The Weekly Reporter

"Let us Dare to read, think, speak and write." John Adams 1765

Weekly

Telling It Like It Is

REPORTER Serving Will county Illinois

Volume 2 Number 33

August 13 - August 19, 2009

Frankfort Twp Deliberately Wasting Your Tax Dollars?

Township Officials Wasting on Purpose?

John Gabriel Award Winning Writer Jgabriel@theweeklyreporter.com

Frankfort Township officials were furious when the election results were in, giving write-in candidate Joe Kral a 60% victory over incumbent Paul Ruff, township assessor.

Some officials were angry, some are obviously not only angry but vindictive too. One report from a party who wishes not to be named, alleges that James Moustis, Township Super-

visor, proclaimed “I’m not helping him at all!” That was a reference said to have been made during a conversation inside the Township offices.

Anger and disappointment are one thing, but deliberately wasting tax dollars is yet another. The source claims that your tax dollars that were budgeted for the Township Assessor’s office are being wasted in

an attempt to deplete those funds prior to Joe Kral taking office next January. That is correct, he was elected in April but his term in office will not commence until about January 4, 2010.

Among the allegations are a claim that some people have been given raises as high as $5.00 per hour only to help Paul Ruff’s office run out of money before the transition.

The accusation that Jim Moustis is declaring that he will not work with Joe Kral is very serious because it means there could be a wide divide between Kral and the other officials and employees who work for the township.

You and every other Frankfort Township citizen have a right to the best possible service. Sixty-percent of the voters who turn out on Election day said they want Paul Ruff out of office. You decided that and the township officials have no legal right to punish you for exercising your constitutional right to elect whomever you wish.

Members of the public need to contact the township officials and let them know that you are aware of these wasteful and impeding actions and that you will demand a major investigation of all expenditures within the township unless the childish games are stopped immediately.

The current election was held in April and obviously, the incumbents will be in

Continued on Page 15 CAGES ON TOP OF CAGES STATEVILLE

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Weekly REPORTER

Special Interest

Suspect Bank Robber Captured Suspected Serial Bank Robber Arrested Robert D. Grant, Special Agentin-Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was joined today by Gerald Mourning, Chief of the Arlington Heights, Illinois Police Department (AHPD) and Steven Williams, Chief of the

Rolling Meadows, Illinois Police Department (RMPD) in announcing the arrest of William F. Wohlers, age 30, whose last known address was in Buffalo Grove, Illinois. Wohlers was arrested yesterday, without incident, by law enforcement officers.

Wohlers was charged in a criminal complaint filed today in U.S. District Court in Chicago with one count of Armed Bank Robbery, which is a felony offense. According to the complaint, Wohlers is believed to have

committed an armed “take-over” robbery of the MB Financial bank branch, located at 2251 Plum Grove Road in Rolling Meadows yesterday morning.

The complaint alleges that Wohlers entered the bank, armed with a handgun, which he freely displayed.

He demanded money from bank employees and received an undisclosed amount of cash.

Before the suspect left the bank, he demanded more money from the bank safe.

He entered the vault area of the bank along with two bank employees.

The employees were ordered to open the vault, retrieved money and placed it into a bag the robber brought with him.

Witnesses at the scene told investigators that the robber fled the bank on a Black mountain bicycle. No injuries were reported.

Bank employees notified the RMPD of the robbery, providing a description of both the robber and the bicycle. A radio dispatch was then sent out to area police departments.

An alert AHPD Officer, on routine patrol, spotted a vehicle at a gas station at the intersection of Arlington

Heights and Palatine Roads. Officers noticed a black bicycle in the back of the vehicle, a red Ford F-250 pickup truck. Officers also noticed a bag and a large amount of loose cash in the front passenger side of the cab. When officers entered the gas station, Wohlers attempted to run out of the back of the gas station. He was apprehended and taken into custody at the scene.

Although he is only charged with yesterday’s robbery in Rolling Meadows, Wohlers is also a suspect in as

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 2

Church Having a Sale The United Methodist Church of New Lenox is holding an Old Campground Antiques, Collectibles, Flea Market and "Grandpa's Attic" Sale to beheld Sat., Sept. 19 from 9AM-3PM. It will be held outdoors on the old campgrounds of the United Methodist Church of New Lenox 339 W. Haven Avenue just off U.S. Route 30, one mile east of Interstate 80, exit 137.

They have scheduled a rain date Sun., Sept. 20 from noon to 5PM. Info. 815-485-8271, Ext. #53.

August 14, 2009 at 1pm before Judge Mason. Until then, Wohlers will be housed at the federal Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in Chicago. If convicted of the charge filed against him, WOHLERS faces a possible sentence of up to twenty (20) many as eight (8) other armed bank years incarceration. robberies in the Chicago area, dating Additional information about this back to March of this year. The sus- and other unsolved Chicago area pected robberies were investigated by bank robbery cases, including downthe FBI as the “Beach Bum Bandit” loadable photos, are available at the and “Bullet Proof Bandit”.

Bandit Tracker Chicago web site, at Wohlers appeared before Magis- www.bandittrackerchicago.com. trate Judge Michael Mason in ChicaThe public is reminded that a comgo, earlier today, at which time he plaint is not evidence of guilt and that was formally charged. Wohlers was all defendants in a criminal case are ordered held without bond, pending presumed innocent until proven his next scheduled court appearance, guilty in a court of law. which has been scheduled for Friday,

Leader In Mortgage Fraud Pleads Guilty purchase houses for them. Many of the loan applications for the straw buyers had misrepresentations concerning the buyers’ income and assets.

Al-Bari and others had the straw buyers list false asset information claiming large account balances at various BALTIMORE, MD—Osman banks and used a co-conspirator who Sharrieff Al-Bari, age 35, of Wash- worked at one of the banks to send “verification letters” falsely confirmington, D.C., pleaded guilty today ing that the straw buyers had such to mail fraud arising from the assets. fraudulent purchase of 25 properFor example, co-defendant Sabrities in Maryland, the District of na Weinberg purchased four properColumbia and Virginia, an- ties for Al-Bari and others and was nounced United States Attorney paid approximately $40,000 for the for the District of Maryland Rod J. purchases. Weinberg and other straw purchasers used fraudulent loan appliRosenstein. cations and closing documents to According to his plea agreement, qualify for the mortgages. The mortAl-Bari, along with Terrence White, gage documents had false income Timothy Reed and others paid straw amounts, misrepresentations concernpurchasers $10,000 per property to ing Weinberg’s other mortgage loans

Could Face Up To 30 Years In Prison

(which she did not disclose), and false claims about her assets. Co-conspirator Kara McIntosh prepared many of the mortgage documents.

Each property was listed as Weinberg’s primary residence.

Al-Bari, White and Reed also created false invoices to claim that their company, Brotherly Investment Group, performed “renovations” on some of the properties. Using these false invoices, Al-Bari and his co-conspirators were “repaid” at closing for the purported renovations. Al-Bari, Reed, White, and others received wire transfers of $515,820 for the four Weinberg properties.

Al-Bari and others repeated this fraud scheme with over fifteen straw buyers and approximately twentyfive properties in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia.

Al-Bari was an organizer and leader in the scheme and from 2006 to 2008, Al-Bari, White, Reed and others received approximately $3,830,418 in fraudulent funds as part of the scheme. Many of the purchased properties have been foreclosed upon. Al-Bari is responsible for $2.5 million in losses from the scheme.

Al-Bari faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison for mail fraud. U.S. District Judge J. Frederick Motz has scheduled sentencing for October 5, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.

Timothy Reed, age 44, of Beltsville, Terrence White, age 36, of Oxon Hill, Sabrina Weinberg, age 44 and Kara McIntosh, age 47, both of Bethesda, have all pleaded guilty to mail fraud in connection with their participation in this scheme. No sentencing dates have been set.

Weekly REPORTER

Your Money

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 3

Review Financial Strategies after Life Events If nothing ever changed in your life, you could probably chart your financial and investment strategies and then forget about them. But your life is full of changes — and many of them will require you to take a new look at how you save, invest and protect your family.

Mary Jo Ardizzone maryjoardizzone@edwardjones.com Edwards Jones

Let’s run through some of the most common milestones in life and see what sort of moves you might don’t need the money right away, you might want to make in response: avoid cashing out your plan, because you’ll likely face an Marriage — It sounds obvious, but once you’re immediate tax bill — and you’ll have fewer resources for married, you have to stop thinking in terms of “one” and retirement. Consequently, you may want to roll your start thinking of “two” in most aspects of your life —401(k) to an IRA or your new employer’s plan, if it including your finances. For example, if you are an allows such transfers. Before taking action, consult with aggressive investor but your spouse is more conserva- your tax advisor. tive, you both may need to compromise and choose an Remarriage — If you ever remarry, you may need investment strategy that’s “down the middle.” At the to change the beneficiary designations on your 401(k), same time, you’ll want to set some common goals, such IRA and other investment accounts. You also may need as saving enough for a down payment on a home. to work with your attorney to revise your will, living trust Children — When you have children, you have to and other documents related to your estate plans. protect them today — and invest for their future. Your Retirement — For many decades, you saved and first step, then, might be to purchase life insurance. You invested for your retirement. Once you retire, however, can typically buy a term life policy at very reasonable you should move away somewhat from the rates. The exact amount of coverage you need depends “accumulation” phase and start thinking instead of how on your individual situation, but you’ll probably want at best to manage the money you have accumulated. That least enough to pay off your mortgage and send your means you’ll need to decide when to start taking Social children to college should anything happen to you. And Security and how much to withdraw each year from your to protect your income, you might want to consider various retirement accounts, such as your 401(k) and disability insurance. Finally, it’s never too soon to start IRA. A professional financial advisor can help you develsaving for college. You might want to consider opening op a withdrawal rate that’s suitable for your individual a tax-advantaged account, such as a Section 529 college situation. savings plan.

