The Weekly Reporter

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REPORTER

Published Weekly In Will County

Volume 2 Number 40

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October 8 thru October 14, 2009

Chicago Never Had A Chance To Win

Mayor Richard M. Daley

There are people who are devoted to Chicago’s Mayor Richard M. Daley, some who detest him, and those who are indifferent in any event. No matter your opinion of him, the general consensus is that he made an outstanding effort to bring the 2016 Olympics to Chicago.

That effort proved to be futile but it should not reflect either on the Mayor or on Chicago, the real answer is much larger in scope.

Apparently Americans have been quick to put the past President’s administration behind them in their desire to move on to establishing a better image for the nation but the world has not forgotten.

Many Americans have been quick to erase the memories of Abu Ghraid, the disgrace of Guantanamo, and the often sickening opinions of legal advisor John Yoo and then Attorney General John Ashcroft.

People seem to have forgotten that President Bush, VP Dick Chaney, and Donald Rumsfeld send an American Hero, Colin Powell before the world to tell lies that convinced them that Iraq must be invaded. Colin Powell a man of impeccable repute and a genuine man of honor was so upset over having been used by the Bush administration he removed himself and went away to suffer out of the public eye.

The world learned very quickly that then President Bush could not be trusted to tell the truth and in developing a hatred for him the peoples of the world carried that dislike to our entire nation.

The United States has always been a nation respected. People have died in making efforts to come to America. Why? Because we were the champions of human rights, the symbol of liberty, and the image of all that is right. Then Americans elected George W. Bush.

Deep into President Donald Rumsfeld, Former Pres. Geo. W. Bush, Bush’s presidency as many Former VP Dick Chaney as 86% of people polled around the world disliked him or had a negative view of him and the United States.

Toss in the torture photos from Abu Ghraid and stories that came out of Guantanamo, stories of innocent men being confined and abused, and you have the worst image of America it has ever known.

In our own defense we allowed individuals such as the very controversial John Yoo to justify those acts with his own distorted legal views. Throw in the performance of Attorney General John Ashcroft who seemed to only want to please his boss no matter what the law said, and you have a recipe for disaster.Consider the very questionable election result that put George W. Bush into office and the bad taste that left in the mouths of many around the Continued on page 3

Tired of Working? Be A Consultant When you become too old, too tired, or simply unwilling to do the job anymore you should get out of the picture, and let those who follow you take your place. People who for whatever reason are removed or remove themselves from positions ought to be mature and have the fortitude to hand the keys over to a successor and not convince themselves that the ship cannot stay on course without them.

Recently former State Representative Brent Hassert (R-85) left office after being defeated in the November 2008 election.

It should have ended there with his retirement but it didn’t. Hassert whose state pension is more than many earn solicited the Will County Forest Preserve District and was contracted to become a paid consultant for $3,600 per month.

Hassert then went to his old friends in Romeoville and convinced them he is able to do more than a very able senator, elected by the people, and a new state representative are able to do for the public—a public that gave him the boot.

In Bolingbrook there seems to be a similar scenario playing out. Karen

Karen Anderson Retired now

Anderson was the local Library Director until March 2009. She apparently decided she has had enough of the work-a-day life and so she quit her job.

She had a pension coming that she earned for her service but although she apparently decided that trudging off to work was no longer something she wanted to do, she seems to not want to surrender the position after all—only the work.

The problem is, she does not want to give up a paycheck. She wants her pay and her pension.

According to our source Karen Anderson was replaced with a new director Vicki Tipiano, who will, of

Continued on page 2

NEWS

Weekly REPORTER

Direct Deposit Of Social Security Is Safer, Easier For Winter Travelers (ARA) - As cold weather sets in, thousands of retirees are making plans for a winter getaway. If you're one of them, switch to direct deposit for your Social Security payments before you leave - it's the safest, easiest way to receive your money.

"Each year, the U.S. Department of the Treasury receives more than 1.4 million inquiries regarding paper check-related problems," says David A. Lebryk, commissioner of the Treasury Department's Financial Management Service.

Yet, approximately 10.5 million Americans continue to receive their Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments by paper check each month. The Treasury Department's Go Direct (R) campaign encourages senior citizens and people with disabilities to switch to direct deposit.

