TheWeekly Reporter

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Weekly REPORTER

Published Weekly In Will County

2 e g a P Time Again For Medicare Open Enrollment

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Volume 2 Number 39

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October 1 thru October 7, 2009

CBS 2 News Puts Lockport Township Highway Commissioner on Hot Seat CBS 2 News reporter Dave Savini confronted Lockport Township Highway Commissioner Jack Waxweiler concerning a trip he made to Florida.

Reporter Savini questioned Waxweiler in a video taped interview that was played on CBS 2 News. The Report by CBS was made on September 23rd.

Dave Savini confronted

Democrats Celebrate

CBS 2 News reporter Dave Savini questions Jack Waxweiler about trip

Cross Holds Senior Fair

Page 3 FREE FLU SHOTS

Lockport Highway Commissioner Jack Waxweiler Waxweiler as he drove his $42,000 GMC Yukon in which he allegedly made a trip to Florida at taxpayer expense. When Waxweiler was asked if his publicly owned vehicle recently made a trip to Florida he denied that it had. Then he was shown photos of his Yukon beneath a palm tree in Florida.

During the interview he denied that he or anyone using his vehicle made such a trip. Later he sent a

memo to WJOL radio in Joliet to explain his reaction to the questions.

In his written statement Waxweiler claimed he was not wearing his hearing aids at the time. In the video he does not seem to have difficulty hearing the reporter.

Waxweiler responded that he misunderstood the question concerning the presence of his vehicle in Florida. He said he thought he was being asked if he had been in Key West Florida and responded that he had not. The video puts the questions in a different light. In the video Waxweiler denied that his vehicle was in Florida and becomes angry when he is shown the photos.

Township Clerk George Mushrow stated that he believes Waxweiler’s explanation because Waxweiler has receipts for expenses

he paid during that trip. Mushrow said CBS 2 News reporter Savini did not want to see the receipts when he was asked to take a look at them.

JackWaxweiler explained that he may not have heard the questions put to him because he did not have his hearing aids and said he actually went to Sarasota Florida to look at a vehicle that was for sale that he believed the township needed for chipping service.

That is the chipping of trees and limbs.

The vehicle that was for sale would have cost the City $21,000 according to Waxweiler but in the end he decided not to purchase the truck.

Instead, he said he “purchased a chip box for $4,400, and we built our own chip truck, saving the taxpapers $16,000.” He went on to say the price of $4,400 included painting and the Continued on page 15

Weekly REPORTER

Medicare Open Enrollment: Time To Make Sure You're In The Right Plan (ARA) - Of the more than 45 million people relying on Medicare for health care coverage, many may be paying for a plan that doesn't meet their needs or is too expensive.

However, Medicare annual enrollment, which starts Nov. 15 and ends Dec. 31, offers anyone with Medicare the opportunity to switch plans so that they're getting the most from their coverage.

"Many people don't understand they have a wide variety of choices when it comes to Medicare coverage and too few review their needs before reenrolling each year," says Paul Gada, personal financial planning director for Allsup Medicare Advisor, an objective plan selection service that helps people understand and choose the most

The Weekly Reporter is a free newspaper published weekly in Joliet, Illinois. The business office is located in Joliet, 60432. General emails should be sent to editor@theweeklyreporter.com.

John Gabriel, Editor jgabriel@theweeklyreporter.com Shirley Sciarratti artdepot@theweeklyreporter.com Ralph LaPorte rlaporte@theweeklyreporter.com Mark Goodson mgoodson@theweeklyreporter.com Kenny Holmes Kenny@theweeklyreporter.com Lindsey Lindsey@theweeklyreporter.com Information – info@theweeklyreporter.com Guest writers – guests@theweeklyreporter.com

Your name and a phone number are necessary on all correspondence.

NEWS

October 1 - October 7, 2009 - 2

Kenny Holmes

kenny@theweeklyreporter.com

appropriate Medicare plan for their health care needs.

Individuals need to consider the following questions to evaluate whether they should switch plans before the enrollment deadline:

Medicare options, especially if your private plan is limited or the cost has increased significantly.

4. Can I keep my doctors?

The majority of health care providers (doctors, hospitals,

1. Will traditional Medicare or Medicare Advantage work best for me?

If you visit the doctor often and take prescription drugs, a Medicare Advantage plan may best fit your needs. If you only require routine medical visits and few prescriptions, traditional Medicare with a prescription drug plan may work best. From year to year, your answer to this question may change since your needs are likely to change.

2. Do I need a supplemental plan?

Medicare supplemental insurance can help pay costs not covered under traditional Medicare.

However, not everyone needs this coverage, including those who are eligible for Medicaid, have employer-provided group health insurance or have a Medicare Advantage plan.

3. Should I use Medicare instead of my private health coverage?

If you have coverage through a former or current employer, speak to the plan administrator before making changes.

Consider comparing your private plan to your

physical therapists, etc.) accept traditional Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans offer broad access, but this doesn't mean all doctors participate. Before joining a plan, determine if your doctor accepts it.

5. Does the plan cover prescription drugs?

Traditional Medicare doesn't generally cover medications unless they're administered in the doctor's office or hospital. You have to enroll, usually at an additional cost, in a Part D plan for this coverage. Medicare Advantage plans, however, can offer prescription drug coverage.

6. Are my drugs covered?

Each prescription drug plan has a list of drugs (formulary) that it covers. Drugs covered by a plan can change, so you need to review this list each year.

7. Are my prescriptions expensive enough that I could fall into the Medicare "donut hole?"

Medicare Advantage plans with prescription drug coverage and stand-alone Part D plans may have a coverage gap, sometimes known as the "donut

hole." This means once you have paid your deductibles and the plan has paid its coverage you'll have to pay the full cost until it reaches a certain dollar level. In 2009, this dollar amount was $3,453.75. Only after this out-of-pocket amount is paid does Medicare begin covering costs again.

8. How much will I have to pay?

Traditional Medicare may be inexpensive, but it comes with high deductibles. Medicare Advantage plans may have similar or higher monthly premiums, but offer a zero-dollar deductible and low co-pays; some also cap total out-of-pocket costs.

9. Will the plan cover additional services?

Some Medicare Advantage plans cover dental, vision and health and wellness programs not available through traditional Medicare.

10. Will I be covered while traveling?

Traditional Medicare provides coverage nationwide. Some Medicare Advantage plans restrict coverage to certain areas, but many offer out-of-network coverage for emergency care.

Reviewing your needs every year - especially with the experienced help of an independent Medicare plan selection service like Allsup Medicare Advisor - before annual enrollment is crucial to ensure coverage, Gada says.

"Medicare is like any other type of insurance; you don't want to be under-insured. But you also don't want to pay for things you don't need," Gada says.

For more information, Allsup offers a free screening to help determine eligibility for Allsup Medicare Advisor at ama.allsup.com.

Weekly REPORTER

Taylor, Bean & Whitaker Customers and Will County Treasurer Work Together to Get Late Taxes Paid Before Deadlines Hit Joliet, IL September 24, 2009 – Will County treasurer Pat McGuire and his staff are racing the clock to help over one thousand Will County homeowners whose secondinstallment property taxes remain unpaid one month after mortgage giant Taylor, Bean & Whitaker (TBW) declared bankruptcy. Illinois law forces a county treasurer to charge a 1.5% monthly late-payment penalty after Sept. 1, to publish the

Will County Treasurer Pat McGuire

names of property owners whose taxes are unpaid after Oct. 2, and to sell unpaid taxes on Nov. 4. “We’re doing all we can to prevent these laws from harming families who played by the rules while TBW broke them,” McGuire said.

NOTIFICATION “TBW did not call, email, or mail its customers to tell them it filed Chapter 11 on August 24 and dumped their mortgages on four other companies,” McGuire noted.