You’ll encounter many important events on the road Job changes — When you leave a job, you may well of life. By making the right financial moves along the have an important decision to make about your 401(k) way, you can help make the journey more pleasant. or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. If you

City Inspector Charged with Bribery in Probe of Crooked Permits CHICAGO—A city of Chicago building inspector was arrested today on federal charges for allegedly accepting a $1,000 cash bribe from a cooperating contractor to approve an inspection at a residential construction site, federal law enforcement officials and the city's Inspector General announced today.

The defendant, Jose Hernandez, allegedly solicited cash bribes totaling tens of thousands of dollars from contractors, developers and homeowners since at least 2005, according to a criminal complaint unsealed this afternoon. The case is part of an ongoing federal corruption investigation, code-named Operation Crooked Code, which became public in 2007 and has resulted in previ-

ous charges against two dozen defendants, including 12 city inspectors. Hernandez, 46, of Chicago, a building inspector in Chicago's Department of Buildings since 1988 and currently assigned to the bureau of new construction, was released on his own recognizance after appearing before Magistrate Judge Michael Mason in U.S. District Court. A status hearing was set for 2 p.m. on Aug. 20. According to the complaint affidavit, Hernandez has had an allegedly corrupt relationship with a permit "expediter" since approximately late 2005, and with a contractor since 2007, both of whom are now cooperating in the ongoing investigation. The complaint charges Hernandez with accepting one specific $1,000 bribe from the cooper-

ating contractor on Aug. 21, 2008, when Hernandez performed what's known as a "rough inspection" - an inspection of the framing, electrical wiring, plumbing and ventilation ducts before the interior walls are sealed - at a single-family residence on South Throop in Chicago. At the time of the inspection, the interior walls were covered with drywall, rendering a legitimate inspection impossible, but Hernandez signed the building permit, saying "rough frame approved," the charges allege. During their conversation just after exchanging the bribe payment, Hernandez asked if the cooperating contractor had heard about the trouble that had befallen others, including the cooperating expediter, relating to charges

that were brought earlier last year against other inspectors, contractors and expediters, according to the complaint. The arrest and charges were announced by Patrick J. Fitzgerald, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Thomas P. Brady, Postal Inspector-in-Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Chicago; Robert D. Grant, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and David Hoffman, Inspector General for the City of Chicago. Anyone with information about alleged corruption in the city permit process is encouraged to contact the City Inspector General's Office either through their hotline (866) 448-4754 Continued on

Weekly REPORTER

You're not alone - finding financial guidance during a life crisis ARAcontent (ARA) - Job loss, divorce, death of a spouse, serious illness or disability - it's hard to imagine experiencing a major life crisis. Unfortunately most of us will at some point in our lives.

A recent survey by AARP Financial Inc. found that nearly 60 percent of Americans ages 40 to 79 already have experienced an event that had a significant impact on their finances.

When it comes to saving and investing, most of us focus on happy life events like buying a house or saving for college or retirement. But the reality is that our most fateful financial decisions are usually triggered by a sudden life crisis.

"Given the unpredictable and unfortunate nature of a life crisis, these are times when we may be distracted, overwrought or vulnerable," says Richard "Mac" Hisey, president of AARP Financial. "As a result, many of us make poor decisions - or take no action at all - possibly putting our financial security at risk."

McAsey to Host Internet Safety Seminars Crest Hill, IL – State Rep. Emily McAsey, D-Lockport, is partnering with Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s Office for two educational seminars in August and September at Ludwig and Taft schools in Lockport to help parents protect children from the dangers of the internet.Rapidly changing technology combined with a greater number of web-savvy youngsters has

For Your Info time and energy for the financial considerations.

Complicating matters is that instead of seeking out a professional financial advisor, the vast majority of us turn to family and friends for financial advice in times of life crisis. Family and friends are well-intentioned Many of us feel anxious when and may supply great emotional supdealing with money matters. But life port, but they are not necessarily ficrises can trigger additional emotion- nancially well-informed. Maybe al factors such as denial, anger or that's why 45 percent of people who regret that can make financial deci- had experienced a life crisis said it sions even more difficult. Hisey notes was hard to trust the financial guidthat "life crises are the perfect storms ance they were receiving.

On the other hand, individuals of personal finance, where the need surveyed who relied on professional for important and often urgent finanfinancial advice felt very well served. cial decisions meets an emotional hurSixty-six percent said they had a "very positive" experience with their professional financial advisor while another 24 percent said they had a "somewhat positive" experience.

"It's clear that timely, expert professional advice often can make all the difference," Hisey says.

If you don't have a financial advisor or if you need a second opinion, AARP Financial offers experienced, non-commissioned and specially trained financial advisers on call to provide one-on-one guidance at (888) 602-PLAN. AARP Financial also has an online resource, Life Crisis Action Steps (www.aarpfinancial.com/lifecrises), that provides easy steps you can take before, during and in the aftermath of a life crisis to give you more confidence and a greater sense of control.

"We know it's hard enough to conricane." template some of these scenarios, let The issue is particularly acute for alone plan for them. But you don't women, who generally outlive men, have to go it alone," Hisey adds. and, as a result, experience more life crises and deal with the consequences "There are plenty of resources to help longer. In addition, women are the you better understand and manage the caregivers in most families. That financial and emotional implications means they are frequently dealing of a life crisis." with the human and logistical consequences of a life crisis, leaving little

made it easier for internet predators to interact with children without parents’ knowledge.

McAsey’s Internet Safety Seminars are designed to give parents tools and tips for better protecting their kids from predators, including learning warning signs to watch for, understanding internet lingo and monitoring material by keeping computers in rooms with heavy foot traffic.

The seminars will be held on Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. at Ludwig School, 710 S. State St., Lockport

and on Sept. 2 at 5:45 p.m. at Taft School, 1605 S. Washington St., Lockport.

For more information, or to RSVP, please contact McAsey’s constituent service office at (815) 588-0085.

McAsey represents the 85th Representative District, which includes all or portions of Bolingbrook, Crest Hill, Joliet, Lemont, Lockport, Naperville, Plainfield, Romeoville and unincorporated Will County.

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 4 dates have been set..

Hair Care That Makes A Difference (ARA) - Every year, thousands of children lose their hair due to chronic illness. This loss impacts more than just physical appearance -- it deeply affects self-esteem, causing many children to withdraw from social activities and friends.

During this time, many pa-

tients choose to wear wigs, but finding a hairpiece is difficult. A good quality wig costs thousands of dollars, and is often made to fit an adult. Enter Locks of Love, a charitable organization dedicated to giving financially disadvantaged children who suffer from medical hair loss hair that looks and feels great. While thousands of people grow and cut their hair each year to support the charity, many do not follow the proper steps for donation.

The hair-care pros at Locks of Love and Nexxus Salon Hair Care have created a new video tutorial to help donors get the right cut, and make a donation that's guaranteed to help a child: * Hair must be secured in a ponytail or braid before it is cut; and the cut must be made above the hair elastic. * Hair must be at least 10 inches from the elastic to the tip. * Hair must be clean and completely dry before it is mailed. * A ponytail should be placed in a plastic bag and then into a padded envelope. * Include the hair donation form available at www.LocksofLove.org.

Visit www.nexxus.com/locks-of-

Weekly REPORTER

Health & Safety

Nutrients, fats, sugars and more - it's all on the food label (ARA) - To determine the freshness of a fruit or vegetable, a person might squeeze, smell or even sneak a taste at the grocery store. However, when it comes to packaged foods, many Americans find it difficult to evaluate the quality and nutritional value of food items sold in cans, plastic containers and paper boxes.

Seventy-eight percent of Americans want clearer to read nutritional information and ingredient lists on the back of food products, according to a recent survey conducted on behalf of Heinz.

"It can be very confusing to try and compare food products on the shelf," says Dr. Idamarie Laquatra, a registered dietitian and director of Global Nutrition at Heinz. "But label information and nutrition claims can be useful tools for shaping your purchase decisions."

