Mullins: Thank you, Palatine, for honor

It was an honor that on "Make a Difference Day in America" the people of the community of Palatine dedicated the corner of Northwest Highway and Hicks Road as the Rita L. Mullins Volunteer Plaza in recognition of 28 years of public service that was contributed as my way to be "part of the solution."

Being the daughter of a career Marine, I moved to Palatine in 1958 after being transferred all around this great nation of ours. My aunt and uncle owned the Office tavern.

At that time we had 8,000 residents. I graduated from Palatine Township High School (now the village hall) and at age 18 I met my partner of 44 years, John Mullins. We settled in and raised our children in Palatine.

I started out volunteering as a Motor Mom, Picture Lady, PTA person, Celtic Soccer Mom, as well as a Baseball, Basketball, PAFA Football Mom. I loved Palatine and I wanted to give back to our hometown.

I found that volunteering became addictive. It grows from love-love of your neighbors.

Somewhere along the way I turned into a political feminist. (Feminism is the radical idea that women are people). As a lifelong Republican I found myself quoting Eleanor Roosevelt and getting passionately involved in social justice and public policy.

And now after 28 years in public service, what are my plans? Retirement? Retire nothing! Never retire your spirit. Never let go of your curiosity or zest for life and never ever miss an opportunity to make a difference in the life of another, especially a child. God has blessed me with 10 grandchildren.

All I ask is that you remember me as loving you, and you in turn pay it forward. So dear people of Palatine, I am truly humbled by this dedication and thank you for this honor.

Rita L. Mullins

Palatine