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.

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

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.

In the days and months I spent walking through the various communities of this city, I found that Chicago did not work for everyone, however.

Can a person steal happiness? Or is just another internal, infernal human trick?

Love your work and rejoice in all your accomplishments.

My heart pounded annoyingly in my ears, and it was getting harder to stay focused. I'd almost gotten trapped in here, and now I'd come back. Sometimes I did have truly terrible ideas.

They're the first crew I've ever had and most of them even call me Captain. I'm going to miss them.

Education today more than ever before must see clearly the dual objectives: education for living and educating for making a living.

People say great art is immortal. I say there's something mortal in it. It carries a glimpse of death.

I really don't have any secrets. I've never met a photographer whose work I respected that had a secret because the secret lies within each and every one of us.

A small drop of ink makes thousands, perhaps millions... think.

I like to have curves and feel like a woman. I hope that people see that in my photos and know that healthy is better than skinny.

If you have an ability, you want to exercise it, not anesthetize it.