White Sox Stars Jim Thome And Paul Konerko Speak Out Against State Budget Cuts

Chicago Sun-Times:

Sox stars Paul Konerko and Jim Thome wrote a letter to the editor to the Chicago Sun-Times and other newspapers, urging lawmakers not to allow massive cuts to foster-care services. "Many of the deepest cuts directly target programs designed to protect children," wrote the two athletes, who are partners with Children's Home & Aid. "Today, one in six children is at risk for abuse or neglect. If these cuts are made, more at-risk children will suffer."

Read the whole story: Chicago Sun-Times

Comments

[Mahi Joe]

Both of these players are absolutely Great Role Models. Both of these players and their wives have done so much to help children.

[Sheepleperson]

I'm not a Cub or, a Sox fan but I agree 120% with both of these over-priced BB players.

[westreal]

I am glad they stood up for the children. I don't know why people are so heartless that they'd want to cut children services first. We're in a recession. Raise the taxes and everyone must pay their fair share until we're out of this. I've never seen so many selfish people in my life

[mick7191]

They're right. That's a bad place to cut money. Hey, I have an idea. Everyone in state government should cut their pay 15%.

[stav506]

Paulie and Jim, thanks for sticking up for those that cannot do it for themselves. Just one of the many reason I bleed black.

Gov. Quinn, as a fellow Fenwick High School alum, I KNOW you know better. Compassion is one of the most basic tenants that we were taught there. "What you do unto the lowest of my brothers, you do unto me." No one lower and defenseless than these kids.

I may not be a fan of religions once reason/logic kicked in but I still know the good ideas that religion tries to teach.

[gascelebrations]

I would like to discuss the Illinois budget, baseball, or whatever these two guys like to discuss in the privacy of my home, just the 3 of us. You know, just get it all out in the open.

[Cogs]

Whenever pols want to push a tax increase they grab a diverse group of individuals who are truly in need of social services. These folks are placed in the background during press conferences and their stories are detailed as well as the dire consequences they will face without continued support from the state. The people we never see at the staged events are those fat cats who will reap millions from the tax increase. Once enacted, the needy are then shoved aside so as not to interfere with the greed and corruption of these lawmakers. Quinn, Daley,Stroger and Madigan are willing to decieve the public in order to maintain the status quo. They will threaten to cut services to those most in need but won't address the waste and mismanagement that contribute to the state's financial woes. It's a really nasty practice but effective. On with the show!

[AuntiepoppyCock]

I got Cubs blood in my veins, but I also have South Side loyalties.

These big city politicians really think us small poor people cannot make a difference, well like North Korea posturing to attack America these budget cuts will attack those who are attempting to establish themselves in this world. Everyone with a voice in this city will NEVER forget their betrayal, especially if they fail the women, children, and elderly in Chicago. Thanks Thome & Konerko!!!! Real men wear BLACK.

[ChiGuy]

With all of the stories we see of athletes acting either criminally, or just plain stupid, it's refreshing to see two who have something intelligent to say about an important issue.

Kudos to future Hall of Famers, Thome and Konerko.
Chicago is proud.

[solid]

I agree with you except, Thome maybe, Konerko no way (for Hall of Fame).

[steamboat]

I'm happy Jim and Paulie came through on this......­..Now I want them, as a White Sox fan, to come through more when we have men on base.

[JKChicago]

I think you got your wish tonight, as far as Paulie's concerned.

This gives a whole other meaning to Hawk calling them "the good guys."

[whocan]

These guys are great...Sa­dly ,because of the fearmongering of Quinn , and his reluctance to cut the government pork and expenses, and perks this is used

[Dbos]

Good guys speak out for children and less fortunate.

[HistoryGeek]

I love the White Sox! And Thome and Konerko.

My they should tax all those r i c h people out in the burbs and there would be plenty of money for everything. Either that, or legalize it.

[Bude]

This is a great example of how off-the-wall professional athletes are WITHOUT steroids. Geniuses!