My immediate reaction is that Charles Box was a fine mayor and represents a very good appointment on the part of the governor. I hope he brings an impartial, collaborative approach to this new role.

I find it appalling that legislators would wish to gag employers so that they will not communicate with employees regarding public policies and civic issues, when we know employees would very much want to know what employers think about issues.

This program will put people to work and help maintain the state's economic viability.

Illinois' reputation for lawsuit abuse creates a hostile business climate that puts Illinois jobs at risk.

We have the slowest job growth among the states. People . . . are getting the wrong signal about the hospitality and the environment and the business climate of Illinois.

Every Christmas now for years, I have found myself wondering about the point of the celebration. As the holiday has become more ecumenical and secular, it has lost much of the magic that I remember so fondly from childhood.