Make the check out to the Chicago Alderman (for a retirement present)

The Chicago Tribune reports:

The heir apparent to powerful Ald. William J.P. Banks (36th) is throwing a $200-a-ticket retirement party for the outgoing City Council zoning boss and asking everyone who attends to make the checks out to Banks personally.

"We're going to buy him a gift," said John Rice, Banks' driver and would-be successor. "Thirty-two years of service to the city and to the community -- I think he deserves a retirement party. That's why I decided to throw it."

Banks, 60, has been chairman of the council's important Zoning Committee since Mayor Richard Daley took office in 1989.

Although Banks has not officially turned in his resignation, he gave a farewell speech at the last council meeting, and he has asked Daley to appoint Rice to replace him.

For more on Alderman Banks.