Source Click on the title to read the article at its original source.

29 Oct		  

Gwen Coleman Geiger - FaceBook
"WEGO girls' volleyball wins! Next game: Sectional Championship, 1 p.m. Saturday at Conant HS."

Becky Hall
"I know times are tough, but I've looked this plan over and I think it strengthens our schools system without increasing what we currently pay.  But the important thing is remembering to vote on Tuesday, regardless of your position. This is our country, and we need to retain control."

Community Services Fair - Stay Afloat in Today's Tough Economy - FB, Kathe Elliott-Doremus
"Free workshops to Preserve Homeownership/Prevent Foreclosure, Making Home Affordable Initiative, Local Programs for vets, energy assistance, home repairs, real estate tax programs, medical services, - where to get help if you are struggling financially. Hosted by DuPage Homeownership Center, Illinois Housing Development Authority, and City of West Chicago."
DuPage judge gives mea culpa ahead of vote
"The 13-year veteran of the bench pleaded guilty in August to the reckless driving charge and received a $500 fine and a six-month conditional discharge, which is a nonreporting form of probation. He wrote a personal letter to the young jogger and her parents before entering his guilty plea, apologizing for scaring the girl... Up for a retention vote on Tuesday, Popejoy said he defied the advice of his attorney to talk about the incident and the fallout in an effort to explain why he deserves residents' votes."
2-year-old beaten at motel
"Officers responded to the Super 8 Motel, 1520 E. Main St., after receiving a call about an unresponsive 2-year-old who was not conscious and not breathing.  When they arrived, police said the child had bruising around the head, eyes and mouth.  The child was stabilized, then taken to Delnor Hospital in Geneva. Police said the child was in critical but stable condition Thursday."
No area school districts meet standards
"And in District 303, one of the St. Charles district’s two high schools and one of its four middle schools made AYP this year.  Eight of its 12 elementary schools did as well, and of those, only Richmond Elementary School in St. Charles advanced to early warning and offered School of Choice this year. At Richmond, students’ average ISAT composite scores stopped just short of the benchmark — at 74.3 percent meeting or exceeding."
Officials unveil Asian carp fence
"The $4.5 million project, paid for with money from the federal Great Lakes Restoration Fund, was fast-tracked by state, county and city officials and completed in just about a year.  At a small gathering this morning below the U.S. Interstate 355 overpass near Lemont, officials championed the swift completion of the fence and the cooperation it took to get it done."
7 arrested in Chicago for selling fake documents
"One cooperating witness allegedly bought the software used to manufacture counterfeit documents for $3,000. A suspect also demonstrated how the program included templates for a new form of Illinois driver's licenses.  Authorities say street vendors would charge up to $150 for a set of fake documents. They allegedly managed to sell five or more sets a day."
Illinois hospital report card adds new information
"Illinois' year-old hospital report card has been updated with new information about children's care and emergency rooms.  Patients can use the website to see how their hospitals measure up on quality and safety."
Talking
  Points
    Memo		 Who Leads IL-SEN? Depends How Many Candidates Are Involved
"The Illinois Senate race has been close for months. Democrat Alexi Giannoulias and Republican Rep. Mark Kirk have attacked each other viciously over their respective scandals, attempting to gain advantage in a tight contest. So who is ahead? Well, it depends which polls you look at. Because while Giannoulias and Kirk are the headliners, two other candidates, the Green Party's LeAlan Jones and Libertarian Mike Labno, are each pulling in enough support to sway the results of this close race."
It's Report Card Day for Illinois Schools!
""According to the state report card, 1,999 schools - 51 percent - didn't meet that standard. That's a 40 percent increase from 2009.High schools in particular struggled, with more than 90 percent failing to meet math and science test standards.""
NY Times: Nation’s Labor Laws Weak and Irrelevant - AFL-CIO
"Reporter Steven Greenhouse highlights a new paper by Harvard Professor Richard Freeman, which finds that the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), created by the NLRA, has not improved the process by which workers decide if they want a union. Instead, it has turned union elections in the private sector “into massive employer campaigns against unions.”  You can read Greenhouse’s entire article here."
Gifts to Notre Dame plunged $120M during year of Obama’s appearance - Catholic Culture
"Contributions to the University of Notre Dame fell by over $120 million during the fiscal year in which President Barack Obama was awarded an honorary degree... The decline in donations largely coincided with the late-2000s recession, which officially began in December 2007 and ended in June 2009."
Prison Economics Help Drive Ariz. Immigration Law - NPR
"NPR spent the past several months analyzing hundreds of pages of campaign finance reports, lobbying documents and corporate records. What they show is a quiet, behind-the-scenes effort to help draft and pass Arizona Senate Bill 1070 by an industry that stands to benefit from it: the private prison industry.  The law could send hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants to prison in a way never done before. And it could mean hundreds of millions of dollars in profits to private prison companies responsible for housing them."

 

28 Oct		  
BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS 10-27-10
  • We Grow Dream Greenhouse & Garden Center
  • Scooby’s Hot Dogs
  • Natural Healing Dog Wellness Center
  • UPCOMING EVENTS
Just a reminder .... Monthly Wildcat Booster Meeting
  • Monday, November 1st
  • 7:00pm in Room 197
  • Everyone is welcome to attend.
DANIEL "DANNY" CAMPOS
"Danny had the gift of picking up almost any instrument and instantly mastering both its technique and style. A longtime rock and roll entertainer in Chicagoland, he played with both the Wanderers and Danny and the Twisters. He used his musical talent to help raise funds for many charities.

Our Kids Our Community:- FB, Susan Dieterle Stiba

  • "Strengthen your property values!

  • Improve our community!

  • Create jobs in West Chicago!

  • Improve learning for 6th graders!

  • Provide more space at all schools!

  • Maintain the tax rate!

  • Vote YES next Tuesday November 2!"
Let’s ‘tip our hat’ to School Board Members
"Nov. 15, 2010, has been designated as School Board Members’ Day in Illinois, and Community High School District 94 is joining other districts across the state to thank these community volunteers for their commitment and contribution to our public schools."
Key Communicator
"West Chicago Elementary School District 33 is in the process of updating our communication files and we need your help.  We frequently send out an email called the "Key Communicator" which contains information about events happening within the school district. It is another way that we reach out to our community to keep them informed and educated about our schools.  If you are not already receiving this Key Communicator email and would like to be included on the list, please send me your name and the email address you would like these communications sent."
Veterans Day Activities
"Veterans Day is November 11, and District 33 schools have many different activities planned to honor our Veterans. Students throughout the District will be encouraged to wear red, white and blue."
City Changes Location for Police Records & Payments
"The City has recently changed the location where all police records transactions and payments are administered. All payments, including amounts owed for parking citations, code violation citations and fees owed for the release of a towed vehicle should be paid at City Hall at 475 Main Street. Payments previously paid at the City's Police Department can no longer be accepted at that location."
[This item appears to be an Oct 21st update that was not mentioned in any press release that I recall.  I'm with the reader that pointed me at it that ..."it should have been released as poice news or press release." - Bob]
Have a Ball - Ballroom Dancing
"Tango Argentina Club, located at 179 W. Washington Street in downtown West Chicago, will be offering a special program at the West Chicago Public Library on Wednesday, November 3, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. "Have a Ball - Ballroom Dancing" is the name of the upcoming demonstration and introductory lesson being offered free of charge. The lesson focuses on the Waltz and Fox Trot. To make a reservation, call the Library Adult Services Department at (630) 231-1552 x4."
West Chicago Rotary News
"President Christie Poulin, presented Mr. Ward Rau, Club Advisor, and the 85+ students in attendance at a recent meeting, with their Rotary Interact Certification Document."
Dist. 94 officials: Leaving conference better for athletes
"The proposal, which would not go into effect until 2012 and still needs board approval, would withdraw the school from the DuPage Valley Conference and force school officials to schedule the team’s games, rather than rely on the conference for a majority of them.  Chang said the goal is to create schedules that makes all programs more competitive."
COD group faces state elections complaint
"Mark Stern said the group, Supporters of College of DuPage, is violating state election law by not identifying itself as the group responsible for posting signs supporting the ballot question. A hearing is slated for Monday."
95th District candidates sound off on campaign finance reform
"Maria Owens, a Democrat from West Chicago, said Republican incumbent Mike Fortner’s political history lacks any real involvement with ways to change the play-to-pay schemes circulating the state legislator. She says his vote against a recent campaign finance law only further calls to question his contribution toward changing the corruption in Springfield."
Groups that backed Kirk endorsing Giannoulias
"Ken Swanson, president of the Illinois Education Association, says Kirk hasn’t been consistent in his support.  His comments were echoed by representatives from Planned Parenthood and the Sierra Club. The Human Rights Campaign and League of Conservation Voters also say they endorsed Kirk when he ran for Congress but don’t support him now."
Stark differences between governor candidates on health care bill
  • "Quinn, who believes the federal law will protect Illinois consumers from unfair insurance price increases, says he would continue to accept federal money tied to the law and use it to beef up Illinois’ weak regulatory powers over health insurers."
  • "Brady calls the overhaul a government intrusion and says he would make sure Illinois joins 20 other states challenging the constitutionality of a requirement that most Americans buy health insurance. But he won’t say what specific steps he’d take to turn his opposition into official state policy."
The Unemployment Benefit Cliff
"At the end of the month, Congress will likely stop paying for the lion's share of the Extended Benefits (EB) program, a separate and permanent program that offers an additional 20 weeks of benefits in states with high levels of unemployment. (Illinois chose to take part in it last June.) Normally, state governments are required to finance half of any EB extensions. The stimulus bill, however, included money to cover the entire cost of the program. But that funding stream expires on November 30 as well, leaving thousands of workers in the lurch if Congress doesn't act quickly."
Boehner to Rally with Republican Candidate Photographed in Nazi Uniform - AFL-CIO
"Any kind of reenactment or glorification of Nazi Germany, to us, would be something unacceptable and certainly in poor taste, if not offensive. I think the reaction here will be very negative. And not just among the Jewish community, but the broader community."
Religious Undercurrent Ripples In Anti-Gay Bullying - NPR
"Aaberg says teachers felt they couldn't get involved — even when her son was bullied — because of the school district's "neutrality policy," which prohibits employees from taking sides on matters regarding sexual orientation. The district says the policy is meant to apply to the curriculum. But teachers say it's so broadly written that they're loath to intervene even when they hear anti-gay slurs."
Chinese Supercomputer Wrests Title From U.S. - NY Times
"The computer, known as Tianhe-1A, has 1.4 times the horsepower of the current top computer, which is at a national laboratory in Tennessee, as measured by the standard test used to gauge how well the systems handle mathematical calculations, said Jack Dongarra, a University of Tennessee computer scientist who maintains the official supercomputer rankings."

27 Oct		  
Around and About in West Chicago - 28 Oct 2010
  • West Chicago Halloween Trick or Treat Hours
  • Sixth Annual Prayer Breakfast
  • Community Services Fair
  • Annual Leaf Raking for Senior Citizens

West Chicago
High School

 

 Free Community Services Fair
  • Saturday, November 6, 2010, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • West Chicago Community High School Commons Area
  • Attend FREE Workshops or Just Stop by and Pick Up FREE Information
  • Flyer with Additional Information
P.A.W.S. FOR RECOGNITION
"Each Division is asked to nominate students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Learning, Living, or Leadership. The recipients of the PAWS awards this month are a testament to the importance of hard work, perseverance, and community."
Pre-Halloween Rally/Protest WTTW-City Club of Chicago Governor's Debate - FB,  DuPage County Green Party
  • Time: Thursday, October 28 · 6:00pm - 8:00pm
  • Location WTTW, 5400 N. St. Louis Ave., Chicago, IL
  • Owens Hosts Meet & Greet at Fox’s in Downtown Batavia
    "Maria Owens, the Democratic candidate for Illinois’ 95th House District, is hosting a meet & greet reception at Fox’s on the River at 31 N River Street in downtown Batavia on Thursday, Oct. 28th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. The event, co-hosted by Batavia School Board President Jack Hinterlong, is free and open to the public."
  • David Hoffman Joins Maria Owens for Pre-Election Reform Rally
    "Former U.S. Senate candidate and Illinois Reform Commission member David Hoffman will join democratic candidate in Illinois’ 95th District, Maria Owens in Batavia, IL on Thursday, Oct. 28th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m."
Forest preserve challengers question funding
"Dennis Clark, Pierotti’s challenger, and his fellow Democrats have issued a joint statement accusing the incumbents of making ethical missteps because of the campaign contributions and no-bid contracts for professional services.  “When you examine our opponents’ campaign finance filings on the State Board of Elections website, you will find a who’s who of contractors and partners of the firms doing business with the forest preserve,” said Eric Bergman, who is running against District 4 Commissioner Mike Formento. “This is exactly the reason that Illinois has become the laughing stock of the nation.”"
DuPage panel at work on mandated redistricting
"An initiative that would have kept office holders out of the redistricting process fell short last spring of the signatures needed to place the matter before the voters. The Illinois Fair Map Amendment would have given the redistricting task to an independent commission. According to the Illinois League of Women Voters and other groups comprising the coalition that led the drive, incumbent state lawmakers’ 98 percent re-election rate can be traced directly to the legislators drawing the maps."
fox4kc.com Tornado may have touched down in Will County; O'Hare flights halted
"At DuPage Airport in West Chicago, high winds flipped over three single-engine planes that were tied down outside. "I'm not a mechanic, but they don't look very good," said Mark Doles, director of operations."
Massive windstorm sweeps across Chicago
"With wind gusts in excess of 60 miles per hour in the suburbs, more than 500 flights were canceled at O'Hare International Airport, and high winds overturned three single-engine planes at DuPage Airport in West Chicago."
Early voting closes Thursday
"Other early voting locations in DuPage County include the DuPage Election Commission in Wheaton, Elmhurst City Hall, Five Seasons Sports Club in Burr Ridge, Lisle Village Hall, Naperville Municipal Center, Aurora Public Library, Yorktown Center mall in Lombard and Stratford Square mall in Bloomingdale. Times vary.  For details, visit dupageelections.com or call For more information, contact the DuPage County Election Commission at (630) 407-5600 or."
UI among schools getting $1.5 million for green guidelines
"A $1.5 million grant awarded to the University of Illinois and several other universities will help researchers evaluate garden pots and new environmentally friendly options.  Researchers from the universities ultimately will establish guidelines for the green industry, which includes growers, greenhouses, garden centers and similar businesses.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture announced the grant Monday."
Local hospitals use federal grants to address shortages
"Nearly $800,000 in stimulus funding is being pumped into the local economy to upgrade the skills of health care specialists as offials anticipate future shortages in key medical professions.  The initiative is part of the $5.4 million pool of federal funds available statewide to improve the availability of qualified health care workers and address shortages in critical health care areas."
Out-of-state money fueling race for governor
"An unprecedented amount of out-of-state money is financing the race for governor, one expert added.  Although much attention has been focused on largely anonymous money flowing into campaigns for federal office, some of the same issues are showing up in races for state offices. It’s raised concerns among groups who want to ensure that the people financing political campaigns are fully disclosed to the public."
Early Voting Spikes In Illinois
"After a slow start, early voting figures are growing in Chicagoland. As of Monday, 52,900 Chicago residents had cast ballots, more than double the 2006 total. In suburban Cook County, almost 55,000 voters have already gone to the polls, an increase of roughly 22,000 from four years ago. The early polls remain open until Thursday evening."
Brady's AFSCME Ad Is All Wrong
"In his latest ad, the Brady camp accuses the governor of "sticking taxpayers with a $250 million pay raise for government workers." ... That's just factually inaccurate. Rod Blagojevich bargained AFSCME's latest contract, which included a slight pay increase. Gov. Quinn promised he wouldn't cut any state jobs or close any facilities until June 30, 2012 if the union makes changes to its group health insurance plan that will save $70 million and identifies an additional $50 million in cuts by the end of October."

NLRB Orders New Hearing on NYU Grad Students Union Vote - AFL-CIO
"One of the most egregious decisions of the Bush-era National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was the 2004 ruling in the Brown University case that graduate teaching and research assistants were not employees and could not form a union. This week, the Obama NLRB began to set things right by reversing a ruling which prevented some 1,800 graduate assistants at New York University from voting for union representation."
Stephen Colbert’s Sunday School - Headline Bistro
"And, so, on The View, he presented the Cross. He told Walters and the women around the interview couch about his mother and her “very strong faith.” “She taught us to still love life and not be bitter,” he said “And to realize that everybody suffers and if you can accept your suffering then you’ll just understand other people better. And, strangely enough, you have to be grateful for pain.”  It was a beautiful, faithful use of an opportunity given to him. That’s a beautiful habit of his."
The Tea Party movement: deluded and inspired by billionaires - Guardian
"Some Astroturf campaigns have no grassroots component at all. Others catalyse and direct real mobilisations. The Tea Party belongs in the second category. It is mostly composed of passionate, well-meaning people who think they are fighting elite power, unaware that they have been organised by the very interests they believe they are confronting."
 

