Group opposes funds request for Crystal Lake parade

[Robbien]

Source: Chicago Trib

A group barred last year from marching in Crystal Lake's annual Independence Day parade has objected to a request by parade organizers for funding from city hotel taxes.

Representatives from Crystal Lake Gala Festival Inc. and other organizations appeared Tuesday before the City Council to pitch for a share of hotel-tax revenues, which the city distributes annually to not-for-profit groups that promote tourism.

. . .

Libby Pappalardo, a founding member of the McHenry County Peace Group, showed up at the council meeting in opposition of Gala's request.

The group, which opposes the war in Iraq, was barred last year from marching in the parade after organizers said group members had violated rules against making political statements.

Pappalardo said she opposed giving tax dollars to Gala, which she said "denies the basic right of free speech" to residents.


Read more: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-mcparade_10_bothjan10,1,7203467.story

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Of further interest in this article, the local Chamber of Commerce is also requesting to be supported by these public funds.

[davidinalameda]

1. Crystal Lake

isn't that the Friday the 13th movies location

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Friday_the_13th_%28film%29

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

2. C of Cs aren't usually non-profit entitities

They are interested in promoting their town, yes, but that's because it benefits business.

[FREEWILL56]

3. I guess they aren't making a statement by hushing any dissent?

Guess the town supports bush's war as there's nary a discouraging word.