Sliding Back

The Cubs have lost two in a row and once again fail to find the keys to victory against NL Central rival Milwaukee. It's a troubling trend and I hate to see these games end in misery, even so early in the season. The team remains tied for first with St. Louis and a game ahead of the Brewers. I take solace in that one game. The Brewers are likely more dangerous to the Cubs' plans this year than the Cards are.

In other unpleasant news, the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority is rearing its ugly head again. Big Jim isn't going to let this go without a fight. The ISFA is claming to have a working proposal to acquire and restore Wrigley Field without using state or local public tax money. Thompson is even quoted in the Trib as saying, "if we can do it without taxes, the public and the fans and the legislators and everyone concerned should accept it."

Well, golly, thanks Jimbo. I won't worry my pretty little head about it any longer. Why did I ever worry that a bunch of chest thumping power mongers were attempting to add another private enterprise to the government's asset pack? The Trib article further states that funding would be found in the private sector, with no issuance of bonds by the state. So presumably they will gouge the new team owner on lease payments and sell the naming rights to every square inch of Wrigleyville (I like "Cubbie Town, sponsored by Budweiser"). Of course, there is no mention of the specifics regarding revenue that would have to be earmarked to pay the potential $400MM renovation. No, none of it will fall on your head, citizens. None of it. Trust Your Leaders! When have they ever steered you wrong?

I am incensed that the government feels such a need to get involved in this. I realize that they already own the South Side park, but I see a shadow of shady dealings here. The Olympics weighs heavily on the heads of local politicians. This deal will help them fleece the Olympic committee. Not to mention the control over valuable real estate and leverage over the Cubs that they desperately want. I'm sure the construction deals will be as above board as your average Illinois/Chicago government contract.

Just drink your Bud and shut the fuck up, people.