http://lake.weareillinois.org Lake County Republicans en-us right for country
A proposal introduced by Rep. Mark Kirk, R-10th, and Peter Roskam of the sixth Congressional District (H.R. 5405) aims to curb the high rate of identity theft in Illinois, especially here in Northern Illinois.

Their proposal: Developing a new tamperproof Social Security Surveillance card that would contain encrypted, machine readable electronic record which would include records of biometric identifiers unique to the individual to whom the card is issued, including a digitized facial image printed on the face of the card. This card would be offered to Americans who opt for it, with the hope that it would eventually become standard across the country.

Even though the bill has not yet left the House, the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois is already voicing strong objections to the biometric identifiers on the proposed card, claiming it is a back door attempt to slip a national ID card into the hands of a terrified populace.

An April 17 Pioneer Press article about the Kirk proposal relates how police in Mundelein and Waukegan consider the counterfeiting of Social Security cards a growing problem in their jurisdictions. Both support Kirk's proposal as a step in the right direction. The article also spoke of falsified birth certificates, forged driver's licenses and counterfeit Social Security being sold on the streets of Waukegan from anywhere from $100 to $500 depending on the quality and whose selling them.

The Social Security number is one of the main tools used to steal an identity. It is also the easiest document to counterfeit. I applaud Reps. Kirk and Roskam for their insight into their proposal aimed at curbing identity theft which is affecting 10 million Americans. It is also costing businesses and consumers untold billions of dollars a year. ID theft can likewise be devastating to the affected individuals. It can take months to resolve credit problems.

I will apply for the new biometric card when and if it is issued. The encrypted information on the card could prevent me from experiencing the deeds of criminals or those with criminal intent. Rep. Kirk is deserving of your support in his endeavor to protect what is rightly ours alone, our individual identities.

Nancy J. Thorner, Lake Bluff




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3705 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3705 Sun, 11 May 2008 06:24:49 GMT KILL BILL DESIGNED TO ALLOW VOTERS TO RECALL GOVERNOR

Libertyville – State Senators Terry Link (D-Waukegan) and Michael Bond (D-Grayslake) voted today to protect Governor Blagojevich from citizens seeking the right to recall the Governor. Sticking with their buddy Senate President Emil Jones, Link and Bond voted with fellow Democrats and derailed legislation providing citizens an opportunity to recall elected officials that have violated the public’s trust.

This Senate bill was introduced last August by Republican Senator Dan Cronin (Elmhurst), prompted by the questionable actions of Governor Blagojevich. Lake County Republican Chairman Daniel Venturi stated, “This vote comes as no surprise – Senator Link has been voting lock step with Governor Blagojevich and Senate President Emil Jones since they took over the State in 2003. Link’s tenure in office has more to do with Chicago politics and the perks and power that come with them. This year it’ll be different. Forged signatures alleged on more than two thirds of his nominating petitions and frustrated Democrats calling Republican Headquarters to enlist in his defeat will put an end to his legacy of power politics. As to Senator Bond he has chosen the wrong role models.”



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3607 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3607 Thu, 01 May 2008 16:10:56 GMT
The GOP objection to State Representative Mark Beaubien's opponent will likely not be decided for some time because that is being heard by the State Board of Elections, as his district straddles two counties, Lake and McHenry. On the Dem side, the Dem's objections to challengers Keith Gray (running against Terry Link) and Dan Sugrue also are being heard by the SBE (those districts include Lake and parts of Cook Counties).

The GOP victory against at least three of the four county board Dem hopefuls gives the local GOP a much-needed shot in the arm, after months of dealing with Obama-mania. That, plus the hope that they will be successful in the as-yet undecided challenges, and the Dems' various troubles (Link's petition scandal, Blago's impending indictment, anyone?), gives the Lake GOP hope to carry on the battle, for now.

The Dems, of course, will claim that their defeats today are simply a political hatchet job. But TA hears that the decision of the panel was well-articulated, and if the Dems really feel they got railroaded, they can always put their money where their large mouths are, and appeal to the circuit court. They are also in a poor position to claim that the Republicans are unfairly beating up on their slated candidates, considering the Dems filed challenges of their own (including a challenge to the poor Green guy in the 10th CD).

UPDATED: 3:50 p.m. - TA just learned that we also won on the David Stohlman objection. An old joke, but I'll make it anyway-- What's Terry Link's new area code? 0-4-4. Get it? HAHAHAHAHA!!!




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3543 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3543 Fri, 25 Apr 2008 06:00:47 GMT

Kirk leads bipartisan effort calling on Carter to back down from meeting with Hamas leaders
(Click here to watch the video)




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3502 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3502 Sun, 20 Apr 2008 15:35:27 GMT

BY: Nancy J. Thorner, Precinct Committeeman, Shield Township, #240


The Lake County Republican Federation held its 46th Anniversary Spring Gala on Friday, April 18, at the Marriott Lincolnshire. Federation Executive Director Antonietta Simonian is deserving of recognition and appreciation as the organizer of the successful event attended by 512 Lake County Republican.
The keynote speaker was U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor of Virginia. He is presently the Chief Deputy Whip for House Republican and as such deals with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on a daily basis. Eric Cantor began his remarks by saluting Congressman Mark Kirk of the 10th Congressional District and Steve Greenberg who is running to defeat Democrat Melissa Bean of the 8th Congressional District. Cantor then went on to speak about Kirk as an effective and extremely knowledgeable member of Congress. He and Kirk were in the same incoming freshman class in Congress. Cantor described Kirk as a “2 million dollar” man by the amount of money Kirk is raising to defeat his Democratic challenger Dan Seals. Cantor admonished the group that “Obama-mania” must be stopped from entering Lake County. Mark Kirk must be re-elected to continue his fine work for his district and the nation. Cantor went on to describe Steve Greenberg as one of the “young gun” candidates across the country designated by t he Republican House to assist in unseating their Democratic challengers.
Rep. Cantor defined the upcoming election as a “crossroads” election. The American people might not like long wars. History is also against Republicans in keeping the White House in 2008 -- Since WWII there has been only one time when Republicans have kept control of the White House for more than 8 years at a time (Reagan-Bush 41) -- yet Cantor feels that Republicans have a good chance given that John McCain has vowed to fight in every corner of American. Cantor cautioned that the Democrats will try to pin every thing on Republicans from the economy to housing, and that both problems will be exaggerated, but that Republicans have the advantage because Democrats have no solutions. Cantor told of his work with many Democratic House members who only know how to say “no” when Republicans attempt to allow Americans to keep more or their money or to have more control over their health care. Republicans do have an understanding of that which is broken and they know how to fix it. Republicans in Congress, including Cantor and Kirk, are against ear marks and wasteful spending. As Cantor said, “It should not be about pork but about pay checks. A pro-job agenda is needed. This is a center right county. The American people don’t want higher taxes, more government, or God taken out of the Constitution.”
Cantor ended his remarks by telling all assembled that they should go out and into communities and speak about solutions to issues that are relevant to the lives of the people. As Cantor said, “We don’t need all of the votes, just more than the other side. All we have to do is to outrun the other side and get to the finish line.”
After dinner remarks included those by Rep. Mark Kirk and Steve Greenberg. Rep. Kirk’s opening remarks were about conditions here in Illinois. Kirk is worried about Illinois and expressed sorrow for those Republicans who work in the legislative bodies here in Illinois, despite all of his own problems at the national level. Democrats have pushed through 20 separate tax increases. One Illinois issue of particular concern was how Illinois will lose 4 billion of federal transportation fund money if the state cannot come up with the necessary matching funds.
Kirk spoke highly of his House colleague Eric Cantor as the leading member of the House Ways and Means Committee. In speaking of a Democratic tax proposal that is now in the House, it would represent the largest federal tax increase in the history of the U.S. This tax proposal is know in the House as MOATH -- Mother of All Tax Hikes. Kirk cautioned that the quickest way to harm economic growth is to raise taxes.
Kirk then spoke of what he is up against in his own race in the 10th Congressional District: He will be running against money provided by government unions, trial lawyers, and George Soros-funded ads.
Kirk went on to praise John McCain -- that he will be up and running from day one.
Regarding the war, Kirk said that many wouldn’t mind seeing a defeat in Iraq. He went on to say: “There is no peace if there is a defeat of the U.S.” Kirk described a long-term struggle. The terrorist we are fighting reject the dignity of individuals, the rights of women, and the right to vote. They believe that government should be controlled by religious authorities and not elected representatives. I was extremely pleased when Congressman Kirk went on to question whether the American people will be up to the challenge as they were in past generations to defend our key values, and that these key values are now being tested.
I was impressed by Steve Greenberg’s remarks. He seems to have what it takes to defeat Melissa Bean. Greenberg first stated how proud he was to be a Republican. He thinks of the people who get up and go to work every day. That they are more important than the people in Washington. Greenberg spoke of his own humble background. How his dad had a dream. How his dad was helped along the way so his dream could be realized and passed along. As such he respects hard working folk who send their money to Washington, D.C. They also have dreams that deserve to be realized. Steve feels that the greatness of America derives from the celebration of the process that honors success and make it possible. If elected Greenberg wants to tackle wasteful government spending and eliminate earmarks. Once again, as I was with Kirk’s Iraq war words, I was pleased and encouraged when Steve Greenberg spoke of how by being in Iraq this nation is fighting for the freedom and liberty of millions of people so that they can also be future dreamers. Greenberg’s closing remark was a winner: “There are too many who define success by what they get in the mailbox and not from hard work.”