26 Oct

  
Katie's cookies - Sharon Lemon
"Checkout the website below. Jeff Gregory's wife Katie is a very talented cookie maker. Dahlas forwarded me her blog site."
At the Finish Line!
"This is it, with the election just a little more than a week away we are right where we need to be to win this race! This past weekend was a resounding success, we made over 2000 calls but we need you this weekend to put us over the top! Please come out on Saturday October 30th from 10am to 7pm or Sunday October 31st from 1pm to 6pm at the IBEW Local 701 Union Hall to make phone calls with the campaign. Email volunteer@owensforillinois.com for more information and to sign up."

West Chicago
High School		 Market Day
"Please help support our student organizations by placing orders with Market Day. Each month a different student club or organization will benefit from the proceeds of your orders. This month the Cheerleading group will be receiving the profit.  Our next sale will be Thursday November 4th at 5:00 p.m. in Commons. You must place your order by: Monday, November 1st at 11:00pm CST. Pick up time is 5:00-5:45 p.m.  Specials this month:
  • Online Only: FREE 4 pack ChicNSteaks with $90 purchase – enter the code NOVBONUS
  • Pies: 14 Delicious Pies/Desserts to choose from to complete your Thanksgiving Dinner

Click on the following website to access Market Day to place your order: http://www.marketday.com/. Our School is listed as Community High School Activities - Account #6816."
Student-of-the Month for October 2010
"The faculty and administration of Community High School would like to congratulate Robert Windisch for being selected Student of the Month for October."
Scouting DuPage postseason volleyball
"The Wildcats, led by Illinois-bound junior outside Julia Conard, started the season 26-0 but lost 7 matches in the season’s final eight days.  “We’re refining our skills in practice. Mentally we’re going for a fresh start,” Wildcats coach Kris Hasty said. “As far as the timing of those losses, if they would have been spread more throughout the season mentally it might have been a little bit different. But we’re putting that behind us as of today. It’s anybody’s ballgame, and we’re giving it our best shot.”"
BigNews.biz Synergy Builders Inc Announces its Participation at the College of DuPage Home Show in Glen Ellyn
"Synergy Builders, Inc has recently announced its participation in College of DuPage Home Show in Ellyn Illinois, Chicago from 2nd to 3rd October, 2010 in Ellyn, Illinois. The College of DuPage Home Show is one of the largest and most innovative home shows in the Chicago area. Synergy Builders will be participating with 100 additional vendors featuring the latest in: remodeling, landscaping, and unique products for your home."
West Chicago asking residents for school referendum support
"The referendum comes at a time when a previous District 33 bond has reached its 20-year retirement.  Officials said approval of the proposed bond issue would not result in a tax increase because it would be offset by the retirement of the other bonds. However, if the proposal is not approved, taxes would decrease about $140 a year on a home worth $200,000."
West Chicago runner uses strategy to beat the competition
"“I try to go out behind the pack, let the lead guys go out the first mile or so,” he said. “You throw in a surge right around the 2-mile mark, try and get the lead and then hold on for the win.”"
Forget ads: Senate candidates Kirk, Giannoulias worthy
"Turn off the TV attack ads and ignore for a moment the caricatures of Mark Kirk as serial embellisher and Alexi Giannoulias as mob banker.  Illinois arguably has two men of extraordinary ability and accomplishment vying for the Senate seat formerly held by Barack Obama."
Conservation program along rivers expands in Illinois
"DNR and the federal Agriculture Farm Service Agency use the program to work with private landowners to develop conservation ideas on erodible lands in the river basins.  Such practices reduce runoff and sedimentation in rivers and streams and make them more suitable for fish and other wildlife."
Social issues divide Brady, Quinn
"One of Bill Brady’s colleagues in the Illinois Senate called him homophobic and sexist. He’s the target of a scathing ad from abortion-rights supporters. His opponent in the governor’s race said he’s heartless... Brady believes abortion should be illegal even in cases of rape or incest. He said Illinois law should not protect gay people from discrimination when seeking housing or employment. He called laws promoting equal pay for women “government intrusion” into the free market."
‘Grace-period voting’ ends today
"Absentee voting, which like early voting can be done with no special reason, also continues in the office through 5 p.m. next Monday — the day before the Nov. 2 election."
Selection process opens for FutureGen carbon project
"The chosen site also will get a $1 billion commitment for construction from the federal government.  Taylorville has all but joined the bidding process. Springfield continues to look.  The FutureGen Alliance announced Monday that it has begun soliciting proposals for a site to store CO2 from a retooled coal-fired power plant on the Illinois River, about 60 miles west of Springfield."
Brady's Bad Weekend In The Sun-Times
"In an editorial this morning, meanwhile, the paper's editors accuse the Republican of playing "dodgeball" with his socially conservative views on gun control, creationism, birth control, and gay rights. While he's tried to pull back his conservative rhetoric this cycle, the AP helpfully notes that Brady has "displayed a more activist streak" in Springfield when those issues were being debated. In other words, Brady's tenure in the state capitol has focused on his social agenda ... and not much else."

Work Till 70? Yes, if Boehner and Republicans Have Their Way - AFL-CIO
"If Republicans take over Congress, House Republican leader John Boehner says he will move to raise the Social Securityretirement age to 70. That might not seem to be a big deal to someone who has spent his life in cushy offices with fancy perks, luxury cars, good health care and not much heavy lifting.  But for millions of seniors in physically demanding jobs it’s a big, big deal."
Union-Made Halloween Treats - Union Plus
"When those little ghosts and goblins come collecting on Halloween, make sure you have a full supply of union-made-in-America treats for them. Here's a brief list of choices of candy products made by members of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union (BCTGM); snack foods by members of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW); or fruit and nuts from members of the United Farm Workers of America (UFW)."
Anti-Muslim Groups Trade On Fear To Make Money - The Tennessean
"Steven Emerson has 3,390,000 reasons to fear Muslims.  That's how many dollars Emerson's for-profit company — Washington-based SAE Productions — collected in 2008 for researching alleged ties between American Muslims and overseas terrorism. The payment came from the Investigative Project on Terrorism Foundation, a nonprofit charity Emerson also founded, which solicits money by telling donors they're in imminent danger from Muslims."
Citizenship For Sale? - YaHoo Finance
"You can't simply purchase an American passport (at least not legally). But since 1990, foreigners with as little as $500,000 in cash have been able to invest their way to a quick green card, putting them on the path to citizenship. Quick, somebody call Lou Dobbs!"
Eight False Things the Public "Knows" Prior to Election Day - TruthOut
"There are a number of things the public "knows" as we head into the election that are just false. If people elect leaders based on false information, the things those leaders do in office will not be what the public expects or needs.  Here are eight of the biggest myths that are out there:"
 

25 Oct

  
This Week in West Chicago
Owens criticizes Fortner for Statement that “the legislature is supposed to be a part-time operation”
"The part-time work for full-time pay and benefits has been a central part of Owens’ campaign. This is the first time that Mike Fortner has taken an official position on the topic. Owens issued the following response to Fortner’s statement that “the legislature is supposed to be a part-time operation.”"
Community Forum Regarding Conference Affiliation
"A Community Forum regarding the exploration to become independent and withdraw from the DVC has been scheduled for Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. in the Auditorium.  This meeting will include an informational presentation on the impact of becoming independent followed by a Question/Answer session.  Questions will be collected through the use of notecards to ensure that all questions receive an ample response.  Questions may also be submitted prior to the meeting by emailing it to lknutson@d94.org."
Student-of-the Month for September 2010
"The faculty and administration of Community High School would like to congratulate Joanna Wierenga for being chosen Student of the Month for September."
Frosty Fest Essay Contest Theme Announced “My Favorite West Chicago Wintertime Activities”
"West Chicago students in grades 1 – 6 are invited to write about their favorite West Chicago wintertime activities. The contest is intended to tap into the creativity and imagination of the City’s youth and to learn what about the community is special to them. Three of the best essays will be chosen and featured on the City’s website, and winners will be invited to help Mayor Kwasman light the tree which will be the centerpiece of the seasonal celebration."
West Chicago’s Sterne wins regional
"Coming down the long final stretch at the Class 3A Naperville North regional on Saturday, West Chicago boys cross country runner Gunnar Sterne angled for position with Wheaton North’s Caleb Philibrick and Aidin Askin.  “It’s hard,” the Wildcats senior said. “You don’t think you have it, but you just dig a little bit deeper. It comes to you.”"
DuPage towns jack up water rates
"In April, following revelations that accounting errors had led to the commission depleting its $69 million reserve fund, commissioners approved a 36-cent rate increase from $1.72 to $2.08 per 1,000 gallons used to help shore up the agency's finances. Municipalities soon followed suit with rate hikes. All but five of the 25 municipalities who receive Lake Michigan water through the commission passed along more than the 36-cent hike."
As poverty rises in suburbs, new preschool for at-risk kids takes shape
"In West Chicago, an old railroad town that once housed the Campbell Soup mushroom farm, Elementary School District 33 has run a preschool program for the last 20 years. With state funding declining, the program has been cut, leaving only 80 spots this year for tuition-free preschool for at-risk students. In the past, that number was close to 400, with teachers reaching and prepping nearly half of incoming kindergartners.  "The kids are just not coming in ready to learn, and that's going to impact our test scores," says District 33 Superintendent Ed Leman. "We can't begin the academic work because they've taken such a step back in such rudimentary things as entering a classroom, handling their materials, interacting with tablemates and orienting a book right side up.""
West Chicago approves Internet-driven used car dealership
"Pisciotta said he will be completing $100,000 in improvements to the site, including installing a paved parking lot east of a 10,000-square-foot building on the property, connecting to the city’s sanitary sewer system, filling-in a depressed truck dock, installing fences and other upgrades."
55th Representative District: Ramey
"Republican Randy Ramey has been representing the 55th Representative District since 2005 and is seeking re-election against Democrat Gregory Brownfield.  Ramey has a history of working with St. Charles officials to help the east side of the city, which his district serves. He also has been a vocal critic of video gambling and supporter of districting reform.  We also support his ideas regarding workman’s compensation reform and tort reform.  We endorse Ramey."
Photograph of Representative John J. Millner (R)Kane County Chronicle | 28th Legislative District: Millner
"A former police chief of Elmhurst, Millner hopes to implement five-year budget projections for the state, a much-needed way to help the state prevent future falls into the debt rabbit hole. We also like his ideas regarding random forensic audits of departments – a cheaper and quicker way than a full state audit of keeping state departments trim and honest – and pay-as-you-go funding for new state programs.  We endorse Millner."
14th Dist. candidates collect endorsements
"U.S. Rep. Bill Foster on Friday accepted the endorsements of a group of Fox Valley mayors with whom he has worked during his first term in office, including Aurora Mayor Tom Weisner.  Three of those mayors — Jeff Schielke of Batavia, Valerie Burd of Yorkville and Eileen Phipps of Wayne — made the trek to Batavia’s downtown Riverwalk on Friday afternoon to offer those endorsements to the incumbent Democrat in person."
Quinn disavows Hendon comments, rips Brady on social issues
"Asked if he thinks Brady is racist, Quinn cited low marks the Bloomington state senator received on civil rights from an organization that rates legislators.  "You guys can sanitize it, but he came out for cutting the minimum wage," Quinn continued. "Well, the people in our state who draw the minimum wage, two-thirds of them are women, many of them of color.""
Southern Illinois mine to generate more than 650 jobs
"White Oak Mine No. 1 is expected to open as early as late 2012.  Gov. Pat Quinn says the mine will create 300 construction jobs and 350 permanent jobs. He says he hopes to see the region produce 7.5 million tons of coal each year.  The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says Hamilton County will receive about $6.2 million in mining royalties in the first five years."
Gas-tax crackdown nets $22 million
"A voluntary disclosure program, increased audits and more aggressive collection brought in $12.7 million from October 2009 through August 2010. After criminal indictments of five owners were announced in August, another $9.3 million was collected, according figures released by the agencies.  Gasoline sales must reported monthly, and a joint investigation determined some stations attempt to evade taxes through false reporting of gasoline sales."
A closer look at U.S. Senate candidates Kirk, Giannoulias
"Kirk was the kind of moderate Republican who might have walked away easily with Barack Obama’s former Senate seat.  But his record of exaggerating here, waffling there and sometimes just not telling the truth means Kirk has wound up running not only against Democrat Alexi Giannoulias but also against himself. Kirk has chosen to fall silent about parts of his life, especially his military service."
Quinn targets Chicago; Brady's focus downstate
"Meanwhile, the Republican nominee, state Sen. Bill Brady of Bloomington, has spent most of his time in that same period campaigning close to home in central or southern Illinois rather than vote-rich northeastern Illinois, where two-thirds of the state’s population resides... Of the 75 public appearances Brady has listed on his schedule since Republican Day at the fair, 61 have been downstate."
Hey, WTTW – Let Rich Debate!
"WTTW – a taxpayer supported PBS station – is sponsoring a gubernatorial debate on Thursday, October 28, on its program Chicago Tonight program. They, like other debates, have only invited the Democratic and Republican candidates. Unlike the others, though, WTTW is using our tax dollars to promote the two candidates who have already spent millions of dollars attacking each other on television!"
Quinn Fires Up Heartland Cafe Crowd to "Guard the Change"
"Consistent with trends nationally, a tangible enthusiasm for this election is growing, at least in spots, as Democrats focus on how much is at stake. In the clip below from a standing-room-only 49th Ward rally at the Heartland Cafe on Oct. 17, there is no lack of zeal as Illinois Governor Pat Quinn is introduced ..."
Turning Out The Immigrant Vote
"At Tuesday night's U.S. Senate debate, Republican nominee Mark Kirk told the crowd that it's "not the time" to pass the DREAM Act, a stance he took publicly in an interview a few weeks ago... Following the debate, however, the Daily Herald got Kirk to admit that the bill "needed more study." That seems to imply he wouldn't support it at any time, a position immigration reform advocates abhor."
Illionois
Senate
Republicans		 Release of school construction dollars coincides with upcoming election
"On Nov. 20, Quinn announced that 18 Illinois school districts will benefit from more than $270 million to be used for new school construction, upgrades to existing facilities, additions and, in some cases, to help pay for flood and weather damage. The funding is part of the capital program approved by lawmakers in 2009 to create jobs, put people to work and help rebuild Illinois’ still-faltering economy."
MSHA’s Tough New Inspections Making an ‘Impact’ - AFL-CIO
"Following the April coal mine explosion at the Massey Energy Co.’s Upper Big Branch (W.Va.) mine that killed 29 miners, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) developed a targeted inspection program for mines with troubling safety records.  In the most recent round of inspections in September at 15 coal mines and 15 other mines, federal inspectors issued 499 citations and 61 orders to immediately correct violations.  Since the program began, 141 mines have inspected and more than 2,660 citations and 261 orders have been issued."
McCollum: No appeal to keep Fla. gay adoption ban - Assoc Press
""But after reviewing the merits of independently seeking Supreme Court review, following the decision of our client, the Department of Children & Families, not to appeal ... it is clear this is not the right case," McCollum said.
The department previously announced it no longer would enforce the ban and was changing its forms so adoptive parents aren't asked if they're homosexuals.
"No doubt, someday, a more suitable case will give the Supreme Court the opportunity to uphold the constitutionality of this law," McCollum said."
GOP plan dramatically reduces Social Security benefits, actuary finds
""The new analysis reveals that these proposals result in benefits cuts ranging from ten percent to as high as 50 percent," Pomeroy said in a statement. "As I talk to seniors today about stretching their Social Security benefits with no cost of living adjustment in sight, they would not agree with describing cuts of this magnitude as 'modest'.""
Public Housing Repairs Can’t Keep Pace With Need - NY Times
"All told, the country’s housing authorities still need $22 billion to $32 billion to rehabilitate their buildings, said David Lipsetz, a senior adviser in the Office of Public and Indian Housing with the Department of Housing and Urban Development — an average of $25,000 for each of the 1.175 million public housing units. But that figure is based on a 1998 study, he said; an updated report is in the works."
 