Increased safety, convenience and reliability When there's a problem with a Social Security payment, nine times out of 10 it's with a paper check, not

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.

October 8 - October 14, 2009 - 2

Kenny Holmes

kenny@theweeklyreporter.com a direct deposit payment, says Lebryk.

Paper checks can be vulnerable to financial crimes like theft and fraud. In fact, the Treasury Department investigates more than 70,000 cases of altered or fraudulently endorsed checks each year, totaling $64 million in estimated value.

"In 2008 alone, more than 485,000 Social Security and SSI checks were reported lost or stolen and had to be reissued," says Lebryk.

Direct deposit is also more convenient and reliable. There is no more waiting for a check to arrive in the mail, and there are no more worries about delivery delays due to severe weather, local emergencies and other check related problems.

Last year alone, severe weather events forced alternative delivery arrangements for millions of Social Security and SSI paper checks.

"Switching to direct deposit for federal benefits is such an easy way for people to safeguard their money, especially when traveling for

extended periods of time," says Lebryk. "Your money is deposited to your account on payment day, so there's no need to worry about delivery delays or a check sitting in your mailbox while you're gone."

Prepaid debit card option In addition to direct deposit, the Treasury Department recommends the Direct Express (R) Debit MasterCard (R) card as an alternative to paper checks for people without bank accounts.

More than half a million Americans signed up for the optional Direct Express (R) card in its first year of availability, according to the Treasury Department. A recent survey of cardholders finds that 95 percent say they are satisfied with the prepaid debit card, and 86 percent say they would recommend it to family members or friends who receive a federal benefit payment.

With the Direct Express card, cardholders can make purchases, pay bills and get cash at thousands of locations nationwide. Sign-up is free and no bank account is required.

Anderson Continued from page 1

consulting fees for no other reason than that you were loyal through the years your party and its other greedy cronies who are willing to waste taxpayer dollars.

Why not go to Six Flags, entertain your grandchildren if you have any, or do something worthwhile but leave others to do the job you decided you did not want to do any longer and stop sneaking cookies from the cookie jar in the form of consulting fees.

course, be paid for her services, but now there is a new burden on the taxpayers—consulting fees for Karen Anderson.

If Karen Anderson believes she is necessary to keep the library functioning she should have kept her job but to quit, collect a salary and then hire on as a consultant is nothing but plain calculated greed.

Karen if you believe your brainpower is so vital the village cannot do without it why don’t you do something decent—donate your time and show your gratitude to the public who gave you a job and a pension. Let others do what they are paid to do and don’t be an intruding mother-in-law who insists on sticking her finger in the putting.

Get out and do what many other pensioners do—do some charity work—give something back to the community that fed you for so long.

It is time for the people of Illinois to stop this form of trickery that allows people who have worked in public service to sit on their butts, collect a pension and then receive a second pension in the form of

Lockport Ribbon Cutting Mary Kay Campbell the Executive Director of the Lockport Chamber of Commerce has announced the opening of the First Community Bank of Homer Glen & Lockport. On Wednesday October 21st there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at the bank’s

While most services are free, there are fees for a limited number of optional transactions and services.

Making the switch is easy It is easy to make the switch to electronic payments for federal benefits. To sign up for direct deposit, call the Treasury Department's Go Direct campaign helpline at 1-800-333-1795 or visit www.GoDirect.org. To sign up for the Treasury-recommended Direct Express card, or to learn more about the card's features and fees, call 1-877-212-9991 or visit www.USDirectExpress.com.

The preceding information has been provided by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Financial Management Service.

The Go Direct (R) campaign is sponsored by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Federal Reserve Banks. The Direct Express (R) Debit MasterCard (R) card is issued by Comerica Bank, pursuant to a license by MasterCard International Incorporated. MasterCard (R) and the MasterCard (R) Brand Mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated. The Go Direct (R) logo, Direct Express (R) logo and Direct Express (R) are service marks of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Financial Management Service.

new location 1035 East Ninth Street in Lockport.

The cutting has been scheduled for 10:30 am. If you are available you are urged to attend and to welcome the First Community Bank of Homer Glen & Lockport. At a time when many businesses are either curtailing their investments or closing their doors forever, it is important to show support for those businesses that are willing to make an investment in our community.

Weekly REPORTER Chicago Continued from page 1

world, and you have a wound that will fester for years to come.

