Until now, Alderman Robert Shaw’s supernatural powers were confined to suits loud enough to wake the dead. But at last week’s City Council meeting, Shaw apparently channeled the spirit of Johnnie Cochran, who hasn’t even died yet.
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Shaw morphed into Cochran during the council debate over Alderman Ginger Rugai’s controversial plan to erect 11 cul-de-sacs in North Beverly along 95th Street and Western Avenue. Rugai says they’ll reduce crime and eliminate dangerous traffic cutting through side streets. Opponents believe they’re meant to barricade North Beverly from black neighbors.
“A cul-de-sac is nothin’ more than a three-piece suit dressed up, but many of the people of Chicago are not buyin’ this three-piece suit,” Shaw thundered. “You got to go back and should go back and buy another suit that fits, and this one does not fit the spirit of Chicago.” Thankfully, he refrained from adding, “If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.”
