THOMSON, Illinois -
Residents around Thomson, Illinois, are taking a wait-and-see approach. That's after learning their nearly-vacant correctional center could get a huge boost by housing Guantanamo Bay detainees and filling hundreds of jobs promised years ago.
It's a hot topic on a blustery day. More than a week after it first broke, talk about the federal proposal to take over the Thomson Correctional Center.
"I think it's a good idea for the economy around here," said Dale Wiersema.
Reason enough for Chicago Democrat Scott Lee Cohen to make the rounds on Tuesday. He's part of the crowded field of a dozen Democrats and Republicans running for Lieutenant Governor.
"The economy is devastated," he said. "The people need jobs. We've got to put them back to work."
Double-digit unemployment is a reality for this village of 600 residents. Some are ready to take advantage of this so-called once in a lifetime chance.
"We have a tremendously high unemployment rate," said Susie Ostrum, a Thomson teacher. "We need the jobs, and we need the people."
All this campaigning is especially timely. Governor Pat Quinn expects quick action on the deal to house detainees. That could put a plan into action.
But residents know all about past promises, broken deals and years of waiting. Plus, the parade of politicians from Washington to the local level suddenly visiting here.
"I think it's good for the community," said Kris Yingling, another teacher from Thomson. "The more exposure we get, hopefully it will come through. And we'll get the jobs here."
After Thomson's Village Board gave its blessing last Friday, councils in Savanna, Mt. Carroll and Hanover will be meeting Tuesday night to consider their endorsements.
"It's a real boost to the area," Clarence Bruckner said. "We are fairly depressed. It's a farming community."
And for this community, hope the long wait will offer real opportunities.
It's a hot topic on a blustery day. More than a week after it first broke, talk about the federal proposal to take over the Thomson Correctional Center.
"I think it's a good idea for the economy around here," said Dale Wiersema.
Reason enough for Chicago Democrat Scott Lee Cohen to make the rounds on Tuesday. He's part of the crowded field of a dozen Democrats and Republicans running for Lieutenant Governor.
"The economy is devastated," he said. "The people need jobs. We've got to put them back to work."
Double-digit unemployment is a reality for this village of 600 residents. Some are ready to take advantage of this so-called once in a lifetime chance.
"We have a tremendously high unemployment rate," said Susie Ostrum, a Thomson teacher. "We need the jobs, and we need the people."
All this campaigning is especially timely. Governor Pat Quinn expects quick action on the deal to house detainees. That could put a plan into action.
But residents know all about past promises, broken deals and years of waiting. Plus, the parade of politicians from Washington to the local level suddenly visiting here.
"I think it's good for the community," said Kris Yingling, another teacher from Thomson. "The more exposure we get, hopefully it will come through. And we'll get the jobs here."
After Thomson's Village Board gave its blessing last Friday, councils in Savanna, Mt. Carroll and Hanover will be meeting Tuesday night to consider their endorsements.
"It's a real boost to the area," Clarence Bruckner said. "We are fairly depressed. It's a farming community."
And for this community, hope the long wait will offer real opportunities.
