Shore Galleries: Trustees 'Destroyed Our Efforts'

Editor's note: The following is a letter sent to Lincolnwood residents and customers of Shore Galleries, Inc., 3318 Devon Ave. The business recently backed out on an expansion that was slated to be built in Lincolnwood's Industrial District.

Dear Lincolnwood residents and customers:

On April 9, 2013, it is imperative that you cast a vote in the upcoming local municipal election.

As you probably know, late last year I had no choice but to withdraw our motion for a zoning change to expand our business within Lincolnwood's Industrial District. This was due to opposition by four of the elected trustees, two of whom are seeking reelection. After spending six months and a tremendous amount of resources in preparing a safe, quiet, secure and environmentally friendly plan - which included numerous studies for our proposed store and range - these individuals destroyed our efforts.

Even members of the Lincolnwood Plan Commission who suggested to the board that we move forward, TWICE, were stunned that the Village Board rejected their strong recommendation and input with such zeal.

While both sides for and against this issue made their points, we can all agree that Shore Galleries has had an exemplary reputation for over 56 years and I am proud to have my family's name on the door. Law enforcement, security professionals and law abiding citizens depend on the quality items and serves that we provide. By providing state of the art training at a new, larger facility, we would have been doing our part to keep our streets, schools, businesses and homes safer.

This election we DO have a choice of whom to support. I urge you and any of your friends, colleagues and neighbors in the Village of Lincolnwood to VOTE for and if possible, contribute as well to my friend Jerry Turry for Mayor. Jerry is pro-business and knows what's best for Lincolnwood. I also ask you to consider Beryl Herman for Clerk, Jean Ikezoe Halevl, Ron Cope and Craig Klatzko for trustees. I personally have know the Klatzco family for many years. Craig's father was the Chief of Police in Northfield. Craig is alo a business owner in Lincolnwood and understands how important a thriving business community is to Lincolnwood.

I feel comfortable with this group of candidates and believe you will too, as they have Lincolnwood's future in mind. These are tough times for business and we at Shore Galleries need to move forward to stay competitive. We love being here in Lincolnwood, and really do not want to leave. With your help, we hope we can continue to provide a valuable service to our wonderful customers in a community that is served by caring and capable public officials.