Posted on 09/16/2009 1:29:53 PM PDT by STARWISE
We're all learning more details about the apparent suicide of politically connected contractor Christopher Kelly. He pleaded guilty to corruption charges, was facing years in federal prison and had the option of telling federal authorities about city airport contracts and his buddy, former Gov. Rod Blagojevich. But today, readers get their writes on Kelly, a self-inflicted victim of corruption the Chicago Way.
John, I have known Chris since early days in Champaign, during college, and thereafter. Chris drank in college (like most college students) but has been a strict non-drinker for at least a decade, perhaps two. Chris would rather die than live on someone else's terms (jail) or betray his friends.
I condone none of what Chris did. He was part of the problem in Illinois, a big part. All I will say in his defense is that Chris was generous to his friends and the most fiercely loyal person I have ever met, even if that loyalty was sometimes to the wrong people. His death was the ultimate exemplification of that trait and his final "[beep] you" to federal prosecutors. Mike H.
Dear Mike -- Kelly wasn't just part of the problem. He was also a symptom. His dealings with Blagojevich made news, but I think his city contracts (and how he got them) also will make for amazing reading. But it's clear he was a loyal friend to you and others.
Regarding your Sunday article on Kelly, one part made me laugh: "Kelly made a fortune in city airport and school roofing deals. He knew much about the multimillion-dollar contracts at O'Hare. ..." Well, he sure didn't know much.
(Excerpt) Read more at chicagotribune.com ...
~~PING
Looks like BigBoy went out and hired a Viking body guard.
Thor SteroidalPonytail
While I feel sorry for his kids..wives know more than most of us know and they should be forced to forfeit their assets to repay the taxpayers for the corruption and graft.
When we let Wifey escape with a beaut house, BMW and a seven figure bank account..it isn’t right.
There is plenty of section 8 housing available for them. They put some people into it..so they can go too.
Well said.
Your family and mine, directly and indirectly are paying for, and thus sacrificing, to enable the decadent, unearned lifestyles of these corrupt politicians and bureaucrats.
He gambled his loot away, depriving his family.
House is in foreclosure.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/1771401,CST-NWS-kelly15good.article
Well, I was talking about Big Hair, but I don’t feel too sorry for Kelly or his family either.
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