22 Oct

  
Owens Television Commercial Airing on Comcast
"The television commercial targets voters who are frustrated with growing unemployment levels and the State’s budget crisis while Springfield continues to serve as a model of dysfunctional government. An on-line version of the television ad can be viewed here - http://owensforillinois.com/tv.php"
RTA tightens pension rules in wake of Pagano mess
"Pagano, 60, received a number of irregular vacation and sick time payouts and also a generous incentive bonus of more than $800,000 in his last years at the agency. The Crystal Lake resident had worked at Metra since 1984.  His widow now is receiving his pension, which totals about $80,000 a year although the couple would have been eligible for double that amount."
DuPage County District 6: Larsen
"In DuPage County Board District 6, Republican Robert Larsen, a Wheaton attorney, faces Democrat Dave Barry, an attorney from Bartlett, who wants to create more jobs while promoting and favoring local businesses in the bidding process."
Genevan dies after found wounded in chest, handgun nearby
"Nash would not say late Thursday whether police were investigating the death as a suicide or homicide. Nor would she comment on whether there were any signs of suicide at the scene.  A local restaurant owner said the body was discovered by a food vendor who had just left Stockholm’s Restaurant on State Stree."
Wis. authorities warn hunters to watch for pot
"He says people should be on the lookout for huts, tents and equipment such as water jugs and chemical containers. He's asking them to record any license plates and GPS coordinates, and call local police or the DNR's confidential tip line, 1-800-TIP-WDNR."
Illinois gets $1.45M for insurance protection
"The Illinois Department of Insurance is receiving a $1.45 million federal grant to educate and protect health insurance consumers.  The department announced Thursday it has been awarded the funding under the new national health law, the Affordable Care Act. The department has received two other federal grants to help implement the law."
Cleaning up state finances will take years, Quinn says
"While Quinn said he continues to look for savings, he portrayed the state government he has run for the past 20 months as a place where deep cuts — $3 billion, he claims — have already been made. Quinn, a Democrat, blamed the recession and former Republican President George W. Bush’s economic policies for the state’s fiscal plight.  “I don’t want to have a blunderbuss approach,” Quinn said in a meeting with The State Journal-Register editorial board on Thursday. “I don’t want to see tens of thousands or even thousands of state workers laid off. … I don’t want to cut teachers.”"
Quinn, Brady argue over social issues, ties to Ryan, Blagojevich
  • "Brady repeatedly linked Quinn to ousted Gov. Rod Blagojevich, noting Quinn was his lieutenant governor. Blagojevich, a Democrat, was convicted in August of lying to the FBI and faces retrial on corruption charges.  "We need a governor unlike Gov. Blagojevich and Quinn who will take the high road and support the people of Illinois and not the insiders," said Brady, who also defended his fundraising ties to some of Blagojevich's former allies."

  • Quinn chastised Brady for supporting former Republican Gov. George Ryan, who's in prison on corruption charges.  "When it came to George Ryan, Sen. Brady was not there for the public," said Quinn, adding that Brady supported former President George W. Bush, who Quinn blamed for the national recession."
‘Tenthers’ Would Abolish Wage and Child Labor Laws, Social Security, Medicare and More - AFL-CIO
"Most cults are based in some sort of skewed spiritual vision or the worship of a charismatic leader, but there is a re-emerging cult that bows down at the feet of the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Many of them want to bring their cultish beliefs to the halls of Congress and are running for election this fall.  They’re called the “tenthers” and they say federal laws and rules like the minimum wage, Medicare, Social Security, unemployment insurance, the Department of Education, even child labor laws and a laundry list of other federal laws and programs are unconstitutional."
'Hang Them': Uganda Paper Publishes Photos Of Gays - Associated Press
"The front-page newspaper story featured a list of Uganda's 100 "top" homosexuals, with a bright yellow banner across it that read: "Hang Them." Alongside their photos were the men's names and addresses.  In the days since it was published, at least four gay Ugandans on the list have been attacked and many others are in hiding, according to rights activist Julian Onziema."
Mark Kirk Held ‘Beijing Fundraiser’ One Day Before Voting Against Closing Offshoring Loopholes - Think Progress
"Now, it has come to light that Kirk — who is also the Illinois Republican nominee for U.S. Senate — held a fundraiser with at least a dozen American businessmen doing business in China the day before he went to the floor of the House of Representatives to vote down legislation that would help keep American jobs from moving overseas... Although the campaign did not release the names of the businessmen who were part of the call, perusal of FEC records shows that Kirk did receive donations that day from at least some individuals who have financial interests in China."
Honoring Illinois' Fallen
"... to fly the flags at half-staff on behalf of:Lance Corporal Alec E. Catherwood, United States Marine Corps - Hometown:  Byron, Illinois"
 

21 Oct

  
2010 Brilliance in Business Award Winners
"The City of West Chicago is proud to announce the winners of the 2010 Brilliance in Business Awards. They are: Natural Healing Whole Dog Wellness, Buck Services, Inc., the Jel Sert Company, Casa Rios Bridal Boutique, Ball Horticultural Company and We Grow Dreams. Each will be honored at the City Council meeting of Monday, November 15, 2010."
Halloween Safety Tips from the West Chicago Police Department
"The West Chicago Police Department wants to make sure all of the City’s little ghosts and goblins have a fun but safe Halloween. This year’s trick or treating hours are from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 31, 2010. It is strongly encouraged that all parents teach their children a few simple safety tips:"
Clarification on NorthStar/CHS Credit Union
"Community High School launches a partnership with a West Chicago business with the goal of helping to expand their students' financial savvy. NorthStar Credit Union opened a student-run branch, servicing students, parents, staff and faculty only, which will provide "hands-on experience in the workings and philosophy of a credit union."
Candidate: Illinois needs Arizona-style immigration law
"Ramey cites figures from the Federation for American Immigration Reform, which says illegal immigrants cost Illinois about $3.5 billion in a combination of health care, incarceration and education costs.  “If you're looking at our budget problem and you see an estimation of ($3.5 billion), why would you not take a look at it?” Ramey said. “The numbers have gone up and taxpayers are tired of paying for everyone else.”"
DuPage candidates make final pitch at forum
"Cheney focused much of her time trying to explain why as a political newcomer she would bring more to the table than the longtime Republican legislator. She wants to focus on the current needs of the county, not rehash old issues that previous boards have made decisions on. She said job creation and reducing costs would be the two most important aspects of her administration."
Can early treatment save ash trees from the borer?
"A recent study and analysis of EAB management costs by Rich Hauer, professor of urban forestry, favors treatment of ash trees instead of the pre-emptive move to cut down trees along parkways and boulevards. You can read the entire article at dnr.wi.gov/forestry/UF/resources/Insider/20100917.htm."
D303 opens parents' eyes on teen stress
"Community Unit School District 303 is hoping that by teaching students to cope with life’s stresses, it also will save some lives.  District 303’s Parent University — classes offered for parents throughout the school year — focused this week on the district’s life skills, depression and suicide prevention curriculums."
West Chicago Announces 2010 Brilliance in Business Award Winners
"This year's six brilliant businesses will be honored for achievements that exemplify the spirit of 21st century business front-runners, including innovation, commitment, environmental stewardship, community service, global renown and outstanding vision."
West Chicago School District 33 Cross Country Challenge
"These pictures are from the 12th Annual Cross Country Challenge that took place in October. Students from West Chicago Elementary School District 33 competed in either a 1-mile course or a 1.5 mile course."
Cook, DuPage agencies denied FEMA flood aid
""The premise just doesn't seem fair," Urban said, noting that smaller counties tend to have higher per-person damage estimates than larger ones.  FEMA spokeswoman Hannah Vick said the system for estimating damage assumes a county can handle a certain percentage of damage on its own, without federal help."
Man found shot to death on bench in Geneva
"Police received a call about 11 a.m. and found a man dead from a gunshot wound to the chest in a parking lot between 3rd and 4th streets near State Street, according to Geneva Police Cmdr. Julie Nash.  A handgun was found underneath the bench, Nash said. No one reported witnessing the shooting or hearing a gunshot."
GOP calls on Reynolds to withdraw for 'gross stereotypes of minorities'
""I call upon Mr. Reynolds to immediately withdraw his candidacy for state Senate in the 52nd District," said party Chairman Jason Barickman. "His negative comments are unwarranted, gross stereotypes of minorities and specifically, African-American men.  "Mr. Reynolds' opinions are in stark contrast to the core values of the Champaign County Republican Party and are personally offensive to me.""
[This is so refreshing and so admirable.  In a political cycle characterized by lying about one's opponents, it is great to see someone with the guts to speak truth about his own team. See also Reynolds' racial remarks stun forum audience - Bob]
Manufacturing Business Technology

 

 The Price Was Right
"So with a combined focus of safety and operational efficiency in mind, OSI invested over $94,000 on HCR Horizontal Air Doors by Jamison on a flow through storage freezer, with one on each end of the room.  The doors have mitigated 95 percent of the warm air and moisture that was normally infiltrating the freezer during periods when the previous door was open. Implementing these doors has translated to energy savings of $36,000 each year."
Bill Brady and his Indiana/Kentucky/Tennessee envy
"But listen to the Republicans. They keep focusing on "small business," as if small business was the savior for all the jobs lost by the rusting away of the Industrial complex. Not only is that belief a pipe dream -- there isn't a single economist out there who would argue that small businesses could replace all the jobs lost by the de-industrialization of the Midwest -- it's defies reality.  Had Republican ideology been based in reality, it would have noticed that credit markets have been reducing loans to small businesses, especially the vital short-term loans that many small businesses use to cover expenses."
Defender Backs Quinn, Brady And Cohen Are "Wholly Unqualified"
"The Defender offered some harsh words for the others seeking the top job in Springfield. State Sen. Bill Brady, the Republican candidate for governor, "has persistently ignored the Black community – staying away from the debates at Black venues and offering no evidence that he even knows the Black community exists." Interestingly, the endorsement spends more words warning readers against voting for independent candidate Scott Lee Cohen than it does criticizing Brady"
Tough New Ad: This Is What Sharron Angle Means For Women (VIDEO) - TPMDC
""Sharron Angle's dangerous ideas will make her life worse - at every stage," the narrator says. "If she was raped - and got pregnant - Angle would force her to have the baby. Her college loans - ended. If she's looking for work - it's tough luck with Sharron Angle. At retirement her Social Security - phased out.""
Bus tours journey into U.S. polygamist heartland - Reuters
"Billed as the "Polygamy Experience," the four-hour, $70 tour takes visitors through the middle of the polygamist enclave on the Utah-Arizona border.  Against a backdrop of stunning mountains and pink rocks children play in yards, families picnic in parks and teenage boys gallop their horses away from the guests.  Women with old-fashioned braided hair and pioneer dresses usher the little ones out of eyesight."
Palin's Disclosure - CQ Politics
"Jay-Newton Small searches Sarah Palin's financial disclosure filings and discovered that her political action committee recently hired Allison Meyers, the same RNC operative who was fired for arranging a party at a topless, bondage-themed nightclub.  A search of RNC filings from earlier this year confirms that Meyers and the newly-formed Altered States Alliance LLC -- which was paid for "fundraising consulting" -- use the same mailing address."
The Democrats' Voter Privacy Fail - Mother Jones
"Last week, news of the open phone bank circulated on a tea party Google group and quickly got activists scheming about how to make the best use of it. One Florida activist, Robin Stublen, says he's called at least 40 Obama supporters using the OFA list. "Whenever I want a couple of giggles, I call the Democrats. Why not? If they're really that stupid, you gotta have fun," he says with a hearty laugh. "You can be rude—hell, you're calling Democrats!""
 

20 Oct

  
Around and About in West Chicago - 20 Oct 2010
  • West Chicago Park District PARC Grant
  • West Chicago Community High School District Senior Parent Night
  • City of West Chicago Free Leaf Collection
  • De-annexation of Shelburne Farms
  • I'm Maria Owens" - Youtube
    "Meet Maria Owens, Democratic candidate and an independent voice for the the residents of the 95th district.  Visit OwensforIllinois.com and vote for Maria this November 2nd."
  • Final Candidate Forum between Maria Owens and Mike Fortner Tonight
    "The final candidate forum hosted by the Wheaton League of Women Voters will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 20th from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. at the Wheaton Park District Community Center in Wheaton, IL  Owens, the Democratic candidate for State Representative will continue to draw differences between herself and her Republican opponent. She intends to take issue with Fortner’s recent false claims about his campaign finance reform voting record in the Chicago Tribune questionnaire."
  • Maria Owens - FaceBook
    "Two weeks to go and we are poised to win this race! From the beginning, we knew name recognition and turnout would be the keys to our success. It's clear we've achieved name recognition, now we need you to help turn voters out to the polls!"
Dist. 33 wants to expand middle school
"Now, a perfect storm of circumstances previous debt ready to be paid off, rising enrollment at all grade levels and low construction costs has convinced officials to go back to the voters.  The district is asking voters Nov. 2 to borrow $39 million to build an addition to West Chicago Middle School and do limited renovations at some elementary buildings. That’s $10 million less than the district asked for in April 2009 in a ballot question that voters rejected"
DuPage board candidates agree on pay cut, differ on what to do with savings
"Democrat Tom Wendorf said reducing the 18-member board's annual salary to about $25,000 a year would free up about $450,000 in the budget. He would use the money for short-term, interest-free loans to area social service agencies for operational costs until the state comes through on promised funding."
Warrenville proton center opens
"“CDH is dedicated to investing in the future of cancer treatment and providing the best possible treatment options for our patients, Jim Spear, executive vice president and chief financial officer of CDH, said in a statement.  The 60,000-square-foot building went up in record time along Weaver Parkway, just south of I-88. Once fully operational, it will be capable of treating roughly 1,500 patients a year."
Proton therapy center opens; it's Illinois' first
"The $140 million facility in Warrenville offers more targeted radiation than older methods. Central DuPage Hospital and ProCure opened the CDH Proton Center on Tuesday.  It's the nation's ninth such center."
Chrysler to offer more 'temp' workers full-time jobs
"“We have canvassed approximately 300 temporary workers at the Belvidere assembly plant to gauge their interest in full-time employment,” Chrysler’s Jodi Tinson said in an email. “The preliminary acceptance rate was about 90 percent. These workers will be offered full-time positions as circumstances at the plant permit.”
Illinois provides $15 million to keep company here
"Illinois will spend more than $15 million to help an established company stay in the state.  The investment package from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity means Tate & Lyle PLC, a provider of speciality food ingredients, will move from Decatur to Hoffman Estates."
Brady unsure of state worker layoffs under '10 percent cut' plan
"“Probably the largest area that I’ve talked about reducing what we do is the State Board of Education, a bureaucracy that I think has grown beyond its ability to assist and become more of a detriment... Asked whether the number of layoffs would number in the hundreds or thousands, Brady reiterated that he hopes that trimming the state workforce -- which already has the fewest employees per capita in the nation – can be done by not replacing workers who leave or retire.”
IL GOP Confirms "Voter Integrity" Program
"U.S. Senate candidate Mark Kirk has faced criticism for telling supporters he plans to deploy election lawyers to precincts with large African American populations."
Poll: Don't Cut Our Safety Net
"The Paul Simon Public Policy Institute's latest statewide poll (PDF) doesn't give clear direction to state lawmakers attempting to build a sustainable budget. Like a Pew Survey released earlier this month, huge majorities opposed cuts to critical state services like mental heath (83 percent), K-12 education (82 percent), and "programs for poor people" (66 percent)."
Kohler’s New Demands Bring to Mind Company’s History of Labor Struggle - In These Times
While wringing more profits out of workers creates impressive quarterly retruns for individual corporations, this pattern of driving down wages further reduces domestic buying power and demand for the products of Kohler and the rest of Corporate America.  As United Electrical workers Western District President Carl Rosen remarked about the broader economic situation, "This economy is failing because workers cannot buy back what they are making.""
Anti-abortion rights group targets 42 Democrats - Washington Post
"The pamphlets, which feature photographs of a sleeping baby juxtaposed against close-ups of the targeted lawmaker, President Barack Obama and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, equate a vote for the health care law with support for taxpayer-financed abortion.  The law walled off federal money from paying for the procedure, and an executive order Obama signed earlier this year affirmed long-standing restrictions on taxpayer-financed abortion, but activists on the issue argue that neither is sufficient."
ACLU defends anti-abortion ad targeting Democrat's health reform vote - Catholic News Agency
"The Ohio Elections Commission last week ruled that Susan B. Anthony (SBA) List billboard ads accusing incumbent Rep. Steve Driehaus (D-Ohio) of having "voted for taxpayer-funded abortion" ran afoul of the state's "false statement" law. SBA on Monday asked a federal court to block the commission's investigation until the court can decide whether the law is constitutional.  The law is "vague and overbroad, and it cannot withstand constitutional scrutiny," the ACLU brief states. "The statute fails for the same reasons that the Sedition Act has been condemned by history. The people have an absolute right to criticize their public officials, the government should not be the arbiter of true or false speech and, in any event, the best answer for bad speech is more speech.""
VOTE SUPPRESSION COMES UP IN IL-SEN DEBATE - TPM
"Kirk flatly denied it -- notwithstanding evidence to the contrary.  He responded that he's so concerned about vote fraud because Illinois has a public corruption problem. Democratic nominee Alexis Giannoulias wasn't buying it. "You're trying to suppress the African American vote," he said."
 