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3501 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3501 Sun, 20 Apr 2008 14:20:13 GMT to be applauded
Recently upon reading an announcement about former Vice President Al Gore's green campaign to promote climate change, I remembered an exchange between Rep. Mark Kirk and another during an event held at The Lake Forest Club back in February.

The exchange centered on Kirk's thoughts about global warming. Although Kirk is strong on issues concerning the environment, as noted on his official Web site, I was pleased when Kirk cautioned the questioner not to believe every thing she reads or hears in the news.

All Americans should strive to be good stewards of the environment. Al Gore, however, belongs to the doom-mongering wing of the environmental movement where repeated warnings tell of a global crisis that threatens our survival. Gore's much-heralded movie portrays global warming as a planetary emergency. Now contrast Gore's outrageous and hysterical claims with the view of Weather Channel founder, John Coleman, who last November called global warming the "greatest scam in history."

Are the American people ready to pay higher taxes, lower their standard of living, and give government control over their lives?

Some facts to consider:

* A report by UN meteorologists in April indicated that the mean global temperatures have not risen since 1998. Another report from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicates that almost all of the ice has come back which was reported lost in Oct. 2007.

* Much has been made of the carbon dioxide that is being pumped out of car tailpipes. Carbon dioxide is an essential element in our life support system. Without carbon dioxide there would be no plant lie or human life.

* The concern over CO2 emissions has given rise to the production of biofuels. It was reported in Science in February, that rather than reducing carbon emissions, it adds to it by a factor of nearly 100. Turning food into fuel for cars has been a major mistake. Ethanol is so costly to produce it wouldn't even make it in a free market without major government subsidies. Mandating the use of corn-based ethanol in gasoline has added to the global food crisis and created higher food prices here at home.

* Oil has become a much maligned industry and a high priced commodity, but contrary to public opinion oil independence is a long way off. Hybrid cars are popular, but it could take up to 20 years before hydrogen fuel cells are affordable and reliable enough to market.

* What is the perfect temperature? Warming and cooling cycles have been a part of earth's history. Global warming (climate change) could be called the biggest government power grab in American history. In his book, "An Appeal to Reason", Nigel Larson of Great Britain warns that "zealotry over global warming could damage our earth far more than a possible climate change."

The unproven crusade to save the planet is building a head of steam here in America. Unfortunately our leadership is bending in the wind instead of challenging and refuting claims that would lead to a radical agenda. Future generations of Americans are counting on us to do the right thing.

Nancy J. Thorner, Lake Bluff




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3493 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3493 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:19:49 GMT

I am angry, but I must keep my anger under control as one who knows that anger does more harm than good. I first heard about the Tribune's support for William Ayers and his wife Bernardine Dohrn upon listening to Don and Roma on WSL-890 AM this morning before I even opened the pages of my Tribune.

Yes, there is guilt by association in the case of Barack Obama. So far Obama has not been made to answer the tough questions. This is why he stumbled and was inapt in answering questions about why he won't wear a flag lapel pin or why he continues to regard his hate-filled preacher, Rev.Wright, so highly.

Obama's association with people who wrote about and taught Marxism goes way back to his college days. One such person he met after college in Chicago was Williams Ayers. Ayers never repented for what he did. In fact, Ayers is still proud of what he did in his weatherman days. Only slick lawyers kept him out of jail.

There is a big leftist group in the Hyde Park area in Chicago. It is surprising that the Tribune seems to revere and give respectability to those who express views that are far to the left of center. Credibility is not Ayers to have just because he teaches at universities! Every university has gone left. While we were getting on with our own lives, the Left was busy taking over. Sen. Joseph McCarthy was right and for that he had to be destroyed.

I was embarrassed for the Tribune today. I feel nothing but pity for those at the Tribune who believe Obama should be treated with kid gloves -- that he shouldn't be scrutinized for his past deeds and actions -- that they shouldn't matter. Often said is that a man is who he is because of the company he keeps. Obama's company has indeed been questionable and unsavory throughout the years.

With newspaper readership declining, the Tribune is likely to encounter another slide in circulation because of its unwillingness to dig into the background of one who seeks to become president. Your liberals readers will love you, but not your conservative ones. You have offended them and, as elephants, we don't forget.

As a conservative reader, I will not cancel my subscription to the Tribune. I will instead judge your paper every day as to the way it treats John McCain or other Republican candidates. In giving a free pass to Obama's background, now you must also give a free pass to whatever may be in McCain's past or in the past of other Republican candidates. I know this will not happen, nor should it. The public deserves to know fully about each candidate, Obama included. Shame on the Tribune!

Sincerely,
Nancy J. Thorner
331 E. Blodgett Avenue
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
(847) 295-1035


]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3492 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3492 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:04:41 GMT The devil is always in the details, especially when it comes to filling out paperwork to slate candidates for vacancies in the upcoming election for the established political parties. The Lake County Republicans have taken a very close look at the nominating papers filed by the Lake County Dems and will be objecting to four slated Dem county board candidates and two state representative candidates.

