'I Don't Believe Anything the City and the 2016 Committee Says'

Remember when dissent was the most patriotic form of protest? Well, those days are long over, my friends. When you're a Chicago resident and you don't want the 2016 O-lympics in your town then it's time for a beatdown.

Seems there are still a few locals not in the pocket of the corrupt machine, but let's face it, it's in the bag, so just pack up and go home. You really think The O would go to Denmark if this wasn't a done deal?

The mayor, the president and Oprah Winfrey may hope to return to Chicago from Copenhagen with the 2016 Olympic Games, but some around town hope the International Olympic Committee deems the Second City the second city.

As in second to Rio de Janeiro. Or Tokyo. Or Madrid.

The opposition is not as visible as the "We Back the Bid" signs plastered across town. But in a city all too familiar with stories of public corruption and problems with public services, there is serious concern the games can only mean more troubles — and bills — for residents.

"I know it's going to cost us money somehow," said Joseph Patrick, a 51-year-old stay-at-home dad. "The government doesn't have a job (so) the only place they can get money is from us."

A new Web site — Chicagoansforrio.com — is the talk of the town and features the game "Match the Olympic host with its estimated budget overrun." About 170 protesters marched outside City Hall on Tuesday night, many insisting that no matter what organizers say, the games will push people from their homes, lead to more corruption and raise taxes.

"I don't believe anything the city and the 2016 committee says," said Larry Rivkin, who grew up in Chicago.

At least one person was later arrested for trying to interfere with workers erecting Olympic symbols in a downtown plaza.

Head over to the Chicagoans for Rio Site. Rather amusing.

Here are some others protesting yesterday.