Today, in 1818, Illinois became the 21st State:

It is easy to feel a little melancholy on a rainy fall day in Chicago.  Summer is indisputably over and, while our autumn is lovely, we know too well what is right around the corner.  But today is truly a sad day in my city.   Despite the potential political fallout of losing the Olympics let’s all remember that America and one of its greatest cities was repudiated.  And that should not make any of us happy.

Chicagoans admit that we are ethically challenged when it comes to our politics.  It is important to point out that in our business and other dealings we try to espouse Midwestern values and deal fairly with others.  We are not proud of the reputation that the Cook County Democratic machine has won for us.  And many are still trying to do something about it.   But by and large, our distaste for local political habits in no way diminishes our love for our city, our state and our communities.

To my fellow conservatives who are deconstructing the implications of Chicago’s embarrassment at the hands of the International Olympic Committee and the indisputable damage it has done to the president’s reputation and image, I simply ask that you remember that there are millions of people in the Chicago area who are ordinary working people who take great pride in their community.  All of us, conservative, liberal and independent, bid supporters and even bid detractors, are hurting a little today.  We got embarrassed on the world stage as well.

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So, not only did Chicago lose out in its bid for the Olympics, it lost in the FIRST ROUND. It is kind of like the world community saying to President Obama, “Not only no, but Hell No.”

Breaking story here. Consider this an open thread.