19 Oct

  
Following meetings cancelled
  • Plan Commission Oct. 19
  • Public Affairs Committee Oct. 25
  • Finance Committee Oct. 28
Fortner Makes False Claims About Campaign Finance Reform Vote in Chicago Tribune Questionnaire
"In his response, my opponent said, “I supported the new law to limit contributions. I strongly support extending those finance caps to legislative leaders and parties as well.”  The facts tell a different story. There is no evidence that Mike Fortner supports any significant changes to the broken pay-to-play schemes in Springfield."
Endorsements for State-wide Office
14th District candidates debate for first time
  • "Kairis stuck with what would become his theme of the evening: both Republicans and Democrats, he said, are responsible for the failed policies of the last 30 years. He said the country’s billions in oil imports each year means fewer jobs for Americans, and suggested that special interests control both parties’ responses to the economy.  Marks established his theme early as well, saying it is not up to the federal government to create jobs. That is up to the private sector, he said."
  • "The enthusiastic crowd, predominantly Hultgren supporters wearing T-shirts and buttons, nearly filled the auditorium, and moderator Patti Lackman had to call for order several times. At one point, she threatened to shut down the forum, after audience members booed Foster during one of his answers."
Downtown Trick or Treat in West Chicago This Saturday
"Downtown West Chicago businesses are rising to the occasion in record-breaking numbers this year to participate in the annual Downtown Trick or Treat which brings children and their families out for some additional holiday fun. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 23, 2010 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Participating businesses will be designated by a pumpkin poster in their front windows."
Brady Distances Himself From Pet Euthanasia Legislation
"GOP gubernatorial nominee Bill Brady is reiterating that he'd veto legislation that allows up to 10 animals to be euthanized at once. The state senator had introduced a bill authorizing such an act this past February."
Suburban Poverty And The Governor's Race
"The electorate in DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties could make up more than 40 percent of the state's total, the newspaper reported, but neither Gov. Pat Quinn nor GOP gubernatorial nominee Bill Brady have made many visits to the area of late, choosing instead to do stops meant to fire up their base supporters."
Illionois
Senate
Republicans		 Think Early Release was Stopped? Think Again.
"Dillard explained that under SB 3411, which was signed by the Governor on July 19, the Department of Corrections is required to post online the names and criminal history of every prisoner granted meritorious good time. The list can be viewed under the "Community Notification of Inmate Early Release" on the Illinois Department of Corrections website."

W.Va. AFL-CIO Demands Apology from Raese for Hick Ad - AFL-CIO
"The recent revelations that Republican National Senatorial Committee sent out a casting call for “hicky” looking blue-collar types for a TV campaign ad for Republican U.S. Senate candidate John Raese has set off a new round of anger in the Mountain State and a call for an apology from Raese.  Raese said he wasn’t upset by the effort to portray West Virginians as hicks but then his connections the state are aren’t real strong. He owns a mansion with a pink marble driveway and two limousines in Palm Beach, Fla., where he spends most of his time and where his children attend school. He also owns a home in Colorado along with multiple homes in West Virginia."
How real is America's faith? - The Guardian
"In fact, I am not convinced that the US is more religious than Britain. Even if more people go to church in America, I think the US is a much more secular country than Britain. In Britain, when someone says they do not believe in God, they stop going to church. In the US, many who may have doubts about Christian orthodoxy may continue to go to church. They do so because they assume that a vague god vaguely prayed to is the god that is needed to support family and nation."
Rich Whitey Gets What He Wants - TPM
"As you'll remember, last week news emerged that Rich Whitney, Green Party candidate for governor in Illinois, had his named misspelled as 'Rich Whitey' on electronic voting machines in many Chicago area wards, many of which are majority African-American. But now the Chicago elections board has announced they'll work overtime to get the name fixed by election day."
Veterans Group Files FEC Complaint Against The Chamber: Foreign Funds Pose 'Clear And Present Danger' To U.S. Democracy - Huffington Post
""Our military veterans, who served to protect the Constitution of the United States, are concerned that foreign money could be used to influence our policies and buy seats in the House and Senate," said Lorin Walker, VetPAC vice president and treasurer. "The Chamber's actions compromise the very rights for which our military men and women put their lives on the line."

 
 

18 Oct

...
This Week in West Chicago

Dist 94 BOE Meeting Agenda October 19, 2010

  • IHSA Application for New Cooperative Team Sponsorship

  • Inter-Fund Loan
    "The Transportation Fund ended FY2010 with a deficit balance of $29,502."

  • Beverage Provider Contract

  • Weighted Grades
CableCom Programming Schedule Channel 17 West Chicago
"CableCom West Chicago Channel 17 cable communications foundation providing non-profit all volunteer community and government access programming to residents of west chicago"

 

Whitney Debate Rally - FB, DuPage County Green Party
"Come out to the Rich Whitney Debate Rally - Sunday, Oct 17, Elmhurst College, Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel -- In spite of our efforts to reason with Elmhurst College officials, they've decided that they will unfairly EXCLUDE Rich Whitney from a gubernatorial debate on their campus this Sunday evening. Let's send them a message, and let the voters know that they do have alternatives!"
USO - FB, Randy Ramey 
"At the USO event in Chicago. Turn and thank a veteran, a gold star family and a current enlisted member of our services. They give all, thank you and god bless!"

Photograph of Representative John J. Millner (R)Reminder: Register to Vote - FB, John Millner
"Reminder to everyone: If you are not registered to vote, you can still
grace period register and vote through next Tuesday (October 26th). If
you are registered, early voting and voting by mail are both underway!
For more information, check out my voter information page: ...http://www.johnmillner.org/voter-information.php"
You're Invited
"The Board of Education of West Chicago Elementary District 33 seeks your participation in a Town Hall Meeting to dialogue about the Referendum to expand West Chicago Middle Schools to include 6th graders like 91% of DuPage Schools.
Wednesday, October 20 at 7pm In the West Chicago Middle School Library
It's YOUR child's education!  Translation and Child Care Provided."

West Chicago
High School		 Conference Affiliation
"CHS would like your feedback! For the past several years, the Administration at Community High School District 94 has been working on finding a new athletic conference affiliation for the athletes of CHS. The express purpose of these efforts is to provide a greater overall opportunity for successful competitive experiences in all athletic programs."
CONCESSION HELP NEEDED at SENIOR NIGHT Football Game Fri, Oct 22nd
"The West Chicago Wildcat Boosters needs MANY VOLUNTEERS to help with concessions at this Friday's Varsity football game (10/22). This is Senior Parents Night for football, cheerleaders, poms, color guard and marching band so we are expecting a large turnout that evening. We will need parents of underclassmen to volunteer, as we are trying to let parents of senior enjoy the evening. Volunteers will start at 6:15pm until the end of the Varsity game. This is a great way to meet people and it's fun!  If you can help anytime that evening, please contact:

Provide your name, phone number, email and the time you are able to help out and then we'll confirm back with you.

September 2010 PeaceBuilder
"Chris Coady, of Winfield, a Freshman at Community High School District 94, has been recognized as the September PeaceBuilder-of-the-Month. Chris received the PeaceBuilder Award because of his desire to help out other students and staff. Chris is to be commended for his continued effort to improve the atmosphere at Community High School"
Nomination Packets Available for West Chicago Consolidated Election
"West Chicago, Illinois: October 18, 2010 - As a service of the City Clerk’s Office, information packets and forms are available at the West Chicago City Hall, 475 Main Street, for prospective candidates for the April 5, 2010, Consolidated Election."
Downtown Trick or Treat This Saturday
"Downtown West Chicago businesses are rising to the occasion in record-breaking numbers this year to participate in the annual Downtown Trick or Treat which brings children and their families out for some additional holiday fun."
State House District 55: Ramey
"Ramey, who sponsored and drove important legislation protecting victims of crimes by the insane, has good ideas on government transparency, performance-based budgeting and campaign finance limits.  He’s familiar with the needs of the district and the mechanics of constituent service and deserves to return for another term."
Congress, 14th District: Foster
"In just his first term, incumbent Bill Foster says he already has crossed swords with his Democratic brethren, namely voting against every budget offered by his party because of what he sees as exorbitant deficit spending. He also sided with the GOP on cap-and-trade limits on carbon emissions. Foster made a quick impact on Congress, casting the deciding vote to keep an ethics bill alive on the day he was sworn in just three days after winning a special election March 8, 2008. Yes, Foster voted for health-care reform and the massive stimulus package, but his centrist leaning and his willingness to listen to all sides of a question seem to be the right mix for the district"
Fortner for Illinois House District 95
"We have said before that the former West Chicago mayor brings a keen understanding of local government, transportation and science to his role as a state lawmaker. Our opinion of him hasn’t changed. 
Going forward, Fortner says he believes further pension reform is needed to help address the state’s budget crisis. "
95th District candidates share budget solutions
  • "“Anyone who tells you can do this without raising taxes is living in a fantasy land and they want to be elected, so they are only telling you want you want to hear,” she [Marie Owens] said... Placing a tax on certain high end services such as spas, cosmetic surgery, travel agencies and dry cleaners also could drive in additional funds while keeping the burden away from the middle or lower class.
  • "“We just have to come up with a realistic plan for the rate of growth for these types of expenditures,” Fortner said.  This also applies to Medicaid, which cannot be sustained based on the current level of money being spent in this area, he said. The way the pension system is set up also is outdated and continues to be a drain on the budget."
2010 Commemorative Ornaments Are Here
"The Friends of the West Chicago City Museum are featuring two historic West Chicago icons as commemorative ornaments this year: The West Chicago Fire Protection District’s “The General” Fire Engine and the St. Michael’s United Church of Christ."
Opponents in Asian carp battle return to court
"The plaintiffs argued that Asian carp pose an imminent and profound threat to the recreational and commercial interests on the Great Lakes and that closing locks is a sensible price to pay. Attorneys for the Army Corps say the methods already in place to control Asian carp are working and that closing the locks would be costly and ineffective."
Quinn, Brady spar over ethics at Elmhurst College debate
"Quinn criticized Brady over votes he made as a state senator in favor of legislation related to his company's development near Champaign, an issue the Tribune disclosed in May. (To read that that story click HERE.)  "We've already had two governors that have disappointed us," Quinn said. "One's in jail. One's going to jail. We don't need a walking conflict of interest as governor of Illinois.""
Brady, Quinn trade insults during governor debate
"But Brady was put on the defensive over legislation he sponsored earlier this year that would have allowed veterinarians use gas chambers to euthanize groups of animals, rather than putting them down one by one with injections.  “I don’t believe that dogs and cats should be put in a gas chamber, 10 at a time, and executed,” Quinn said. “What a bad idea. That’s nonsense.”  Brady insisted he loves animals and said he dropped the bill when he realized Quinn would use it to score political points."
Governor candidates face tough battle as Election Day nears
"Quinn notes he has worked with Democrats to pass major changes in government pensions and reduce costs in the decades ahead. As part of the compromise on ethics legislation, he got a constitutional amendment on the fall ballot that would give voters power to recall unpopular governors.  He pushed through the first major public works program in years, providing billions of dollars for roads, bridges and other infrastructure needs. Blagojevich never managed to accomplish that because legislators didn’t trust him to spend the money fairly."
Let Rich Debate!
"Please check out Rich’s ad explaining that he offers the only real plan for fixing our budget crisis — without damaging our education, and social services."
Career Politician Brady On Career Politicians
"Brady declares that we have to "end career politicians." A few obvious questions fairly scream to be answered:
  1. Wouldn't the average voter consider someone like Brady who's spent 15+ years in the legislature, taking a sabbatical only because of a failed congressional run, a "career politician"? 
  2. Just exactly how does one "end" all those career politicians? Do we use the same mass euthanasia Brady proposed for puppies and kittens?
Brady Falsely Claims Illinois Doesn't Verify Medicaid Eligibility
"During last evening's gubernatorial debate, GOP nominee Bill Brady was asked to identify one program he would cut if elected on November 2. Medicaid, the state's public health program for the poor, was tops on his list. "The Medicaid program under Governor Quinn allows people like Governor Quinn to walk in and receive an eligibility card," he claimed. "We don’t verify eligibility in the Medicaid program." ... That policy sounds totally irresponsible. Fortunately for taxpayers, Brady is just making it up."
New poll show Americans satsfied with federal workers by three to one margin - Examiner
" In fact, 73 percent of Americans who have had contact with federal employees during the past year say they do their jobs very well or somewhat well... The political narrative is having some effect as some of the poll findings demonstrate. Fifty-two percent of those surveyed say federal employees are overpaid, and 49 percent say federal employees work less hard than private-sector workers. However, nearly two-thirds of those surveyed have had no contact with a federal employee during the past year."
RNS: Critics still waiting for action from faith-based office - Pew Forum
"Outsiders say whatever progress has been made has been done too quietly and that the White House has dragged its feet on a promise to change Bush-era rules that allow federal grant recipients to hire and fire based on religion."
More Tea Party Hilarity - Rolling Stone
"After all, pretty much everybody has in some way or another lived off the government in his life – whether by working in a firm that takes government contracts, or attending a state school, or getting into a college thanks to affirmative action programs, or serving in the military or law enforcement, or collecting Medicare or food stamps or unemployment.  But these Tea Partyers make themselves fair game with their preposterous absolutist stance on government. If you call Obamacare radical socialism and unemployment insurance a parasitic welfare state program—well, guess what, a_____e, you’re going to get rung up when we find out you had your whole family living off state medical aid and farm subsidies."
Joe Miller Security Guards Detain Journalist At Town Hall Meeting (VIDEO) - TPM
"Tony Hopfinger, the founder and editor of online news site the Alaska Dispatch, was handcuffed and detained by Joe Miller's private security detail at a town hall yesterday at a public school in Anchorage, after he repeatedly tried to question and videotape the Republican nominee for Senate."
Honoring Illinois' Fallen
"to fly the flags at half-staff on behalf of: Lance Corporal John T. Sparks, United States Marine Corps - Hometown: Chicago, Illinois"
 

15 Oct

  
Two River Head Start Grand Opening  - FB, Bill Foster
"Bill Foster enjoyed attending the ribbon cutting at Two River Head Start in Elgin last night."

Support the drive to get Owens' television commercials up on TV
"Thanks to everyone who helped get the television commercial up with your $15, $40 or $105 contribution. The TV commercials will start airing on October 22nd!  We need to keep this advertisement up on the air and expand our buy to different channels - your continued support is appreciated.  There is a new on-line video available.  If you could share this profile video with friends and family in the district, through e-mails and Facebook, you will have helped reach undecided voters and spread our message! "
District 33 Board Briefs - 07 Oct 2010 (PDF)
  • Finance/Facilities
    • Financial Update
    • Audit Review
  • Referendum Discussion Continued
  • Overview of 2010-2011 District Goals
Happenings in D33
  • "Friday, Oct. 15th is the first Family Movie Night of this school year hosted by PTO. We provide a movie, unlimited popcorn and bottled water to all Wegner families that attend.
  • Friday, Oct. 22nd, PTO has funded a school assembly called "Arithmetickles." The assembly is to promote an interest in math.
  • And, as already mentioned, Wegner will be selling Taffy Apples on all Fridays in October. We also added sales to the A.M. Kindergarten classes by way of order forms and PTO delivers the apples on Tuesdays for the remainder of October to those classrooms.
  • Gary school will be having it's annual Fright Night event on Friday, October 22. If you would like more information, let me know and I will forward you an email address."

