For my part, I plan to work out a fair and adequate redistribution of city services to all city neighborhoods.

Be assured that I did not become the Mayor of Chicago to preside over its decline.

If we are to succeed, we must recognize that the community redevelopment is not solely the rehabilitation of housing, or putting a mall in the business strips.

The Chicago Symphony is considered the greatest orchestra in the world.

Our universities and museums are respected around the country.

Politics never takes a holiday in Chicago.

I accept that responsibility and ask only that I be judged by my performance as its chief executive.

But I am committed to keeping this city a strong and viable center for commerce and industry, for continuing to make it a place of opportunity for its citizens.

The nation can no longer afford to continue policies that hasten the flight of persons to the distant suburbs.

City employees will be hired and promoted because of their abilities - without outside interference.

Tonight - by taking this solemn oath - I am no longer a private citizen but the Mayor of the City of Chicago.

Complacency delivered us into the hands of evil greedy men like Cheney.

Refuse to be content with the knowledge of God. Insist on experiencing His presence.

I can’t comprehend why any black man with even a lick of sense would have the slightest bit of interest in time travel. Going backward in time? A black man? You have got to be out of your mind.

Fighters before a fight, they shouldn't get riled up.

The one important factor that keeps me going is the kind of people I work with.

I smile and think; This is my job, this is what I do for a living, and its what I’ve always wanted

I have always had this outrage at being told what to, how to act, whom to love.

Fools take criticism and dish it back. The wise take it and turn it to their advantage.

The more sand has escaped from the hourglass of our life, the clearer we should see through it.

It's happening right now... it's just not on film, it's not being recorded.