For most of the four county board seats, the flaws in the nominating documents range from appointments by the Dem central committee (instead of a specific committee appointed for each county board district) to lack of proper notice or holding the proper nominating meeting. The races affected are: 3rd District (Mark Nielsen challenging incumbent County Board President Suzi Schmidt); 5th District (Steve Pearson challenging Bonnie Thompson Carter); 10th District Sari Hurtig challenging Diana O'Kelly); and 20th District (Davita Siegel challenging David Stohlman).

The State Rep nomination petitions have even bigger problems-- Sandy Cole's would-be opponent, Terry Hall, originally filed with the wrong address (she used a PO Box at a Mailboxes Etc.) instead of her registered voting address, and then tried to withdraw the papers and refile them with her correct address. So, not only is this new filing not effective to cure the mistake, it would seem by taking this action she admitted the first filing was flawed. Oops.

Mark Beaubien's opponent, Rich Garling, apparently also tried to withdraw a flawed nomination paper, but forgot to withdraw the original flawed petition first--thus, there was no official vacancy when the (second) nominating meeting was supposedly held. Double oops.

You can view the objection petitions here: 3rd District, 5th District, 10th District, 20th District. The House Repubs are handling the objections to the state rep candidates, so that may take a little longer to get up here at the Blog.

In the meantime, TA's snoops over at the County Building reportedly saw Dem operative "Sneaky" Pete Couvall nosing around the building today, and it is quite possible he was laying the groundwork for their own objections against the GOP slate of candidates (Keith Gray-30th District; Bill Anderson-60th; and Dan Sugrue-59th). Who knows if they have identified any legitimate flaws or not, but we will see what's filed today, which is the deadline.

UPDATE- DEM OBJECTIONS "ALL IN THE FAMILY": Among others, Senator Terry Link's goon squad today filed an objection against Link's GOP opponent, Keith Gray of Mettawa. The objecting party is none other than Cynthia Alexander of North Chicago, a well-known Link disciple, who happens to be the daughter of Terry Link's legislative aid, Evelyn Alexander (Cynthia Alexander also filed the objection against Link's primary opponent Jerry Johnson). The Dems also filed an objection against GOP State Rep. candiate Dan Sugrue for the 59th District. The objector? Shelia Schultz of Wheeling, who is State Rep. Kathy Ryg's mom. Mom to the rescue in the 59th!

In addition, Northfield Township Democratic Committeeman Michael Kreloff filed an objection against Green Party candidate David Kalbfleisch, who is the third candidate in the 10th Congressional District race between incumbent GOP Congressman Mark Kirk and Democrat Dan Seals. No big surprise, Kreloff appears to be a pretty big Dem contributor to Seals as well as other candidates. Remember that last time around, Sneaky Pete Couvall was the one who filed the objection and got Kalbfleisch kicked off the primary ballot. Also remember that Couvall was, until the most recent Democratic County Convention, Vice-Chairman of the Lake County Dems.

Wonder if Link was concerned that Couvall is going to be too busy in the upcoming months defending himself in the Link petition-gate scandal to be of any help in following through on these nomination objections.

See Team America 10th for more detais




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3480 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3480 Wed, 16 Apr 2008 18:53:29 GMT
Candidates to Oppose Link, Ryg and Washington



The Lake County Republican Party is proud to announce three new candidates for the Illinois legislature. Keith Gray, for the 30th Senate District, Dan Sugrue for the 59th State Representative District and Bill Anderson for the 60th State Representative District.



Keith Gray, a Mettawa resident, is the GOP candidate for State Senate in the 30th District. Keith is vice-President of the Rondout school board. Keith is also on the Mettawa Zoning Board of Appeals and the Mettawa Open Lands Association. Keith is the president and owner of Integrated Lakes Management, Inc., an aquatic management and natural area restoration company based in Waukegan. Keith brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, and is a great candidate for State Senate.



Dan Sugrue, a Green Oaks resident, is the GOP candidate for State Representative in the 59th District. Dan is a graduate of Chicago-Kent Law School and has been a sole practitioner since 1998. Prior to 1998, Dan practiced law with the Waukegan firm of Al Salvi & Associates. He has also taught college classes in real estate and real estate investments, and has been an active member of the community. Dan's experience and commitment to excellence make him a strong candidate for State Representative.



Bill Anderson, a Waukegan resident, is the GOP candidate for State Representative in the 60th District. Bill is a well respected attorney, who over the last five years has served on the Waukegan Public School Board. Bill has also served for eight years on the Waukegan Public Library Board. His professional achievements combined with the civic commitment make him an excellent candidate for the position of State Representative.



In addition to candidates Gray, Sugrue and Anderson, Senate Candidate Dan Duffy, State Representative Candidate Timothy Stratton join incumbent State Senator Matt Murphy, State Representatives Mark Beaubien, Sandy Cole, Sydney Mathias, JoAnn Osmond and Ed Sullivan in a team effort to "Fix Illinois".



Lake County GOP Chairman Daniel Venturi stated, "We are excited to introduce our "Fix Illinois" candidates to the voters of Lake County. The Democrats have had five years of complete control of Illinois and they have brought the state to its knees - it's time for change and it begins right here, right now."





]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3389 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3389 Sun, 06 Apr 2008 14:30:36 GMT

The House of Representatives passed an ethics bill that created an independent office to field complaints and investigate the conduct of members of Congress. I voted for these reforms, but they did not go far enough with regard to Congressional spending earmarks.

Since taking office in 2001, I requested grants to help many programs in my district. My job is to fight for my communities and I do. Last year, I secured:

· A $846,000 grant for the Waukegan Police Department to fight the more than 3,000 gang members operating north of Lake-Cook Road.

· A $335,000 grant for developmentally disabled employment in Northbrook.

· A $245,000 grant for economic development in the second poorest town in Illinois, North Chicago.

I strongly supported each request. But my job also is to fight for our country.

There are some in Congress who abuse the current system. Increasingly, Congress approves low- or no-quality projects throughout this nation.

For every grant to fight gangs in Lake County, the Congress approves a new "Bridge-to-Nowhere" or "monument-to-me" with little public benefit.

Should the taxpayers build a $320 million bridge from a town of 8,000 to an island with a population 50? No.

Should taxpayers foot a $243,000 bill so that school kids in Berkeley, California, can eat gourmet, organic school lunches featuring "Comté cheese soufflé with mâche salad" or "Meyer lemon éclairs with huckleberry coulis?" No.

It is because of these abuses that I became the first House appropriator to enact a moratorium on earmarks until reforms are established that boost transparency, accountability and quality of Congressional spending decisions.

I joined 32 of my colleagues including Senators McCain (R-Arizona), Clinton (D-New York) and Obama (D-Illinois) to back a moratorium with reforms in how Congress spends taxpayer dollars. Chairman Waxman (D-California) and Minority Leader Boehner (R-Ohio) are among major backers in the House.

Many congressional funding requests are worthwhile, but some do not pass the laugh test. We believe key reforms should be put in place before another series of spending bills are written.

I hope my colleagues join me in backing a moratorium on earmarks until we can enact these reforms to improve how taxpayer dollars are spent.

U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk

Highland Park




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3388 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3388 Sun, 06 Apr 2008 14:27:48 GMT
New Sun Article

Lake County taxes bailing out CTA

February 27, 2008
State Rep. Kathy Ryg recently sent out an explanation of why she supported Mass Transit Bill (House Bill 656). Rep. Ryg correctly points out the bloated CTA pension system was on the verge of collapse.

