John Shimkus: “In these troubled times, many good things by good people are still being done. As a Cardinals' fan and an Illinoisan, I…”

“In these troubled times, many good things by good people are still being done. As a Cardinals' fan and an Illinoisan, I salute the exploits of Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa. They have raced up the hill of baseball history with honor and dignity. They are to be commended. My hometown hero, Tim Farneris, retrieved Big Mac's 62nd home run. Giving up a $1 million bonanza, he returned the ball to McGwire. For Tim and his older brother Tino, the game is a moment in their lives that they will never forget. Tim's mother Rita says she believes her son could one day be a millionaire, but not without earning it. I agree with her 100 percent, and want her to know that he is well on his way by earning our respect and admiration by simply doing the right thing. Thank you, Tim.”