Chicago did not lose the bid for

NEWS

October 8 - October 14, 2009 -3

to be swept under the carpet with the election of a new president no matter how glistening, no matter how appealing he may be.

Legal Advisor John Yoo “Torture is okay even torturing children�

Lynddie England At Abu Ghraid Americans are above such conduct

the 2016 Olympics; Mayor Richard M. Daley did not lose that bid and neither can the people of Chicago be blamed. They invested at least $48 million dollars to seek that sanction and they produced an unparalleled effort to succeed. Still, the one thing they could not overcome with any effort is the bad image America that we will be repairing for many years to come.

Being branded liars, cheaters, torturers, rapists and murderers is not

The world viewed us as a reckless cowpoke with little or no sense.

Once a liar always a liar and that is how we will be seen for many years to come.

Only through positive action around the world, only through concerted efforts to put an end to our own civil rights violations, and only by proving that we can be trusted, that our word is good, will we ever regain the stature that once was ours.

Then perhaps, when we no longer pound our chests like wild-west hooligans, the will the world smile upon us again.

Two Arrested Following South Holland Bank Robbery and High-Speed Chase Robert D. Grant, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was joined today by Warren Millsaps, Chief of the South Holland, Illinois Police Department (SHPD), in announcing the arrest of two Oklahoma men in connection with the armed robbery yesterday morning of the First National Bank of South Holland, located at 200 West 162nd Street in the south suburb.

Two men, identified as John R. Gower, age 46, of Fairview, Oklahoma, and Patrick R. Warren Millsaps Martin, age 30, of Ada, Oklahoma, were arrested yesterday morning by Officers of the SHPD, assisted by Troopers from the Illinois State Police and officers from a dozen local police departments, following a high-speed chase and shoot-out that ended when the robbers crashed their car on the southbound lanes of Interstate 394 near Sauk Trail Road.

Both men were charged in a criminal complaint filed earlier today in U.S. District Court in Chicago with one count of Aggravated Bank Robbery, a felony offense. According to the complaint, the bank manager received a telephone call shortly after 10:00 a.m. from an anonymous caller, who claimed that a bomb had been placed in the bank. The caller then said that a man dressed in a suit would be entering the bank shortly and he was to be given $200,000 or the bomb would be detonated.

At approximately 10:30 a.m., an individual described by witnesses as a white/male, dressed in a black suit and wearing a ski mask and

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(312) 733-2328 gloves, entered the bank. This individual, subsequently identified as Martin, said that he was there for the money. He was armed with a handgun and disarmed a security guard, who was stationed in the lobby.

Martin then asked the manager to take him to the bank vault, but was told that it was on a time-delayed lock and could not be opened for 15 minutes. Martin waited with the bank managers and employees, until the vault opened.

After the vault door opened, Martin allegedly ordered a bank employee to fill with cash, two cream colored canvas bank bags that were nearby. Martin then fled the bank with approximately $95,000 in cash and was seen entering a burgundy colored minivan that was parked nearby. The vehicle fled the area at a high rate of speed, with Martin driving and a second individual identified as Gower.

No injuries were reported during the robbery.

A witness outside the bank, noticed the suspicious activity and called the SHPD. The witness followed the getaway vehicle and provided the license Metropolitan Correctional Center plate number and updates on direction of travel to the responding SHPD officers. The vehicle was eventually located but attempts to conduct a traffic stop were unsuccessful. The minivan continued to flee the pursuing officers, and led them on a high-speed chase which ended when the minivan crashed into a patrol car from the Sauk Village, Illinois Police Department and careened into a stopped motor home. During the course of the chase, gunfire was

Continued on page 8

Your Life

Weekly REPORTER

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

Heads UP On Finance Keep Inflation In Mind WhenInvesting As an investor, you’re always aware of the potential effects of market volatility on your portfolio.

But you also need to pay attention to another factor that could impact your investments’ return — inflation.

If you look back over the last few decades, you might not think inflation is much of a threat. Since the double-digit rates of the early 1980s, inflation has fallen significantly and, for the most part, has stayed low. Still, over time even a mild annual inflation rate can eventually erode your purchasing power.