The bill does reduce some of the outrageous benefits for "future employees" of the CTA. These benefits currently include health-care coverage for life with as little as three years service to the CTA. This is a welcome part of the bill and was embraced by the Taxpayers Federation of Illinois.

The bill also minimally increases Lake County representation on the RTA Board. Chicago and Cook County will still control over two-thirds of the RTA board. The increase is not likely to impact RTA funding decisions.

Our voice on the RTA board is important. For example, the RTA has about $180 million of discretionary money each year. The RTA board traditionally gives about $175 million of that money to the CTA.

Even though the bill has some positive aspects, the major component and the objectionable part is the sales tax increase for Lake County. The bill provides for an additional .50 percent sales tax for Lake County. The increased sales tax is on everything, including food and medicine.

This will be a 200 percent increase on the sales tax charged on food and medicine in Lake County. The bill gives .25 percent for the bail out and .25 percent to Lake County roads and public safety programs.

Rep. Ryg correctly points out our mass transit (including Metra, Pace and CTA) is in part currently funded by a .25 percent sales tax on the five collar counties, including Lake County. The additional .25 percent of sales tax to be paid by Lake County is going primarily to fund the CTA "bail out".

Rep. Ryg is wrong when she says, "The CTA 'bail out' is paid for in the CTA service region." Lake County is paying a substantial amount for the "CTA bail out."

The bill also provides for a 30 percent state match of total RTA revenues, from both sales tax (existing and new) and the new real estate transfer tax. Not only are we sending Lake County tax dollars to Chicago for the CTA, but more of the money we already send to Springfield will be sent to the CTA. This 30 percent match is automatic and has no cap.

Rep. Ryg says the bill will require riders to pay their fare share. The term used is fair box recovery. Under current law, the RTA is required to have a 50 percent fair box recovery. This means the riders must account for at least half of the revenues. The new bill suspends the recovery for five years.

The remaining .25 percent sales tax is for Lake County roads and while I personally supported the question when it came before Lake County voters, Lake County voters overwhelmingly rejected the tax. In both April 2005 and March 2004, the Lake County Board asked the voters of Lake County to approve a half-percent and quarter-percent sales tax increase, respectively.

Both referenda failed. Food and prescription drugs were exempt from the 2005 referenda. HB656 ignores the voice of the people from Lake County and forces the rejected tax on them.

I do not know how to spin HB656 as being in the best interest of Lake County. The objection is not based solely on the fact that we lost our leverage for a capitol improvement bill that Lake County needs to meet our "transportation crisis." The objection is that, again Lake County is forced to pay for the bloated bureaucracies and wasteful spending of Chicago.

Lake County Metra riders were hit with a 10 percent increase on Feb. 1 without fanfare. Thanks in part to Lake County tax dollars, Chicago and the CTA will not see a fair increase for while.

Lake Villa Township Supervisor Daniel Venturi is Lake County Republican chairman Daniel Venturi







]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3215 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3215 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 13:02:20 GMT By KARL ROVE
February 21, 2008;

In campaigns, there are sometimes moments when candidates shift ground, causing the race to change dramatically. Tuesday night was one of those moments.
Hammered for the 10th contest in a row, Hillary Clinton toughened her attacks on Barack Obama, saying he was unready to be commander in chief and unable to back his inspiring words with a record of action and leadership.
John McCain also took on Mr. Obama, with the Arizona senator declaring he would oppose "eloquent but empty calls for change that promises no more than a holiday from history and a return to the false promises and failed policies of a tired philosophy that trusts in government more than people."
Mr. McCain, too, raised questions about Mr. Obama's fitness to be commander in chief. Mr. McCain pointed to Mr. Obama's unnecessary sabre-rattling at an ally (Pakistan) while appeasing our adversaries (Iran and Syria). Mr. McCain also made it clear that reining in spending, which is a McCain strength and an Obama weakness, would be a key issue.
Mr. Obama had not been so effectively criticized before. In the Democratic contest, John Edwards and Mrs. Clinton were unwilling to confront him directly or in a manner that hurt him. Mr. McCain was rightly preoccupied by his own primary. On Tuesday night, things changed.
Perhaps in response to criticisms that have been building in recent days, Mr. Obama pivoted Tuesday from his usual incantations. He dropped the pretense of being a candidate of inspiring but undescribed "post-partisan" change. Until now, Mr. Obama has been making appeals to the center, saying, for example, that we are not red or blue states, but the United States. But in his Houston speech, he used the opportunity of 45 (long) minutes on national TV to advocate a distinctly non-centrist, even proudly left-wing, agenda. By doing so, he opened himself to new and damaging contrasts and lines of criticism.
Mr. McCain can now question Mr. Obama's promise to change Washington by working across party lines. Mr. Obama hasn't worked across party lines since coming to town. Was he a member of the "Gang of 14" that tried to find common ground between the parties on judicial nominations? Was Mr. Obama part of the bipartisan leadership that tackled other thorny issues like energy, immigration or terrorist surveillance legislation? No. Mr. Obama has been one of the most dependably partisan votes in the Senate.
Mrs. Clinton can do much more to draw attention to Mr. Obama's lack of achievements. She can agree with Mr. Obama's statement Tuesday night that change is difficult to achieve on health care, energy, poverty, schools and immigration -- and then question his failure to provide any leadership on these or other major issues since his arrival in the Senate. His failure to act, advocate or lead on what he now claims are his priorities may be her last chance to make a winning argument.



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3175 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3175 Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:53:54 GMT
As a Lake Bluff Shields Township precinct committeeman, I was not happy to learn that Republican voter turn out for Super Tuesday on February 5th was not all that super. In Lake County, Democratic voters cast twice as many ballots as did those requesting a Republican ballot.

My concern is that the disappointing voter turn out on February 5th might work against the reelection of Congressman Mark Kirk should Republican voters lack the motivation to come out in November to support Kirk and the entire Republican ticket. In Lake County Daniel J. Seals, Kirk’s Democratic challenger in November, earned 33,770 votes out of 42,473 votes cast, while Seals’ primary challenger, Jay Footlik, received the remaining 8,703 votes. By contrast Mark Kirk’s total vote count, even without a Republican primary challenger, was a disappointing 18,095 votes.

Congressman Mark Kirk deserves to be reelected to a 5th term in his 10th Congressional District in November. As a congressman, Kirk is recognized as an expert in foreign affairs in his dual role as congressman and a Navy Commander in the Navy Reserves. As such Kirk is privy to high level intelligence briefing. Mark Kirk is up to speed on the transition of power in Cuba from Fidel to his brother, Raul, as he is on the situation in Pakistan where a recent election has diminished the political standing of Pervez Musharraf. This was brought home to me recently with a guest appearance by Kirk on the Don Wade and Roma week-day morning radio show -- WLS-AM 890.

Mark Kirk’s legislative activity in Congress likewise deserves attention. He is definitely working for us. On Feb. 13 Mark Kirk introduced legislation, along with colleague Peter Roskam of the 6th District in IL, to fight identity theft by upgrading the security of the Social Security card. In Kirk’s own words: “According to a 2005 GAO study, employers reported the use of l.4 million Social Security numbers that did not exist. Nearly 1.7 million numbers had been used by multiple individuals, sometimes as many as 500 times for the same Social Security number. In my district, the Waukegan police find that at least 20 fake Social Security cards are found by law enforcement every week.”