To ensure that you're a savvier shopper when selecting products that fit your personal nutrition goals, follow these tips from Laquatra: * Know what's on the package: The nutrition facts label, which gives the serving size, calories and nutrients per serving, is typically found on the side or back of a package. The Daily Value percentages on the nutri-

Health &

Wellness tion facts label are compared to nutrition recommendations for someone eating 2,000 calories per day. For example: a product listing fiber at 10 percent Daily Value means the product contains 10 percent of the amount of fiber needed by a person who consumes 2,000 calories. When reviewing a nutrition label, consider whether your nutrition needs are greater or less than someone who eats 2,000 calories per day. * Seek out nutritious sources: Claims like "high in fiber," "rich in calcium" or "excellent source of vitamin C" mean one serving provides at least 20 percent or more of the recommended daily amount of the specified nutrient. "Good source of" means an item contains 10 to 19 percent of the recommended daily amount per serving. * Minimizing the bad stuff: "Reduced" or "less" mean that the item has 25 percent less of a nutrient, such as sugar or fat, than the usual product that doesn't carry this claim. * Tally the fat content: "Fat free" products must have less than half a gram of fat per serving. Products advertising that they are "low" in fat must have three grams or less of fat per serving. * Look for allergens: Carefully read product labels on a continual basis to ensure that your favorite products remain free of allergens. Heinz has a commitment to using pure ingredient lists in its brands, which can help you to eat healthier without worrying about allergic reactions. For instance, a list of Heinz gluten-free options are available at www.heinz.com/health--wellness/focus-foods/dietary-preferences.aspx.

Football Helmet Technology Reduces Injury ARA) - Every football season nearly 35,000 players are admitted to the hospital for head-related injuries, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports.

Thousands of other concussions will go undetected at the high school and college football level.

Every football player wears a helmet, so why are so many football players at all levels at risk for traumatic brain injuries?

Xenith, a company dedicated to health and safety in sports through innovation and education, has developed a new football helmet called the

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 5 X1. Unlike traditional helmets, it adapts to both a player's head size and the force of each hit through a unique technology called Adaptive Head Protection.

The unique fit system allows for instant customization to the size and shape of a player's head, allowing the helmet to stay in place upon impact. Unlike traditional helmets, no inflation is needed.

The helmet features a suspension of adaptive air-filled shock absorbers, which allows the helmet to adjust its compression to the magnitude and direction of each impact. The design reduces the sudden movement of the head on every hit, reducing the risk of brain injury.

For more information on concussion prevention and the X1 helmet, visit www.xenith.com.

* Be part of the action.

Why stay stuck in the car or on foot to experience fall foliage? Riding down trails on an all terrain vehicle can give your family a whole new perspective on fall colors. The new two-passenger machines, like the Po(ARA) - Every fall, many familaris Sportsman Touring and Polaris lies pack up the car to travel to see fall foliage. Cooler temperatures and vivid colors make fall the perfect time to get outside and enjoy nature. Most regions have an area known for a vivid display of fall foliage, so families don't have to travel too far to enjoy autumn colors.

This fall, keep these tips in mind to get the most enjoyment from your fall foliage excursion: * Research specific regions.

Many private and public parks X2, give you the opportunity to share offer trails for visitors, as well as the views with the family. camping accommodations and the opAs part of preparing for your trip, portunity to rent off-road vehicles or it is also important that your ATVs other recreational products. Be sure are in good working order so you can to ask for trail maps of the area to get fully enjoy your trip without unforethe lay of the land and determine the seen pit stops. Have your machine appropriate trails for your family's serviced at a local dealership or experience level. change the oil, clean the air filter, While flexibility is key to seeing check tire air pressure, and examine the best colors, if you plan to camp or the brakes, all electrical wiring and are visiting an area popular for fall bodywork to ensure nothing has foliage viewing, it is always best to come loose. It is also a good idea to check camping or hotel availability. carry a tire patch kit in case of a * Prepare for the weather. puncture from a rock or stump, and Be sure to stay tuned to local extra gas so you can fill up on the go. news weather forecasts, Internet sites Also be sure to pack all approprior contact the local tourism bureau to ate ATV safety gear including helhelp predict the best time to plan your mets, goggles, gloves, long-sleeved trip. Most foliage starts to change shirts, pants and boots for all memcolors from mid- to late September bers of the family to ensure a fun and and can last through the first part of safe adventure to experience the wonNovember. ders of nature.

Tips to see fall foliage in a whole new way

Weekly REPORTER

In General

Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson (IL-11) and Congressman Bob Filner (CA-51), Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee invite members of the media to join them and spend the day celebrating veterans, promoting new legislation and listening to veteran’s issues and concerns.

There will also be a tour of the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery (ALNC) for veterans, followed by a press conference on veterans affected by the Burr Oak Cemetery issue and stimulus money granted to ALNC.VETERANS FORUM9:30- 10:30 a.m. Tom E. Hartung American Legion Post #197714414 Ford Dr. – New Lenox, IL. Congresswoman Halvorson, Chairman Filner, and Wayne Horne,

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 6

Ralph La Porte rlaporte@theweeklyreporter.com

Special Monthly Compensation (Smc) Compensation for Serious Disabilities VA can pay an added compensation (paid in addition to the regular Disability Compensation) to a veteran who, as a result of military service, incurred the loss or loss of use of specific organs or extremities. Loss, or loss of use, is described as either an amputation or, having no effective remaining function of an extremity or organ. Loss, or loss of use, is described as either an amputation or, having no effective remaining function of an extremity or organ.

The disabilities VA can consider for SMC include: loss, or loss of use, of a hand or foot immobility of a joint or paralysis loss of sight of an eye (having only light perception) loss, or loss of use, of a reproductive organ complete loss, or loss of use, of both buttocks deafness of both ears (having absence of air and bone conduction) inability to communicate by speech (complete organic aphonia) loss of a percentage of tissue from a single breast, or both breasts, from mastectomy or radiation treatment

A Combination of Disabilities 11th

chair of the District Veterans Advisory Committee welcome all veterans from the district to a one-hour forum. Each member of the trio will give a 5-minute briefing on their involvement with veteran’s affairs and current issues/legislation.

Current legislation to be discussed includes veterans bills introduced by Halvorson such as H.R. 1335 – Disabled Veterans’ Health Care Fairness Act; H.R. 2774 – Families of Veterans Financial Security Act H.R. 2774 – Families of Veterans Financial Security Act; and H.R. 2898 – Wounded Warrior Caregiver Assistance Act. Other recent legislation includes: the Post 9/11 GI Bill; H.R. 1016 – Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act of 2009; H.R. 1211 – Women Veterans Health Care Improvement Act; and H.R. 1171 – Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program Reauthorization Act of 2009.

The VA will pay higher rates for combinations of these disabilities such as loss or loss of use of the feet, legs, hands, and arms, in specific monetary increments, based on the particular combination of the disabilities. There are also higher payments for various combinations of severe deafness with bilateral blindness.

Additional SMC is available if a veteran is service connected for paraplegia, with complete loss of bowel and bladder control.

In addition, if you have other service-connected disabilities that, in combination with the above special monthly compensation, meet certain criteria, a higher amount of SMC can also be considered.

If a veteran is service connected at the 100% rate and is housebound, bedridden, or is so helpless to need the aid and attendance of another person, then consideration of payment of additional SMC can be considered. The

amount of SMC will vary depending on the level of aid and attendance “Chairman Filner has been fighting for our nation’s veterans needed. through the House veterans committee since his election to Congress Application Process:

in 1992 and continues to receive praise from veterans and veterans’ You should contact you local VA regional office for information about organizations for his commitment to those who served our country,” applying for SMC. In determining qualifications for SMC, the VA must said Halvorson. “I am proud to serve on the committee with him as we work to insure that our veterans receive the honor and care they review the medical evidence regarding the loss or loss of use and then make deserve.” TOUR -Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery (ALNC) a decision regarding the level of SMC to be paid.

11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery 20953 W. Hoff Road - Elwood, IL. .

Congresswoman Halvorson and ALNC staff will take Chairman Filner and members of the media on a tour of the grounds of the veteran’s cemetery, which opened in 1999. Established as the 117th national cemetery within the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration, part of the tour will include project sites paid for by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds (ARRA) – totaling $391,000.“We are beginning to see the positive effects of stimulus money coming into our district and I’ve been traveling throughout the 11th to see for myself. Just last week, we presented over $3.8 million to three

How Are You Driving?

New drivers have a tendency to stare straight ahead.

That’s bad news. Get into the habit of looking on each side and behind you. Look around in all directions occasionally so you will know what vehicles are around you. In an emergency you can then react more safely and perhaps avoid a serious accident.

Weekly REPORTER

Something to Consider

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 7

Senator Wilhelmi's Legistlation Protects Children From Abuse

Education Matters

A Peanut Butter Sandwich Could Help Pay For College

honey and honey mustard, perfect for dipping her savory sandwich.

For decades, choosy moms have made Jif their No. 1 choice of peanut butter and the makers of Jif would like to give choosy moms the recognition they deserve. The Jif Moms Voice Their Choice Contest (TM) is asking moms (or those inspired by one) to submit their stories - in 250 words or less - of how they make the best choices for their families. One grand prize winner will win a trip to New York City to serve as a judge at the 8th Annual Jif Most Creative Peanut Butter Sandwich Contest final live judging event in March 2010.

Last year's winner, Judy Detter, from Clark Summit, Pa. talked about wearing many different hats in her

(ARA) - With back-to-school season right around the corner, there's no better way to spend time with your kids and encourage them to use their imagination than to create something with them in the kitchen.

Over the past seven years, thousands of kid chefs from across the country have taken on the challenge of making the most creative peanut butter sandwich, coming up with peanut butter kabobs, peanut butter fruit pockets and even "Happy Hedgehogs" using Jif (R) peanut butter and their imaginations.