“TBW customers who called us after we put out a press release Aug. 28 said they hadn’t known their lender went belly up. The same thing happened this week after we sent late-payment reminders.” McGuire fears some TBW customers still haven’t gotten the word. “Please tell anyone you know with a TBW mortgage to see www.willcountytreasurer.com, call us at (815) 740-4675, or visit our office at 302 N. Chicago in downtown Joliet between 8:30 a.m.

NEWS and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.”

GUIDANCE Conversations with over one hundred TBW customers and Internet research have enabled McGuire and his staff to identify what steps TBW customers should take to get their property taxes paid.

“First, go to www.taylorbean.com and see who got your mortgage,” McGuire advised.

“Contact information for the companies is on our website. Then fax your property tax bill to your new mortgage company, or call us and we’ll do it for free. Keep in touch with the company, and keep good notes.”

CUTTING RED TAPE TBW had in escrow secondinstallment taxes on 1,737 Will County properties. Payment on 506 of them had reached the treasurer as of Sept. 22. McGuire’s office has put special procedures in place for quick payment by mortgage companies.

McGuire and his staff also will fast-track duplicate payment refunds: “Taxpayers understandably distrustful of TBW are paying their second-installment taxes in our office even though they already escrowed them with TBW. Few people can afford to be out a double tax payment. We’ll push refunds checks out as fast as we can.”

INFORMATION CLEARINGHOUSE McGuire and staff daily update the Taylor, Bean & Whitaker part of www.willcountytreasurer.com with links to useful information from out-of-state newspapers and TV stations, government agencies, and the mortgage companies now responsible for TBW loans. “The fog over this situation has been thick,” McGuire said, “but some light is beginning to shine through. TBW customers need to know the latest developments.”

One bright spot, according to McGuire, is the sharing of information by beleaguered Will County customers of TBW. “A man in Mokena found that the TBW fax number didn’t work and called us when he found a working number so we could put it on our website. Many taxpayers have told us their experiences, some good and some bad, with their new lenders. Others have detailed special situations like refinancing, rubber checks from TBW, and incorrect account information. We’re pulling all this information together—and thanks to Will County families pulling together, we hope this mess will be over soon.”

October 1 - October 7, 2009 - 3

Rep. Tom Cross’ Senior Fair 2009 State Representative To, Cross (R-84) and his Senior Citizen Advisory Council will hold the 2009 Senior Fair at St. Mary The Immaculate Church, 15629 S. Route 59, on Wednesday October 7th. The

Rep. Tom Cross Fair will be open from 10:00am until 1:00 pm in Cana Hall.

Booths will be available where seniors can get information on a host of topics including legal, financial, medical, and assisted living/home healthcare services. Members of Rep. Cross office will be present to answer questions related to legislative matters.

There will be a free telephone bill analysis, free blood pressure screening, free Cash Dash (Illinois Assets Search), and free admission and refreshments. Rep. Cross urges those who attend to register to win door prizes.

He said this year’s points of interest will be Medicare RX Acess Network and Insurance Education.

Seasonal flu shots will be available and seniors, who may be at high risk, are urged to protect themselves by getting their protection now before the flu is significantly upon us.

The seasonal flu shots are free for seniors who have Medicare Part B. If you wish to get your shot you must bring your social security card and Medicare Part B card.

Those with Medicare HMO must receive shots at a physician’s office.

Shots will be available for people who do not have Medicare coverage for $25.00.

Seniors should not be immunized if they are allergic to eggs, are sick, or have a fever.

St. Mary Immaculate Parish is located just north of Renwick Road.

If you have questions please contact Tom Cross’ office by calling (815) 254-0000 or you may visit his web site www.tomcross.com.

Representative Cross’s office is located at 24047 West Lockport Street, Plainfield, 60544.

`Anthony M. Bladen

Named Assistant Director of FBI Human Resources Division Anthony M. Bladen has been named Assistant Director of the FBI’s Human Resources Division.

Director Robert M. Mueller, III appointed him to this position to replace John Raucci, who was named the FBI Legal Attaché to London.

“Tony has been acting assistant director of the Human Resources Division since April, and during that time, he has initiated a number of changes to our human capital management strategy which are key to the vitality of the FBI and to its personnel,” said Director Mueller.

“I know he will carry on the division’s commitment to customer service, outreach, and partnership.”

Mr. Bladen entered on duty at the FBI as a file clerk on August 8, 1982. He has served as a fingerprint specialist, management and program analyst, supervisory management and program analyst, chief of the Financial Analysis Unit, and FBI budget officer. In 2006, he was named deputy assistant director of the Resource Planning Office (RPO), and was appointed assistant director of RPO in 2008.

As head of the Human Resources Division, Mr. Bladen will be responsible for the development and implementation of human resources programs and services, including recruitment and selection, position management, performance management, executive development and selection, employee assistance, and employee benefits.

In 2006, Mr. Bladen earned a Masters of Public Administration from American University in Washington, D.C.

Your Life

Weekly REPORTER

By Mary Jo Ardizzone Maryjo.ardizzone@edwardjones.com Edward Jones

Heads UP On Finance Put these Estate Planning Moves To Work Like everyone else, you want to leave a legacy. To make it happen, though, you need to do some estate planning. For most of us, that sounds like a scary task, but it doesn’t have to be — as long as you break it down into a few key moves.

Here, in a nutshell, are some of the broad-based moves you’ll want to consider: Communicate your wishes. When drawing up your estate plan, you can’t leave anything to chance — so you need to communicate your wishes in writing. This means you need to draw up the appropriate legal documents, such as a will and a living trust. If you die intestate (without a will), your belongings will be distributed to your “heirs” as defined by state laws — and these distributions may not be at all what you had in mind. If you want to avoid probate and possibly draw up more complex instructions —, for instance, leaving different amounts of money to different heirs at different points in their lives — you may also need to create a trust.

Protect your family. When you hear the words “estate planning,” your first thoughts may be of what you can leave behind to grown children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren. But if you develop your estate plan while your children are young — and you certainly should — you should name a guardian for them in case both you and your spouse were to die prematurely. Of course, you’ll also need to consider having the right type and amount of life insurance for survivor income and loan repayments.

Position your investments to benefit your heirs. You can arrange for some of your investments to provide significant benefits to your heirs. For example, you can stretch your IRA to extend the key benefit of IRAs — tax-deferred earnings — over a period of several years.

You should also make sure you’ve updated beneficiary designations on various accounts, such as annuities and 401(k) plans, to make sure the assets go to the right people. These designations are very important, as they can supersede even the instructions in your will.

Protect against incapacity. None of us can predict the shape of our physical and mental well-being in the years to come. But to protect your family, you’ll certainly want to be prepared for everything. That’s why you’ll want to make the appropriate arrangements, such as establishing a power of attorney and health care directive, while you’re still healthy. These types of documents will empower family members, or other people close to you, to take the necessary steps to carry out your wishes even if you become incapacitated. As with other aspects of your estate plan, however, you’ll want to review these arrangements periodically to make sure they still reflect your current thinking.

To make any of these moves — in fact, to make any moves at all related to estate planning — you’ll need to work with a team of professionals, including your tax, legal and financial advisors.

Comprehensive estate planning can be complex and time-consuming

October 1 - October 7, 2009- 4

Are 3,000 mile Oil Changes Really Necessary?

(ARA) - For years, drivers have been hearing about changing their motor oil every 3,000 miles, but times have changed, and the '3,000-mile mantra' may or may not apply to you and your car.