West Chicago
High School		 October 22 is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day in Illinois
"Each day more than 1,100,000 students are transported to and from school by bus drivers in the Sate of Illinois. Over the course of a year, bus drivers travel more than 138,000,000 miles on Illinois roadways with the safety and welfare of the students as their number one concern. This job carries tremendous responsibility as parents entrust drivers to maneuver large vehicles through traffic regardless of road and weather conditions while maintaining the conduct of children and provide leadership and life-saving decision-making in the event of an emergency. "
West Chicago considers leaving DVC to go it alone
"“Essentially we would need to schedule all games and meets and competitions ourselves, Principal Moses Cheng said. “We would call schools and try to create our own schedules. It is a challenge, but I also believe it’s very doable.  The school is seeking feedback from parents and community members on its e-mail list, asking them to complete a short online survey by Saturday, Oct. 16."
Maria Owens makes pork and apples
"This weekend dozens of people will travel to Maria Owens's property in Winfield for a day of apple picking, hay rides, apple sauce making, games and an unusual chili pot luck.  Maria, a retired teacher from Naperville Unit District 203, and her husband, Bob, have been hosting fall celebrations for several years, gathering family and friends on the three-acre property they fell in love with in 1977."
Photograph of Representative John J. Millner (R)State Senate, Dist. 28: Millner
"Millner, of Carol Stream, is a former police chief who was elected to the state House in 2003 and has served in the Senate since 2005. We don’t agree with all his positions he remains a staunch supporter of red-light cameras, even for right turns but he is an open, responsive legislator with a reputation for reaching across the aisle. He appears sincere in his push for a much-needed five-year spending plan for the state and we trust his vote against pension reform was truly because he viewed the proposal as “a half step."
DuPage OKs bonds, eyes more budgets
"By a 12-5 vote, the DuPage County Board on Tuesday passed a $70 million bond issue supported by Chairman Bob Schillerstrom, resolving an issue that had split the board recently.  While the infrastructure-related proposal had been trimmed back by $6 million, it wasn’t enough for the five members voting against it.  Board member Debra Olson said that while the some of the work was needed, the price tag was too much for the taxpayer to bear."
Chamber endorses COD referendum
"“The decision by the board comes on the heels of extensive research and outreach by several members of the chamber and the board of directors,” said John Schmitt, president of the chamber. “After considerable discussion we felt it was important that the Naperville Area Chamber go on record as saying we support investing in this great asset which we believe will pay dividends in the future.”"
Marketwire Burpee Home Gardens ® Expands Urban School and Community Gardens Program; Announces 2011 'I Can Grow' Youth Garden Award
""We launched the 'I Can Grow' program last year to support home vegetable gardening among younger and novice gardeners, and we were overwhelmed with the enthusiasm and support we experienced," said George Ball, chairman and CEO of the W. Atlee Burpee Company."

Metra says it plans no fare increase next year
"Metra says it has fewer riders and less cash than it banked on, but does not plan to raise fares next year.  However, the commuter transit agency says it will have to take $60 million it planned for projects over the next two years and spend it on "preventive maintenance" next year.  In releasing its budget for 2011, the agency said it would continue to delay filling vacancies to reduce costs."
Whitney accuses Quinn, Brady of 'fantasy economics' in debate
" The major-party candidates for Illinois governor bickered over the state budget and jobs Thursday without providing specifics in an hourlong debate, leading Green Party candidate Rich Whitney to accuse them both of offering “fantasy economics.”  Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn repeatedly called his GOP opponent “heartless” for proposing budget cuts that would almost certainly require deep cuts to schools. He also said state Sen. Bill Brady lacks courage and integrity."
Illionois
Senate
Republicans		 Senate scheduled to consider pension bonding measure
"The “backloaded” payment schedule associated with Senate Bill 3514 stands in stark contrast to the $3.5 billion in pension bonds approved in fiscal year 2010, which were required to be repaid quickly. In the 2009 plan, the payments decline over five years becoming much more affordable over time and accruing much less interest."
Whiteygate” Reveals Serious Problems With Black-Box Voting Machines
"As a result of this ghastly mistake, I very likely have lost some votes. And at this writing, I may still be losing more votes from early voters until this problem is corrected. More importantly, the rights of voters to cast a ballot in favor of the candidate of their choice, without interference, has now been compromised."
Illinois Voters Don't Trust Anonymous Campaign Donations
  • "Almost two out of three voters (63%) do not believe that the anonymous groups running ads hold the voters’ best interest in mind. This belief is held by 65% of Independent and 68% of Democratic voters."
  • "An overwhelming 84% of voters polled, including 83% of Republicans and 77% of Independents, believe voters have a right to know who is paying for ads for a particular candidate."
Landmark Deal Sets Standard in Tomato Industry - AFL-CIO
"Not only is this the first formal agreement between the CIW and a major tomato grower, but the new accord establishes several practical steps to ensure the key principles of the Campaign for Fair Food’s code of conduct are followed. Those principles include a joint complaint resolution system, a health and safety program and a worker-to-worker education process."

 
O'Donnell dodges evangelical issues in Senate race - Associated Press
"Suddenly, Christine O'Donnell doesn't want to talk about values and religion. The Republican Senate nominee from Delaware, who said four years ago that she heard the "audible voice of God" encouraging her to run for office, is shying away from the evangelical views that built her career as a television pundit and conservative activist.  Trailing badly in the polls, O'Donnell has bobbed and weaved recently on her previously bold and provocative positions that are sure to alienate the all-important centrist voting bloc in politically moderate Delaware."
The Myth of the Bad Teacher - TruthOut
"I imagine the Bad Teacher as slovenly dressed, with stains on his shirt, showing up to class late, and once there, reading the newspaper while his students throw paper airplanes at each other. He looks up at the clock occasionally, waiting for his time to be up in order get out of school as fast as possible, so he can get home and watch "Glee" on his plump, faux-leather couch. "
THE RICH VERSUS THE REST OF US - Jim HighTower
"This stems from the public's simmering anger over the fact that the Wall Street barons who crashed our economy are back to paying themselves multimillion-dollar bonuses, while the corporate CEOs who keep downsizing and offshoring our middle class opportunities are grabbing bigger paychecks than ever for themselves. The wealthy swells are upset by our anger and feel picked on by us riff-raff – they don't like being blamed for our economic distress, even though they are to blame, and they certainly don't like the rising populist fervor for more economic fairness in our country. So they're mad at us for being mad at them, claiming that they are victims of our "wealth envy.""
 

14 Oct

  
 

Exclusive: Chamber Receives At Least $885,000 From Over 80 Foreign Companies In Disclosed Donations Alone - Think Progress
"The Chamber is being deceptive. In addition to multinational members of the Chamber headquartered abroad (like BP, Shell Oil, and Siemens), a new ThinkProgress investigation has identified at least 84 other foreign companies that actively donate to the Chamber’s 501(c)(6). Below is a chart detailing the annual dues foreign corporations have indicated that they give directly to the Chamber (using information that is publicly available from the Business Council applications and the Chamber’s own websites):"
Women in Government - FB, Maria Owens
  • Saturday, October 16, 2010, 2-4 pm
  • 27W761 Washington Avenue, Winfield, Illinois 60190
  • Invited Guests:
    Sheila Simon,  Lisa Madigan, Dr. Darlene Ruscitti, Judy Biggert
  • A bipartisan event to introduce women elected officials and women candidates to hear their views and motivation for running for office
  • An opportunity to understand the significant roles women play in government, to highlight their past contributions and to instill in young women the importance of public service
Recall: Approve it and rarely use it
"Approving it would put a complicated process in place. Activists pushing recall would need support from 30 legislators from both the House and Senate and both major parties. They would then need signatures equal to 15 percent of votes cast in the last election, or likely more than 500,000. To ensure the recall effort is broad, 100 voter signatures in at least 25 counties also would be required to prompt a special recall election."
Endorsements:
Poll finds most Illinois voters want change in state
"Institute Director David Yepsen says that shows voters want change across the board.  Sixty-five percent of those surveyed say they support a proposed constitutional amendment to allow for the recall of a sitting governor. That question will be put to voters on the Nov. 2 ballot. The poll also shows a similar percentage of voters would like to have recall power for other statewide officials."
Illinois hospital safety data on national report card
"Illinois is one of nine states with complete hospital safety data on an online tool patients can use to compare quality.  The website, WhyNotTheBest.org, lets users compare hospitals to the Illinois average and to the nation's best hospitals.  Infection rates, death rates and rates of blood clots after surgery are among the newest measures reported."
Reaction swift to E15 fuel ruling
"Ethanol supporters hope the EPA will expand the waiver to 2001-and-newer vehicles by the end of the year.  “That’s a big enough market segment that you’d see gasoline retailers actually putting it (E15) in their pumps,” said Weinzierl. “The market now is not big enough from a practical standpoint.”"
Department of Justice reviewing mailing of Illinois military ballots
"The U.S. Department of Justice is checking to make sure Illinois election officials met the deadline for mailing absentee ballots to military personnel and Americans overseas, election officials said Wednesday.  Ballots to the military and those overseas were supposed to be mailed by Sept. 18. Completed ballots must be postmarked by midnight on Nov. 1, and election officials have until Nov. 15 to count them."
Simon says Quinn won't cut Medicaid eligibility
"Some Republicans have been critical of the health-care expansion, and some legislative candidates in both parties have vowed to roll back Medicaid eligibility requirements ... All Kids, which went into effect in 2006 and extended health care to children in families with an income greater than 200 percent of the federal poverty level and all children of undocumented immigrants, cost the state $70 million in fiscal year 2009, according to a May report by Auditor General Bill Holland."
Whitney challenges exclusion from gubernatorial forums
"At a Statehouse news conference, Whitney hinted of possible legal action because he said one of the events is co-sponsored by WTTW-TV in Chicago, a public television station.  "Let all of the candidates be given a chance," Whitney said. "Illinois cannot afford to elect a governor who doesn't have a plan to solve our structural deficit. I am the only candidate in the race that has a plan.""
Rep. Foster Statement on EPA Decision to Raise Ethanol Blend Wall
“I am pleased that the EPA is moving forward with their decision to increase the ethanol blend wall to E-15 for newer cars, but today’s announcement is only an important first step.  With the EPA’s announcement approximately 43 million cars will have access to gasoline blended with 15% ethanol."
Illinois Candidate's Name Misspelled As 'Rich Whitey' On Electronic-Voting Machines - TPM
"There are typos and then there are complete and utter catastrophes.  The Chicago Sun-Times reports that the name of Green Party gubernatorial candidate Rich Whitney is misspelled "Rich Whitey" on electronic-voting machines in 23 wards -- "about half in predominantly African-American areas.""
[This should be investigated immediately.  If this is a dirty trick, it should be exposed and the perps put in jail. - Bob]
Brady on Military Ballot Investigation in Illinois
"“The Federal Government and the state of Illinois have the responsibility to take any and all action to ensure the right of those who defend our freedom overseas to cast their votes in this important election.  Failure to act on this disturbing report threatens the integrity of this election, and our democratic process.”"
The One Party System by Lex Green
"So what about spending? The Republican legacy is the Build Illinois program, originally put into place by former Republican Governor Jim Thompson. It is the same pork barrel spending program used by Governor George Ryan to spend this state into massive debt that he then passed on the his Democrat successor."
Madigan: Allow Judges To Help Homeowners
".... Madigan, meanwhile, said in a statement she wants new legislation that would "ensure each homeowner know[s] the amount they owe, who owns their loan, the terms of their original loan, and whom they can contact" during foreclosure proceedings. She also said she'll push for a federal "cramdown" bill allowing judges to reduce the principal amount on loans, thereby helping to keep distressed homeowners in their residences."

The Chamber’s False Claim on Union Political Funding  - AFL-CIO
"The Chamber of Commerce, in the spotlight earlier this month for allegedly using contributions from foreign corporations and other overseas entities to fund its U.S. political activities, is trying to get the public to look the other way. They don’t want us to see the sneaky sleight of hand that’s controlling its $75 million election war chest. BTW, under federal election law, the Chamber does not have to reveal the sources that are filling that political war chest...  All unions finance the AFL-CIO’s operations by paying a monthly fee that is calculated on the number of their American, not Canadian, members.  It is generally called a “per capita tax,” and derives exclusively from the U.S.  members of those unions."
Beijing Blocks Travelers To Lausanne Congress - Morning Edition, NPR
"Christianity in China is flourishing, with tens of millions of Christians openly worshiping. Many gather in private assemblies, or house churches, rather than in the official government church, known as the Three-Self Patriotic Movement. The authorities have largely turned a blind eye in the past.  But when a grouping of house churches decided to send some 200 delegates to attend the Lausanne Congress, the government stepped in."
Illinois Democrat: Mark Kirk's 'Voter Integrity' Effort Is 'Karl Rove Politics' - TPM
"Giannoulias said in a statement on Wednesday that he would have his lawyers look into Kirk's effort.  "That sort of Florida-style voter intimidation is disgusting, illegal, and smacks of the Karl Rove politics that Illinois voters are sick of," Giannoulias said."
What the American Opportunity Tax Credit Means for College Students - White House Blog
  • "The American Opportunity Tax Credit gives working families and students a $2,500 per year tax credit for students attending college.
  • If Congress makes this tax credit permanent it would be worth up to $10,000 for four years of college.
  • 12 million more students from working families will have a chance to earn a college degree thanks to a 90% increase in tax credits for education during the first year of the Obama Administration.
 

13 Oct

  
Around and About in West Chicago - 13 Oct 2010
  • District 33 Challenge
  • West Chicago Elementary School District 33 Referendum
  • Open Gym Nights
  • All Hallows Reed

Photograph of Representative John J. Millner (R)Bartlett Examiner Endorsement - FB, John Millner
" I'm proud to announce that yesterday I received the endorsement from
the Bartlett Examiner. To quote: "In the halls of the capitol, Millner
is one of the state's most effective senators, even though he's in the
minority party.""

State Rep Endorsements - FB, Gary Saake
"Congratulations to State Representatives Mike Fortner and Darlene Senger for receiving the endorsement of the Chicago Tribune. These are two representatives that get things done despite being in the minority party. Just think what they could accomplish if they were in the majority!"
[See Tribune article HERE. - Bob]
How to make suburbs better in 30 years
"It's time to reverse the negative trends and plan for smart growth in the next 30 years, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning recommends in its Go To 2040 report.  It's time to reverse the negative trends and plan for smart growth in the next 30 years, the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning recommends in its Go To 2040 report."
Vision for Chicago: Modernize roads, raise gas tax
""We need to act now, before today's opportunities become tomorrow's crises," the report says.  In 2040, the plan predicts, the region will have 11 million residents, 2.4 million more than today. But it doesn't forecast an improvement in congestion if its recommendations are followed. It simply says that "congestion will not increase from today's levels," which are among the nation's worst."
Giannoulias: Chicago 'excited' to see Michelle Obama
"Democratic Senate candidate Alexi Giannoulias says people are "really excited" to see first lady Michelle Obama.  Obama is coming to Chicago today to raise money for Giannoulias and Democrats running for Congress.  It's the latest helping hand from the White House for Giannoulias."
Illinois laws credited with reducing teen deaths
"State officials say stricter teen driving laws are saving lives.  The laws that went into effect nearly three years ago limit when teens can drive and prohibit them from having more than one passenger in the car. Teens also are required to spend more practice time behind the wheel before getting their licenses. Illinois State Police statistics show there were 71 teen driving deaths in 2009. That compares to 146 in 2007 — before the laws changed."
Illinois corn yield estimates cut; prices spike
" Summer heat, especially warm summer evenings, did more damage to the Illinois corn crop than first thought.  The latest harvest estimate of 160 bushels an acre, released Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, was down 14 bushels an acre from early September. Estimated yields are down more than 11 percent since early August."
i-News Wire Volusion Advanced Site Search Now Available
"Reinhart Technologies Inc. today announced the addition of support for the Volusion® shopping cart system to its popular CyberSiteSearch E-Commerce site search tool.  This product enhancement allows online merchants employing Volusion to easily and rapidly deploy an advanced site search on their e-commerce web site."
Furniture World ASID Illinois Member Suzy Regitz Named Chapter Medalist
"The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) National Examiners Committee announced that it has bestowed a Chapter Medalist Award to Suzy Regitz, ASID, of Suzy's Interiors... Suzy Regitz is a professional member of ASID and has served the Illinois chapter in a variety of roles including service on its board of directors and as its treasurer. She retired from Suzy's Interiors in West Chicago, Ill., in September 2009, which she owned and operated for 44 years. Her firm did residential and contract design, specializing in renovations, home offices and southwest design."
“We couldn’t spend enough?”‏
"“In a nutshell, Quinn wants to raise your taxes; Brady wants to cut state spending. Taxpayers who want a new, fiscally conservative direction for Illinois should vote for Brady.”  That’s what yesterday's Belleville News Democrat editorial said in endorsing our campaign to put Illinois back to work, and back on track!"
Brady: Public Sector Unions Are Bankrupting Illinois
"How, exactly, are public sector unions bankrupting Illinois, Mr. Brady? Are they overpaid? After adjusting for information like education and training, multiple studies show that state employees actually make less than their private sector counterparts. Are their retirement packages too gaudy? Illinois' current level of benefits are modest and in line with other states in the region. And just this spring, public sector unions swallowed a "pension reform" package that slashes benefits for future workers."
Judicial Pay and Perks in the Prairie State
"Illinois taxpayers are subsidizing one of the highest paid judiciaries in the country, and the judges don’t want to talk about it.  Judges serving on the state’s circuit courts—the most numerous and costly to taxpayers— are the second highest paid in the country.  Judges on the Illinois Appellate Court also have the second-highest salaries in the nation, behind only California."
Public Employees Under Attack - AFL-CIO
"The people who teach our children, protect us from crime, put out fires in our homes and make sure our water is clean are under attack. Conservative pundits and politicians across the country are using the economic crisis to attack public employees and portray them as privileged compared with everyone else. They use the fact that public employees, many of whom are union members, have been able to keep their well-funded pensions, reasonable hours and decent pay to stir up rage from those who have lost these benefits in the private sector."
Second try at "personhood" amendment a long shot, backers say - Denver Post
"The unofficial campaign slogan for opponents of proposed Amendment 62 is: "Oh no, not again."  The so-called "personhood" amendment would grant constitutional rights at "the beginning of biological development of the human being."  Proponents, who failed by a 3-to-1 margin to pass a similar amendment in 2008, acknowledge this second attempt to lay the foundation for criminalizing abortion could be even more difficult."
Iranian, Chinese Computers Also Discovered to Have Been Hacking DC Internet Voting System - TruthOut
"According to testimony given to a D.C. City Council committee last Friday by J. Alex Halderman, asst. professor of electrical engineering and computer science at University of Michigan, hackers from Iran and China were also attempting to access the very same network infrastructure, even as his own team of students had successfully done so, taking over the entirety of the Internet Voting system which had been opened for a first-of-its-kind live test."
Uphill in Wisconsin - NY Times
"Mr. Feingold’s independent mind, and his refusal to follow the big-money line on issues like trade, campaign finance and Wall Street reform, should have endeared him to Tea Party members and other independents who are angry at Washington conformists. If they had taken the time to listen."
Honoring Illinois' Fallen
" to fly the flags at half-staff on behalf of: Senior Airman Daniel J. Johnson, United States Air Force - Hometown: Schiller Park, Illinois"
 