From Aug. 7 through Nov. 13, 2009, the makers of Jif peanut butter are accepting entries for the 8th Annual Jif Most Creative Peanut Butter Sandwich Contest(TM).

Five finalists will win a trip to New York City for the live judging event and a chance to win the grand prize of a $25,000 scholarship fund.

Four runners-up will be awarded a $2,500 scholarship fund. The contest is $25,000 Peanut Butter Sandwich? open to children ages 6 to 12.

Last year's most creative peanut butter sandwich was inspired family, one of them being the family by a Louisiana po'boy sandwich and chef. "As a choosy mom of two kids, a Philly cheesesteak. Ten-year-old peanut butter is something we pack in Jordyn Boyer of Lebanon, Pa. wowed their lunches daily," she says. "As my the judges with her Po'Boy Peanut family's cook, I choose to prepare Butter Chicken Cheesesteak, made healthy snacks and creative meals with Jif Creamy Peanut Butter, chick- and look forward to recreating these en, peppers, onions, apples and moz- recipes with my daughters."

For official rules, entry form, reczarella cheese. To compliment the ipes or to learn more about the confresh peanutty taste of her sandwich, Jordyn created a sauce of Jif creamy tests, visit www.jif.com. peanut butter, Worcestershire sauce,

SPRINGFIELD, IL - Legislation sponsored by State Senator A.J. Wilhelmi(D- Joliet) to toughen laws against sex offenders was signed by Governor Pat Quinn yesterday.

House Bill 2670 would remove the time constraints for the prosecution of an individual engaged in child pornography. The current statute of limitations for prosecuting child pornography offenders is three years. The bill also provides that more than possession of child pornography, meaning the act of making pornography and trading or distributing pornography, are acts of violence with more stringent penalties.

"Many children are afraid to speak up when they are the victims of these crimes because they do not think anyone will believe them or they will be punished for telling someone," said Wilhelmi."Three years is not enough time for children to become comfortable enough to speak about their experience."

"Grooming" a minor through the internet is the act of seducing, luring, or enticing of a minor into performing sexual acts. In Illinois, the offense of Senator Hutchinson Senator Wilhelmi with 2 his 3children "grooming" a minor through the internet is a Class 4 felony with penalties of one to three years in prison and a $25,000 fine.

House Bill 3676 would strengthen penalties to include "grooming" as an offense requiring the perpetrator to register as a sex offender. The bill also includes traveling to meet a minor to engage in sexual misconduct as an offense that would require registration as a sex offender.

"With advancing technology, predators are finding new ways to lure children into these dangerous situations," said Wilhelmi. "Just as technology is advancing, we must advance our laws to crack down on these heinous crimes against children."

House Bill 3918 expands the Civil No Contact Order Act to include protecting a victim's family as opposed to only the victim. The Act will also protect employees of a crisis rape center that are assisting the victim.

Under the new law, a victim can expand the civil no contact order to anyone who was involved who aided in the offense, not just the person who committed the act. Further precautions are in placed to save victims from emotional distress including transferring offenders from the school if they attend the victim's school and allowing victims to testify in chambers as opposed to an open courtroom.

"Families are victims too and their safety should be addressed," Wilhelmi said. "This legislation will keep offenders from continuing to hurt their victims by attacking their family members emotionally."

Halvorson-From Page 6 projects,” said Halvorson. “In fact, over $150 million in funding has been promised – and that’s with only 1/3 of the money dispersed.”PRESS CONFERENCE - Abraham Lincoln National

Cemetery (ALNC) 11:4 5 a.m. to Noon Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery 20953 W. Hoff Road - Elwood, IL. Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson will speak on the recent issue at Burr Oak Cemetery and the reports of desecrated graves of veterans. “Chairman Filner and I are looking forward to spending time with the veterans in the 11th district,” said Halvorson. “I encourage the men and women who have served this country to join us on August 19th.”

Weekly REPORTER

Joliet Hooters Declares National Hooters Fantasy Draft Weekend Joliet, IL (Grassroots Newswire) August 11, 2009 - Line up your teams.

Line up your players. As sports enthusiasts get ready for Fantasy Football this year, so is Joliet Hooters, located at 3301 Hennepin Drive. Hooters has just announced its National Hooters Draft Weekend: August 21-23, where patrons will receive FoxSports.com Draft Party Kits, which include "Hooters Season Tickets," valued at over $500 in food and beverage savings, when they host a draft party at their neighborhood Hooters.

"Football season is an exciting time for us and our guests," said Alexis Aleshire, public relations manager for Hooters of America, Inc. "There is no better place to host your draft party than at Hooters; especially with our Season Tickets, Fantasy Football package and America's Cheerleaders: the Hooters Girls."

Individuals who host their draft parties at participating Hooters locations will receive a FoxSports.com Draft Party Kit. The kit includes "Hooters Season Tickets," which provides Fantasy Leagues weekly offers each time they visit the location to watch the games. The kit also includes: a Fantasy Draft Board, Fantasy Draft stickers, 12 Fantasy Draft "cheat sheet" guides, and a FoxSports.com Draft Guide Magazine. In addition, the kits will have postcards for the Fantasy Teams commissioners to fill out in order to become members of Hooters text and email clubs. For convenience Wi-Fi is available at most locations.

NEWS

Goofy Hat Bandit Sentenced to 16 Years A man with a lengthy criminal record that includes two prior convictions for bank robberies has been sentenced to 16 years in federal prison for committing a series of bank robberies that earned him the moniker the “Goofy Hat Bandit.”

William Vance Turner, 58, who was residing in Ladera Heights when he was arrested by the FBI in 2007, was sentenced late Monday by United States District Judge Margaret M. Morrow.

Last November, on the morning he was set to go on trial, Turner pleaded guilty to committing six bank robberies in 2006 and 2007. The robberies took place in Glendale (two incidents), Downey, Lakewood, Burbank and Stevenson Ranch. In court papers, prosecutors said investigators

AkronGirl Arrested for At- Merit Bank, 1060 Kenmore Blvd, tempted Bank Robbery Akron, Ohio on July 30, 2009; the C. Frank Figliuzzi, Special Agent in Charge of the Cleveland Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), for the Northern District of Ohio, announces

Inspector Continued from 3 4754, or through their web site at www.chicagoinspectorgeneral.org.T he government is being represented

by Assistant U.S. Attorneys April Perry, Juliet Sorensen and Christopher Hotaling. If convicted, Hernandez faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The Court, however, would determine the appropriate sentence to be imposed under the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines.The public is reminded that a complaint contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

believe that Turner is responsible for another 33 bank robberies and one attempted robbery of a Post Office.

Turner earned the Goofy Hat Bandit nickname for consistently wearing hats during his robberies, including various colors of fishing hats, fedoras and baseball caps. During the robberies, Turner presented notes that asked bank tellers for 100s, 50s and 20s.

Turner has a long criminal record with arrests dating back to 1972. In 1992, he received a 15-year sentence for a bank robbery spree that earned him the name the “Pershing Square Bandit” because many of his targets were in downtown Los Angeles. Turner was on supervised release in that case when he was arrested for being the Goofy Hat Bandit.

The case against Turner is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Los Angeles Police Department. The United States Postal Inspection Service, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the Burbank Police Department, the Glendale Police Department, the Pasadena Police Department, the Downey Police Department and the El Segundo Police Department provided substantial assistance during the investigation.

the arrest of Rachel N. Talkington, age 20, from Akron, Ohio on August 10, 2009. Talkington has been charged with one count of attempted Federal Armed Bank Robbery for her involvement in the attempted robbery of the Chase Bank, 632 E. Market Street, Akron, Ohio on August 7, 2009.

Talkington has charges pending in the robbery of the First

robbery of the Chase Bank, 632 E. Market Street, Akron, Ohio on July 22, 2009; and the attempted armed bank robbery of the First Merit Bank, 2878 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio on August 10, 2009.

This charge is the result of an investigation conducted by the Cuyahoga Falls Police Department, Akron Police Department and the FBI. The Cuyahoga Falls Police Department and the FBI continue to investigate the attempted robbery of the First Merit Bank on August 10, 2009. A second suspect involved in this attempted robbery remains at large. If anyone has information regarding Rachel Talkington or this attempted bank robbery they are asked to contact the Cuyahoga Falls Police at 330928-2181 or the FBI at 216-5221400.

Talkington will appear today in United States District Court, Cleveland, Ohio for her initial appearance on this charge.

Any questions regarding this

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 8

Former Police Officer Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison United States Attorney Karen P. Hewitt announced that today Juan Hurtado Tapia, a former uniformed officer of the San Diego Police Department, was sentenced to serve 30 months in federal prison by United States District Court Judge Roger T. Benitez based upon his guilty plea in federal court in San Diego to offenses resulting from the misuse of his status as a law enforcement officer to obtain and pass sensitive information to associates involved in drug trafficking crimes. Tapia entered his guilty plea on April 28, 2009.

According to the plea agreement, Tapia admitted that in May 2008 he misused his position as a San Diego Police officer and ran a criminal records check on an individual on behalf of two others. He also admitted that, on both July 9, 2008 and July 11, 2008, when he was asked by federal agents about the reasons why he ran the records check, he knowingly lied to them. In addition, he admitted that at the time he lied to agents on July 9, 2008, he knew that the questions were in reference to a federal drugtrafficking investigation, and he was attempting to impede that investigation.