You should follow your car manufacturer's recommendations on oil change intervals while the car is under warranty. If your car is no longer under warranty, you can extend your oil change

The 3,000 mile oil change is a conservative approach to maintaining your vehicle that, according to General Motors, dates back to 1968. It's also an oil change interval that continues to be encouraged by the automotive oil change industry.

Automobile manufacturers cite modern oil and engine technology as the reason why oil change intervals can be extended.

Numerous factors come in to play in determining the oil change interval you should follow including: The car you drive and the way you drive it, oil and filter selection and whether your vehicle has an oil life monitoring system.

Every automobile manufacturer establishes recommended oil change intervals for each model they manufacture.

Oil change intervals are now between 5,000 and 7,500 miles for many new cars.

intervals by upgrading to synthetic motor oil. This will reduce the number of oil changes saving you time and money, and reducing the amount of oil purchased and disposed.

There are a number of quality synthetic motor oils available to choose from. Most lubricant manufacturers will give a recommended number of miles you can drive between oil changes under normal conditions. The number of miles you can allow between oil changes will depend on the way you drive and the oxidation stability (useful oil life) of the motor oil.

Oxidation stability can be measured by international standards board ASTM's rigorous Thin Film Oxidation Uptake Test (TFOUT). The test is so severe that it lasts 1,300 minutes.

Conventional motor oils typically last less than 300 minutes.

Synthetic motor oils typically last

Weekly REPORTER

Health & Safety

October 1 - October 7, 2009 - 5

Health & Wellness Protect Against Flu (ARA) - The flu seems to be top-of-mind right now for almost everyone, especially moms. And while many moms are taking extra measures this year to protect kids from both seasonal flu and H1N1, they may neglect getting their own flu shot. With kids, husbands, schools, friends, communities and employers depending on moms for so much, it's more important than ever for moms to get vaccinated against seasonal flu this year.

As many as one in five Americans ends up suffering from the flu each year and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized due to flu-related complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Most cases result in a few days in bed, which is far from rest and relaxation for the do-it-all mom.

When the flu bug bites mom, it can seriously impact the family, as she may not be able to care for the home and kids as she normally does.

"Moms today are busier than ever and the No. 1 thing they're looking for is convenience," says Dr. Lucy Crane, Walgreens

NEW LENOX BAT ADDS TO COUNTY RABIES TOTAL Joliet – A live bat found in New Lenox has become Will County’s sixth animal rabies confirmation of 2009.

Will County Animal Control was notified about a bat seen hanging from a tree branch September 23, close to a residence located in the Rivendell subdivision in unincorporated New Lenox Township . The bat was captured live, and dispatched to the Illinois Department of Public Health

corporate medical director. "A seasonal flu shot is the best protection against getting the virus and now it's quick and easy to stop by a neighborhood pharmacy like Walgreens to get one. We know the critical role moms play every day and when mom is down and out, the whole family usually suffers."

As the holiday season

there are endless feasts and festivals with family and friends.

To keep the good times rolling, roll up your sleeve for a flu shot, get plenty of rest to help keep your immune system strong and keep anti-bacterial wipes handy in kitchens and bathrooms for yourselves and guests. * Travel - Traveling is a notorious way to swap germs with

approaches, moms are reminded of the many reasons they should make time for themselves to receive a flu shot - to protect themselves and the ones they love: * Holiday celebrations - From Halloween to New Year's Eve,

strangers.

Seasonal flu vaccinations and good habits, like frequent and thorough handwashing or use of hand sanitizers, drinking plenty of water and coughing or sneezing into tissues (and then throwing them away)

laboratory complex in Chicago for testing. Rabies was confirmed September 24.

No human exposures were identified. It marks Will County’s sixth confirmed case of wildlife rabies since May 1, all involving bats.

bite of an infected warm-blooded animal. Through September 24, the state had reported at least 77 animal rabies confirmations this year. Will is one of 15 Illinois counties reporting wildlife rabies activity so far.

At least four Will County residents have received anti-rabies vaccine in the wake of potential bat exposures during 2009. More than 40 county residents have received rabies vaccine resulting from bat exposures since 2007.

Will County Animal Control continues to urge area residents to avoid any potential contact with wild animals, especially bats. All potential bat exposures should be reported to

Bat gripping captured insect Rabies is a fatal viral infection transmitted to humans through the

are the best defenses against bringing an unwanted passenger on your trip. * Job and career - Sick kids or sick moms can result in use of sick days (if you have them) or lost wages. For working moms, it's important to stay healthy and bring home the bacon, and not the flu, too. Urge co-workers to get seasonal flu shots to reduce overall risk of picking up more than a paycheck at work.

Getting a seasonal flu shot is a lot easier than it used to be, with pharmacies, clinics and even airports among those now offering this important service.

Walgreens has taken a leadership role in flu prevention, assembling a network of 16,000 certified immunizers, made up of pharmacists, physician's assistants and nurse practitioners. Seasonal flu shots are $24.99 and may be covered by insurance plans as well as Medicare Part B. For the latest information on seasonal flu and to find a local store offering seasonal flu shots, visit www.Walgreens.com/flu.

No matter how busy you are, your family and friends will thank you for arming yourself against the seasonal flu this year.

the most appropriate animal control authority as soon as possible. Will County Animal Control is available 24 hours daily at 815-462-5633.

The third annual International World Rabies Day is scheduled for September 28. The event is designed to increase awareness about a disease which still kills 100 children a day in Asia and Africa . Only one U.S. human rabies death was confirmed during 2008, but the virus was identified in more than 6,800 U.S. animals: including 471 cases involving pet cats, dogs, cattle, and horses.

For more information about World Rabies Day, visit www.worldrabiesday.org.

Weekly REPORTER

NATIONAL NEWS

October 1- October 7, 2009 - 6

the bomb exploded,' he recalls. 'As I was in the air I remember thinking, 'I don't believe they got me...' I was just ticked off they were able to do Fall Out For Reveille it. Then I was lying on the road, not able to feel anything from the waist down' His colleagues cut off his trousers to see how badly he was hurt.

Ralph LaPorte None could believe his legs were still there 'My dad's a Vietnam vet Rlaporte@theweeklyreporter.com who's paralyzed from the waist down,' says Sgt Burghardt. 'I was lying there thinking I didn't want to be in a wheelchair next to my dad and for him to see me like that. They started to “He stood and gave cut away my pants and I felt a real sharp pain the insurgents who and blood trickling down. Then I wiggled toes and I thought, 'Good, I'm in had blown him up my business.' As a stretcher was brought over, Leading the fight is Gunnery Sgt Michael Burghardt, known as a one-fingered salute.” adrenaline and anger kicked in. 'I decided 'Iron Mike' or just 'Gunny'.. He is on his to walk to the helicopter. I wasn't going to third tour in Iraq . He had become a legend let my te am-mates see me being carried in the bomb disposal world after winning away on a stretcher.' He stood and gave the the Bronze Star for disabling 64 IEDs and insurgents who had blown him up a onedestroying 1,548 pieces of ordnance during fingered salute. 'I flipped them one. It was his second tour. like, 'OK, I lost that round but I'll be back Then, on September 19, he got blown next week'.' up. He had arrived at a chaotic scene after Copies of a photograph depicting his a bomb had killed four US soldiers. He defiance, taken by Jeff Bundy for the, chose not to wear the bulky bomb Omaha World-Herald, adorn the walls of protection suit. 'You can't react to any homes across America and that of Col John sniper fire and you get tunnel-vision,' he Gronski, the brigade commander in explains. So, protected by just a helmet and Ramadi, who has hailed the image as an standard-issue flak jacket, he began what exemplar of the warri or spirit. bomb disposal officers term 'the longest Copies of a photograph depicting his walk', stepping gingerly into a 5 foot deep defiance, taken by Jeff Bundy for the and 8 Foot wide crater.

