Celebrating Our Anniversary and Looking to the Future
This year, as our Village celebrates our 125th Anniversary, we look back with pride at the community we have become; our safe neighborhoods, our reliable infrastructure, our vibrant businesses, our respect for the environment and most importantly, our caring and committed residents. As we reflect on who we are, we also look to the future.
This year’s’ Mayor for a Day essay contest asked our 3rd, 4th and 5th graders what they would place in a time capsule to be opened in 25 years. Though many students included technology and noted the impact of our digital world, many more took note of our need to connect on a personal level and to remember that our underlying values will last longer that the latest app. Each year I am the one who is educated by these students. I learn of their dreams and their concerns. I also learn that our future is in good hands with these capable, thoughtful and compassionate young people.
What Would You Put In a Time Capsule?
The Village is taking suggestions for items to be included in our next time capsule that will be opened in 25 years. This fall we will open the capsule sealed on our 100th Anniversary and seal a new capsule for the future. Put on your creative thinking caps and give us your best ideas! What will be interesting to those opening the capsule in 25 years? What will be inspiring or surprising or meaningful? Send your ideas to villagenews@vofp.com and watch our website and newsletter for details on the upcoming Time Capsule event.
What Would I Put In a Time Capsule?
First, I would include a copy of the Leyden High School 2017 Year Book and copies of three newspapers, the Franklin Park Herald Journal, Chicago Sun Times, and Chicago Tribune.
Next, I would place a copy of the book Silent Spring by Rachel Carson. This ground-breaking book alerted Americans to a variety of environmental concerns and rang the alarm bell that we were not respecting our planet. Her work led to world-wide environmental activism and awareness, the cessation of DDT on American crops and the creation of the US Environmental Protection Agency. This book inspired my interest in environmental issues, my passion for sustainability, and my pursuit of public office.
Next, I would place a copy of the book Silent Spring by Rachel Carson. This ground-breaking book alerted Americans to a variety of environmental concerns and rang the alarm bell that we were not respecting our planet. Her work led to world-wide environmental activism and awareness, the cessation of DDT on American crops and the creation of the US Environmental Protection Agency. This book inspired my interest in environmental issues and my passion for sustainability.
As we face climate disruption, species extinction and increasing environmental challenges, I hope the placement of this book will remind future generations that Mother Earth is our home and deserves loving care. I also hope that in 25 years we can look back and say that we heeded Rachel Carson’s warnings and we are a cleaner, safer and more sustainable planet.
Worn With Pride, Retired With Dignity
The American Legion Post 974 collects and retires military uniforms with the dignity they should be bestowed. These uniforms were worn with pride and honor by our fine men and women of the Armed services. The Legion also properly disposes of unserviceable flags. The Legion will collect retired flags and uniforms at our annual Franklin Park Fest on Saturday, June 10. Residents can also drop off these items at the American Legion, 9757 Pacific Avenue. We thank the Legion for this service to our nation, state and community.
Mayor Barrett Pedersen