Tapia was immediately remanded into custody to begin serving his prison sentence.

FBI and APD Arrest Man on Child Pornography Charges ATLANTA—Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Gregory Jones, FBI Atlanta, announces the following arrest conducted by the FBI’s Safe Child Task Force along with the Atlanta Police Department.

On Friday, August 7, 2009, Philip V. Emanuel, age 44, of Atlanta, Georgia, was arrested without incident at his Atlanta area home on federal charges of receiving and possessing child pornography.

This investigation was initiated by the Atlanta Police Department, who assisted in today’s arrest.

Emanuel will have his initial appearance today at 3:00 p.m. in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge King at the Richard B. Russell Federal Courthouse, Atlanta, GA. The public is reminded that all persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Weekly REPORTER

OTHER NEWS

Founding Member of White Supremacist Organization, (EK) Gang, Pleads Guilty in Federal Court

Public’s Help Sought in Search For “Winnie the Pooh Bandit” Below are bank surveillance photos of the individual responsible for the armed robbery Friday afternoon of the Chase Bank branch, located at 1 South Northwest Highway in Park Ridge. The robber was described as a white/male, 35 - 40 years of age, 6'0 tall, 225 pounds, with a medium build. He was wearing a blue, long sleeve sweatshirt with a "Winnie the Pooh" emblem on the front.

The robber was armed with a handgun, which he used to threaten bank employees with if his demands were not met. He fled the bank with an undisclosed amount of cash. No injuries were reported. The FBI and Park Ridge

Police Officers Killed in 2008

Chicago Police Officer Gregory Jones 39, a 14 year veteran, was Killed Sept. 28, 2009 while Serving a search warrant

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 9

Security Camera photo

Security Camera photo

Preliminary statistics for 2008 indicate that 41 law enforcement officers were feloniously killed in the line of duty, 17 fewer than in 2007.

By region, the South lost 20 officers; the Midwest, nine; the West, nine; and the Northeast, three.

Of these felonious deaths, 10 occurred during arrest situations, eight in traffic pursuits and stops, seven during tactical situations, six while investigating suspicious persons and circumstances, six in ambush situations, two during investigative activities, one while responding to a disturbance call, and one while handling a prisoner.

Firearms were used in 35 of the slayings: handguns in 25, rifles in five, shotguns in four, and an unknown type of firearm in one. Four officers were killed by vehicles, and two died from injuries as a result of a bomb.

At the time of their deaths, 30 of the 41 law enforcement officers were wearing body armor. Ten officers fired their weapons, and four attempted to do so. Six officers had their weapons stolen, and four were killed with their own weapons. The 41 law enforcement officers were killed in 38 separate incidents, and all have been

PORTLAND, OR—David Patrick Kennedy, 41, and Christina Marie Allen, 30, pled guilty today in federal court before the Honorable Michael W. Mosman to knowingly providing a firearm to a convicted felon. At the defendants’ arraignment last August, it was revealed that Kennedy is the founding member of the European Kindred (“EK”) gang which is a white supremacist organization. Sentencing has been scheduled for November 2, 2009. Allen’s pretrial release will continue, and Kennedy will remain in custody pending the sentencing. The defendants face a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, two to three years of supervised release, and a $100 fee assessment.

This matter was investigated by the Metro Gang Task Force, which consists of law enforcement personnel from the FBI, ATF, Portland Police Bureau, Vancouver Police Department, Gresham Police Department, Milwaukie Police Department, Beaverton Police Department, and the Hillsboro Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Fred Weinhouse and Fred Slaughter.

McAsey to Host Internet Safety Seminars Crest Hill, IL – State Rep. Emily McAsey, D-Lockport, is partnering with Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s Office for two educational seminars in August and September at Ludwig and Taft schools in Lockport to help parents protect children from the dangers of the internet.

Rapidly changing technology combined with a greater number of web-savvy youngsters has made it easier for internet predators to interact with children without parents’ knowledge. McAsey’s Internet Safety Seminars are designed to give parents tools and tips for better protecting their kids from predators, including learning warning signs to watch for, understanding internet lingo and monitoring material by keeping computers in rooms with heavy foot traffic.

The seminars will be held on Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. at Ludwig School, 710 S. State St., Lockport and on Sept. 2 at 5:45 p.m. at Taft School, 1605 S. Washington St., Lockport.

For more information, or to RSVP, please contact McAsey’s constituent service office at (815) 588-0085.

McAsey represents the 85th Representative District, which includes all or portions of Bolingbrook, Crest Hill, Joliet, Lemont, Lockport, Naperville, Plainfield, Romeoville

Weekly REPORTER

Somethin's Cookin'

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 10

Antioxidants

Somethin’s Cookin’

Tips To Add Pizzazz To Everyday Cooking (ARA) - You are cooking more and more to save money these days, and it makes sense to assemble an assortment of basic herbs and spices.

It's an easy, economical way to add fun to your cooking and flavor to your food. Whether you're reorganizing your cupboards in a flurry of cleaning or newly interested in the world of spices, it's a good time to freshen your spice rack and make sure you have the basics.

Just a few common spices will enhance almost any dish you make.

"Simple dishes become deliciously elegant when paired with the right herbs and spices," says Kendall McFarland, research and development director at Frontier Natural Products Co-op. But which spices should you choose as basic staples for your kitchen?

The spices you'll reach for the most will depend on your personal preferences, of course. To discover your favorites, you may want to buy from bulk bins, so you can experiment with small quantities. Combine herbs and spices to complement each other and perk up the flavor of other ingredients. Most spices and seasonings are available in organic versions - use them to boost the flavor and nutritional value of your meals. Always use a light touch - your seasonings should accent dishes, not dominate them.

"The question of which spices are the best to keep on hand has as many

(ARA) - Antioxidants work in our bodies to prevent or slow the damage done by free radicals. Like rust on a car, oxidation can damage our cells and may contribute to age-related health problems.

Antioxidants are known to provide anti-aging properties and, according to the American Dietetic Association, may even increase immune function and possibly decrease the risk of infection and cancer.

While 70 percent of us are aware of antioxidants and their health bene-

different answers as there are cooks,"carrots, spinach and onions - are ensays McFarland. But there are some hanced by cinnamon's pungent sweetconstants. Here are her recommenda- ness. tions for eight spices no kitchen * Basil's warm, sweet, mild should be without: mint/peppery flavor is delicious with * Garlic is compatible with virtu- vegetables, especially tomatoes. Add ally every savory food and is avail- to soups and stews, sauces and dressable in a number of convenient dried ings. Basil pairs well with many other forms. Just the aroma of garlic can seasonings. speed guests to your table. Use it in * Oregano has a strong personality, tomato-based dishes, dressings, sau- but it partners well with other seasonsage and spice blends. Or sprinkle it ings. Use in any tomato sauce and on on buttered bread before broiling. baked chicken and fish. Earthy and * Onion seasons cuisines from pungent, it has a special affinity for around the world. The many varieties basil. Team them up in vegetable, play various roles - primary ingredi- cheese, pasta and tomato dishes, and ent, vegetable accompaniment or sea- especially pizza. soning. The earthy aroma and taste of * Celery seed adds interesting texonion comes in several convenient ture and taste to side salads, dressings, dried forms. Use onions in casseroles, breads and casseroles. Potato salad is soups, sauces, vegetable dishes, rel- lost without it. Try this distinct, punishes, breads and stuffing. gent taste in egg salad and stir fries, * Paprika is a sweet and sassy too. It even enhances soups. relative of the chili pepper. It's used Here's a simple recipe that uses a to add warm, natural color and mildly few of these basic seasonings to make spicy flavor to soups, grains and a ordinary pasta special: variety of hors d'oeuvres. A shake or Penne with Tomato two livens up cheeses and garlic and Herbs bread. Try it on spreads, salads, egg Preparation time: 10 minutes. dishes, marinades and smoked foods.

Cooking time: 40 minutes * Parsley leaf brightens up soups, dressings, salads, casseroles and stuffIngredients: ings - any dish that might gain from 1 pound penne, cooked al dente fresh green color and clean, vegetable 1 tablespoon vegetable oil taste. It's especially good with fish, 1 large onion, finely chopped egg and grain dishes.

2 teaspoons garlic flakes * Cinnamon wins the spice 1 28-ounce can chopped tomatoes world's popularity contest. Use it to with liquid add depth of flavor to sweet and sa2 teaspoons dried basil vory dishes alike. It's a key baking 1 teaspoon dried oregano ingredient and vegetables - especially 2 tablespoons dried parsley

fits, most may not know how to easily incorporate high antioxidant foods into our busy, fast-paced lives. Simple solutions for a balanced and healthy lifestyle include eating a diet rich in "functional foods" or foods with a purpose -- foods that offer far-reaching benefits beyond just satiating our appetites -- such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

The good news is there's no need to sacrifice health for convenience.

For example, Sunsweet Antioxidant Blend is a delicious dried fruit blend of cherries, plums, wild blueberries and cranberries, which are four of the highest scoring, free radical fighting fruits according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Visit www.sunsweet.com for more recipe ideas.

******** Freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional Directions: In large non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, 5 to 10 minutes. Add the garlic, tomatoes, basil, oregano and parsley and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the herbs have plumped and the flavors have blended nicely, about 30 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Toss pasta with the hot sauce to rewarm, and serve immediately. Pass cheese separately. For more on cooking with basic spices, visit www.frontiercoop.com/basicspices.

A Good Diet and Good Health Are Partners The American Cancer Society emphasizes the importance of a good diet in preventing as well as treating many forms of cancer. It should make good sense to always be conscious of the foods you are consuming—after all—you are what you eat. Take a tip from the pros and include several portions of fruit and vegetables in your diet.

Weekly REPORTER

A Career That Helps Pet Owners Answer Questions When A Pet Passes

Your Life

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 11

"And at the end of that day, we've helped a veterinarian, pet owner or farmer understand more about the disease that impacted their animal, and in some cases, understand how to help prevent future disease outbreaks."

Why would anyone consider this (ARA) - Homeowners may as a potential career? Well most have not have the pest bird probgreat passion for caring for animals. lems that plagued Tippi Hedren

So what does a veterinary diagnostic pathologist actually do?

(ARA) - Few things stir raw human emotions as much as the loss of For Kuhnt, it started at an early age in a cherished pet or livestock that may Western Kentucky. "I knew that veterrepresent a family's livelihood. For inary medicine was where my career many, healing just won't happen until interests were," she recalls. they understand the "why."

"Veterinary pathology allowed me to When an animal dies, it's the vet- combine my enthusiasm for science erinary pathologist who helps fami- and medicine with my fascination of lies answer the the complexities of "why" ... and find the body and its some sense of cloworkings, which sure after their loss. normally seem to "I think that vetrun so smoothly erinary patholoand naturally, but gists provide so often and unforinvaluable services tunately go awry." to the practicing Veterinary diveterinary cliniagnostic pathology cians and their cliis a rapidly expandentele, by offering ing field, with answers or solugrowing career options to herd health portunities and exissues or individupanded laboratory al animal probtesting options for lems," says Dr. the diagnosis and Leah A. Kuhnt, a monitoring of disveterinarian and ease. They are also Diplomate American College of Vet- watching closely for signs of foreign erinary Pathologists. Dr. Kuhnt is a or zoonotic diseases.

Veterinary Diagnostic Specialist with Kuhnt offers some practical adThompson Bishop Sparks State Diag- vice for those who want to pursue a nostic Laboratory in Auburn, Ala. similar career path. "Study hard. FoVery few people actually interact cus on science and math courses, but directly with those veterinary patholo- be sure to round out your curriculum gists who focus their careers on diag- and expand your horizons, because nostics. Day in and day out, they the medical world is global and multigenerally work with veterinarians cultural, and often relies on a multiwho refer special cases to them. faceted approach. Learn to study efSo what does a veterinary diag- fectively and hone time management nostic pathologist actually do? If an skills. But most importantly, enjoy animal is ill or has died, veterinary your educational experience." diagnostic pathologists examine Diagnostic testing has become an blood, tissues and fluids to under- important market sector in veterinary stand what caused the disease or medicine, and the American College death. You'll find veterinary patholo- of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP) gists in diagnostic labs, like Dr. provides guidelines on quality and Kuhnt, or at universities where they standards, and helps ensure adequate teach, conduct research and provide training opportunities that provide clinical service for their area. qualified veterinary clinical patholoMost days are a bustle of activity, gists for the future.

Kuhnt says. Interesting and unusual For more on veterinary diagnoscases provide a constant source of tic pathology, and all fields associateducation. "A good day involves col- ed with veterinary pathology, be sure laboration and teamwork, sharing of to check out the careers section of ideas and problems, so that the best www.acvp.org. solutions are found," she continues.

Mark Goodson mgoodson@theweeklyreporter.com

are also lightweight plastic mesh nets available for temporary applications. You can get netting in various mesh sizes to deter any bird species.

Another type of bird netting is copper mesh cloth. It comes in rolls and can be easily stuffed into openings, or packed tightly into cracks or holes to let air in but keep pest birds out.

To safely relocate pest birds from your property, consider using humane live traps.

Constructed of sturdy galvanized wire, these traps feature in Alfred Hitchcock's unforget- funnel doors that allow a bird table thriller "The Birds," but to walk in, but not out. An easypest birds can still ruin your day. access door on top facilitates Pest birds cost homeown- simple removal or release of ers millions of dollars annually. pest birds.

The high concentration of uric To discourage birds from acid found in some bird drop- landing under the eaves of pings can discolor paint, stain your home or to keep swallows wood, and erode metal. It can from building their mud nests, ruin fencing, patios, metal or try Bird Slope. The slippery cloth awnings and patio furni- PVC panels are easy to install ture. Then there's the health and create a barrier for nest risk of bacteria, fungi and para- building. They're ideal for ledgsites that live and grow in bird es, eaves, beams and other 90droppings. Imagine these drop- degree areas where birds tend pings in and around your pool, to nest. Bird slope creates a spa or grill. Bird droppings "slippery slope" that birds canhave been known to carry and not land on. transmit any of 60 known disBird spiders use movement eases. The fleas, mites and to help keep pest birds off air ticks in some birds can also conditioning units, rooftops, carry disease. awnings, chimney caps, and Fortunately, there are a that covered boat you have sitnumber of effective and hu- ting in front of the garage. Simimane bird deterrents to help lar products, like the Solar Bird keep pest birds away from Repeller, run on energy effiyour property. These bird con- cient solar cells. trol products are safe, easy to For those who like highinstall and relatively economi- tech approach, there are a sevcal. Bird proofing your home eral bird scare products that can save you time and money. use sound to keep pest birds at Perhaps the most popular bay. They're ideal for backbird deterrent is your basic yards, garden areas, pools, pabird spike. Perfect for roofs, tios, gazebos, rooftops and awnings and patio covers, they other open spaces where pest are ideal for keeping large birds are a nuisance. Some subirds like pigeons and seagulls personic systems play distress off of surfaces. Gutter spikes and predator calls for up to 22 come in various sizes and will types of birds. Outdoor sound keep pest pigeons and larger deterrents are meant for large birds from landing, roosting areas and can cover between and nesting in your roof gut- one and five acres. ters.

For more information on huFor blanket coverage over mane ways to keep pest birds large areas, bird netting cre- away from your home, visit ates an impenetrable barrier AbsoluteBirdControl.com. over plants, bushes, fruit trees, crops, vineyards, under eaves ****** and other structures. There

A Different Life

From the Lips Of J o (Continued from last week) “Now you have to understand something, I’m not a lawyer and I never went to law school but I figure to myself that if I want to hit the bricks again before I’m really old, I got to find a way out of there. You can’t go over the wall, it’s too high, and you can’t dig under it cause it’s too deep.

There’s a different group of people who go to the law library in prison. Most of them are serious minded and most of them are looking for an angle to help them get released from hell.

So I figure why not, so I go there.

Okay, all of a sudden I get this feeling of disappointment and frustration. I’ll tell you what it’s like. I go in and there are some cons reading. The place is really quiet especially compared to the rest of the joint. Outside the law library it’s like a jungle except that I think jungles are quiet and the animals don’t make a sound except to signal another animal.

Remember, I don’t know anything about law but the law put me in so I figure—the law can get me out.

I’m still the same guy right then. You know, kind of belligerent, cocky, and tough. But when I walked inside that library all of a sudden I wasn’t so damned sure of anything. Yeah, the answer was there in the law books but how in the f---- am I supposed to find anything to help me.

I go inside anyway and I pick out a book. I don’t know what it is but I don’t want the other cons to think I’m stupid or something so I play the phony and start looking. It took a little time for me to make up my mind that I had to start asking questions.

Finally, I learn how to read a case and be able to find some other court case that says pretty much what that one does. I had to break down and start asking questions. Yeah, I had to ask

h n Ca p p

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 12

as

guys how to do this and how to do that.

So now when I’m laying on my bunk I’m starting to think more about making a case so I can get out of that sh—hole. I’m starting to think! Crazy huh? All of a sudden I’m starting to realize that it ain’t guns, or a ladder or anything else that’s going to spring me, it’s the books. Then I say, ‘Man it’s lucky you know how to read cause you’d be f- - ked if you couldn’t.

All of a sudden I’m on to something and I’m telling myself ‘Hey, if the courts say it will work for you this is pretty powerful stuff!”

The time is starting to go by

“He’s worried that if we don’t do it his way I’m going to blow my chances and I’ll do every bit of my time.” faster. As soon as the day is over and I eat, I have to stand count and then I I race to the law library as soon as the hacks open the doors. I have this idea in my head that the judge made a mistake. As far as I am concerned that 45 years he gave me isn’t legal.

I figure he’s giving me time on the same thing over and over again but with a different name. Let me tell you, that’s something he can’t do so I get in touch with my lawyers.

When I tell them what I think and I say I want them to get me back in court on that theory they act like I’m nuts and they tell me so. They didn’t want to believe that my theory was a realistic approach to get me out of that f------g nut house.

It’s funny how my mind was working. Yeah I could read and write and I was always good in school but now I was looking at reading and stuff different. All of a sudden I’m realizing why reading is so important. I learn that no matter what I want to know, no matter what I want to do there’s a book there to help me. People put everything into books from stupid sh—t to the hot topic stuff I was reading to get over that wall.

