Mullins tries to set herself apart from foes with big names

Cell phone cameras snapped and applause broke out as Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, head pressed firmly against the banquet room carpet, slowly extended his legs into the air.

The septuagenarian channeled a member of his famous namesake tumbling group for a few seconds - all in the name of helping Palatine Mayor Rita Mullins kick off her campaign for a sixth term.

She faces three challengers: local business Vito Manola, former city councilman Warren Kostka and former Chicago Bear Jim Schwantz.

The stunt at Mullins' fundraiser last week added to the hotly contested race's growing circus element.

Though a last-minute scheduling conflict precluded her from attending, the invitation listed former state treasurer Judy Baar Topinka on the event's host committee.

Mullins claimed that her even her New York City counterpart, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, considered coming but sent his regrets. He's worked with Mullins on gun control initiatives.

"Rita's been my friend more years than I care to mention," White said. "She's part of the Springfield and Chicago fabric, and that can only benefit the people of Palatine."

As if to further underscore her high-level connections, the day after the fundraiser, Mullins was also scheduled to be part of a group of U.S. mayors who met with President Obama Friday to discuss the economic stimulus plan. But she backed out at the last minute, citing a family emergency.

Her opponents Schwantz, Manola and Kostka don't deny Mullins has connections and a profile that go beyond the village boundaries. But they're hoping residents can remove any perceived celebrity factor come April 7.

"I think voters are more concerned with issues, not with any local, state or national politicians she's rubbing elbows with," said Schwantz.

And some Mullins critics, including Kostka, have said too much of her attention is outward. During his eight-year tenure as councilman, Kostka criticized the mayor's frequent travel. Mullins serves on the executive boards of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, National League of Cities and Illinois Municipal League - posts that require regular trips outside village limits.

Kostka said Mullins is more about theatrics than substance.

"She hobnobs and isn't in Palatine a whole lot," he said.

Kostka further asserted that Mullins' elbow-rubbing has at times landed her in the hot seat. She was among dozens of people named on a "favors list" released at the corruption trial of Scott Fawell, who worked for then Secretary of State George Ryan, who himself is now in prison for corruption. The list was of people who Ryan's camp asserted owed him favors. Mullins' husband, John, had received a job in the office and also worked with Ryan's successor, White.

Schwantz agreed Mullins' absence is a common theme when he canvasses neighborhoods.

"There's a frustration level with her lack of visibility," he said. "She's only around when it benefits her politically."

Schwantz doesn't deny he also benefits from the name recognition that comes with a six-season NFL career.

"It's helping to at least get me in the door, but then it's up to me and the platform I stand behind," Schwantz said. "People aren't going to make a decision on name alone."

In 2005, Manola was relatively unknown in local politics but nearly won the mayor seat from Mullins, who admits she didn't campaign hard. He's banking on his involvement as a coach, park district commissioner and local restaurant owner to deliver votes. He's met with business owners and attended community meetings to bridge what he sees as a major lack of communication in Palatine.

Mullins' big-name connections can't disguise past mishaps Manola says undermine claims that Palatine is business friendly. He's upset a proposed Aldi was turned down and questions policies, such as huge late fees for business licenses.

"No offense, but that's not how you run a village," Manola said. "After 20 years, maybe it's time to step aside."

Mullins said Palatine is thriving, with new buildings going up and extra money in the bank. And she doesn't miss a local event if there's an invitation for her.

"I'm there when I'm invited," Mullins said. "I don't see my opponents, however."