In evaluating the candidacy of Daniel J. Seals, if elected he would be just another liberal politician. He would be a puppet of labor, Dick Durbin and Nancy Pelosi and would vote in lock step for socialized medicine, raising taxes, extending a welcome to illegal immigrants, and for pulling troops out of Iraq. Most revealing is that Seals has done nothing during the past two years since he last challenged Kirk to further his qualifications or to demonstrate his willingness to serve the people in the 10th Congressional District.

The 10th Congressional District cannot afford to elect an inexperienced, liberal politician. Congressman Kirk offers experience with results and wisdom instead of recycled socialistic ideas coupled with isolationism that, as in the past, will fail to keep this nation secure or economically sound.

It is important that my fellow Republicans here in Shields Township and all along the North Shore not allow Super Tuesday to be a harbinger of things to come in November, given the star-struck Obama mania movement that is sweeping the nation. November might seem a long way off, but it is not too early to get involved in promoting Republican candidates, remembering that the November elections may very well decide the direction of this country now and for future generations. Do most Americans really want policies that mirror those found in European countries? This country was built on free enterprise, capitalism, personal responsibility, protecting our borders, and the rule of law. Are not these principles worth preserving through the power of your vote?

Nancy J. Thorner 331 E. Blodgett Avenue, Lake Bluff, IL 60044 (847) 295-1035



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3173 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3173 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 10:43:54 GMT
Senator Geo-Karis was the first senator in seniority in the Illinois State and the first woman to hold the position as Dean of the Senate, having served the 31st District since 1979. The first woman in Illinois history ever to serve in Senate leadership, she served for 10 years as Assistant Senate Majority Leader from 1993 to 2003. She also previously served six years in the House of Representatives.

Before leaving office, the Senator was Co-Chairman of the Senate Executive Appointments Committee and served as a member of the Financial Institutions Committee and Legislative Reference Bureau.

Senator Geo-Karis is the first Lake County woman ever elected to the Senate and House, was the first Lake County woman appointed as Assistant State’s Attorney and was the first woman elected as Justice of the Peace in Lake County. Senator Geo-Karis is also the former Mayor of Zion.

Senator Geo-Karis is currently a Republican precinct committeewoman and was just reelected to that position on February 5, 2008. She served as Parliamentarian for the Lake County Republican Central Committee for many years and as Co-Chairman.

Senator Geo-Karis was elected as a delegate to the 1984, 1988, 1996, 2000 and 2004 National Republican Conventions and served as secretary to the Illinois Delegation. Senator Geo-Karis was elected as an Alternate Delegate to the 1992 National Republican Convention.

After her loss in the primary election of March of 2006, she continued to serve her constituents until her term expired in January of 2007.

Legislative Accomplishments: Senator Geo-Karis pioneered legislation on gasohol, solar energy and other alternative energy resources years before it became popular to do so. She successfully sponsored and supported bills for strong crime control and to benefit senior citizens, youth, armed forces veterans, people with disabilities and the working majority. The Senator has been cited for her sponsorship of the Nuclear Safety Preparedness Act, the Alternative Energy Act, and many laws to increase safety on Illinois lakes. Senator Geo-Karis was also a sponsor of the “Guilty But Mentally Ill” law, successfully sponsored the repeal of the Illinois Inheritance Tax and successfully cosponsored the Lottery Ticket to benefit Veterans.

Community Involvement: American Legion Lake County Women’s Post #1122; AmVets Little Fort Chapter 35; OES Milburn Chapter #570; American Association of University Women; Altrusa Club; Zion Chamber of Commerce; Zion Club; Daughters of Penelope; American Businesswomen; Antioch Women’s Club. Lifetime member of the Navy League.

Professional Experience: Former State Representative (1972-1978). Former State Senator (1979 to 2007). Headed her own law firm in Zion. Former Mayor of Zion. Former municipal attorney for Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Libertyville Township and Long Grove School District. Former Lt. Commander in the U.S. Naval Reserves.

AWARDS: Recently named in her honor is the Adeline J. Geo-Karis State Beach Park along with a park in Gurnee.

The Adeline Geo-Karis Leadership Award at Zion-Benton High School was named for her with annual scholarships to be donated beginning in 2001. Zion METRA Train Station named after her. Park in Beach Park named after her.

2004 Honorary Member of the Marine Corps League; 2003 Friend of Consumer Award, Illinois Coalition for Competitive Telecommunications; 2003 AARP American Spirit Award, AARP Foundation; 2003 Congratulatory Resolution, Warren Township, 2003 Certificate of Recognition, Winthrop Harbor Fire Department; 2003 Elks Distinguished Citizenship Award, Waukegan Elks Lodge #702; 2002 Special Achievement Award, GLMV Chamber of Commerce; 2002 Carnation Award, AARP; 2002 Friend of Agriculture, Illinois Farm Bureau; 2002 Certificate of Appreciation for Excellence in Political Leadership, Treasurer Judy Barr Topinka; 2002 Appreciation Award, Order of AHEPA, Blue Ribbon District 13; 2001 Outstanding Advocate on Behalf of Low Income Families resulting in passage of Illinois Earned Income Tax Credit by the Make Work Pay Coalition; 2000 Outstanding Public Service Award, DePaul University College of Law Alumni; Primary Health Care Association Award; 2000 Liberty Bell Award, 19th Judicial Circuit; 2000 American Legion Certificate of Appreciation; 1999 Veteran of the Year, American GI Forum; 1999 Child Care Coalition Award; 1999 Legislator of the Year, Illinois Association of County Officials: 1998 Friend of Business LUCI (Leading Us in Commerce and Industry) Award; Hellenic American Achievement Award; North Shore D.A.R. Americanism Medal; Daughters of Penelope Woman of the Year; Illinois Federation of Independent Colleges and Universities Outstanding Legislator; Illinois Association of Park Districts Award; Jane Addams Leadership Award, 1995 Appreciation Award by the Kiley Center and Rehabilitation; NAACP Award from North Chicago Chapter; YWCA of Lake County Award for Outstanding Achievement in Government; 1992 Illinois State Bar Association 50 Years of Dedicated Service Award; United Hellenic Voters of America Most Distinguished American of Greek Ethnic Origin in the Field of Government; Illinois Hospital Association Award Outstanding Legislator; Community Dedication Award, Medical Staff of St. Therese Hospital; Illinois Women’s Political Caucus Carrie Chapman Catt Award; Excellence in Leadership by Public Guardian for Children in Illinois; Greater Waukegan Israel Bond Rally Honoree; Illinois State’s Attorneys Legislative Award; Military Order of the Purple Heart Award; Midwestern Regional Medical Center Award, past Grand National President, Daughters of Penelope/Order of AHEPA.

Personal: Born in Tegeas, Greece on March 29, 1918. Immigrated to the United States in 1922 and was educated in the United States. Attended and graduated from Northwestern University. Attended and graduated from DePaul University Law School. Served as Lt. Commander with Top Secret Clearance in the U.S. Naval Reserves. Member of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, Waukegan, past president of its Parish Board of Trustees and Ladies Auxiliary and former choir director. No children.

Senator Geo-Karis is survived by extended family and friends.