Omaha World-Herald, adorn the walls of homes across America and The earth shifted slightly and he saw a Senao base station with a that of Col John Gronski, the brigade commander in Ramadi, who has wire leading from it. He cut the wire and used his 7 inch knife to probe hailed the image as an exemplar of the warri or spirit. the ground. 'I found a piece of red detonating cord between my legs,' Sgt Burghardt's injuries - burns and wounds to his legs and buttocks he says. 'That's when I knew I was screwed..' Realizing he had been - kept him off duty for nearly a month and could have earned him a sucked into a trap, Sgt Burghardt, 35, yelled at everyone to stay back. ticket home. But, like his father - who was awarded a Bronze Star and At that moment, an insurgent, probably watching through binoculars, three Purple Hearts for being wounded in action in Vietnam - he stayed pressed a button on his mobile phone to detonate the secondary device in Ramadi to engage in the battle against insurgents who are forever below the sergeant's feet 'A chill went up the back of my neck and then coming up with more ingenious ways of killing Americans.

Meet One Helluva Soldier

Halvorson Presents Flag, Resolution, to Local American Legion Post (JOLIET) American Legion Post 1080 in Joliet was the site of Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson’s (IL-11) recent announcement of a Congressional resolution declaring September 16 as American Legion Day. Greeted this past Saturday by Post Commander Andy Hinch and nearly 50 Legionnaires and guests, the Congresswoman also presented a flag of the United States recently flown over the U. S. Capitol.

The event was a celebration of the recent passage of House Resolution 679, a bipartisan

resolution sponsored by Halvorson, veterans, it was a privilege to supporting the goals and ideals of introduce this resolution in the House of Representatives and have it pass American Legion Day. “It was wonderful to be with the unanimously.” folks at American Legion Post 1080 to formally announce the passage of this resolution, said Halvorson, who is the only Illinois member on the House Veterans Affairs Committee.

“With nearly 3 million members and 15,000 Posts nationwide, the American Legion Congresswoman Halvorson, Post Commander Andy is not only greatly Hinch. Trustee Bob Sleyko looks on in background. respected as an organization, but is critical to our Charted by Congress in 1919 as work on behalf of veterans and their a patriotic, wartime veteran’s issues.

With my ongoing organization, the American Legion commitment to the military and is a not-for-profit community service

organization that is based on the four pillars of a strong national security, veteran’s affairs, Americanism, and youth programs - and plays a significant role in the establishment of national legislation.

A similar resolution introduced by Sen. Olympia Snowe, R-Maine passed the Senate Rep. Halvorson (D-IL) on Sept. 11.

For more information on American Legion Day or the Halvorson’s work with veterans call her Washington D.C. office at 202225-3635.For informa tion on the 11th Congressional District in Illinois or sign up for Rep. Halvorson’s enewsletter go to http://halvorson.house.gov.

Weekly REPORTER

Candy Crafts - A Sweet Way To Spend Family Time (ARA) - With school in session, weekends become the best opportunity for quality time with your kids. Whether you're taking your family to the park or spending a day around the house, you can easily fill the time by planning several simple, budget-friendly, doit-yourself activities. Ideal for indoor or outdoor time, these activities go a long way in creating memories without doing a number on your budget.

Theme day The cost to take the family to a baseball game, amusement park or museum adds up quickly. Think thrifty and save on the admission fees by organizing a craft day around the theme of your favorite family outing (think aquarium, ballpark and carnival). For example, bringing the enjoyment of America's favorite pastime to your living room or backyard is easy when you buy several plain cotton baseball caps, tube socks (they only cost a dollar or two each) and T-shirt paint. Use the materials to let your kids personalize baseball apparel and then suit-up, grab some peanuts and gather the group to play catch in the backyard, for an impromptu tournament on your favorite gaming system or to catch a double-header on the tube.

It's a ballpark outing for a fraction of the cost.

Education Matters

Have your candy and craft with it too Most families make weekly (if not more frequent) trips to the grocery store, so turn your next routine trip into the beginning of a new project by strolling down the candy aisle. "The grocer's candy aisle

has a collection of candy in virtually every color and shape, which means endless crafting possibilities," explains candy expert Beth Kimmerle. "Candy is tasty and fun for kids of all ages, and is an affordable tool for crafting."

Start by making candy jewelry.

It is a perfect activity for your princess, but also trendy for your prince given the popularity of sports necklaces and bracelets for boys and girls. Gather an assortment of brightly colored Life Savers Gummies, tie a knot in a piece of ribbon to keep your candy from slipping, and thread your "jewels" onto the necklace. Once you have a full string, adjust the candy so there are equal amounts of ribbon on each side. Tie knots on each end to finish and voila, you've got the trendiest kid on the block. While you are lending a hand, don't forget that gummy candy is a yummy treat while crafting. Who knew jewelry could be so inexpensive and tasty?

Treasure your trash Next time you start to throw away packaging, leftover candy or

craft items, stop and envision these items as your next treasure and creatively think of ways to reuse them. Re-using the items helps you to be less wasteful, while also saving you money and giving you "gems" to finish your crafts with a unique touch.

If your kids love trucks, drum-up some fun on a weekend and help them create something fabulous on four wheels from common items found around the house. Try the following simple exercise and in no time you'll be watching your kids proudly race their handmade creations across the kitchen floor or back porch.

To make a truck you will need: Egg carton Berry basket Craft paint and paintbrush Scissors or craft knife Twine Glue Cardboard Colored paper Gum foil 4 Hubba Bubba Sour Gummi Tape packages 5 Hubba Bubba Glop packages 2 Life Savers candies 4 Altoids mints Instructions Note: Cutting with sharp implements should only be done by adults.

Using an Exacto blade or sharp scissors, cut a 3-inch by 2-inch front window area from the berry box.

Paint the egg carton orange to use as a truck body and paint the berry box white to use as a truck cab. While those parts are drying, paint your four empty Hubba Bubba Sour Gummi Tape packages black for truck wheels.

October 1 - October 7, 2009 - 7 Cut a 6-inch by 4-inch piece of cardboard and glue the same size piece of orange craft paper to the top.

Next, to make the truck's load, stack the six empty Hubba Bubba Glop packages and glue them onto the orange board. Tie twine around the board as straps, tightly securing twine at the bottom of the board.

Now, glue the finished load onto the back of the egg box.

Glue Life Savers candies for lights below the front window area

of the white-painted berry box and glue the finished cab to the front of the egg box. When the wheels are dry, glue 2-inch silver circles with smaller red 1/8-inch foil circles on top of the painted Hubba Bubba Sour Gummi Tape packages and glue Altoids in the middle to finish the wheels.

Finally, glue the wheels evenly to the bottom of the egg carton truck.

Let them dry completely and then go have fun.

NEWS

Weekly REPORTER

Gets Over 10 Years for Soliciting “CustomMade” Preteen Porno Received 4,069 Images ofSexual Abuse of Infants and Children to 14 Years Old GREENBELT, MD—U.S. District Judge Roger W. Titus sentenced Jonathan Clark, age 30, of Greenbelt, Maryland, today to 121 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for receiving child pornography, announced United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein. Clark was taken into custody immediately to begin serving his sentence. Judge Titus

U.S. Atty. Rod J. Rosenstein

also ordered that upon his release from prison, Clark be required to register as a sex offender in the place where he resides, where he is an employee, and where he is a student.

According to his plea agreement, Clark responded to a U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s undercover online operation in March of 2007, requesting a custom-made movie of children having sex. Clark sent two e-mails detailing how two “girls,” ages 8

October 1 - October 7, 2009 - 8

and 11, were to be sexually assaulted for his movie. Clark also ordered a pre-made movie in which a 7-year-old girl was raped.