12 Oct

  

October E-Newsletter

  • Mass transit
  • Secretary of State to Take Stiffer Action Against Abandoned Vehicles
  • Coat Drive Reminder
  • Legislative Survey Reminder
Do the Right Thing: Put Rich Whitney in the Debates - DuPage County Green Party
"Please call the League of Women Voters and the City Club of Chicago and ask them to include Rich Whitney in their respective debates!"
Photograph of Representative John J. Millner (R)ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2ND - John Millner - State Senator 28th District
"Polls are open! Early voting started yesterday, so now you can vote early at any number of early voting locations or vote by mail! Any way about it, check out my voter information page to help you figure out the most convenient way to vote!
http://www.johnmillner.org/voter-information.php."
COD wants tax money for campus makeover
"A combination of growth and space inefficiencies has pushed College of DuPage to ask voters to approve what officials call a $168 million property tax extension to help renovate and declutter some of the campus' older buildings.  If approved Nov. 2, the college's current taxing powers would be extended another 20-plus years at the current levels. If it is defeated, college officials said the owner of a $300,000 house would see an annual savings on their property tax bill of about $35."
Cronin talks of consolidating forest preserve with DuPage Co.
  • "Roger Kotecki, the incumbent Republican District 6 forest preserve commissioner, also opposes consolidation and questions Cronin's motives. Kotecki said county board members who want to consolidate may have their eyes on the forest preserve's $200 million in reserve funds earmarked for environmental issues and potential cleanups at DuPage landfills."
  • "Cheney, Cronin's Democratic opponent in the Nov. 2 race, said there's no rush to consolidate the forest preserve and county board. She said if there's interest from both sides, studies should be conducted to determine if there will be cost savings and that's the only reason to move forward with such a plan."
'Matt the Welder' joins Quinn on trip that ends in Savoy
" "We were absolutely certain that wherever Bill Brady went there would be lower wages, whether you were making the minimum wage, the prevailing wage, or anything in between there, your wages and working conditions would deteriorate under that man. He has proven that," Langendorf told the crowd. "We don't deserve that. The working people of Illinois did not cause the problems that we have in this state.  "Senator Brady wants us to handle it. He wants us to bear the brunt of fixing this thing. That's not fair, and that's the message we want out.""
Campaign rhetoric heats up in Illinois
" “We’ve got to make sure that we sound the alarm in Illinois. We do not want to have a governor who thinks that working people should have less,” said Quinn, who was traveling from Chicago to Rockford and Rock Island before flying to Peoria, Decatur, Marion and Champaign.  Brady, a state senator from Bloomington, has acknowledged the General Assembly won’t cut Illinois’ minimum wage, but has said he thinks the rate should be frozen where it is so the federal wage can catch up."
Quinn says governor's mansion to get solar panels
" Some 21st-century technology is coming to the 19th-century Executive Mansion in Springfield.  Gov. Pat Quinn says solar panels that will generate one kilowatt of electricity will be installed at the mansion as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to make the governor’s official residence green.  Both the panels and the installation are being donated to the state."
Mark Kirk Sends Poll Watchers To 'Vulnerable,' Largely African-American Neighborhoods - TPM
"Kirk's campaign confirmed the candidate was secretly taped last week as he was talking about his anti-voter fraud effort.  "These are lawyers and other people that will be deployed in key, vulnerable precincts, for example, South and West sides of Chicago, Rockford, Metro East, where the other side might be tempted to jigger the numbers somewhat," he said in the audio posted on YouTube."
New Polls Show Lead For Brady, Dead Heat In U.S. Senate Race
  • Bill Brady (R): 38%
  • Pat Quinn (D): 30%
  • Scott Lee Cohen (I): 6%
  • Rich Whitney (G): 2%
  • Lex Green (L): 2%
Who Brings Home the Pork from Washington?
"With the release of the 2010 Capital Bill Piglet Book highlighting wasteful spending by the state, I was curious to see what kind of wasteful spending was taking place at the federal level on behalf of Illinois."
  • "Peter Roskam - $11,450,500"
  • "Bill Foster - $7,085,000"
Tomato Workers’ Struggle for Justice Moves to Supermarket Aisles - AFL-CIO
"The fight for justice for tomato pickers is headed to grocery store aisles across the country now that the top three food service companies and the four largest fast-food companies have signed agreements to improve wages and working conditions in the Florida tomato fields.  The Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW) is gearing up to expand its Campaign for Fair Food to the Publix, Ahold, Kroger and Trader Joe’s supermarket chains, which together have tremendous market power in the produce industry. So far, only the Whole Foods supermarket chain has signed an agreement with the CIW."
History is Powerful -- And PBS Gets It Wrong - Talk to Action
"This was the real break between the theocratic norms of the colonial era and the democratic values of religious equality that stand at the center of the struggle of the American experiment to this day. Understandably, it was a big issue at the time, since religious oaths had been standard, and perennially controversial in most of the colonies.  The abolition of "religious tests" set in motion the disestablishment of the state churches."

Current U.S. housing values over priced by 30 percent.- My Budget 360
"Even after 1945, homes were still affordable and this is where the seeds of viewing housing as a great investment took hold.  But housing was a good investment for all the reasons it is not today.  Housing was a store of value, not an ATM machine for funding your next boat.  Yet the current credit bubble bursting is exposing the underlying problems with using a home as the primary function of wealth in this country."
 

11 Oct

  

West Chicago
High School		 Change in Graduation Date and Location
"The location and date for this year’s Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2011 has been changed. The new date will be Friday, June 3, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. and the new location for the ceremony will be at the College of DuPage."
Invest In Our Community's Children - FB, Maureen Navadomskis
"The question being asked will *not* involve any increased cost to homeowners on their tax bill. It simply asks permission to continue at the current rate by extending a bond that is about to expire.  The bond will be used to add on to the middle school, so that we can move all of our 6th graders there. This will create so much extra space at our elementary schools!"
CableCom Programming Schedule Channel 17 West Chicago, Illinois

 
TRIBUNE ENDORSES CLARK - FB - Dennis Clark - Candidate for DuPage Forest Preserve President
"The Chicago Tribune today 10-9-2010 endorsed Dennis P. Clark for President DuPage Forest Preserve District. Visit www.ElectDennisClark.com to see the full endorsement."
Taking Our Message to TV - Marie Owens (candidate for IL House)
"Since then, I have knocked on more than 6,500 doors throughout the district.  I am moved and motivated by the heart wrenching stories from families who have lost jobs, lost their health insurance, and are now facing possible foreclosure.  I know one thing for sure, there is no way I could ever pack up and leave Springfield before the job is done."
Early Voting Times and Locations - RB, Carole Cheney
"Early voting starts TOMORROW! Click the link below to find out where you can vote for me below."
Editorial Comments on Greg Brownfield - Frank Napolitano, Bartlett
  • Honesty?
  • Reformer?
  • Illegal Immigrants the root of all evil?
10 male, Republican lawyers on DuPage Board
"Of the 18 current DuPage County Board members, half are attorneys as is Chairman Robert Schillerstrom. And every last one of those attorneys is a Republican man.  Some Democratic candidates say that's evidence the board is a old boys lawyers club that doesn't reflect the county's diversity and promotes “groupthink."
Conservatives are hypocrites
"Now along comes Mark Kirk and the rules and dialogue of the conservative hosts have changed regarding the social issues. The discussion you hear is silence. Their spirituality parts ways with the faith-based crowd when the choice is between Republicanism and truth. For them, the third party candidates do not even exist."
[I apologize for not having a neat little animal symbol for the Libertarians. - Bob]
Early voting starts today
"Voters can cast a ballot early, and they head to the polls often.  But while the number of ballots a person can cast is limited to just one, early voting opportunities are a bit more aplenty."
Gov campaign: Quinn at union rally, Brady at parade
"Brady is backed by pro-business groups who maintain the state needs to make heavy cuts to help right a budget billions of dollars in the red. He wants to eliminate the inheritance tax, remove the sales tax on gasoline and repeal many of the taxes and fees imposed during the reign of ex-Gov. Rod Blagojevich,... Quinn has called for a higher income tax to help fix the state budget, championed a multibillion-dollar construction program and put in place job programs that draw plaudits from Democrats and questions from Republicans who say they are unaffordable."
Giannoulias has earned a seat in the U.S. Senate
"We're throwing in with Giannoulias, though, with a touch of frustration, knowing that his Republican opponent, Rep. Mark Kirk, is the candidate with the longer resume, the candidate we have endorsed many times before. But in the past few years, Kirk has become more of a mystery to us, not less, exaggerating his resume, flip-flopping on some issues and refusing to take a stand on others for fear of offending any segment of voters."
Broadway
World

 

 Pheasant Run Resort Presents IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADio Play
"The children's choir features: Leikyn Bravo (12, South Elgin), Megan Graal (11, West Chicago), ... It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play opens on Friday, November 5, 2010 and runs through Sunday, December 26, 2010. Show times are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m
Public-college dropouts cost taxpayers a pretty penny
" They discovered that the 30 percent of first-year college students who failed to return to campus for a second year accounted for $6.2 billion in state appropriations for colleges and universities, more than $1.4 billion in student grants from states and $1.5 billion in federal government grants.  Schneider said the team did not study community colleges, where dropout rates can be even higher."
Illinois Senate candidates spar over economy, records
"Giannoulias said again that the bank knew the men had been in legal trouble but “didn’t know the extent of that activity.” The Kirk campaign disputes that claim.  Meanwhile, Kirk was pressed on his false statements about his career in the Navy Reserve.  Kirk, an intelligence officer, claimed he personally won an award that actually went to his entire unit.  He has said he took part in first Iraq war when he didn’t. He also once claimed to run the Pentagon war room when his duties actually involved only one part of the center’s operations. And, Kirk said he came under fire on flights over Iraq and Kosovo, claims he won’t explain."
Brady on New Illinois Debt Report‏
“A Brady Administration will move Illinois in a new direction starting Day One,” said Brady.  “My administration will cut spending and taxes, and force government to live within its means, just like the rest of us do every single day.”
Chicago Tribune Endorses Brady for Governor
"Democrat Quinn does not grow in office, nor does he compel his party and labor allies to accept solutions that crimp their own influence. For those reasons and others we'll explore, the Tribune today endorses state Sen. Bill Brady for governor."
A Conservationist's Plea on Quinn and Brady
"The differences between the candidates, Governor Pat Quinn and State Senator Bill Brady, on the environment are stark. In short, Bill Brady will be a disaster for conservation, and the more you learn about his record on natural resources, the worse it gets. Governor Pat Quinn is clearly the strongest choice for conservation and the environment for the State of Illinois."
10/10/10 And The Governor's Race
"But it's worth pointing out there are stark differences between Quinn and the GOP gubernatorial candidate State Sen. Bill Brady on the issue.  As regular readers of Progress Illinois may recall, Brady denied the hypothesis that human activities are causing climate change last year, despite the overwhelming scientific consensus that confirms that link. Watch this video from a GOP debate last fall:"
Individual Mandate Constitutional?
"Yesterday in Michigan, U.S. District Judge George Caram Steeh ruled that the individual mandate in the new health care legislation is constitutional because it does not constitute "an improperly apportioned direct tax." "
Website Offers Loads of Information on Today’s Manufacturing Challenges - AFL-CIO
 
"Did you know that North Carolina lost 241,900 manufacturing jobs between 2000 and 2008 and more than 94,000 of those jobs were lost because of the U.S. trade deficit with China? Or that you can sign up to participate in the “Keep It Made in America” tour, which kicks off Oct. 12?  The Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM) has re-designed its website and blog to make it easy to find such information and more."

 
Provocative Image of Christ Sets Off a Debate Punctuated With a Crowbar - NY times
"Wearing a T-shirt that read “My Savior Is Tougher Than Nails,” Ms. Folden strode up to the exhibit, took out a crowbar and proceeded to smash the plexiglass casing. To the horror of visitors, she then ripped up the print, just as police officers arrived."
Caught Spying on Student, FBI Demands GPS Tracker Back - Wired
"It took just 48 hours to find out: The device was real, the student was being secretly tracked and the FBI wanted its expensive device back, the student told Wired.com in an interview Wednesday. The answer came when half-a-dozen FBI agents and police officers appeared at Yasir Afifi’s apartment complex in Santa Clara, California, on Tuesday demanding he return the device."
Beyond the tea party: What Americans really think of government - Washington Post
"A new study by The Washington Post, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and Harvard University shows that most Americans who say they want more limited government also call Social Security and Medicare "very important." They want Washington to be involved in schools and to help reduce poverty. Nearly half want the government to maintain a role in regulating health care... they must contend with the fact that most major government programs remain enormously popular, including some that politicians have singled out for stiff criticism. "
Facebook Politicians Are Not Your Friends - NY Times
"Mark Kirk, the Republican senatorial candidate in Illinois, inflated his own military history, bragged of a nonexistent teaching career, and exaggerated his derring-do in a teenage boating accident."
 

08 Oct

  
Dennis P. Clark, Hilary Denk, Eric Bergman and Shannon Burns for DuPage Forest Preserve - Internet Ad, You Tube
"Over the past several years Dennis, Hilary, Eric and Shannon have been involved with efforts to preserve and protect open spaces and natural areas in their communities...."
Rise and Shine! Early Voting Begins!
  • Early voting begins on Monday, Oct. 11th - Bruno says, "The early bird gets to vote early!"  If you would like to know where you can vote early, please visit the Owens for Illinois Website.
  • Additionally, to reach early voters we will be handing out early voting postcards to voters at train stations throughout the 95th district.  Join Maria and other campaign volunteers for the early, 5:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. shift to greet train passengers in Wheaton, West Chicago or Winfield train stations.  To sign up, contact volunteer@owensforillinois.com or call Jen 630.809.6595.
West Chicago moves closer to DVC crown
"Julia Conard had 10 kills and 5 digs, and the No. 3 Wildcats inched closer to a DuPage Valley Conference championship by beating Glenbard North 25-23, 25-22 in Carol Stream.  Kathy Fletcher added 9 kills and 2 aces and Emily Paschke 5 kills and 2 blocks for West Chicago (21-0, 10-0 DVC), who can clinch at least a share of the DVC crown with a win Tuesday against West Aurora."
Delnor name to stay on hospital
"The health groups announced Tuesday their intention to form an “integrated health system.  The proposal, after a public hearing, needs approval from the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board... Rick Floyd, president and chief executive officer of Sherman Health in Elgin, said the proposed merger “is an idea that makes sense. It gives them both a little more scale, making access to capital easier."
Quinn to announce grant for Aurora riverfront
"Gov. Pat Quinn will be in Aurora Friday, joining Mayor Tom Weisner in announcing a RiverEdge grant to revitalize the waterfront, according to Quinn’s office.  Full details of the grant have not been released."
Job Tracker: Outsourcers Can Run, But Now They Can’t Hide - AFL-CIO
"But finding out specific information on specific companies sending American jobs overseas and devastating their communities has been nearly impossible—until today. The AFL-CIO and Working America’s new Job Tracker database lists information on more than 400,000 corporations that have exported jobs overseas, violated health and safety codes or engaged in discriminatory or other illegal practice. (Check it out at http://t.co/qbg7wwm.)"
Chamber Avoids Questions About Foreign Funding, Hosts Event With Its Foreign Bank Members Tomorrow - Think Progress
"Foreign businesses and foreign agents are prohibited by law from contributing to any American political campaign expenditure. So far, the Chamber denies any inappropriate conduct, but has failed to produce any documentation that it is segregating its foreign dues from its American money... Promotions to join the Chamber have included promises that foreign firms obtain “access to the US Chamber of Commerce and everything that it does,” noting that the Chamber is “enormous within the US.”"
 

