Real quotes from Democratic voters in Palatine: "I like what the Democrats are doing." "Fair Tax? Is that the progressive income tax? Oh yes, I'm all for that." "I'm glad Pritzker signed the law keeping detention centers out of Illinois. We need immigrants!"

These are just some of the comments from voters I talked to last month as part of this summer's canvassing for local issues. It was super fun to get out into the sunshine and visit with friendly Democrats and Progressives and talk with them about their concerns on local issues. It's a great way to take the pulse of Team Blue in the Greater Palatine Area. I felt energized by my time canvassing--doing real work to reach other folks in town who share the same values. Many, many thanks to Patrick Watson, Democratic State Central Committeeman IL06, and Illinois Sixth District Democrats for helping GPAD organize. Go out and canvass!! Sign up here!!

To bear witness to the suffering of children and families in detention centers on the border, join this vigil Friday night, July 12, on Northwest Highway near the Arlington Heights Metra train station, from 7 to 9 p.m. as part of a nation-wide vigil organized by Lights for Liberty. Bring a candle (and matches!) or an electric candle from a dollar store for a candle-light vigil at 8:45 p.m. Organized by Erika Burch -- sign up here.

"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free" were the banners that greeted residents who turned out for Fourth of July parades in Rolling Meadows and Palatine. Glorious summer weather saw a terrific turnout of volunteers who marched under Greater Palatine Area banners this Independence Week.