Obviously, if you’re a retiree, or close to retiring, you need to plan for the impact of inflation on your income stream, which may, to a large degree, depend on the types of investments you own. But even if you’re at an earlier stage in life, you need to think about inflation because it can reduce the “real” rate of return you receive on your investments.

In any case, you can find investments that may be able to help you cope with inflation. When you own stocks, for example, you’ve got an ownership stake in companies that have the ability to raise prices — which make them effective inflationfighting investments. Keep in mind an investment in stocks fluctuates and you can lose your money.

But one of the biggest inflationfighting benefits of stocks is the dividends that they may pay. Wellrun companies may reward investors by paying them back with dividends — and some companies have increased their dividends annually for decades. A word of caution, though: Companies can reduce or eliminate them at any time, without notice. In fact, during the long market slump we experienced, some companies did cut back on their dividend payments.

Not all stocks pay dividends, of course. In any case, if you’re going to maintain a balanced portfolio, you’ll also want to own other types of investments, such as bonds. But many bonds — along with other fixed-income vehicles, such as Certificates of Deposit — are not good “inflation fighters” because the fixed rate of return they offer simply may not keep up with inflation.

However, if you built a “bond ladder” — that is, a group of bonds with varying maturities — you’d have more flexibility in combating inflation, because your longer-term bonds typically offer higher interest rates.

What about the so-called “inflation hedges,” such as commodities and real estate?

Actually, these “hedges” are extremely volatile and should be approached with great caution. You need look no further back than the bursting of the housing “bubble” to see that real estate, for instance, can go down just as fast as it goes up — and once down, it can take years to recover.

In your efforts to invest wisely for the future, inflation is only one of the variables you need to consider.

But it can be an important one — so make sure you choose the investments that both address inflation and can help you make progress toward all your financial goals.

University of Colorado Reduces Energy Consumption with Solid-State Lighting Boulder, CO (PRWEB) October 5, 2009 -- Albeo Technologies Inc., a leading manufacturer and supplier of energy efficient LED lighting systems, today announced that the University of Colorado (CU) has replaced over 200 F32T8 fluorescent lighting bulbs with Albeo's T8LED conversion kit in a pilot project in the renovation of Farrand Hall, which took place this past summer.

Replacing the fluorescent bulbs with LED lighting will reduce energy consumption by 36% and eliminate 15 tons of annual CO2 emissions.

Additionally, the LED conversion will reduce maintenance, and provides a lighting system that containno glass components. CUBoulder, recently ranked as the #1 US "green university" by Sierra m a g a z i n e (http://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/20 0909/coolschools/top20.aspx), has been committed to sustainability for decades. The lighting in residence halls represents a significant proportion of electrical energy on campus, making lighting retrofits an important part of reducing energy consumption. LED lighting is an inherently sustainable solution that requires very low maintenance.

Converting fluorescent fixtures to LED helps CU-Boulder campus reach their environmental goals of creating a green campus.

According to the Energy Information Association (EIA), a

"National Mesothelioma Awareness Day" Introduced in Congress Santa Barbara, CA (PRWEB) October 5, 2009 -- Few Americans

October 8 - October 14, 2009- 4 division of the Department of Energy (DOE), lighting of educational buildings account for over 17% of all the illuminated floor space in the US, the second largest category after office buildings. This annual lighting load amounts to 32 Billion kWh of

electricity and releases over 25 million tons of carbon into the atmosphere.

"LED lighting technology has now surpassed fluorescent lighting in efficiency.

Universities, schools, and other educational institutions are using LEDs in their renovation projects to meet sustainability goals and reduce greenhouse gas emissions," said Jeff Bisberg CEO of Albeo Technologies. "We are proud to supply energy efficient products to one of the leading green school in the US." Albeo's LED lighting conversion kit allowed CU-Boulder to reuse existing fixtures further minimizing the waste footprint of the lighting retrofit project, no discarded metal.

Unlike LED drop-ins, Albeo's conversion kit provides a robust thermal solution that delivers longerlifetimes and brighter fixtures; details are explained in Albeo's fluorescent conversion white paper found at http://www.albeotech.com/LEDWhitepapers.htm.

know the truth about mesothelioma, a deadly and incurable cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Heavy and widespread use of asbestos through most of last century, coupled with a 20-50 year latency in tumor development, make mesothelioma today a lethal threat to tens of millions of Americans. Yet, the United States has ignored the need for research to develop effective treatments, and still has not even banned asbestos.