Clark mailed his payment. While awaiting his requested videos, Clark sent another e-mail asking for websites to view for pictures until he received his movies.

On July 6, 2007, law enforcement agents delivered two DVDs containing child pornography to Clark’s parents’ residence, as requested by Clark.

Agents searched, with court authorization, the parents’ home as well as Clark’s. Agents seized 4,069 images and videos found on Clark’s work computer documenting the sexual abuse of children, whose ages range from infants to 14 years old.Clark’s collection included sadomasochistic images that involved, among other things, the bondage of children and the sexual penetration of infants.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat

the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.D etails about Maryland’s program are available at http://www.usdoj.gov/usao/md/S afe-Childhood/index.html.

United States Attorney Rod J. Rosenstein praised the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Immigration, Customs and Enforcement for their investigation. Mr. Rosenstein thanked Asst. U.S. Attorneys Stacy Dawson Belf , Bryan E. Foreman, who prosecuted the case.

Lockport Couple Attends Home Business Conference

the science behind Reliv nutritional supplements.

"Nearly all of our distributors work from home, and our conference provides them an opportunity to learn ways to improve their businesses from our most successful distributors," said Ryan Montgomery, executive vice president of worldwide sales.

Reliv International is a direct selling company that develops and markets nutritional supplements, including essential nutrition, weight loss, performance enhancement, women's health, digestive health and anti-aging products. Reliv distributors sell the supplements directly to consumers.

For more information about the Reliv International products or business opportunity, contact Thomas and Frances Marie Shanahan at 773-762-9589.

Lockport, IL (Grassroots Newswire) September 24, 2009 -Lockport residents Thomas and Frances Marie Shanahan, independent distributors for Reliv International, picked up valuable ideas for building their Reliv business during the company's International Conference recently in St. Louis from August 13 - 15.

During the conference, some of Reliv's top distributors taught attendees ways to strengthen their home-based businesses and help new distributors launch their Reliv businesses successfully.

Conference workshop topics focused on the Reliv Success System, building a healthy Reliv business and how to gain momentum in a Reliv business.

Another workshop shed light on

Editor’s Note:The Better Business Bureau advises that you check the background and performance records of any business that extends an opportunity to you that requires an investment.

NEWS

Weekly REPORTER

Council Candidate Admits Extorting Cash for Influence NEWARK—James P. King, who was an unsuccessful candidate for Jersey City Council(Ward C), and the former executive director of the Jersey City Parking Authority, former chairman of the Jersey City Incinerator Authority and a former Hudson County undersheriff, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to commit extortion, admitting he accepted corrupt cash payments from a cooperating witness in return for exercising his future official assistance in favor of the cooperating witness, Acting U.S. Attorney Ralph J. Marra, Jr., announced.

King, 67, who previously headed the Jimmy King Civic Association, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares to a one-count criminal Information that charges him with conspiracy to commit extortion under color of official right.

Judge Linares continued King’s release on a $25,000 bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for Jan. 5.

At his p l e a hearing, K i n g admitted t h a t between March 2009 and May 2009, w h i l e seeking to win a seat James P. King on the Jersey City council, he accepted two corrupt cash payments from a cooperating witness (“CW”). King admitted that the payments were in exchange for him exercising his future official assistance, as an anticipated member of the city

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council. King agreed that he would use his future city council position to assist the CW in obtaining certain development approvals for a purported development project, on Garfield Avenue in Jersey City, in return for the bribe payments. King further admitted that he had agreed to accept an additional corrupt cash payment from the CW after the election.

King’s guilty plea stems from a two-track undercover FBI investigation into political corruption and international money laundering which resulted in the charging of fortyfour individuals via criminal Complaints on July 23.

“Mr. King’s admission of guilt is another positive step on the public corruption side of this investigation,” said Marra. “While the investigation is progressing as expected, we still have plenty of work to do and we will press on accordingly.”

“Although we are pleased with the outcome in the case against Mr. King, we cannot declare victory in our fight against public corruption,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Weysan Dun. “We continue to ask the public to contact us with

October 1 - October 7, 2009- 9 information about corruption, no matter how insignificant one may think it is. We will treat every lead with confidentiality and urgency.”

The charge to which King pleaded guilty carries a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. As part of King’s guilty plea he agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $7,500.

In determining an actual sentence, Judge Linares will consult the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which recommend sentencing ranges that take into account the severity and characteristics of the offenses, the defendants’ criminal histories, if any, and other factors, including acceptance of responsibility. The judge, however, has discretion and is not bound by those guidelines in determining a sentence.

Parole has been abolished in the federal system. Defendants who are given custodial terms must serve nearly all of that time.

Marra credited Special Agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Weysan Dun, and the IRS Criminal

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Somethin’s Cookin’

Weekly REPORTER

Somethin’s Cookin’

Roni "Dinner Wizard" at www.ricearoni.com. Mushroom Beef & Rice Skillet may sound complicated, but the ingredients required are likely sitting in most kitchens right now. Whether trying something new or making a tried-and-true recipe for your family, a value-friendly meal solution will instantly add flavor.

Mushroom Beef & Rice Skillet Preparation time: 15 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Recipe yield: four servings

Online Tools Can Make The Most Of Your Meals (ARA) - Recipe and foodrelated Web sites have recently exploded in popularity, in part due to consumers who have cut back on dining out. Online resources like AllRecipes.com and TasteofHome.com have experienced a 10 percent rise in traffic, with more cooks searching by ingredient rather than by

recipe, according to a 2009 eMarketer study.

The Internet is full of recommendations for inspirational meals, suggestions for planning dinners in advance, or tips on everything from organizing and sharing recipes to calculating ingredient quantities.

Here are some places to get started, even if it's 5 p.m. and everyone's asking, "What's for dinner?"

"The Dinner Wizard" from Rice-a-Roni: Transform the staples in your pantry into a delicious meal with the Rice-A-

Ingredients 1 package (6.8ounces) Rice A Roni Beef 1/2 pound 90 percent lean ground beef 1 cup sliced mushrooms 2 medium garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup chopped red pepper 1/2 cup corn, fresh or frozen 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onion (optional) Directions Prepare Beef Rice A Roni according to package directions.

Meanwhile, in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, mushrooms and garlic about two minutes. Stir in red pepper. Continue cooking four to six minutes or until beef is

CONCERT SEASON TO OPEN

Great Mexican Dishes Served by A Warm, Friendly Staff

The 2009-2010 Concert Season of St. John the Evangelist Episcopal Church in Lockport will open on October 11, 2009 at 3:00 pm, with a concert by "Stay Tuned String Band." The concert is free of charge, and there will be a reception in the parish hall following the concert. St. John Church is located on the corner of Washinton and 11th Streets in Lockport.

"Stay Tuned String Band" is a group of local musicians that specializes in Southern Gospel,

October 1 - October 7- 10 cooked through and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.

Combine beef mixture with cooked rice-vermicelli mixture; stir in corn and let stand two minutes. Garnish with green onion, if desired.

Nutritional information Calories 330, calories from Fat 100, total fat 11 grams, saturated fat 3 grams, trans fat less than 1 gram, cholesterol 35 milligrams, sodium 810 milligrams, total carbohydrate 41 grams, dietary fiber 3 grams, sugars 4 grams, protein 17 grams Recipe organizer: Get rid of those recipe cards hidden around the kitchen and organize recipes in one place such as WeGottaEat.com. This online social network is home to thousands of members who share new recipes daily. It's a great tool to ensure you'll always have fresh ideas and a digital place to keep them handy.

Online recipe quantity calculator: Ever find yourself estimating quantities when it comes to halving or expanding a recipe? Visit HalfRecipe.com to use a convenient tool that automatically converts quantities of each ingredient.

