The Robbins Eagle

PHOENIX NEWS

JOHN HANCOCK writes

By JOHN H. HANCOCK

As promised we are leading off with the 'American's Creed', that appear in the March issue of the American Legion Magazine. It goes as follows: "I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, and for the people; where just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes."

"I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it to support its constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its Flag; and to defend it against all enemies."

If you didn't make it to the County Clerk's office last Tuesday, you lost your last chance to register, and to vote in the April 8 primary. Of course, you never know when you miss your chance to do some good in an election by showing your approval or disapproval of a candidate. Party declaration in a primary does not bind one to any party or candidate, because if this were true there would be no need for a general election the following November. Voting in elections, even primaries show your strength, so it is wise to stand up and be counted.

Tuesday, the Illinois Supreme court reconvened, and will possibly deliver a decision on the Phoenix election case. Next Monday will be 60 days since our case was heard, maybe we'll have an Anniversary. You don't have to tell me you're tired of waiting, well so are we who have carried the fight thus far. The strain has been terrific, more ways than one, but if our community neighbors understand, we are satisfied. The cost of a principle is not measured in cash.

We must understand that this fight was not for the benefit of a few, because whatever benefits derived will be for the community. Some things we have done, you may not agree with, but we do agree that we can't lose what we never had. The entire thing began when the Phoenix community party filed a party ticket, and filed a candidate opposing the Police Magistrate. There would have been no objections to our ticket had we withdrawn this candidate for Police Magistrate, hence no lawsuits. We could not with honor, in spite of offers of money and other considerations, do this. We knew more was expected of us by our people.

With some dishonor is easy, but when men have stood and counselled together. their plans and hopes of the future becomes interlocked with yours, and you come close together because you realize that future events must be faced together. In this lies your strength. How could one then betray his fellowmen. It would have been easy to accept the offer of money and the other considerations, but how could we face our supporters, saying the least facing each other. The price of a principle is infinite.

Our scavenger Mr. Cook, who also repairs our streets asks that should you think of any way that his services' could be improved, please let him know. Also that you please have adequate containers for the refuse. By cooperating with these requests, your service will be satisfactory.

Make it a habit to read the 'EAGLE', its the only paper that carries authentic news and views as you are faced with it.

As with you, so it is with me.