National awareness of this tragedy will soon grow, however, as Senator Patty Murray (WA) and Congresswoman Betty McCollum

Weekly REPORTER

Health & Safety

October 1 - October 7, 2009 - 5

Health & Wellness What's lurking in your lunch? Tips for packing safer lunches (ARA) - You do everything you can think of to ensure your kids eat a healthful lunch. But do you also consider the safety of the food you pack in their lunch bags each day?

"Packing your child's school lunch not only helps you know they're eating healthful fare, it can also save money - an important consideration in the current economy," says food safety expert Dr. Don Schaffner of the Institute of Food Technologists and Rutgers University. "Parents also need to keep in mind, however, the importance of safe handling practices when preparing food for their children's lunch boxes."

The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a few safety tips to keep in mind when packing school lunches for kids or your own lunch for work: Keep it clean Hand washing is an important part of ensuring food safety. Washing your hands can stop bacteria from spreading. Before beginning food preparation, wash your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds.

Wash them again before eating.

Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item.

Start with safe food Keep perishable foods like prepackaged lunch combinations - like the kind that include lunch meats with crackers, cheese and condiments - cold by using freezer gel packs or a frozen juice carton.

Insulated, soft-sided lunch boxes or bags are best for keeping food cold. If you use a paper bag, be sure to create insulating layers by double bagging.

Pack light Don't pack more than your kids are likely to eat. That way, you won't have to worry if leftovers they bring home have been kept at safe temperatures throughout the day and on the commute home. Consider preparing food the night before and storing it in the refrigerator. Then pack your lunch bag in the morning. This will help food stay cold longer.

Avoid cross-contamination Never reuse packaging materials such as paper or plastic bags, food wraps and aluminum foil; this can lead to cross-contamination. Throw away all food packaging after you eat lunch, and discard perishable Continued on page 15

October Is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Lizard LLC Campaigns for Cancer Funds Westerville, OH (PRWEB) October 5, 2009 -- October is national breast cancer awareness month.

In recognition, RentLizard, LLC is announcing a multi-faceted campaign to raise monies and awareness of the disease. Titled "Little Pink Houses", the company will utilize its website RentLizard.com to conduct its campaign, aimed at both property managers and prospective renters. Monies raised during the campaign will be donated to the Stefanie Spielman

Fund for Breast Cancer Research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, to support breast cancer research.

Says David Fitzpatrick, a RentLizard co-founder, "We truly feel privileged to be able to offer our site as a springboard for educating our users about breast cancer and its deadly affects, and additionally provide them the ability to help raise monies for its cure."

"Community partners like RentLizard.com are key to our future success", remarked Dr. Michael Caligiuri, director of The

Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and CEO of the James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. "This community effort will not only raise valuable donations to support Stefanie's Fund for Breast Cancer Research, but will also educate people throughout the nation on the importance of mammography and early detection."

Property managers that are new to RentLizard.com, will have the ability to register free of charge and post unlimited numbers of free rental listings throughout the month.

RentLizard, LLC will donate $.25

for every rental listing that is activated on the site in October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month). As a unique way to help educate RentLizard.com users about breast cancer, stats or statements about the disease will be placed in random locations on the site each day. Visitors will have a chance to correctly answer questions regarding each daily breast cancer informational post, for a chance to win one of five $200 gift cards that will be given out each week of the month-long campaign. To round out the campaign, a direct link to the Stefanie Spielman Fund website Continued on page 15

Weekly REPORTER

NATIONAL NEWS

Fall Out For Reveille

October 8- October 14, 2009 - 6

toe, families of men and women who had died in service to their country should wear a black armband with a gold star to signify their loss and their pride. Bereaved families also displayed Gold Star banners – gold stars on a white background with a wide red border – in the windows of their homes.

Ralph LaPorte Rlaporte@theweeklyreporter.com

Governor Pat Quinn

Governor Quinn Honors Families of Fallen Illinois Heroes at Gold Star Mothers Ceremony 27 Mothers Presented with Gold Star Banners; More Than 80 Families Attend CHICAGO – September 27, 2009. Governor Pat Quinn today presented Gold Star Banners to 27 Illinois mothers whose sons and daughters died in combat while serving their country in the Global War on Terror. More than 80 members of Illinois Gold Star families who lost family members on active duty since September 11, 2001 attended the ceremony at the University of Illinois at Chicago Student Center.

