Fly the colors at Festival Park

Dear Elgin City Council:

I would like you kind folks to address what appears to be an oversight at Festival Park. There is a long sidewalk running from Grove Street going west to the Fox River. On either side of this sidewalk, as close to the river as possible there should be placed two flagpoles.

The one on the left, facing the river should be large enough to support at least a 6-foot American flag. Perhaps a 40-footer. The one on the right would be of equal length or perhaps 5 feet shorter and this would be used for Elgin's colors and maybe ethnic flags during certain festivals throughout the summer. There is power available in the park to keep a spotlight on the American flag during dark hours.

As you well know, the Grand Victoria Casino brings many nonresidents into our town and we should be displaying our pride in being Americans to these people who will spread the word about Elgin and its proud residents.

I know that there is a budget crunch here in Elgin and money is hard to come by. However, we are only talking about a post hole digger for a 30-inch hole by 40 inches deep and perhaps a yard and a half of concrete plus the poles and flags. The addition of these flags will go along way to brighten our premier park and will complement what has been done with all of the improvements downtown.

I certainly hope that this gets your kind attention shortly.

A. L. Wudi

Elgin