Show me the money (or, at least the receipts).

Today the Journal Star editorial staff out did itself. They claim that former second district City Councilwoman Marcella Teplitz and her husband, Jack,"tireless volunteers." I have a lovely bridge to sell to anyone who believes it. I'll throw in swamp land for free.

The editorial does a pathetic mud slinging at City Councilwoman Barbara VanAuken by accusing her Campaign Manager, Robert Powers, of asking too many questions about a public fund that Mr. Teplitz once headed. You know you're reading a crappy newspaper when it slights someone for asking too many questions.

The situation (stay with me here, it's entertaining):

1. The City loaned $185,000 to Randolph-Roanoke neighborhood in order to buy, rehab, and sell 209 W. Columbia Terrace in 1993. The property was in horrid disrepair and the scene of repeated crime. The neighborhood continued to buy distressed homes, "recycling the public money throughout the neighborhood."

2. The problem: No properties have been purchased since 1996.

3. The solution: Two residents, Robert Powers and Paul Day, asked to see the fund records. Powers and Day say that they were refused access and were shut out when they asked questions.

4. Jack Teplitz headed the loan fund until 2003. Marcella Teplitz was president of the Randolph Roanoke Homeowners Association when the fund was created.

5. City planning and growth management director, Pat Landes, says, "Every penny is accounted for."

Great. Problem solved. PROVE IT!!! Open the books and let us all have a peek. (Apparently the editorialist knew better than to ask.) When government acts like it has something to hide, it shouldn't be surprised when citizens get suspicious and disgusted. It's a given that said citizens will support the opposing candidate - who pledged to be honest and open. Tick off the right citizen, and you might find someone who is willing to get off their ass to run a successful campaign for a better candidate. It's called grass roots democracy, and done well, it is a beautiful thing.

The Teplitzs have probably made more enemies than friends. Hell, neighborhood association meetings during their reign are rumored to have gotten physical - with fists thrown, shoving, name calling, and people storming out. Clearly there wasn't a unified group working to better the neighborhood. There were those who wanted to improve the area and there were those who tirelessly continued to power grab.

The PJ Star is still sucking sour grapes. They endorsed Teplitz in the last election. Luckily, the overwhelming majority of second district citizens know the only legitimate use for the editorial page is to line the litter box. It seems that Marcella and Jack Teplitz, as well as Editorialists Shelley Epstein and Mike Bailey are still grieving. Guys, you lost. Get over it already!