The ceremony, which was co-sponsored by USO of Illinois, marked Gold Star Mother’s Day. The day has been commemorated on the last Sunday in September since President Franklin Roosevelt declared the first Gold Star Mother’s Day in 1936. Please see attached list of the 2009 Illinois Gold Star Recipients.

On August 16, Governor Quinn signed legislation to formally designate the fourth Sunday in September as Gold Star Mothers Day in Illinois.

“Gold Star Mother’s Day honors those whose sons or daughters gave the ultimate sacrifice in the name of our democracy,” said Governor Quinn. “It is so important that we give everyone in our state the opportunity to express our reverence and respect for these patriotic families and their loss.”

Presenting Gold Stars to mothers is an American tradition dating back to 1918, at the end of World War I. At that time, President Woodrow Wilson suggested that instead of wearing conventional mourning black from head to

,

Verizon Wireless also generously sponsored the Illinois 2009 Gold Star Ceremony. Committed to honoring those who lost their lives in service to our country and their families, Verizon was also a sponsor for the 2007 and 2008 Gold Star Mothers ceremonies.

Governor Quinn was joined at the ceremony by Dan Grant, Director of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs; Anthony Enrietto, Jr., President of the USO of Illinois; and Alice Smith, Gold Star Mothers of Illinois. Illinois Poet Laureate Kevin Stein recited the poem “To

Recipient

Son/Daughter

Hometown(s)

Linda Morrison Christine Kaiser Cheryl Webb Lynn Forehand Debra Young Olivia Segura Sylvia Cheehy Maureen Miller Gloria Barrios Mitchell Rhoads Virgie Fox Debbie Wolfe Lisa Perez Jean Harris/Mille Harris-Hickey Cecelia Eiland Margie Duhasek Kathy Penich-Garros Linda K. Grieco Elanda Robinson Susan Weinger Lisa Otto Teri Johnson Rhonda Kemper Tami Hills Amanda Talbert Jackie Gulczynski

U.S. Army Ssg. Gary R. Harper U.S. Marine LCpl. Adam W. Kaiser U.S. Army Ssg. Mario J. Bievre U.S. Army Ssg. Ryan Haupt U.S. Navy PO1 Jennifer A. Valdivia U.S. Army Spc. Ashley Sietsema U.S. Army Ssg. Maun F. Hardy III U.S. Army Ssg. Robert Miller U.S. Airforce SrA. Blanca Luna U.S. Army Pfc. Willington Rhoads U.S. Army Cpl. James Hale U.S. Marine Cpl. Anthony Mihalo U.S. Army Ssg. Jason Vazquez U.S. Army Sgt. Joshua Harris U.S. Army Pfc. Ja'Mel Bryant U.S. Army Sfc. Gary Vasquez U.S. Army Sgt. John Penich U.S. Army Sgt. Kevin Grieco U.S. Army Sgt. Simone Robinson U.S. Army Sgt. Robert M. Weinger U.S. Army Spc. Norman L. Cain U.S. Army Cpl. Jason G. Pautsch U.S. Army Spc. David A. Schaefer Jr. U.S. Army Cpl. Casey Hills U.S. Army Spc. Christopher Talbert U.S. Army Pfc. Leonard J. Gulczynski

Virden Naperville Glendale Heights Franklin Park Cambridge River Grove/DeKalb East Dundee Wheaton Chicago Paris Naperville Naperville Chicago, Logan Square Forest Park Belleville Highland Beach Park Bartlett Robbins Round Lake Beach Mt. Morris Davenport, IA Belleville Salem Galesburg Carol Stream

Weekly REPORTER

Education Matters

Parents say online safety is top concern, but not taking action (ARA) - Parents worry about protecting their children from online predators. But some just aren't worried enough, it seems.

That's one conclusion online safety experts say can be drawn from a recent survey of parents by Panda Security, a security software maker. While more than half the parents polled rank online predators, pornography and violence as the biggest online threats to children, a quarter of those surveyed still never monitor their children's online activities.