Louis G. Atsaves


]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3170 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3170 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 15:28:50 GMT
State Representative Kathy Ryg recently sent out an explanation of why she supported Mass Transit Bill (HB 656). Representative Ryg correctly points out the bloated CTA pension system was on the verge of collapse. The bill does reduce some of the outrageous benefits for “future employees”; these benefits currently include health care coverage for life with as little as three years service to the CTA. This is a welcome part of the bill and was embraced by The Taxpayers Federation of Illinois.

The Bill also minimally increases Lake County representation on the RTA Board. Chicago and Cook County will still control over 2/3 of the RTA board. The increase is not likely to impact RTA funding decisions. Our voice on the RTA board is important, for example the RTA has about $180,000,000 of discretionary money each year. The RTA board traditionally gives about $175,000,000 of that money to the CTA.

Even though the Bill has some positive aspects, the major component and the objectionable part is the sales tax increase for Lake County. The Bill provides for an additional .50% sales tax for Lake County. The increased sales tax is on everything including food and medicine. This will be a 200% increase on the sales tax charged on food and medicine in Lake County. The Bill gives .25% for the bail out and .25% to Lake County roads and public safety programs.

Representative Ryg correctly points out our mass transit (including Metra, Pace and CTA) is impart currently funded by a .25% sales tax on the five collar counties, including Lake County. The additional .25% of sales tax to be paid by Lake County is going primarily to fund the CTA “bail out”. Representative Ryg is wrong when she says “The CTA "bail out" is paid for in the CTA service region.” Lake County is paying a substantial amount for the “CTA bail out.”

The Bill also provides for a 30% state match of total RTA revenues, from both sales tax (existing and new) and the new real estate transfer tax. Not only are we sending Lake County tax dollars to Chicago for the CTA, but more of the money we already send to Springfield will be sent to the CTA. This 30% match is automatic and has no cap.

Representative Ryg says the Bill will require riders to pay their fare share. The term used is fair box recovery. Under current law the RTA is required to have a 50% fair box recovery. This means the riders must account for at least half of the revenues. The new Bill suspends the recovery for five years.

The remaining .25% sales tax is for Lake County roads and while I personally supported the question when it came before Lake County voters, Lake County voters overwhelmingly rejected the tax. In both April, 2005 and March, 2004, the Lake County Board asked the voters of Lake County to approve a ½ % and ¼% sales tax increase, respectively. Both referenda failed. Food and prescription drugs were exempt from the 2005 referenda. HB656 ignores the voice of the people from Lake County and forces the rejected tax on them.

I do not know how to spin HB565 as being in the best interest of Lake County. The objection is not based solely on the fact that we lost our leverage for a capitol improvement bill that Lake County needs to meet our “Transportation Crisis.” The objection is that, again Lake County is forced to pay for the bloated bureaucracies and wasteful spending of Chicago.

Lake County Metra riders were hit with a 10% increase on February 1, 2008 without fanfare. Thanks in part to Lake County tax dollars Chicago and the CTA will not see a fair increase for while.

Daniel Venturi
Lake County Republican Chairman
320 Peterson Rd.
Libertyville, IL 60048
847-401-8822
dventuri@msn.com



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3151 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3151 Sun, 17 Feb 2008 15:12:43 GMT
Doug Whitley; President Illinois Chamber of Commerce

Our state government has not operated with a truly balanced 12-month budget for years. It is politically easier to ignore deficit spending by hiding the bills and stiffing the vendors than it is to cut spending or raise taxes to operate in a responsible and honest manner.

DEADLY TRACKS
On January 16, Sangamon County resident John Wright was killed when a train at an unprotected railroad crossing struck his vehicle near Illiopolis. The Blagojevich administration has swept nearly $22 million out of the railroad grade crossing protection fund and never bothered to replenish the taking.

The Governor's office of management and budget routinely dismisses the theft of cash from special funds as merely using "surplus revenue" that accumulates in these funds. The administration has chosen to ignore the statutory construct that dedicated certain taxes and fees to fund special purposes. There are still two thousand unprotected grade crossings in Illinois that are yet to be serviced. I sincerely doubt that any family who lost a loved one at an unprotected grade crossing would agree with the Governor's spokespersons that a balance in this fund is somehow "surplus" and unworthy of being spent exclusively to make grade crossings safer.

NURSING HOME CLOSES
On January 25, Modern Care Nursing Home in Jacksonville announced it was closing. Sixty-three people are losing their jobs. Fifty-three residents must find other arrangements for care. The owners made it clear the primary cause for this decision is because the state is four months behind in payments. An affiliated nursing facility in O'Fallon may be at risk of experiencing the same fate.

State reimbursement to nursing homes for Medicaid patients has slowed dramatically. St. Patrick's Residence in Naperville got a payment in December for services rendered in September, but by January 31 had not received payment for October, November, December or January.

HUMAN SERVICE AGENCIES
The Chicago Tribune's lead editorial on Sunday, January 13 was appropriately titled "Illinois, the Deadbeat State". The editorial focused on the financial plight of the Knox County Council for Developmental Disabilities. The state owed KCCDD more than $1.4 million, an amount equivalent to one-fourth of the agency's annual budget. KCCDD has been forced to borrow from its capital funds to finance operations, but those funds are depleted. Without state payment, KCCDD must borrow from commercial lenders and pay interest to meet payroll.

A LEAKY TRUST FUND
That's what Illinois Chamber member United Service Industries of Jefferson County has been doing for some time. Last year, 15 percent of company revenues went towards debt service on state receivables. To add insult to injury, accrual accounting forced the company to borrow hundreds of thousands of dollars from the bank to pay state and federal taxes on the state's outstanding obligations that are over two years old.

United Service Industries should be reimbursed from the Leaky Underground Storage Trust (LUST) Fund but, just as with the railroad crossing fund, the cash flow that comes to the fund with the purchase of every gallon of motor fuel sold in the state has been deemed "surplus" and applied to paying for something other than reimbursement to companies who have replaced underground storage tanks.

The Blagojevich administration has not reimbursed $55 million it swept from the LUST Fund. The backlog in approved, unpaid claims stands at approximately $45 million. The IEPA ignores state statute and no longer routinely reviews vendors' submitted bills in a timely manner. Instead, they ask companies to agree to waive the statutory requirement for bill review within 120 days because everyone knows there is inadequate money in the fund to eliminate the backlog, let alone make current payments.

COUNTIES SHORTED TOO
Over twenty years ago, state law was changed to bring more professionalism to the criminal justice system by establishing employment standards for probation officers. The state committed to reimburse counties for 100 percent of the salaries of county probation officers. The state has not satisfied its obligation, forcing counties to absorb over $30 million a year. Every metropolitan county is owed $1 to $5 million. Cook County alone is owed $10 million.

SMALL BUSINESS VICTIMS
Oswald Pharmacy in Naperville is reminded weekly of the difference in payment practices when wholesalers get paid for merchandise while the pharmacy waits months for state reimbursement for the same outlay. On any given business day this family owned small business is effectively making a $15,000 interest free loan to the state. They see the irony every time they file a state tax, payroll, or business form knowing there is no way they can avoid state penalties or interest if they miss a deadline.