Old-Time and Traditional Folk Music played on Dulcimers, guitar, banjo, mandolin, autoharp, and tea chest bass, with a smattering of lies, exaggerations and foolishness.

They bill themselves as a group of friends who aim for harmony both on and off stage. The band, formed in 1966, plays libraries, senior centers, churches, coffee houses, outdoor summer stages and fund raising events. Their principal objectives are to have fun and make nice sounds.

Members are Dan Knutson (guitar, mandoline and jaw harp); Jenny Skul (guitar, fretted dulcimer, autoharp, and harmonica); Linda Nachtrieg (guitar, banjo, hammered and fretted dulcimers, bowed psaltery); and, Bob Nachtrieb (emcee, tea chest bass).

Weekly REPORTER

Top 10 Pet Health Tips For The Holidays (ARA) Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, New Year's Eve and Kwanzaa - no matter what you're celebrating, pet owners need to remember to keep

Family Living their pets safe and healthy for the holidays.

"Veterinarians often see an uptick in the number of problematic calls during the holiday season," explains Dr. Larry R. Corry, AVMA president. "Whether it's an exposure to chocolate or fatty foods or pets upset due to unexpected guests or costumed visitors late at night, the holidays can present problems for pets. The AVMA urges all pet owners to include the health and safety of their pets in any plans for the holidays."

Here are the AVMA's top 10 pet tips for holiday safety: 1. Be wary of holiday decorations; pets often consume them. "The animal raids the Christmas tree, for example, and this can be unhealthy for the pet and very upsetting for the pet owners," explains Corry. "If they consume enough tinsel or other decorations, it can cause a blockage that requires surgery."

2 .

Flowers are another common holiday feature that can result in a n emergency v i s i t .

Poinsettias, Amaryllis a n d

September 10- September 16, 2009 - 11

mistletoe are on the list of common holiday plants that can be dangerous and even poisonous to house pets who decide to eat them, Corry says.

3. Just like people, some pets are better at dealing with houseguests than others. If you know your pet has a problem with visitors, work with your veterinarian for solutions. For severe problems, your veterinarian may recommend medications or even boarding the animal.

4. Don't let your pet climb the Christmas tree. If the tree falls over, your pet could be injured. Consider tying the tree to the ceiling or a doorframe using fishing line.

5. Cover Christmas tree water to keep animals from drinking it. The sap from live Christmas trees can make your pet sick.

6. Many people believe that people food makes good treats for their pets, but this isn't the case.

Many common ingredients in a holiday feast - like onions, garlic, chocolate and artificial sweeteners are poisonous to pets. And dogs that consume an excessive amount of fatty foods, by cleaning a turkey carcass pulled from the trash, for example, can develop a lifethreatening condition called pancreatitis.

7. Whether they are Halloween candies or Christmas chocolate, keep sweets out of your pet's reach, particularly while you're out. A pet that consumes chocolates while you're away at work, for example, might be too sick for your veterinarian to save by the time you get home.

8. Unplug decorations while you're not around. Cats and dogs are often tempted to chew electrical cords.

9. Keep any gift that includes human food out of a pet's reach. With their sensitive sense of smell, dogs and cats can find those wrapped

treats and open them when you're not around.

10. Candles are a common part of many holiday celebrations. Make sure that you keep lit candles out of a pet's reach, because the animal could light themselves, or your home, on fire.

The AVMA offers a great deal of information on its Web site, www.avma.org, including a free brochure on common household hazards and a free video about common household poisons.

LIFE

Weekly REPORTER

FROM THE LIPS OF JOHN CAPPAS In all, the federal prosecutors requested and were granted three continuances. It was a lesson in patience as I sat there month after month waiting, never knowing if I would ever get back into court.

Finally I had the word, the federal court in Chicago, where I was convicted agreed to give me a hearing on the basis of my pleadings in the 28 USC 2255 petition I filed through my attorney.

Now, in case you missed it earlier, a 2255 is really a law, that’s it just a law. It stands for a federal law that gives prisoners the right to ask the court to look at things they believe are wrong with their sentences.

After all those long hours reading the books in the prison law library I was convinced the judge would have to cut my sentence if I got a chance to be heard in court.

That opportunity came and I went back to court in Chicago.

You have to understand something. After I got locked up and I was actually doing time with some people who are really in their own world, I opened my eyes and I started to get a really good picture of what and who I am.

I knew I was no dummy. When I went to school I was pretty sharp. I started to rebel because I didn’t want to go to Marist High School where my dad wanted me to go. He only wanted me to go there because he wanted me to get a good education that would prepare me for college. I didn’t see it that way; I wanted to go to a co-ed school where there were girls. Marist, at that time, was strictly for guys.

But the sh-t I had to put up with in Lewisburg Federal Penitentiary was enough to make me know I was not really like the guys who were killing, stabbing people, and raping guys. It made me see that while I was part of the lowest kind of business in the world, selling drugs, I still was a whole world apart from some of the slime balls you meet up with in prison.

October 1 - October 7, 2009 - 12

John Cappas

The government was arguing hard against me in court. They said even if I was right on some points in my 2255, the rules did not allow me to argue those points for the first time in my motion from prison. They said I should have brought them up first in court, and in my appeal, but not in the petition I had filed from Lewisburg.

The court agreed with me. The court saw that the majority of other courts in the federal system that heard similar complaints about sentencing agreed with me. That was a real ringer.

The judge agreed with me and he cut my sentence from 45 years to 19

plus another 5 year sentence to follow. The government was going to take that without a battle so they appealed the judge’s decision to the federal appeals court in Chicago. But that court, the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, upheld the judge.

I finally went back to prison with a sentence of 20 years instead of the 45 years I had when I left prison to go to court.

Don’t kid yourself. Twenty f--king years is a long time—a big chunk out of anyone’s life. But I made certain I didn’t waste it.

Remember, I said I was discovering some things about myself. I never appreciated how smart I am. I never

realized that I can do anything I want to do because I learned one very important thing in my life. I learned how to read.

Remember that, don’t forget it. I discovered that being able to read was the most important thing I ever did in my life—in or out of prison.

Remember, it was reading Bruce Lee’s book that helped me defeat that Black Belt guy who everybody figured would lay me out. But, after reading Bruce Lee’s book I prepared myself for that fight. It gave me special mental tools I needed to win and I did.

Silverstein Kills A Correctional Officer The two officers, William McClellan and John Mahan, continued to escort Silverstein back to his cell They seemed to not sense anything wrong when convict John Campbell called to Officer Merle Clutts asking to speak with him.

As Silverstein strolled back to his cell flanked by the officers he stopped at the cell of another convict,

Killer Thomas Silverstein Randy Gometz, and began chatting with him. The guards did not interfere although such contact was prohibited by the prison rules.

What they did not know was that Gometz had a prison made for the cuffs and he quickly unlocked them for Silverstein. Gometz had tucked a prison shank beneath his shirt. That too was a part of Silverstein’s plan.

He grabbed the knife and turned toward the guards. The saw the knife and shouted warnings that Silverstein had it.

Silverstein shouted that he was out to get Officer Clutts and moved in that direction.

Officer Clutts had unwittingly allowed himself to be trapped just as Silverstein had plotted to do. He had allowed himself to become isolated from help; he was alone at the end of the gallery. Silverstein was moving swiftly toward him and there was little he could do to defend himself from this angry killer.

Clutts tried to fend off the knife blows by raising his arms before him but Silverstein avoided them and plunged the shank into Clutts’ stomach.

Silverstein stabbed and stabbed and stabbed Clutts. Despite his wounds Clutts managed to break away and go to the opposite end of the tier where McClellan and Mahan were waiting behind the barred gate.

