Using the South Side as the backdrop to announce a fourth full term as mayor, Richard M. Daley Monday showcased his track record and economic development in a ward in the past had been forgotten.
African Americans joining him at his announcement gave the mayor high marks for economic development and for being fair to all ethnic groups in Chicago.
Julian Green, Daley's press aide who is now working on his campaign, took reporters to several projects in the 17th and adjacent Wards that are city-sponsored like the Hawthorne Park Family Center at 7600 S. Racine the Safe House for Kids, 7829 S. Racine, Walgreens, 7900 S. Racine, the Mental Health Center, 1150 W. 79th St., and others.
Saying these projects 'symbolizes the rebirth of 79th Street and the surrounding area,' Daley said they and other developments are literally 'unfolding in communities throughout the city and bringing new life to all of Chicago.'
'While other cities struggle, Chicago is getting even better.' said Daley. But, if I thought the job was done, that all our problems had been solved and all our potential had been realized, I would not be standing here today,' said Daley.
Larry Huggins president/CEO of Riteway Construction Services predicts that Daley will get an even larger percentage of Black support on Feb. 25.
'I think you'll find out he has a broad range of support not only from the religious community, but also from the business community,' Huggins said.
'He has really and truly been a good city elected official since he's been here (since 1989) and I think he'll continue to do a good job,' Huggins said.
'Daley understands what good government is about in making sure that whether it is the West Side or South Side, he's provided economic development and I think, he'll continue to do that,' Huggins stated.
Daley was joined at a press conference held at the St. Sabina Elder Village Apartments at 79th and Racine by a multi-racial coalition of supporters.
In attendance: Ald. Latasha Thomas (17th), St. Sabina's Father Michael Pfleger, Bishop Arthur Brazier, pastor of Apostolic Church, the Rev. Johnny L. Miller, pastor of the Mt. Vernon MBC, who introduced the mayor, Rev. Richard L. Toliver, rector of St. Edmund's Episcopal Anglican Church, Huggins and many others.
'I'm supporting the mayor because I believe he has brought the community together. I've seen redevelopment already taken place and I believe he has continued to listen to the community,' said Miller.
'I'm looking forward to his re-election which will give all of us an opportunity to work together as a unit,' Miller stated.
Photograph (Arthur Brazier greets Mayor Daley)