Continued on 13

He Went Over the Wall In Joliet Joseph E. Ragen is probably an unfamiliar name to most younger readers and yet he played a major if not the most important role in the history of the Illinois prison system.

During his prime years Ragen was hailed nationwide as America’s most effective penologist. Many people, some of whom were prisoners under him, considered him a bully and tough on prisoners. Ragen was neither a bully nor unnecessarily harsh on those in his care.

There is one very helpful book that contains a wealth of information concerning Ragen, Stateville and the Joliet Prison that is extremely informative. It is titled Warden Ragen of Joliet and was written by Gladys A. Erickson in 1957. Erickson was a seasoned reporter for the former Chicago Examiner an afternoon daily newspaper.

If you are interested in details of Ragen, his family, his long career behind the walls, and his experiences you can get most of that information in detail from her book. This article is, however, concerned with some of the men who served time under Ragen and the experiences they related about it while they were alive.

Killings and beatings have long been part of the prison history overall. But the era of drug popularity brought with it a new kind of convict. The former cons, most of them gangsters who were tutored during the infamous Capone era were tight lipped and would not snitch even on an enemy. Scores were settled among the cons themselves.

Those gangster types despised those who dealt in drugs. Perhaps because their bosses did not like the drug trade or perhaps because the character of the inmates themselves changed with the new breed of resident who was flooding prisons.

Edward Darlak is a famous name in the annals of prison history.

He along with Basil “The Owl” Banghart and Roger “The Terrible”

Touhy were close associates. He along with Touhy and Banghart, in 1942, went over the wall in the Joliet prison tremendously embarrassing Warden Ragen and yet, after Darlak was released from prison many years later he confided that he regularly visited Ragen in his family’s quarters located on the top floor of the prison administration building.

Despite his background, and having escaped from Ragen’s prison, a terrible black-eye for any warden, Darlak was always welcomed

Warden Joseph E. Ragen

Weekly REPORTER

by Ragen.

Darlak disliked the drug dealers.

He, being one of the old-school convicts of the twenties and thirties would not trust anyone who was convicted of a drug crime and had a low opinion of them. Darlak considered them in the class of rapists and snitches. He reasoned that they had no honor and they would “give up” anyone to spare themselves time behind the walls.

The Touhy era criminals lived by a convict code of honor to which they all clung and by which they abided. That was their survival secret. He conceded that killings, an occasional rape, and stabbings took place, there was no rampant violence the administration could not handle. Continued on 12

Your Life

John Cappas (Continued from 13) I’m reading and I’m making notes. I’m reading lots of cases, not exactly like mine, but sentencing situations that are like mine. I read one book after another. Sometimes I have so many books open that I’m reading and comparing that there is hardly room for another.

I’m building my argument case by case, little by little. Pretty soon I convince myself that I have enough information to give my lawyer so he can get me out.

The first thing my lawyers says is he is not convinced that I am right and he wants to go a different route and plead my case differently. He’s worried that if we don’t do it his way I’m going to blow my chances and

More Than 100 Indicted In South Carolina Drug Case COLUMBIA, SC—United States Attorney W. Walter Wilkins announced today at a press conference that six federal indictments were unsealed today in which 108 individuals were charged with various federal drug, weapon, and immigration violations. Joining Mr. Wilkins for the announcement was FBI Special Agent in Charge Dave Thomas, US Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Assistant Special Agent in Charge Ken Burkhart, SLED Director Reggie Lloyd, Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott, Lexington County Sheriff James Metts, and Columbia Police Chief Tandy Carter.

Agents began executing arrest warrants early this morning, and those taken into custody began appearing in federal court in Columbia this afternoon.

In May 2008, the FBI-led Columbia Violent Gang Task Force began an investigation into street gang and drug trafficking activity in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Columbia. Agents made numerous controlled purchases of crack cocaine and eventually the FBI obtained court authorized wiretaps. Those wiretaps uncovered a vast drug conspiracy across the Midlands, leading to a group of Mexican drug suppliers operating in Lexington County. As the investigation continued, the Task Force learned that this drug cell was connected to other cells in Atlanta and North Carolina, who were also receiving their cocaine from Mexico.

In late spring, 18 individuals were arrested on these charges and a total of 9 federal search warrants were executed.

Thus far, the investigation has resulted in the seizure of approximately $568,927 in cash, 18 kilograms of cocaine, 6 pounds of marijuana, ¼ kilogram of crack cocaine, and 33 firearms. Of those 18 individuals previously arrested, 11 are illegal aliens from Mexico.

Mr. Wilkins stated the individuals each face a mandatory minimum of ten years imprisonment and a maximum of life imprisonment and a fine of $4,000,000.

Many of the individuals face substantially

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 13

I’ll do every bit of my time. The lawyer doesn’t want to budge on it.

He wants it his way.

So we argue and he’s getting pissed but I don’t care. I ain’t a lawyer but I still know what I read and I know f–king well what the court’s did in those other case.

(continued next week)

higher penalties due to prior felony drug convictions.

Mr. Wilkins stated that the case was investigated by agents of the FBI-led Columbia Violent Gang Task Force, which is comprised of agents from the FBI, Columbia Police Department, Richland County Sheriff's Department, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the South Carolina National Guard Counter Drug Unit.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) also assisted the Task Force in this investigation. Mr. Wilkins stated that he has assigned the case to Assistant United States Attorneys Stacey D. Haynes and Mark C. Moore of the Columbia office for prosecution.

The United States Attorney stated that all charges in these Indictments are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

South Carolina Man DiesAfter He was Tasered

by Deputy Greenwood, SC—Authorities in Greenwood have reported the death of a 53 yearold man who was shot with a Taser by a Sheriff’s Deputy. Ernest Ridlehuber died after being Tasered after friends called for help to remove him from the home of friend.

On Wednesday, August 12th police say they responded to a call for help in a home and when they arrived they found Mr. Ridelehuber being combative.

A coroner’s representative, Marcia Clark, said Ridelehuber was reported missing at about 11:00 pm on Tuesday and believes his family was searching for him since making that report.

Police are uncertain what caused Mr. Ridelehuber’s death and are awaiting an autopsy for a positive deteremination.

There was no indication that Mr. Ridlehuber had done anything wrong. His family wanted him to leave the home where he was visiting and he did not want to go. When he resisted the police were called to remove him from the house.

Over The Wall-From 12 Darlak a tall slender man who wore expensive suits, drove a large Lincoln and always had a large wad of cash in his pocket resembled the image of Dracula. After leaving prison he was a successful businessman. Next week learn more about Eddie Darlak the man who went over the wall amid a hail of gunfire, a man who hated snitches.

In Frankfort Township der throwin' da assessor's budget money away cause you elected a guy you want in dere. So da bums are gettin' even wit you by wastin yer dough.

MUTTONHEAD

Weekly REPORTER

© Copyright 2009 John's Weekly Reporter

"Lord, what fools these mortals be", Puck.

Indian Country Child Molester Sentenced to Prison Acting U.S. Attorney Thomas Scott Woodward announced that a 79-year-old man was sentenced to federal prison today for the sexual abuse of young Indian children.

Edward O’Field, an Indian male from Colcord, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 71 months in the Federal Bureau of Prison plus ten years of supervised release and he must register as a sex offender. O'Field was charged in a Grand Jury Indictment issued in March 2009 and he pled guilty last April. He admitted to engaging in sexual contact with a 2-year-old Indian child on February 1, 2009, where his conduct involved the intentional touching of the child’s private parts for the purpose of gratifying his sexual desires. Furthermore, he admitted to molesting a 4-year-old child in 2008, where he used his fingers to fondle the child’s private parts.

The defendant has a lengthy history of sexually abusing young children. During the investigation and prosecution of these latest offenses it came to light that O’Field had molested at least six other children over 30 years ago and the victims are now adults.

Acting U.S. Attorney Woodward thanked the work of investigators in this case from the Cherokee Nation Marshal’s Service and the FBI. Also, the Tulsa Justice Center was instrumental in interviewing the children. Woodward further stated, “For the last 30 years this individual has preyed upon young children. Today, justice was served and a dangerous predator was taken off the streets.”

Weekly REPORTER

Your Life Love begins with a smile, Grows with a kiss And ends with a teardrop Anon

lindsey at the weeklyreporter.com Dear Lindsey: I just broke up with Robert. I was really mad at him. See when I want to go somewhere, like to the mall or Micky D’s, he has an excuse that he has to do something. It’s always the same story, he has to cut grass, or clean his room or something. I think he just doesn’t want to be seen in public with me. He’s okay if we’re hanging out in the park with everyone and just doing nothing but if I say let’s go to the mall he’s out of there. Finally I got mad at him told him I didn’t want to go out anymore cause we never do anything except hang out at the park. He said, “Okay, I’m sorry.” Then he walked off. So today I’m walking to the park and who do I see sitting by the slide but Robert and a girl who hangs out with us. She was sitting right up close like almost on his lap and she’s laughing like real phony if you know what I mean. When they saw me they said hello. I said “It looks like you got a new girlfriend pretty fast,” He grinned really stupid and looked at her. It was really sickening so I just walked off. Now I want him back, what should I do?