Silverstein was close behind and as

Clutts dropped to the floor before the gate Silverstein was quickly on top of him striking him repeatedly with the knife.

McClellan reached through the bars with his baton and managed to deliver a blow to Silvertein’s head that forced him backward. He and Mahan then opened the gate and pulled Clutts to safety behind the gate which they quickly closed.

Silverstein, left without a target, returned to his cell.

Officer Clutts died from the wounds delivered by Silverstein, forty of them in all.

The authorities could do little to punish Silverstein for Clutts death other than to further isolate him. He was transferred to the Federal Prison at Atlanta, Georgia.

Silverstein continued his isolated life at Atlanta and was kept in “no human contact” custody. Atlanta was, along with Leavenworth, a detention center for thousands of Cuban prisoners who had been released from prison in Cuba by Fidel Castro. The group comprised convicts, and mentally ill persons Castro wanted to be rid of. So he simply freed them an permitted them to flee to the United States where they were greeted by authorities and

Weekly REPORTER

Your Life

October 2- October 7 2009 - 13

The Summer Adventure Part 17

Ask Lindsey Dear Lindsey: I’m heartbroken. Jason and I are married. About 9 months after we were married I found out he was seeing an old girlfriend when he was supposed to be working overtime. A friend told me he was meeting his old girlfriend after work and they would go to a bar. I ignored it for awhile and when he kept coming home late I parked by the bar and sure enough the old girlfriend came and went inside. Jason showed up in a few minutes and went in. I went to the door and looked inside and they were sitting at a table drinking and holding hands. I confronted them and he swore that was the first time they were out together and he promised he’d never do it again. Now it seems like he is doing it again but with a different girl, somebody he works with. I watched them to a bar together where they drank and shot pool. I’m hurt and I’m mad. I’m ready to leave him. What do you think?

Dear What Do You Think: You were gracious and forgiving when you gave him a second chance the first time. Jason not only is cheating on you again, he is doing it after he promised you he would never do it again. So, he lied to you when he said he was working overtime; he lied to you when he promised he would not do it again, and he cheated on you a second time and you caught him doing it. In my books there is nothing to think about—three strikes and you’re out. Get rid of him. History says he will not change. He is like an abuser who promises the world for the moment but forgets it all when his emotions are stimulated. Maybe next time, if there is a next time, you’ll find someone who will be honest with you.

Dear Lindsey: I thought I would surprise my boyfriend and bake a pie for him, just as a surprise. We share an apartment and we both work but I get home about an hour and a half before he does. So I thought it would be nice to bake something real nice. Well, I never made a pie before so I made a real mess of it. Everything was ruined and just as I was cleaning up and going to throw my mistake in the garbage my boyfriend came in.

He got real mad when he saw the table with flour all over it and pans and everything all over. I told him I was just trying to bake a pie for him and he called me stupid and threw everything all over the kitchen.

He said I am an idiot who can’t do anything but waste money. Then he went out. He slammed the door and he didn’t come home until real late and when he did he was drunk. I need advice.

Dear I Need Advice: I suspect you are a only telling me part of the story. I don’t think this is the first time he has lost his temper with you. If I am right my advice is pack your things and get out of there. Anyone who loses his temper and throws things around is not in control of himself and he has all the earmarks of an abuser. Such men (or women) do not get better they continue to become worse with each incident. At first the abuse is only verbal and it escalates into physical abuse and sometimes murder. There have recently been a number of cases involving murders where there had never been physical abuse only verbal insults. Leave him while you can and learn from the experience.

Please include your telephone number with your letter.

Kimmy ran just as fast as she was able to run. She slipped once but managed to stay on her feet and laughed at her own missteps while crying tears of happiness for Andy.

Andy was surrounded and beamed a broad grin as he did his best to return hugs to his family.

“Whoa, here comes the rain again,” Grandfather warned.

The Sky which had begun to lighten was again turning dark gray with ominous looking clouds moving swiftly across it. Down came the rain again, in torrents.

Grandmother, mother and Kimmy made a dash for the van and quickly climbed inside and out of the rain.

Grandfather and Father remained just inside the old mine with Andy.

“Dad, we have to get Hank out. What can I do to help?” Andy, leaned slightly forward, his hands opened wide, and his arms outstretched.

Father had the rope in his hands.

He did not answer. He hurriedly wrapped the end of it around another small log to make it easier to toss down to Hank.

“Hank,” Andy called loudly.

“My dad is ready to throw the rope down so stand back, it has a log tied to it.”

“Come on with it lad,” Hank shouted back, “I’m ready as I’ll ever be.”

“Here we go,” Father said as he cast the rope down the opening.

“Okay! Okay! I’ve got ‘er all right,” Hank answered back.

Hank carefully wrapped the rope around his chest and under his arms then gripped the rope tightly with both hands.

Father was back in the van. The rope was still tied to it. He applied the gas and the rope tightened and then began to move upward.

Grandfather peered down and watched below. Finally he saw Hank coming into view.

“Easy does it Father,” Andy called to him. “He’s near the top now.”

In a couple of seconds Hank’s feet were braced against the side of

John Gabriel Award Winning writer Jgabriel@theweeklyreporter.com

the hole and he rose out of it and onto the muddy ground that surrounded it.

Grandfather, gazed at him momentarily and extended his hand to Hank, “I’m Andy’s Grandfather, everyone calls me Grandpa or Grandfather cause my son and I have the same name, Alben, but we call him Al for short.

“Well Sir, I’m mighty glad to know you,” Hank chuckled as he shook hands. “That Andy feller you got there is quite a lad he is. Yes siree, he’s really one brave boy.” He looked affectionately at Andy.

Grandfather shook Hank’s hand gingerly and turned as he sensed Father approaching them. “ A l , ” Grandfather greeted him, “This is Hank, Andy’s new friend.”

They shook hands. “Thank you for helping my boy Hank. We really appreciate it. All of us.”

“Well now I really didn’t do much. That boy of yours is one brave lad I tell ye. But I do owe all of you an awful lot of gratitude. Why who knows how long I’d a been down there if you hadn’t hoisted me out of there. Come to think of it I think it’s all really sort of odd you know. I mean if Andy hadn’t come into that mine to fetch that old helmet he wouldn’t a been trapped down there with me. Then I would a been down there alone and no one would a known to come for me. So I’m very grateful I am, not only for both of you pulling me up, but also for Andy being there with me.”

Grandfather removed the soiled red cap from his head and ran his fingers through his thinning, fine, gray hair. “Come to think of it I guess you’re right Hank. By golly, it’s almost like it was something just meant to be.”

“You betcha…” Hank paused briefly, “ah..Grandpa.”

They laughed heartily at Hank’s awkwardness and he laughed with them.

Then Kimmy Called, “Andy where is the helmet?”

Continued next week

NEWS

Weekly REPORTER

October 1- October 7, 2009 - 14

DEMS FIRST ANNUAL JEFFERSON JACKSON DINNER The Will County Democrats turned out in big numbers on Friday September 25th for their Jefferson & Jackson Celebration Dinner. The affair, which attracted Democratic heavy hitters from many areas of the state, was officially scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm but it was closer to 8:00 pm when the guests sat down to dine.

No one seemed to mind as the huge crowd visited and sipped on cold drinks in the interim. State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias was one of the early arrivals but many were disappointed that Governor Pat Quinn failed to make it.

Will County Executive Lawrence Walsh circulated freely about the huge ballroom chatting, shaking hands and greeting the many people to filled the room. As usual he was everywhere at once.

Obviously it is impossible to name everyone of some notability due to the large number of guests but County Treasurer Pat McGuire was present along States Attorney James

Glasgow and of his course, his right hand man, Chuck Pelkie.