DAN HYNES' LONE VOICE FOR SANITY
State Comptroller Dan Hynes is the only elected official who consistently speaks and writes about Illinois' lack of fiscal integrity. His mid-year quarterly report reveals the state set a new record for the backlog of unpaid bills at calendar year end: $l.7 billion in unpaid obligations. A year earlier, the state's unpaid obligations totaled $l.3 billion. The Comptroller's report suggests the current fiscal year could end with a backlog of $1 billion due vendors and another $1.5 billion held in the Department of Healthcare and Family Services in accrued liabilities to Medicaid providers. Comptroller Hynes regularly criticizes this state-friendly loophole that lets Medicaid bills be carried from one fiscal year to another.

WHAT PROMPT PAYMENT ACT?
The state's prompt payment statute is a joke. The administrative rules have been drawn to make it impractical for anyone to receive fair compensation for the state's irresponsible practices. Besides the hoops a vendor must jump to prove eligibility, the bureaucracy has great latitude to delay the process and withhold payments. Vendors are wary of pursuing satisfaction and triggering retaliation. The one percent simple interest penalty the state would pay is not worth the effort for most vendors. This statute should be re-written to reflect what is fair for vendors instead of protecting a heavy-handed customer with a stacked deck.

RECESSION CLOUDS VS. THE FREE LUNCH
Corporate income tax, sales tax receipts and investment earnings are softening just halfway through this fiscal year. Illinois' Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability's latest report suggests revenue for FY08 may be $600 million less than anticipated when the budget was crafted by the General Assembly last summer.

While concerns about a weakening national economy and the possibility of a recession are on the minds of most people, Governor Blagojevich has continued to press for expanded healthcare spending. Last year, legislators resisted spending money on healthcare programs they knew the state cannot afford. And, to their credit, legislators finally stopped being complicit enablers of one aspect of dishonest budgeting by withdrawing the Governor's authority to continue to use fund sweeps and chargeback transfers.

Governor Blagojevich has challenged both the budgetary and taxing authority of the General Assembly. He ignored the legislature and proceeded to implement expanded healthcare programs without enabling law or budget authority. His lawyers are arguing in Caro vs. Blagojevich et al that executive agencies can impose fees without legislative authority.

Undoubtedly revenue shortfalls and fiscal disputes will influence the 2009 budget the Governor will present on February 20. He has not ceased pursuit of greatly expanded healthcare spending and substantially increased education spending. Yet his administration has no shame for its failure to pay bills on time, for stressing vendors, causing some businesses to close, forcing vendors to carry the state's debt and assume inappropriate interest expenses. The state has used cash flow gimmicks and deferred payment cycles to avoid the ugly truth: in a given twelve month period, state government spending far exceeds cash receipts.

The state's fiscal practices and bill payment methods are an anathema to private sector managers who wouldn't get away with operating in such an offensive manner for long without experiencing the wrath of dissatisfied customers and suppliers. So, why should taxpayers and voters tolerate these practices?
Doug Whitley
President Illinois Chamber of Commerce

TIME FOR ACTION
It is time for vendors and other exploited businesses to take action. I want to challenge every recipient of state funds, every vendor, and every business adversely affected by the state's fiscal policies to make their experiences and dissatisfaction known.

Send me an email, letter or fax explaining how the state's fiscal policies affect your operations, and copy your state legislators and the Governor's office of management and budget. We need a vendors' revolt. Legislators need to hear how our state's payment practices are unacceptable. Only aggressive constituent opposition to continued bad budgeting will give them resolve to resist more fiscal shenanigans in the FY09 budget. Send copies of this email to every business owner you know who has suffered as a result of the state's irresponsible fiscal policies. Help me encourage them to tell their stories.

We need to work together to demand honest budgeting and fiscal integrity on the part of our government. Every local chamber member and members of professional and trade associations should engage in a campaign for fiscal integrity. Legislators and bureaucrats who support and acquiesce to dishonest fiscal practices need to be challenged and exposed for abusing the citizens they are supposed to be serving. How can an honest businessperson not be infuriated by what state officials have been getting away with? We deserve better.


]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3126 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3126 Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:44:54 GMT
by Milt Jensen



Did I hear this right? A funding package was adopted by the Illinois state legislature which provides funds for public transportation?




I was under the impression that any business that couldn’t support itself was one that wasn’t needed or necessary. How then is the RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) CTA (Chicago Transportation Authority) any different? If the fare box will not pay the bill then by all means do what is necessary to make the service fit the need. Simple economics, or is it?




One more time the taxpayer is forced to pay for a service that is a loser and worse one most of us can’t or won’t ever use. We have been led to believe that the system, particularly the CTA was facing a disaster if an infusion of funds from non-riders wasn’t forth coming immediately. Unions, politicians and those with a vested interest lobbied the legislature until their resistance was broken and the smell of votes overruled common sense.




Our flamboyant boy governor sat on the apple barrel demonstrating his awesome power of the veto until the pressure from his side and the city of Chicago took us to the cleaners. The boys in the hall capitulated to this asinine proposition of the governor to give seniors free rides in return for his signature. It is pure and simple blackmail and all of us in the collar counties are going to pay and pay.




While we pay another 1/4 percent in sales tax and ever increasing gasoline prices our mollycoddled public transport riders don’t have to face an increase in their ride and in some cases viola…no cost to them at all. I am a senior citizen in a collar county paying for my gasoline and the additional sales tax knowing I’m purchasing a ride for a freeloader in the city I am livid.




They tell us that it economically healthy to subsidize these transportation systems but I ask how is that? History shows something altogether different. Nonetheless our politicians will lay our money on the line to buy votes. Furthermore these benevolent contributions are not all coming from the new taxes raised because an additional 95 million will come from the general fund just to implement this scheme.




Statistics can be boring but I am going to bore you a bit with some facts from the Statistical Analysis of the United States concerning urban transportation. From 1961 until 1969 capital and operating expenditures were 55.2 billion dollars and 95% of those expenses came from the fare box. In 2005 the operating and capital expenses were actually less. They were 44.5 billion, however the percentage from the fare box dropped to 23.3 % a very interesting statistic. They tell us that the demand is increasing. Again poppycock; the fact is that ridership since 1961 has actually dropped steadily and what is even more discouraging is the trip to work ridership has dropped from 12.9% in 1961 to 4.7% in 2005. These are not my numbers folks they are government published for your enjoyment.




The next time you wait for an empty train to cross at the gate, or an empty pace bus traveling aimlessly around the countryside or maybe a CTA bus in the city feel honored that you have contributed so generously to this fine cause and done your fair share for the economy.




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3074 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3074 Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:34:24 GMT ON LAKE COUNTY’S TAB

Libertyville - Today, Lake County Metra riders will experience a 10% fare increase while CTA riders throughout Chicago will experience no fare increases or disruption of lines. In fact, many CTA trains will be replaced with new trains. These perks made possible by Lake County residents. From the poor, to seniors to working class families, Lake County residents will experience a regressive one half percent sales tax on items from clothing to food and prescription drugs. The anticipated cost to every man, woman and child in Lake County is roughly $80 per person ($320 for a family of four). Half of that goes to subsidize mass transit OUTSIDE of Lake County.

This legislation made possible by Lake County Democrat Senators Terry Link and Susan Garrett, and Lake County Democrat State Representatives Kathy Ryg, Karen May and Eddie Washington.