Dear Want Him Back: Two days ago you had enough of Robert. You said you thought he is ashamed to be seen with you but you yourself said he hung at the park with your other friends. That was not good enough, you wanted him to change for you and he wouldn’t so you broke up. Now it seems like you have forgotten the mall and you want Robert. Life is not made of easy choices. Maybe if you had asked him why he didn’t seem to want to go to the mall you would have gotten an answer and you together.

Maybe he had a good reason for not wanting to go there. He might have had a problem there, a lingering problem he wants to avoid. But you will never know that because you let your own selfishness overcome you. It would be wrong for you to try to cause Robert and his new girlfriend to break up. Just hang around and see what happens. Maybe Robert will miss you and want you back. In the meantime, I think you learned a valuable lesson Dear Lindsey: Can you tell my father you aren’t supposed to ride the bumper of the guy ahead of you? When we are out, like on the expressway he has this habit of driving right up close to the person ahead of us and staying really close. I said Dad why do you do that it’s dangerous. He said he’s trying to make the dummy ahead of him stop slowing down traffic and it doesn’t matter how close he is because he has good reflexes and he can stop on a dime.

Dear Stop On A Dime: Your father belongs to a group of dangerous and inconsiderate individuals who believe they and they alone own the road. There is something known as the 2 second-rule that was preceded by the simple practice of allowing a distance between you and the vehicle ahead equal to one car length for every 10 miles an hour of speed. Rear-end collisions rank as the number one most common cause of accidents. Sadly, neither you nor I will change your father’s reckless habit because he is so selfcertain that he is a better driver than most. That is untrue and the fact is that anyone who has attended defensive driving classes understands that really good drivers maintain a safe distance between themselves and other vehicles. You probably have no choice when it comes to going in the car with dad but you can sit in the back, strap yourself in and pray.

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 14

The Summer Adventure

By Ward Winning Writer John Gabriel Jgabriel@theweeklyreporter.com

Part 10

Andy And Hank Were Making Their Way Slowing To The Hole outside. I often wondered about it and someone, I forgot just who, told me it was just a natural hole that was always there.”

“Gee it sure is lucky for us, right Hank?” Andy’s voice was strong and he was confident. There was not a trace of fear in his voice, although Hank was certain that somewhere deep inside Andy there had to be just a little fright tucked away. “Shhh!

Hold on just a second Andy, I thought I heard someone calling outside.”

“Oh boy! I’ll bet it’s my Father and Grandfather outside searching for me.”

“And yer probably right too lad.

But it wouldn’t do us no good to start calling back cause they couldn’t hear us from down here. Especially now that it’s all filled up with this danged Dust drifted out of the mine dirt.” and it looked just like smoke “Hank! You shouldn’t talk that way. I learned it’s not nice to swear.”

“Well I’ll be! Who ever told you spared them injury.

The long mound of earth and ‘danged’ is a cuss word. Why they rocks was concentrated down the cen- sure didn’t know what they was tellin’ ter of the shaft but rose to the top of it. you.”

“You better not let my Grandma Fortunately for them, that left a narrow space on either side between the hear you say that. Not on your life sides of the mineshaft and the long Hank. She’s the one that told me and pile of dirt that seemed to stretch out she’d be awful mad if she was to hear forever into the deep dark depths of you swearing.”

“Okay boy, no more danging. I the old hole.

“Move along now Andy,” Hank promise you an’ grandma. Now let’s urged, “We have to get some fresh air get a move on so we can get some in our lungs. This dust could choke a fresh air. Whadda ye say?”

“That’s okay with me Hank. Boy, mule.”

“Yes sir, I’m doing my best but I sure will be glad to see the sunlight it’s hard getting up and over all this again.” Andy stopped abruptly. Once dirt. When I step on it my foot sinks more, there was a voice and this time way down into it before I can move he heard it clear enough to know that it was his mother calling his name. the other one.”

“Hank! Hank, did you hear that?

“Well now you best be remembering everything you’re seeing here lad. That was my mother. That was her You ain’t never gonna see the likes of Hank!”

“Well I suspect yer whole family this again in yer lifetime to be sure.

Why, when you have yer own grand- is out there trying to find you. Hey children you’ll have them hypnotized look at that boy! It’s light.”

Andy felt a sudden cool breeze when ye tell them about this. Yes, upon his face. It was not strong, it sirree, you can bet yer boots on it.”

Andy continued to follow Hank was gentle, but it was cool fresh air as he led the way deeper into the mine. without a doubt.

“Hey Hank! You feel that! WowHe was curious about the strange sound to Hank’s voice and his strange wee! That’s air coming in from outsounding language. He considered side Hank.!

Hank turned and looked at him asking him about it but then he decidfor a moment. Again the shouts came ed it might be rude to bring it up.

“Seems to me, if I’m remembering from outside. Only now it sounded right Andy, that we’re only a little like everyone was calling his name at ways from that shaft that leads to the the same time. (continued next week.)

Deep inside the old mine, Andy and Hank were working their way over and around the incredible tons of dirt that had plunged down into the it. Andy was breathless and he gazed at the incredible amount of earth that had surrounded them and, yet, had somehow

Weekly REPORTER

Your Life

office until their current terms expire. Frankfort Township They may erroneously believe they Continued from Page 1 can do as they wish. They may erroneously believe they can punish you for electing a person of your choice. They may erroneously believe they can sabotage your government without retaliation—THEY ARE MISTAKEN! There are a number of avenues of recourse for citizens to pursue. A complaint should rightfully begin with the officials themselves. So a simple call or a letter to the Frankfort Township Supervisor’s office is the first step.

Demand that he assure you that he will run your local government efficiently, with great consideration for every tax dollar spent, and without any manner of vindictiveness that will waste your money.

The second avenue for redress should be the office of Will County State’s Attorney, James Glasgow; third to the office of Lisa Madigan, Attorney General, and finally the office of United States Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.

All of those folks work for you. If you can offer any form of substantiation to the allegations you could contact Joe Kral himself through a special email account that has been setup for him at electedassessor@theweeklyreporter. com. If an elected official complains to the FBI they must make an investigation.

The allegation that James Moustis James Moustis has vowed not to work with Joe Kral is not on the surface criminal but he seems to like being the Chairman of the Will County Board and that is where you have leverage. When election time rolls around vote for someone else to fill his seat. The power of your vote is tremendous.

Township officials who cannot be trusted to perform their duties to the best of their ability have no business on the public payroll. Township officials who cannot be trusted to watch your tax dollars closely and who do not carefully scrutinize every expenditure are not doing their job and when election time rolls around vote them out of office.

Handling your tax dollars is a very serious matter and it should not become a children’s game of if you don’t let me play my way I’ll take my ball and go home.

Clearly, the voters did not believe Township Assessor Paul Ruff is doing the job they expect him to do. Wiping him out with a full 60% majority was a strong message. Just as easily as you were able to remove Ruff (he will hold

Joe Kral

August 13 - August 19, 2009 - 15

Assessor Paul Ruff

office until December) you can remove public official who fails to perform fully for your benefit.

Remember, this is not a matter of party politics. Good government depends on good people to make it operate. Labels do not make a good public servant as we saw in the matter of Governor Rod Blagojevich who was impeached.

Voting new people into office may very well mean voting for someone who is in a party different from the one with which you are aligned but party affiliations ought to be set aside when it comes to putting, honest hardworking people in office.

There will be other choices for you even within the ranks of the party you normally support. Explore them but do not, under any circumstances, keep someone in office based solely on the party he or she is aligned with.

Your tax dollars are much too important. Make your officials account for what they do while they are serving you and make it clear that YOU ARE THE BOSS—THEY ARE THE SERVANTS. Somewhere along the line, someone mistakingly told them that winning a seat in an election makes them someone super special. They are wrong. They could not be more wrong because the taxpayers, the voters, still control the strings that make government operate.

If you do not want your Frankfort Township money wasted in a deliberate attempt to sabotage the incoming Assessor whom you elected, thEN do something about it. Stop the alleged wanton hemorrhaging of your tax dollars that have been budgeted to operate the Assessor’s Office. ***

The most powerful weapon of all is a pen in the hands of a U.S. Voter

Cattlesburg Bookkeeper Convicted for Defrauding Law Firm ASHLAND, KY—A bookkeeper at a law firm in Cattlesburg, Kentucky was sentenced to 54 months in prison today for defrauding her company of thousands of dollars.

Ronda Nixon worked for Pruitt & Thorner Law Office and used the firm’s credit card to make personal purchases. In addition to paying off a $10,600 school loan, Nixon purchased airline tickets, cosmetics, Victoria Secret clothing, and massages with the credit card.

In February, a jury convicted Nixon on 11 counts of wire fraud, two counts of bank fraud, three counts of aggravated identity theft and one count of use of an unauthorized access device.

The trial stemmed from an indictment that alleged she stole $93,477 from her employer.

According to trial testimony, Nixon concealed her scheme by opening a line of credit at a bank in the owner’s name. She then wrote checks to that bank, forging the owner’s signature, to obtain money to put back into the firm’s bank account.

James A. Zerhusen, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky and Timothy D. Cox, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation jointly made the announcement today after the trial.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The United States was represented by Alamdar Hamdani.