07 Oct

  

Around and About in West Chicago - 06 Oct 2010

  • West Chicago Police Chief Don Goncher
  • West Chicago Lions Club Candy Sales
  • Wheaton Academy Homecoming
  • Trinity Lutheran Church Oktoberfest

West Chicago
High School		 Change in Graduation Date and Location:
"The location and date for this year’s Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2011 has been changed. The new date will be Friday, June 3, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. and the new location for the ceremony will be at the College of DuPage. Additionally, the date for Honors Night will now be June 1, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. in the Weyrauch Auditorium."
Free Document Shredding for DuPage Businesses
"Businesses may shred up to 5 boxes FREE. For more information, visit www.dupageco.org/recycling or call (630) 407-6700."
Unfiltered DuPage flood ordinance overhaul draft to go online
"“There’s a lot more water-quality stuff in there than there was at first,” Charlton told the Environmental Commission Wednesday morning. “We’d like to hear how we’re doing, whether it’s, ‘Yes, you’re going in the right direction,’ or ‘No, you’re completely nuts.’”  The commission recently completed a study that concluded a slowing of runoff release would help alleviate the problem of flooding being passed downstream."
[See also DuPage preparing online flood watch . - Bob]
New mile numbers for I-90 tollway
"But on Wednesday — because of federal changes — new signs were installed measuring off the miles in the reverse direction, with the Wisconsin border now being Mile 0 and the Kennedy interchange now being Mile 79.  The new signs also have been placed every quarter mile instead of every half mile."
Poverty spikes in suburbs around Chicago, other cities
""Millions of Americans at all income levels moved to the suburbs looking for better schools, better jobs, affordable housing, and a sense of security, but in recent years, as incomes have fallen, people had a harder and harder time making ends meet," said Scott Allard, a University of Chicago professor who co-wrote one of the reports.  "As a result, Americans who never imagined becoming poor are now asking for assistance, and many are not getting the help they need," he said."
FutureGen Alliance will seek proposals for underground storage
"Communities interested in hosting the underground carbon dioxide storage site for the FutureGen 2.0 clean-coal project not only have to meet several criteria, but they're going to have to act quickly to enter the competition, the FutureGen Alliance said Wednesday.  Later this month, according to the alliance, it will issue a request for proposals from downstate Illinois governments, organizations or private parties."
Central Illinois to get more wind turbines
"When the Twin Groves Wind Farm east of Bloomington started production in March 2007, it marked the start of a new industry in central Illinois.  More than three years later, proposed projects could increase the number of wind turbines planted among area corn and soybean fields from 705 to more than 2,772 in five years, according to data from Illinois State University's Center for Renewable Energy."
Giannoulias says he's 'independent outsider'
" He noted that Kirk has changed positions on such issues as a cap-and-trade anti-pollution bill and a jobs bill supported by the administration of President Barack Obama. Kirk voted for cap-and-trade in the House, but reversed his stand when he announced his Senate candidacy. On the jobs plan, Kirk said in August he supported the proposal, but he then voted against it.  Giannoulias also challenged Kirk’s self-proclaimed stance as a fiscal conservative. Kirk voted for budgets under former President George W. Bush that doubled the deficit, but now wants to extend “a tax break for the richest 2 percent (of Americans) without a way to pay” for it, Giannoulias said."
Illinois teachers union endorses Quinn for governor
"The Illinois Federation of Teachers has endorsed Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn, calling his Republican opponent "toxic" for public education.  The 103,000-member union pledged Wednesday to support Quinn in his race against GOP state Sen. Bill Brady of Bloomington by providing both money and manpower for the election."
Foster Accepting Congressional Page Applications
"Foster will nominate one High School Junior to the spring program in Washington, DC, which runs from January 24 through May 27.  Pages assist Members of Congress with their legislative duties, deliver correspondence and small packages within the congressional complex, answer phones in the Member cloakrooms and prepare the House Floor for sessions."
An Open Letter to the Chicago Teachers Union
"Quinn poses as a friend of education but his proposed FY 2011 budget proposed cuts of $1.227 billion, a 16.8 percent drop, the largest single-year cut in Illinois history. As the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability put it, “Primary education funding bears the brunt of the cuts implemented in [Quinn’s proposed] FY2011 budget.” And when the Democrat-controlled General Assembly ultimately adopted a different approach – i.e., more borrowing, more unpaid bills (which amount to de facto cuts), and let the Governor make the spending cuts – Quinn obliged with cuts to school funding of $261 million imposed on July 1st, not to mention another cut of $100 million to higher education."
Join Robin & Congresswoman Schakowsky!
"cordially invites you to a reception in honor of 
Robin Kelly - Democratic Nominee for Illinois Treasurer
Wednesday, October 20th,  5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Standard Club, 320 S Plymouth Ct,  Chicago Room, 4th Floor, Chicago, IL"
Sun-Times: Quinn Is "Pro-Business, Pro-People"
"This morning's Sun-Times included a gracious endorsement of Democrat Pat Quinn for governor. Pointing to his advocacy for an income tax hike and the spending cuts he implemented during the past two years, the editorial says Quinn can "claim considerable accomplishments and has shown real courage."
A Jobs Program that Kills Jobs
"To be sure, private investment in our state should be supported and encouraged. What is objectionable is the consumer mandate to buy a product for 30 years at an established price, no matter what that market says that price should be."
Young and Worried About Retirement
"First off, Social Security—which is even more vital than ever for younger workers, most of whom don’t participate in any kind of retirement plan—is under attack. Even though Social Security does not contribute a cent to the nation’s budget deficit, the federal budget deficit commission has it in their sights and there are reports the commission could recommended raising the retirement age or cutting benefits."
Aborted babies 'being left to die' - The Age, Australia
"BABIES that are surviving late-term abortions at Melbourne's Royal Women's Hospital might be being left on shelves to die, according to an Anglican minister.  Dr Mark Durie, minister of St Mary's Caulfield, said staff were finding it hard to cope with a reported six-fold increase in late-term abortions at the Women's since abortion was decriminalised in Victoria two years ago. He said because conscientious objection by medical staff was now illegal, the hospital could employ only people who endorsed late-term abortions."
Buffett says cut taxes for all but the rich - Fortune
"Buffett, the billionaire investor who runs Berkshire Hathaway (BRKA), said Tuesday at Fortune's Most Powerful Women Summit in Washington that the nation's tax code "has gotten distorted to a huge extent," by levying higher taxes on secretaries and janitors than on CEOs and private equity whiners.  He called, as he has in the past, for policymakers to redress that iniquity by raising taxes on the rich."
Facebook Lets Users Interact in Small Groups - NY Times
"The move is an effort to address a longstanding problem: Facebook friends often span a broad range of relationships that include relatives, classmates, casual professional acquaintances or jogging partners — and not everyone wants all of them to see his or her information.  With the new feature, called Groups, Facebook hopes to encourage users to upload more photos, videos and other information to the site while giving them new ways to control who sees what."
 

06 Oct

  
Neighborhood Watch Program Forms in Forest Trails
"The Neighborhood Watch Program is based on the idea that if residents watch out for one another and work collectively with the police department, they can reduce the number of opportunities in which crime can occur. This helps to create a safer community for all to live in."
Delnor Health System and Central DuPage Health Announce Intent to Combine
"The proposed combination will bring together two financially sound organizations, both recognized for their outstanding service to patients. Working in close collaboration with physicians on the respective medical staffs, the two management teams will create new opportunities for continued improvements in healthcare delivery and outcomes for all patients, while continuing the healthcare investments in the communities served."
Delnor, Central DuPage Hospital announce merger plan
"If the merger becomes a reality, officials said the goal would be to expand health care to the West suburbs by "elevating the caliber and breadth of health care services available in the region, extending local access to care and creating a level of scale that will deliver even higher quality at a lower cost.""
DuPage sheriff, others decry job cuts
"Some DuPage County elected officials are not pleased with the county board's plan to eliminate 30 vacant positions throughout the county to help finance a $70 million capital improvement borrowing plan... Zaruba said he was “astonished and bewildered when he heard about the proposed cuts.  “The elimination of seven deputy sheriffs would severely impact our service, he said at Tuesday's county board judicial and public safety committee meeting."
Photograph of Representative John J. Millner (R)State Senate candidate: End red-light cams
"Corinne Pierog of St. Charles argues the cameras have turned into little more than a way for towns to gouge taxpayers and make money.  Her Republican opponent, incumbent John Millner of Carol Stream, says he remains firmly behind the cameras despite their unpopularity in many quarters because he is convinced they improve traffic safety."
Delnor plans to merge with CDH
"Representatives of Geneva-based Delnor Hospital and Winfield-based Central DuPage Hospital announced Tuesday plans to merge the two health-care providers pending government approval.  The process is expected to take several months."
Delnor, Central DuPage hospitals to merge
"The hospitals did not identify a new name for the health system. However, the signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two hospitals names Central DuPage CEO Luke McGuinness as head of the combined health system.  Delnor President and CEO Thomas Wright will continue as both president of Delnor and as an executive leader of the new hospital organization. Wright was named president of Delnor in 2008."
DuPage department heads blast staff cuts in new budget plan
"The budget outline released by Schillerstrom three weeks ago reflects an agreement made by the board to maintain a countywide payroll with 30 fewer people on it. Reasoning that the positions remain vacant after being opened through attrition, the board plans to redirect some of the money — an estimated savings of $150 million over the next 30 years — toward retirement of the general obligation bonds that will be used for a $70 million infrastructure overhaul poised to launch in the coming fiscal year."
Delnor and Central DuPage hospitals to merge
"The deal comes as the health care overhaul law is being implemented over the next four years, triggering a wave of consolidation of hospitals and doctor practices across the country.  Medical care providers are looking to gain economies of scale and pool resources to invest in information systems and clinical programs and gain negotiating leverage with insurance companies who pay them."
Pat Quinn: Illinois could legalize civil unions this year
"Gov. Pat Quinn says he believes civil unions could be legalized in Illinois before the end of the year.  Civil unions are agreements that give gay and lesbian partners legal rights and responsibilities when it comes to issues such as property ownership, adoption and emergency health care decisions."
Kirk characterizes self as 'consensus builder'
" Kirk characterized himself as a “social moderate, fiscal conservative and national security hawk.” One of his moderate stands, he said, has been to promote stem-cell research.  “We were able to roll (former House majority leader) Tom DeLay on a key social policy issue to make sure that the United States maintained a lead in medical research and offered (the) world the chance of no Parkinson’s, no diabetes and no cancer,” ... “I’m very much a pro-choice moderate in the Congress,” he said."
Comptroller candidates vague about budget cuts
"Topinka said she wants to create a “financial SWAT team” to review contracts for irregularities before any payments are made.  Miller wants to establish a payment priority system where vendors most in need of money will be paid first. For instance, Miller said a neighborhood clinic in danger of closing would get priority over a hospital that has other resources to tide it over."
Unemployment And The Output Gap
"If growth remains slow, Irwin estimates that unemployment won't return to 5 percent for another 10 years. The government does have a number of tools at its disposal to kickstart demand, like boosting infrastructure spending or extending unemployment benefits. But deficit hysteria and the Senate filibuster make legislative action nearly impossible"
Using Capitalism to Help the Poor
"By backing businesses that provide education loans or distribute solar panels in villages, he says, he wants to show that commercial entities can better help people in poverty than most nonprofit charitable organizations."
[It's nice to know a Republican think tank is concerned with poverty and unemployment somewhere. - Bob]
RNC’s Steele Refuses to Say if Minimum Wage is Constitutional—BTW The Answer is YES! - AFL-CIO
"It’s one thing for Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele to be unable to remember the federal minimum wage–$7.25 an hour (chump change to Steele, but  darn important to the worker  trying to stay afloat on the minimum wage).  But it is completely another and downright weaselly thing to duck and talk circles around a simple question about if he believes, like so many other Republican candidates do this fall, that the minimum wage is unconstitutional, should be abolished or reduced."
Art Museum Shows Jesus in Pornographic Pose - New American
"The artwork in question features Christ Jesus in a variety of sexual poses, including one in which Jesus is engaged in oral sex with another man. In this image, the word “orgasm” appears beside Jesus' head. On display since September 11, it is part of an 82-print exhibit... Protestors demanded that the city council de-fund the museum as a result of the controversy, but the city council has asserted that the image “does not meet the criteria of public obscenity.”"
Karzai’s Kin Use Ties to Gain Power in Afghanistan - NY Times
"While the roles played by two of President Karzai’s brothers — Ahmed Wali Karzai, the power broker of Kandahar, and Mahmoud Karzai, a prominent businessman and investor in the troubled Kabul Bank — have been well documented, the extensive web of other family members has not previously been reported. Most of them lived in the United States before going to Afghanistan, leveraging the president’s position to put them at the center of a new oligarchy of powerful Afghan families."
 

05 Oct

  
Coffee - FB, Maria Owens
  • Come and talk with me and Greg Brownfield tonight at Dunkin Donuts 330 S Neltnor Rd.,West Chicago, IL tonight from 6-8pm
  • "Come and meet Maria Owens, Candidate State Representative for the 95th District. Here her plans for the district and the State to make an educated and informed decision before you go to the polls and VOTE!
         Sunday, October 10, 2010 at 3:00pm
         27 W173 Galusha, Warrenville, IL"
West Chicago on rise, but untested
""I'm curious to see how we stack up against some of the top teams," West Chicago coach Kris Hasty said. "I would like to know how we would do against Benet and St. Charles East and other schools. We'll see in Autumnfest. I think Autumnfest will be a great gauge for us.""
St. Andrews G. & C.C. 2010 Club Championship
"In the Open Division, Mark Prysmiki shot a 78 – 76 for a 154 total to win the Low Gross title and Ronald Ruffie netted a 143, with a 20 handicap, to win the Low Net. In the Senior Division, Merritt Cook shot a 74 – 77 for a 151 total to win the Low Gross title and Mike Zicha netted a 135, with a 24 handicap, to win the Low Net."
Join the Fall Corn Harvest at Kline Creek Farm
"On a farm, autumn is the time of harvest, a culmination of the years hard field work and a period of preparation for the cold months ahead. Visit Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago to lend a hand during Corn Harvest on Oct. 3, 4, 10, 11 and 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m."
Quinn creates Elgin-O'Hare West Bypass advisory council
"The advisory council will consist of 19 members representing local governments, the business community, regional planning groups, labor and public finance.  State officials estimate the project will create 21,000 short-term jobs by 2015 and 60,000 long-term jobs.  "If we lay the foundation of good infrastructure, jobs will follow," Quinn said at a press conference where he signed the order."
Canada joins U.S. in Asian carp research project
"The project will involve scientists in the U.S. as well as Canada.  The Great Lakes Fisheries Commission says it's the first binational effort to determine the likelihood that Asian carp will spread across the lakes, and how the ecosystem will be affected if that happens."
Lieutenant governor candidates insist they’re ready to lead state
"Simon also insists her experience, both personal and professional, has prepared her for the highest office in the state. She’s a wife and mother, a former prosecutor and a former member of the Carbondale City Council. She served on a state ethics panel after Blagojevich was ousted and has taught law at Southern Illinois University for 10 years."
Stimulus Money Creates Job, Rebuilds Rail Cars AFL-CIO
"Those jobs are part of as many as 3.3 million jobs that President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act saved or created since it was signed into law in February 2009. In the three months prior to passage of the legislation, the nation had lost 2.2 million jobs—more than 8 million jobs disappeared during the Bush administration."
The Gathering Crisis in Burma's Ethnic Minority States - WEA
"One, the new regime is expected to launch a major military offensive on ethnic minorities, especially in the states of Karen, Kachin and Chin, which have large Christian populations. Two, the assistance the international community provides to pro-democracy forces and Burmese refugees, many of who are Christian, may take a dip."
Reid Ad Was False -- Because It Quoted Angle! - TPM
""In the Assembly, Sharron Angle tried to repeal the law that makes insurance companies cover mammograms. She wouldn't even cover mammograms," the announcer said.  The Reid ad was based on Angle's statements about her past record and her current platform. But as the Sun discovered, Angle's past record is quite the opposite of how it's been represented -- she never filed the mandate-repeal bill, and actually supported various mandates:"
[This is hilarious.  Reid is accused of lying for correctly citing Angle's website where SHE was lying. - Bob]
Crossroads Jam-Up - FactCheck.Org
"The latest ads from the American Crossroads “super PAC” attack Democrats running for Senate seats in Colorado, Illinois, Ohio, Nevada, Missouri and New Hampshire.  The ads contain a number of misleading and false claims... American Crossroads is funding the ads, in part, with donations from corporations. A controversial Supreme Court decision earlier this year lifted restraints on the use of corporate funds for political activity."
Honoring Illinois' Fallen
"... to fly the flags at half-staff on behalf of: Officer Samuel Vargas, Cicero Police Department"

 
 

04 Oct

  

This Week In West Chicago

  • Candidates Forum - FB, Maria Owens
    "Come out and see Maria! Government classess of the West Chicago Community High School and the League of Women Voters would like to invite you to the upcoming candidates forum. State Representative Candidates for the 55 & 95 Districts will start at 6:30pm and State Senate Candidates will start at 8pm. Please come and support the candidates; and become an informed voter before the general election on November 2."

