Sign of the Times

The Governor of Illinois has become a national, even an international celebrity. His impeachment from office is viewed as a done deal. Our governors' criminal trial will soon start. I'm sure it will be national news too. And who know, maybe a few more well-connected Illinois politicians will find themselves in trouble.

Because of Illinois' problems and a national recession, our elected officials have voted to shut down seven historical sites. Among them are Fort Des Chartres, The Pierre Maynard home, Kaskaskia, Apple River Fort and the Thomas Lincoln log cabin home.

These are really interesting historic sites that have been visited by hordes of families, hundreds of reanactors, herds of happy school children and many others. The films, volunteers and staff were informative and enthusiastic. But because the state does not charge the public an admission charge in Illinois, the sites were deemed an expense that could no longer be justified.

Hopefully, the state will find the funds to reopen these important sites soon . . . but in this economy, it seems doubtful.