Grandpa,
Our condo board ruled several years ago that we cannot grow vegetables on condo property because this would attract rodents. This year they sent a notice that we can no longer grow them in pots on our patios. Our board president suggests that we grow our vegetables indoors. That is the stupidest suggestion I ever heard! How in God’s green earth will they get pollinated? Somebody has to do something for us gardeners.
Grandpa says; You are right on two counts. Indoor plants don’t get the opportunity to be pollenated by bees and butterflies. And, you have to do something. If you don’t like what your condo board is doing, then you have the moral obligation to run for the board. Get elected to the board and make some positive changes. Read the ruling from the condo board. Does it say you cannot have the flowering plants on your patio during the day? You could easily put your flowerpots on the patio during the day time to be pollinated and then back indoors at night when the critters would be out at foraging through the salad bar you are growing for them. Every rule has a reason. Every rule has a way to be skirted. Take action.
Grandpa,
You are contradictory in what you say. You won’t print the names of businesses or even locations in some articles claiming that you don’t promote or advertise in your column. Yet, you do print the names of some places such as food pantries or children’s hospitals. So, straight up, do you or do you not endorse some places and not others? Isn’t this rather unfair to legitimate businesses?
Grandpa says; On the surface what you say appears to be true. Allow me to clarify. Grandpa does not reveal the names or other information about those who write to me. It is because Grandpa wants everyone to feel safe from reprisal, embarrassment, or any other fear from writing me for advice. Grandpa does not endorse any product or commercial institution.
This column is about moral answers to real concerns. It is not a basis for free advertising of any product or service. Grandpa does recognize good persons doing good works with no profit motive at heart. Places such as Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry, Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry, Kendall County Food Pantry and many others in the Fox Valley, whose names I don’t know, have a mission of love. They help feed the needy in our home towns. None has ever asked for Grandpa to mention them. Most of the volunteers with whom I have spoken do not seek public recognition for their good works. Grandpa believes everyone should know about these facilities so that we can donate goods and volunteer time to help fulfill the missions of these pantries. It is what universal love is all about.
Grandpa says; Beloved readers, we are facing some critical blood shortages in the northern Illinois area. Please consider donating. Your gift could save the life of a person in need. It only takes a few minutes and the effect is life-long. Thank you.
Got something stuck in your craw? Ask Grandpa. Address your letters to Ask Grandpa c/o The Voice, 314 N. Lake Street, Suite 2, Aurora, IL 60506 or send an E-mail to askgrandpa@thevoice.us.