  • Candidate Forum - FB, Barb Laimins is wondering how many people will attend the candidate forum tonight at 6:30 at the high school for the 95th and 55th districts. Probably around 1,000 people have been notified it is being held. What's your guess?

  • Tribune editorial board endorses Greg Brownfield - FB
    "Republican Rep. Randy Ramey of Carol Stream seems to think illegal immigration is the root of all evil. Democrat Gregory Brownfield of Bartlett, a legal aid attorney, is more outraged by the Springfield way of doing business. If he's elected, he vows, he will not vote for Michael Madigan for speaker. This is considered a safe GOP seat, but it would be delicious to see Brownfield make noise in the Democratic caucus. He is endorsed."
  • Tribune Endorses Mike Fortner - FB, Mike Fortner
    "Republican Rep. Mike Fortner, of West Chicago, has strongly supported efforts to get competitve elections by giving the public more influence on redistricting. Alas, the status quo won. He knows that more pension reform is key to getting the state on sound financial footing. He is endorsed.‌"
Town Hall Meeting to dialogue about the Referendum
  • Date: Tuesday, October 5 and repeated on Wednesday, October 20
  • Time: 7 PM both evenings
  • Place: West Chicago Middle School Library
  • Translation and Child Care Provided

West Chicago
High School

 

 Community High School District 94 Board of Education Meeting Agenda - October 5, 2010
  • Commencement 2011 Contract with College of DuPage
  • Disposal of Equipment
  • Capital Assets
  • Agreement for Use of District Facilities
COMMUNITY CHAT AT COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL
"On Thursday, October 14, at 7:00 p.m., Community High School District 94 will host a Community Chat with District residents. The Agenda will include the District’s financial picture and the School’s Curriculum Renewal Plan. Mr. Gordon Cole, Director of Business Services, will discuss the District’s finances and respond to questions. Dr. Moses Cheng, the Principal, will present the Curriculum Renewal Plan."
CableCom Programming Schedule Channel 17
"CableCom West Chicago Channel 17 cable communications foundation providing non-profit all volunteer community and government access programming to residents of west chicago"
Looking at the art behind those political ads, mailers
"Randy Hultgren, Republican challenger in the 14th Congressional District, last week unveiled a new TV commercial suggesting Democratic incumbent Bill Foster votes the Democratic Party line 93 percent of the time. "Look what they've done. A failed stimulus, a trillion-dollar government takeover of health care, and what do we have to show for it? Fewer jobs."  Foster responded with an ad accusing Republican Hultgren's investment firm of being among those that ignited the housing crisis and then profiting from government bailouts."
Three incumbents we should keep - Frank Napolitano
"One bill he introduced would curb illegal aliens' access to publicly funded programs; this alone would save the state $4 billion.  Randy has also tried to reduce the burdens on businesses in Illinois to help create more jobs. Randy is also very accessible to his constituents, he is willing to listen to us, and fight for us in Springfield. Please support Rep. Ramey in November."
Candidate Forum at Community High School
"The government classes of Community High School District 94 and the League of Woman Voters of Wheaton would like to invite you to a Candidate Forum for candidates running for the Illinois State Legislature on Monday, October 4th."
COD seeks $168 million for improvements
"College of DuPage’s leaders are asking voters for permission to borrow $168 million for capital improvements at its Glen Ellyn campus, saying homeowners won’t notice the tax increase because other debt was recently refinanced.  The refinancing created a tax rate cut that will begin next year, so taxpayers wouldn’t feel the tax increase at first. After the first year, however, college officials say they can’t predict the impact."
Civil unions, concealed carry could confront next governor
"Attempts to legalize both have been tried but have fallen short in the General Assembly. However, advocates believe the climate for both issues may be changing in Springfield. That means the next governor during his term could be faced with signing or vetoing legislation allowing people to carry concealed guns or granting same-sex couples legal protections."
  • Races for governor, U.S. senator tight
    • "A Chicago Tribune poll found Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn leading Republican challenger Bill Brady 39 percent to 38 percent. With the poll’s margin of error at 4 percentage points, that means the two are essentially tied."
    • "In the race for a U.S. Senate seat, the Tribune found Giannoulias ahead of Republican Mark Kirk, 38 percent to 36 percent. Again, that’s essentially a tie, given the margin of error."
  • Brady discounts polls that show Quinn gaining ground
    "“We’ll see polls go up and down between now and Nov. 2, but it appears voters are learning that Senator Brady is not on their side,” said Quinn spokeswoman Mica Matsoff in a news release."
  • Tax policies display sharp differences for Quinn, Brady
    "Reducing the sales tax on gasoline, plus repealing the state estate tax, would open up an additional $650 million to $1 billion hole in the state’s general revenue fund, of which he’ll have to cut spending to offset, Brady said."
Durbin: Job act will give small businesses ‘much-needed lifeline’
"The Small Business Job Act, which was signed into law last week, provides $30 billion for community banks to borrow cheaply in order to lend money to small businesses. The money is only for the smallest banks, those with $10 billion or less in assets."
Rep. Foster Joins NIU to Showcase New Broadband Network
“Broadband access, particularly in rural areas, is vital to our area’s current and future economic growth,” said Foster.  “NIU has made tremendous progress working with Internet2 and broadband networks in our area, making it the perfect institution to spearhead this promising project."
Women's issues
"Brady supported laws creating the Family Caregiver Act to assist family members who care for their elderly family members (PA 93-0864).  Brady also supported laws to assist family members of military members who are serving abroad and to assist female veterans upon returning home.  (PA 96-00994).  Brady also supported efforts to help low-income women access affordable day care so that they can work or return to school.  (PA 95-0206 and SB 898, 2008)"

Green Party Lawn Signs - DuPage County Green Party - FB
"Order your Whitney for Governor and/or Vote Green Party yard signs today!"
[To my Dem friends who are concerned that I am attempting to help Republicans by splitting your vote, I would cover the Libertarians also if I could find what they are doing.  I am just trying to cover the minor paries.  Anyone willing to run deserves coverage. - Bob]
Whitney Trumps Competitors in Tribune Debate and Proves Why He Should Be Included in Future Debates
"Rich Whitney focused on the need to restructure the state’s system of taxation to increase revenues, bring fairness to middle-and-lower-income taxpayers, institute a new tax on derivative trading, establish a state bank and implement a forensic audit to eliminate wasteful spending. Whitney emphasized that this was the only realistic approach to restoring health to the budget, schools, colleges and vital social services — and thereby create the foundation for economic recovery and real job opportunities for all."
In Illinois, Criminal Justice Fees Contribute To Recidivism
"For example, in Illinois, like the other 14 states analyzed in the Brennan Center study, "at least one jurisdiction has a practice of arresting individuals if they miss debt payments or fail to appear at a debt-related proceeding, typically as the first step in a probation or parole revocation hearing or a civil contempt proceeding." State law here also makes criminal justice debt a condition of probation or parole, meaning ex-convicts, including the indigent, can go back behind bars if a court finds they willfully missed payments."
‘America Is One Nation and We Signify that Nation’ - AFL-CIO
"On an absolutely gorgeous fall afternoon Bright, a member of CSEA/AFSCME Local 1000, and all of the nearly 200,000-strong crowd at the One Nation Working Together march and rally, were a living example of what one sign seen throughout the crowd said.  “We March for Hope, Not Hate!”"
Garland youth pastor recovering after shooting - Dallas Morning News
"He screamed to the group of 35 that they were all pretending to worship and were putting on an act...  Elizondo said Contreras kept asking about the well-being of his attacker as Garland police interviewed him from his hospital bed Friday night.  "He didn't want his assailant to be hurt in any way," Elizondo said. "That is Christianity 101, right there.""
Tennessee County’s Subscription-Based Firefighters Watch As Family Home Burns Down - Think Progress
"The conservative vision was on full display last week in Obion County, Tennessee. In this rural section of Tennessee, Gene Cranick’s home caught on fire. As the Cranicks fled their home, their neighbors alerted the county’s firefighters, who soon arrived at the scene. Yet when the firefighters arrived, they refused to put out the fire, saying that the family failed to pay the annual subscription fee to the fire department. Because the county’s fire services for rural residences is based on household subscription fees, the firefighters, fully equipped to help the Cranicks, stood by and watched as the home burned to the ground:"
Angle Met With 'Tea Party' Candidate, Trashed GOP -- And Offered Him Perks To Drop Out - TPM
"Angle clearly sought to show Ashjian that she was on his side. "The Republicans have lost their standards, they've lost their principles," Angle said. She also added: "Really that's why the machine in the Republican Party is fighting against me...They have never really gone along with lower taxes and less government.""
Honoring Illinois' Fallen
"to fly the flags at half-staff on behalf of: Lieutenant Colonel Robert F. Baldwin, United States Army - Hometown: New Boston, Illinois"

 
 

01 Oct

  

  • Phone Banking -  FB, Maria Owens
    "Phone Banking this weekend to inform the West Chicago Community about the Candidates Forum on Monday, Oct.4 at 6:30pm. Please call or email Jen for a list and script. jjlaesch@gmail.com or 630.809.6595."

  • Wine & Cheese fundraiser - FB, Maria Owens
    "Thank you to ALL that came out to my Wine & Cheese fundraiser last night. Special thanks to all the UNIONS for your support. Thank you to my friends Mary McGinty, cellist and Ron Brenner, pianist for the lovely entertainment. We will WIN!!!"

West Chicago
High School

 

 Booster Club Meeting Postponed
"Due to the Candidate Forum on October 4th at the High School, the Wildcat Booster's monthly meeting will be rescheduled to Tuesday, October 5th at 7pm in Room 197.  If you are interested in attending the Forum, information is below:"

Candidate Forum
"The Forum begins at 6:30 PM with State Representative candidates and 8:00 PM with State Senatorial candidates for district within our school boundaries. It will be held in the Auditorium at Community High School District 94, located at 326 Joliet Street, West Chicago, IL."
Rep Alan Grayson's expose on foreclosures.  I wish everybody saw this video - Bob
Election officials don't expect big hike in voter registrations this time
"State and county election officials don't expect to see as much of a surge this election, despite the growing energy of the tea party movement and Republican efforts to highlight the Democrats' falling approval ratings.  With next Tuesday, Oct. 5, the last day voter registration applications can be postmarked or delivered to county clerks' offices, officials can't point to final numbers yet."
Starting in 2014, some students will take 3 standardized tests per year
""The goal is that we'll no longer have a single assessment but a 'through-course' assessment," Koch said at the fall meeting of the Alliance for College Readiness. "We're not just going to be asking about knowledge; we're going to try to measure the application of knowledge."  The push for more assessments will go hand-in-hand with efforts to tie student achievement data in part to teacher evaluations, according to Koch."
Asian carp get competition
" Mussels have “beaten the Asian carp to the buffet table,” said Gary Fahnenstiel, senior ecologist with NOAA’s Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory. “While the public has been worried about Asian carp … another invader has fundamentally changed the lake and made it inhospitable to the Asian carp.”  Some biologists and government officials say if the carp get a foothold in Lake Michigan, they could spread to most of the Great Lakes and vacuum up enough plankton to threaten collapse of the $7 billion fishery. But Fahnenstiel and other researchers said the quagga mussel is a greater danger."
State's first proton therapy center set to open
"Another proposed suburban proton center, meanwhile, remains on hold. Officials of a partnership spearheaded by Northern Illinois University still plan to build a $159 million teaching, research and treatment center in West Chicago. The not-for-profit project still seeks financing, and an approval process with state regulators must be restarted before it can proceed."
Quinn gains on Brady in new Tribune poll
"Quinn has hammered his lesser-known downstate opponent with TV attack ads asking "Who is this guy?" and the poll indicates the strategy is paying dividends. Quinn scored 39 percent to 38 percent for Brady. The poll's 4-percentage-point margin of error means the race is neck and neck with little more than a month left before the Nov. 2 election."
Farmers turn out to help stricken neighbor
" Participants in the “Harvest Day for Jay” said the decision to step away from their own fields and lend a hand to Frye, his wife, Noreen, and their three sons was a no-brainer.  “For us to help Jay was a really easy thing to do, because he’s such a nice fella and he has a nice family, too,” said Jeff Smith of Easton, one of the organizers. “(Farmers) are close-knit. We’re getting to be fewer and fewer, and this is something that we do — joining together to support the family of those in crisis.”"
[I know this is an unusual item for this site... it has nothing to do with West Chicago.  I wish it did. - Bob]
Tax amnesty program starts today in Illinois
" The monthlong tax amnesty program approved by lawmakers last spring allows people and businesses that owe Illinois taxes to pay the debts and have penalties and interest waived on the amount.  Even with penalties and interest waived, the state expects to collect hundreds of millions of badly needed dollars for state coffers."
Audit questions Corrections spending
" The review also said there was no way to say whether the program succeeded because Corrections didn’t keep statistics on its participants, according to auditors, although one set of documents showed nearly half failed.  The Justice Department’s inspector general took issue with $1.1 million in spending of the federal grant from 2002 to this year, including $708,000 in “unallowable and unsupported payroll expenditures” to outside contractors."
Rep. Foster Announces Grant Worth More Than $637,000 for Waubonsee Community College
"“Waubonsee Community College is an exceptional educational institution, and this grant will further enhance Waubonsee’s ability to educate students in our area – particularly those within the growing Hispanic community,” said Foster.  “Over two thirds of the students at Waubonsee are the first in their families to go to college, and this grant will help ensure that these students have the support they need to succeed in their educational pursuits.”"
"State Sen. Cotton Candy"
"To be fair, neither candidate has offered a concrete plan to pay off this debt. But suggesting that the payment records don't exist is another "airy and insubstantial" attack from a candidate Zorn calls "Sen. Cotton Candy." "Bite into his finely spun rhetoric," he adds, "and there's almost nothing there." Read his full column here."
SEIU rips Whitman at start of $5 million ad campaign - Political Ticker
"The Service Employees International Union is out with a new television ad in California hitting GOP gubernatorial nominee Meg Whitman for paying an undocumented immigrant to be her housekeeper.  "Whitman attacks undocumented workers to win votes, but an undocumented woman worked in her home for nine years," the narrator of the ad says in Spanish."
Mosque Sees Sponsors - Wall Street Journal
"In an interview in his Soho Properties offices on Thursday, Sharif El-Gamal said the proposed community center's fame has generated large interest from potential sponsors, despite doubts among some that the project can raise the necessary $120 million to $140 million."
Pastors defy prohibition on politicking - USA Today
"The tax code provides tax-exempt status to churches and other charitable groups unless they participate in political campaigns or make statements on behalf of candidates.  Some churches and non-profits legally start political action groups, but contributions to those organizations are not tax deductible, said Ira Lupu, a professor at George Washington University Law School."
Outsourcing safety: Airplane repairs move to unregulated foreign shops - MSNBC
"More maintenance has moved overseas. Airlines are not required to use regulated repair shops. Foreign repair stations can go five years between inspections, and even then are often tipped off that inspectors are coming. Manuals are in English, but not all the workers read English. Drug tests of workers are illegal in some countries."
The Secret World of Extreme Militias - Time
"Theirs is not Tea Party anger, which aims at electoral change, even if it often speaks of war. In the world of armed extremists, war is not always a metaphor. Some of them speak with contempt about big talkers who "meet, eat and retreat." History suggests that even the most ferocious, by and large, will never get around to walking the walk. Mark Potok of the Southern Poverty Law Center observes that "there are huge numbers of people who say, 'We're going to have to go to war to defend the Constitution or defend the white race,' but 'That will be next week, boys.' ""

 

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