Peter Roskam Goes Shopping

Peter Roskam held a campaign event at the Jewel in Elmhurst yesterday. I say a campaign event. Peter would tell you he’s just staying in touch with his constituents. I suspect that as the election draws closer you won’t be able to pick up a six pack of a frosty beverage at the 7-11 without having to shake hands with your Congressman who just wants to listen to your concerns.

Here’s what the puff piece in the Elmhurst Press had to say:

A handful of residents patiently stood in line Tuesday to spend a few minutes speaking with U.S. Rep. Peter Roskam, R-6th District, of Wheaton.

Roskam visited the Jewel-Osco at 153 E. Schiller St. in Elmhurst from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. as a way to connect with residents, he said.

“Washington, D.C., can be an echo chamber, and I want to make sure I’m listening to the district I grew up in,” Roskam said.

Residents spoke to Roskam about everything from community issues to national ones like high gas prices, the war in Iraq and Social Security concerns.

Elmhurst resident Carol Chlystek said she appreciated Roskam’s efforts to connect with the community that he represents.

“I think it’s interesting that he came out to the community,” Chlystek said. “I spoke to him about international relations and education issues. He was very perceptive to my ideas.”

Around 35 people waited to speak to Roskam for as long as they needed. Roskam recently held a similar event in Bartlett, said Brian McCarthy, Roskam’s district director.

Greg Ryan of Elmhurst said he and his family decided to take time of their day to meet with Roskam because they support him.

“I’ve known Peter Roskam for a while and have been aware of Peter Roskam’s record for a while,” Ryan said. “I’m very impressed. … His heart and mind are in the right place.”

McCarthy said residents were free to talk to Roskam about absolutely anything on their minds, calling the event a “fair game.” He added the events happen a few times a month.

After meeting residents at Jewel-Osco, Roskam and his team and Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry Director John Quigley walked up and down York Road to meet with business owners.

“He stopped in and was a very nice man,” said John S. Rezny, president of York Furrier, 107 N. York Road. “I’m a supporter, and he wanted to know about the businesses and the climate.”

Isn’t that special. Did you check out the food prices while you were there Peter? Did you talk to any food stamp recipients and explain why you had voted against giving them an increase?

Sadly, I wasn’t present at this event. I apparently wasn’t on the handpicked list of safe Republican voters who were given advance notice. Next time you come to Elmhurst Peter, come down to the Jewel on the south side, where the Democrats shop.

Since I couldn’t attend Peter I need to give you my questions here:

• Why do you keep voting to support George Bush’s war against Iraq and sending our young men and women there to die?
• Why do you continue to vote in favor of George Bush’s continued practice of torture and inhumane treatment of prisoners and endless detention without trial?
• Why do you disrespect the sacrifice of the men and women who serve in Iraq and Afghanistan by voting against providing the support they need on their return - support like the new G.I. bill.

You can just drop me a note Peter and I’ll publish your answers for all to see. Othwerwise, I’ll just catch up with you the next time I go out to buy eggs.