The 'R' word sparks controversy in village

Economists are saying America is on the brink of a recession.

They're not saying we're suffering through one yet, as "recession" is a technical term, and the indicators aren't there right now. Don't worry. I won't pretend that I understand those numbers and offer analysis.

But the subject has come to the forefront in Hoffman Estates in recent weeks, as Cabela's announced 40 layoffs in Hoffman Estates, and plans were approved for the 8,900-seat Prairie Creek Amphitheater, across the street from the Sears Centre arena at Prairie Stone Business Park.

Recently, the Daily Herald added space for Web surfers to comment on stories. Some of the comments -- specifically when it comes to race, class and gun rights (from both sides) -- appear written by chimps. They make my head hurt. Other comments are thought-provoking and help my journalistic juices flow.

This is what user "poodleskirt" wrote on March 1 about the Cabela's layoffs: "This is further proof that people (cannot) afford to spend money on almost anything 'extra.' It takes one's whole salary to pay for the utilities, food and gasoline at today's inflated prices … "

Two other users joined the chorus in agreeing with poodleskirt. Yes, I am enjoying quoting someone using the name poodleskirt.

Prairie Creek evoked some strong responses from readers, especially those who say the village's focus is too widespread and are critical of it's $50 million investment in the Sears Centre. It did, according to Village Manager James Norris, draw robust crowds last week when hosting IHSA boys basketball supersectionals.

However, a Web reader named "westerner" is excited about the new Creek, as shown with a comment from Feb. 20: "Prairie Creek will bring jobs, money, prosperity, tax relief and a lot of fun for the residents."

Others also wonder about how many people have money to spend on concerts, as ticket costs have inflated over the last few years.

Village officials have asked that people be patient, to wait for the water park, Prairie Creek and the Sears Centre to be open all at once. They say they'll drive each other to success.

But with the dark clouds of recession hovering over the country like an Internet troll -- as defined by Wikipedia as "someone who posts controversial and usually irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum, with the intention of baiting other users into an emotional response" -- only time will tell.