The Illinois Supreme Court was represented by His Honor Mr. Justice Thomas Kilbride who as always was just a delightful presence. Unless you happen to be familiar with Justice Kilbride it is possible to chat with him and never realize what a significant position he holds in the judiciary.

Justice Kilbride presides over the Illinois 3rd Supreme Court District and is therefore one of the very important decision makers within the state. Justice Kilbride is a mild mannered man who wears his importance quite well. It is clear that he understands the meaning of humility.

The keynote speaker of the evening was Joliet’s own State Senator A.J. Wilhelmi whose mere presence at an event can create enthusiasm. It was he who announced the brief delay in commencing dinner.

Nate Romeo Pres. NAACP

Scott––- Cong. Cand.

Rich Kelly Orland Twsp Assessor

County Treasurer Pat McGuire

Justice Thomas Kilbride, Beth Ann May, Board Member John Anderson

Larry Walsh Cnty Exec, Tom Brisbane Party Treas. Jim Glasgow States Attorney

State Treas. Alexi Giannoulias And Joe Kral Frankfort Assessor elect

Joliet Councilwoman Jan Quillman

Pete Piazza Sheriff Cand.

And Matt Ryan,

Diane Nyman Vice -Chair

Chris Lunningham

Tom Braxton, Secretary.

Tim Gafney Cnty Chair Doug.....

Sen. A.J. Wilhelmi

Chuck Pelkie Glasgow Spokeman

Denise Winfrey Will BD Member

Richard Girot Sheriff Cand.

Senator Wilhelmi, whether he realized it or not, demonstrated that he is a man willing to practice what we are being told to do—to ward off an attack of the flu. Upon leaving the stage after he advised that dinner would be served a bit late, the Senator just happened to sneeze.

Now that may not be a really notable happening but that he immediately dashed off to the washroom to cleanse his hands. He was heard to say as he departed, “I just sneezed and I have to wash my hands, I don’t want to spread any germs.”

Habitually we dedicate space to providing the names of the most notable people present but it is equally important to pay honor to the fine people who work behind the scenes with little or no accolades for their efforts.

So we tip our hats to the fourteen fine volunteers to worked hard to physically put everything in proper order prior to the opening of the doors and to the eight members of the Dinner Committee who made certain that everything was carefully coordinated and planned for.

There was one very special attendee who must be mentioned.

That is Diane Nyman someone who

has nothing but blue blood in her veins and who has supported the Democratic Party throughout her voting life. Diane worked especially hard during the 2004 Campaign when a young Barrack Obama was vying for the position of Senator.

Diane along with Chris Lunnigham ran a election campaign effort that was truly outstanding under the leadership of then Will County Democratic Chairman George Mushrow.

Diane was her same bubbly personable self when she made her entrance into the hall. She beamed her usual big smile and had hugs for everyone as though she hasn’t care in the world.

Her enthusiasm is especially important because Diane was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last year. That has not seemed to get in her way as she exudes the same ambitious spirit she has been known for throughout her active democratic lifetime.

Only the best is wished for Diane; she has always been a good friend and someone who naturally does her best—ALWAYS.

Oil Changes Continued from page 4

less than 500 minutes. One high performance synthetic motor oil, Royal Purple has been shown to outlast the duration of the test.

Royal Purple motor oils are recommended to extend oil changes intervals to as much as 12,000 miles under normal driving conditions. The motor oil has also been shown to improve fuel economy. You can find out more at www.royalpurple.com.

If you elect to upgrade your motor oil, you should also upgrade your oil filter. Low quality filters are often made with the 3,000 mile interval in mind and may go into 'bypass' mode shortly thereafter. There are a number of premium oil filters on the market from manufacturers such as Wix, Purolator and Royal Waxweiler Continued from front page

delivery of the chip box from Florida toLockport.

CBS 2 News in cooperation with Andy Shaw, Executive Director of the Better Government Association said the Waxweiler incident is merely the tip of the iceberg and it has got to stop.

According to figures assembled

by CBS 2 News there are at least 180,000 publicly owned vehicles that are being driven home. There report alleges that there is a great deal of tax dollar waste that results when public employees use public vehicles for their personal use.

In the case of Waxweiler, he responded that both he and his wife have their own personal vehicles that are used for their personal use.

Andy Shaw said, “Tell us who needs a take home car, so we can tell all the people who don’t need them to give them back, and give us refunds and lower our taxes.”

According to CBS 2 there are at least 20,000 government vehicles U-plates registered to the state of Illinois, and 1,806 of them are take-home cars. They estimate the cost to taxpayers could be as much as $10.6 million dollars per year.

CBS 2 and BGA will continue to investigate this tax dollar waste.

NEWS Purple. Check the recommended filter change interval on any filter your purchase.

A fairly new technology impacting oil change intervals is the 'oil life monitor.' Many people are unaware that oil life monitor systems are simply computer software algorithms that determine when to change oil based on engine operating conditions. An oil life monitor looks at mileage, speed and idling time to calculate when you should change the oil. A better name for the oil life monitor might be 'oil life predictor.'

There is no actual oil condition sensor or a chemical analysis of the oil. In fact, you could drain the oil and replace it with any fluid and the oil change monitor would have no way of knowing it. Additionally, the oil

October 1- October 7, 2009 - 15

life monitor does not monitor how well your oil filter is filtering the oil in your system. Contaminated oil is just as, if not more harmful than oxidized motor oil. The bottom line is that an oil life monitor is a useful tool that should be used in concert with common sense and good judgment.

Whether or not you have an oil change monitor, if your car is still under warranty, stick with the car manufacturer's recommended oil change intervals. If your car is no longer under warranty, you can go beyond the typical 3,000 mile oil change or beyond the oil change monitor's recommendations by upgrading to a high performance synthetic motor oil and high performance oil filter.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY SPAGHETTI DINNER The New Lenox Area Historical Society invites friends and families to their "all you can eat" spaghetti dinner Wednesday, October 14 from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Harry E. Anderson VFW Post 9545, 323 Old Hickory Road, New Lenox.

In addition to the delicious spaghetti dinner, there will be a silent auction featuring items and gifts donated by local businesses and friends of the New Lenox Historical Society.

The theme this year is "Lincoln in Lincoln Way" with Lincoln trivia, kids corner with games, face painting, a coloring contest, and photo opportunity with "Abe".

The dinner, auction and 50/50 raffle is one of the key events the society sponsors to help raise funds for the preservation and restoration of Schmuhl School and ongoing student programs held at the school.

Schmuhl is a working school where many New Lenox students spend time experiencing "A Day In The Life At A One-Room Schoolhouse".

Tickets for the dinner are available from historical society members and will be sold at the door on October 14 from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. Or call 815-485-5576.

Influence Continued from page 9

Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge William P. Offord, for the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.

The case against King is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen Nakly of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Special Prosecutions Division in Newark Silverstein Continued from page 12 taken into custody. They were a ruthless lot and dangerous, both to themselves and to anyone else with whom they had contact.

In 1987 the Cuban refugees detained in the Atlanta penitentiary rioted. They released Silverstein into their midst. The prison officials realized that Silverstein represented a serious threat to the safety of the correctional officers who were being held as hostages by the Cubans. They faced the possibility that Silverstein could begin killing correctional officers—with or without a reason.

They quickly moved to bargain with the Cubans with whom they were negotiating.

As a show of good faith, the Bureau of Prisons representatives asked the Cuban leaders to turn Silverstein over to them. .

Continued next week

What is it dat makes some politicians So cheap? See dey get fat pay checks, Big pensions, insurance, healthcare, and dat ain’t enough. Dey want you ta pay Fer dere gas an cars too!

MUTTONHEAD

Weekly REPORTER

©Copyright 2009 John Gabriel

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