In both April, 2005 and March, 2004, the Lake County Board asked the voters of Lake County to approve a ½ % and ¼% sales tax increase, respectively. Both referenda failed. Food and prescription drugs were exempt from the 2005 referenda. However, Lake County Democrats disregarded the voice of the people. Republican Chairman Dan Venturi said “it is outrageous that the democrat leadership in Lake County voted for a tax increase our citizens denounced twice – and then sent half the money to Chicago.”

When Lake County legislators met in Springfield last week to address the mass transit bailout, Lake County Republicans stood united for a truly fair and equitable regional transportation solution for Lake County as well as Chicago. A fair and equitable solution means improvements throughout the region. We were left behind – far behind. Lake County requires a capital plan to improve roads and infrastructure throughout Lake County. Infrastructure improvements create jobs in Lake County and result in Lake County being a more attractive region for new businesses to locate and current businesses to expand. “We are a border county and in the first month of this year, we learned we are losing 1,400 jobs with Uline and Coleman Cable heading to Wisconsin. This so-called regional solution hurts our region of Lake County,” stated Dan Venturi.

Lake County cannot afford representation of this kind any longer. Are you registered to vote? Chicago is.



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3056 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3056 Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:29:36 GMT
'Titanic' and 'My Life' by Bill Clinton.

One student turned in the following book report,
With the proposition that they were nearly identical stories!

His cool professor gave him an A+ for this report.

Titanic:......Cost - $29.99
Clinton:.....Cost - $29.99

Titanic:..... Over 3 hours to read
Clinton:.....Over 3 hours to read

Titanic:......The story of Jack and Rose, their forbidden love,and subsequent catastrophe.
Clinton:..... The story of Bill and Monica, their forbidden love,and subsequent catastrophe.

Titanic:..... Jack is a starving artist.
Clinton:..... Bill is a bullshit artist.

Titanic:.... In one scene, Jack enjoys a good cigar.
Clinton:.....Ditto for Bill.

Titanic:.....During the ordeal, Rose's dress gets ruined.
Clinton:.....Ditto for Monica.

Titanic:.....Jack teaches Rose to spit.
Clinton:......Let's not go there.

Titanic:..... Rose gets to keep her jewelry.
Clinton:.... Monica's forced to return her gifts.

Titanic:..... Rose remembers Jack for the rest of her life.
Clinton:.....Clinton doesn't remember Jack.

Titanic:...... Rose goes down on a vessel full of seamen.
Clinton:..... Monica...ooh, let's not go there, either.

Titanic:..... Jack surrenders to an icy death.
Clinton:..... Bill goes home to Hillary - basically the same thing





]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3042 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3042 Wed, 30 Jan 2008 15:54:23 GMT January 30, 2008

AS I SEE IT A bulldog barks at petition trail


Lake County Republican Chairman Dan Venturi is nothing if not a bulldog when it comes to the continuing trail of alleged campaign irregularities traced to his Democratic counterpart, state Sen. Terry Link.

Venturi, who also doubles as Lake Villa Township supervisor, poured over the signatures collected for Link's re-election campaign and found hundreds of faulty signatures. He's also pulled Link's campaign finance statements and discovered the two individuals who "circulated" signatures for the Waukegan senator and about a half-dozen Democratic officeholders and seekers didn't get paid for the job.

But wait. One of the duo, who surely went door-to-door, hoofing throughout Lake County to collect signatures -- despite the fact that numerous dead people's names showed up on the petitions -- testified before the State Board of Elections during a challenge to Link's candidacy he was to be paid $100 for each 200 signatures garnered.

So far, Link has laid low concerning this fairly embarrassing oversight. The other Democratic candidates appear dumbfounded that some of their petition signatures may have been, let us say, surreptitiously collected.

"People will have their own opinions about what they think happened," Link said after a Cook County judge allowed him to stay on Tuesday's Democratic primary ballot unopposed. "I know what happened."

Link, tied up in Springfield with the mass transit crisis, at least has an excuse. The other Democratic candidates still have not stepped forward and explained why they couldn't circulate their own petitions. I trust Republicans will be asking them that question come October.

Voters may be surprised to know that paying someone to collect candidate signatures occurs in both parties and actually is a time-honored practice. In 1978, I am told, some county Republicans were found to be "collecting" signatures the wrong way for a tax-cutting referendum pushed by then-Gov. James Thompson. One Antioch resident got a slap on the wrist after pleading guilty to forging the signatures of 19 persons and lying about the validity of another 100.

The current petition gatherers supposedly are under investigation by the Lake County State's Attorney's Office, and one hopes they don't dally until the November election to bring charges.

Venturi now is calling on the State Board of Elections to review campaign disclosure statements of not only Link, but also the Lake County Democratic Central Committee, seeking an accurate accounting of who got paid what and to whom when it comes to the signature collectors.

"Senator Link continues to run from his association with these individuals who are currently under investigation by the State's Attorney's office, but he cannot hide from the election disclosure laws," Venturi notes.

Democrats remain fairly cavalier about this whole "Petitiongate" episode, which from Venturi's tone, is not going away quietly. It looks like at least one Lake County pol isn't going to let Chicago-style politics interfere with the election process.

Stay tuned. It looks like this bulldog is just getting started barking.




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3041 http://lake.weareillinois.org/newsdetail.aspx?newsid=3041 Wed, 30 Jan 2008 15:35:45 GMT
Bill Anderson
For State Representative
60th District
Kick-Off
Fundraiser
Thursday, May 15, 2008

Ramada Inn, 200 N. Green Bay Rd., Waukegan

5:30-7:30 p.m.

Join Bill and friends for a kick-off fundraiser at the Ramada Inn! Tickets are $25.00 per Person, $10 for seniors!

RSVP to 847-244-7700



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=561 http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=561 Fri, 09 May 2008 05:04:17 GMT
Steve Greenberg

Republican Nominee, 8th District - Illinois
and Special Guest

Michael Steele

Lieutenant Governor (2003-2007) - Maryland

Thursday, May 15th, 2008

The Home of Dick Stephenson

125 Buckley Road

Barrington Hills, Illinois

Private Photo Reception 7:00 p.m. - $2,300 per person

General Reception: 7:30 p.m. - $150 per person

Kindly RSVP to rsvp@steveforus.com or 847-726-0808



]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=562 http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=562 Fri, 09 May 2008 05:05:26 GMT
Antioch Township Republican Club
Reeling in a Republican Victory
Friday, May 16th
Time: 5:30 - 8:30
Cost: $20 per Ticket

Includes: All You Can Eat Fish Fry & Entertainment

Place: Grass Lake Landing, Antioch, IL

For Info Cnt: Brent Bluthardt, Tel: 847-838-0212 or E-Mail: bbluthardt@aol.com




]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=426 http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=426 Wed, 07 May 2008 13:17:39 GMT
Join Bob Powers and friends at Lakes Bowl 601 W. Railroad Ave. Round Lake. Sunday, May 18th from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

$15. per person. RSVP Committee to Elect Bob Powers P.O. Box 705 Round Lake Beach, IL 60073 Ph 847-546-8557.


]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=487 http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=487 Sun, 13 Apr 2008 17:51:28 GMT
Please mark Thursday 6/5 for the Waukegan Township Fundraiser. Will provide details soon.


]]> http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=526 http://lake.weareillinois.org/eventdetail.aspx?eventid=526 Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:35:07 GMT