When the owners of the Catlow Theater achieved their goal of raising $100,000 for migrating to the digital delivery of movies in just hours short of seven days through their KickStarter web page, they were quoted as saying, “We’re just in shock.” Frankly, we at The Observer were not, since they thoughtfully crafted a clear message to those who might assist them the minute their website went live.
Their narrative began with an explanation of circumstances they were in with the movie industry announcing the pending cessation of 35mm film distribution and the difficulties they were facing in upgrading their equipment. The implications of not migrating, not only for them, but thousands of loyal patrons, were spelled out clearly, and the result was over a thousand “backers” fully funded their campaign because they recognized the necessity to help the Catlow owners out.
The Observer believes that many can learn from this positive scenario whether it is fundraising or proposing amendments to Village codes by our Village leaders by following the same textbook steps the Catlow owners did as follows:
- Describe the current situation
- Outline the situational problems
- Define the implications of inaction that,
- Makes the case for change
Would a more open, proactive communications path have changed the outcome of Village initiatives such as the lighting ordinance, the electrical aggregation referendum question or the Home Occupation Ordinance amendment on commercial horse boarding? The answer is debatable. But we’ll never know until our Village leaders realize that effective, above-boards communication with residents is the first step in getting our Village back on a true and steady course.
– The Observer
I am sincerely heartened by the fact that Mr. David Steiper is considering a run for the village presidency. If this rumor is correct we won’t have to worry about political cronyism, bribes and kick backs. His reputation is that of a religiously honest man and attorney. He won’t be intimidated by the village “clique” because he stood his ground (at the last village meeting) when Abboud had the police place hands on him and asked him to leave. God knows this village needs a breath of fresh air and a real live “stand up guy”.
Now that we may have a viable candidate for “Mayor” we need to support him. He is a man for all of the people, not just the few connected insiders!
One thing is for sure………He won’t be squandering our hard earned tax money.
Dave would make a great Trustee. His expertise and his legal experience would lend itself well to the interests of all Barrington Hills residents.
As for Village President that’s debatable. Someone with a team and consensus building as well as finance background might be more suited and Lord knows we have many who qualify living in the Hills.
Thank you Mr. President for your thoughts but it is up to the residents to make that call.