrates Opening Day.

Like why is golf thought to be only for the upper crust?

Like why the sudden interest in tattoos?

Like why so many people cannot speak without using the word like.

Like what the hell are we doing in Libya?

Like why is tv so bad? I mean never before have most had so many channels and such clear pictures (though I've still never seen plasma), and yet there is very little worth watching.

Like why are movies so bad and ditto the previous specifics?

Like why can't men dye their hair and look half way decent but some (operative word) women can and do?

Like why don't I see blue hair on women anymore?

Like why are the younger generation so sure of themselves when I'm not sure of much of anything?

Like why do people kiss their dogs on the mouth?

Like why did a friend of mine who just turned 40 have her bras strung up in her driveway to mark the occasion? I assume she didn't do it, but still why?

JUST DO THE RIGHT THING

The mother swan is taking care of her cygnats. Providing for them the best she knows how. Nurturing them to grow into adult swanhood.

And that is right. That's what should be done.

And now my leap.

MTV High in IL is where I careered. Where I matriculated. Where I matured. I left when it was time.

April 5 marks a monumental date in the school's history as a bond referendum vote will determine if the township moves forward or recedes dramatically. Much has been written on both sides. Why the preservationists exist puzzles me.

But they do and they're being led by a former fellow teacher/former superintendent who can't let go. He's still on the school board. The maverick who votes solo on practically every issue. But that's not the point. There is opposition and they are organized. Their purpose is to block allocated funds for the new school. Their vision--pump money into the current school which is obviously in need of repair. Frankly, it's an eyesore that has kept many from re-locating to MTV. No amount of reparation can make it appealing and safe again.

In contrast, the elementary schools are housed in attractive buildings; the primary school in a new building close to state of art. A new 6-story hospital is going up. Another hospital is being renovated.

What is needed to further advance the community is a new high school. It's not a frill. It's vital. If you're a voter in the district, just do the right thing. Vote YES and not only tell, but take others who agree to the polls.

There have always been citizens in MTV who want to bring the city down. Don't let them have their way and don't buy into the hogwash they're spewing. Vote YES. You'll be glad you did.