The Elmhurst City Council chamber was standing room only as residents and business leaders shared their thoughts on the proposed tax levy during public hearing Monday night.

The message was simple from most of those who spoke during the forum: Don’t raise property taxes.

Watching from the stands as his beloved Notre Dame football team fell further behind Navy a couple of Saturdays ago, Will Cronin needed a serious pick-me-up. Little did the Immaculate Conception senior know one was on its way.

EDITORIAL
THE ISSUE
Gov. Pat Quinn says the state will take out a $900 million loan to infuse money back into a student-aid program, among other items.
OUR VIEW
Illinois is having a difficult time paying off the debt it has already incurred. Why pile on another huge loan?
SPEAK UP
Despite its best intentions, should the state take out this loan? Click here to tell us what you think of this. Or e-mail your comments here.

YOUR VIEW
In addition to more-frequent local editorials, our expanded opinions coverage features a forum seeking your take on a key issue being talked about around town. Here's the current topic:

The Elmhurst City Council granted a conditional use for a vacant residential lot to CE Rentals. However, some aldermen questioned the city attorney's interpretation of how appropriate this move is. Should the Elmhurst City Council have granted CE Rentals additional parking?

Click here to leave a comment. You can also e-mail your comment here. Or leave a message at (630) 368-8882.

Suburban Life is looking for the best and brightest outdoor holiday decorations. You send them in, and we will publish them the week of Christmas.

From an undefeated powerhouse to a Cinderella playoff run, four area football teams are geared up for the charged environment of state semifinal football Saturday. Check at each team's prospects in our previews at FNL.MYSUBURBANLIFE.COM.