But it's my job!

A high-level operative for 14th Ward Alderman Ed Burke oversaw the placement of new mile markers on the Chicago lakefront, fulfilling his responsibility as a supervisor for the Chicago Park District.

When the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) sent him a thank you letter, he asked that a copy be sent to his boss. He didn’t need it to keep his job or to get a raise. He simply wanted it known that he did a good job and that his work had been appreciated.

Another fellow was rewarded for his support of Governor George Ryan by being named to a state commission.

He excitedly sent a memo to the Guv’s office, outlining all the activities the commission could engage in to benefit the Governor and the State. The memo was returned to him with a message – “no more memos.”