Teach Them Internet Safety

with whom, so you shouldn't let them access the Internet without knowing what they are doing," says Correll. * Educate yourself and share your knowledge with your children. It's not at all unusual for kids to know more about the Internet than their parents. For this reason, it's important for parents to be aware of the tools that the Internet offers children, to know what the risks are, and how to avoid them. * Set firm and clear rules about computer and Internet use. Establish a maximum online time and permissible uses of the Internet. Instead of setting up PCs in children's bedrooms, where they might be tempted to stray from the rules at night, put it in the family room. * Forbid children from giving out personal information such as their real name, address, phone number or photos. Help them create screen names and secure passwords (that mix upper and lowercase letters and numbers) to prevent cyber-crooks or other malicious users from accessing their e-mail or messaging accounts. * Teach your children to be wary of appearances, which can be especially deceiving on the Internet. They should be aware that the 14-year-old boy or girl they think they're chatting with may actually be a child predator. * Install effective online safety solutions that are up to date. Activate the content filter so you can decide which pages your children can see and which are off-limits. * Talk to other parents and use online resources like Twitter to connect with Internet security experts for good advice on articles and Web sites focused. Panda Security produced a video for YouTube, and parents are able to post their own video responses and keep the dialogue going about what kids are doing on the Internet and how parents are keeping them safe.

Students Say “No!” To Tobacco Litter JOLIET – Elementary and high school students in Joliet and Rockdale are taking a stand against cigarette litter. During October, students from Oak Valley and

"You could interpret these numbers to indicate that while generally parents are concerned about online threats to their children, they're not yet doing enough about it," says Sean-Paul Correll, a threat analyst with Panda.

Several highly publicized surveys have made online risks to children appear significant, while other studies seem to downplay the threats. Panda's survey found that just 7 percent of respondents reported they or their children have been a victim of an online attack. "But if it's your child viewing the inappropriate material or being approached by an online predator, all the statistics in the world are meaningless," Correll points out. "If your child is the one at risk, that's one too many."

When it comes to making children aware of online safety, it seems parents talk the talk - 71 percent in the Panda survey said they speak with their children about online safety. Yet just 32 percent were aware of available tools, like parental controls, that can help them protect children from online threats.

Fourteen percent said they don't know who their child is talking to when they chat online and a stunning 48 percent don't know their child's online username.

While security software and parental controls can help protect children online, "safety is not just all about technology," Correll says. For example, antivirus suites such as Panda Internet Security 2010 help parents monitor access to inappropriate Web pages, but parents still need to be aware of - and involved with - their children's online activity.

Correll offers some sensible advice for parents seeking to pair security measures with practical parenting: * Don't take a "command and control" approach or micromanage children's online behavior. Instead, emphasize communication and trust, and talk to your children about how to stay safe online. Talk to them about the sites they frequent, who they're chatting with online, what they like to view, social networking sites they use, and what online games they play. "You wouldn't let them leave the house without knowing where they're going and

October 8 - October 14, 2009 - 7

Rockdale Elementary will participate in a cigarette butt clean-up at the parks surrounding their school.

During this event, the students will learn important information about the dangers of cigarette litter and outdoor tobacco smoke.

Participating schools will receive a tobacco prevention education basket, incentives for their students and raffle prizes.

In November, Joliet Central High School students representing the Reality Illinois program will conduct a similar clean-up program at

Preservation Park in Joliet . In all, more than 110 Will County students will participate in area park clean-up initiatives during the next few weeks.

Cigarettes are the most littered item in the world. Several trillion cigarette butts are carelessly discarded every year. The butts account for 1.7 billion pounds of annual litter.

Why are cigarette butts such a vexing problem?

Discarded butts are more than just a nuisance littering are parks, beaches, hiking trails, sidewalks, gardens and other public places.

Butts are not biodegradable.

“A single cigarette butt can take up to 10 years to disintegrate,” according to Jennifer Blair, community health educator for the Will County Health Department.

“During the decomposition, each butt leaks traces of 4,000 chemicals into the soil and water systems. Many of those chemicals are dangerous poisons linked to cancer.”

Pets and wildlife often mistake discarded butts for food. Worse yet, young children will put almost anything into their mouths.

Fires are also a serious issue.

Cigarette butts can smolder for three hours, and are linked to numerous and costly fires annually.

If your school or youth group would like to participate in a park clean-up or for more information about our youth tobacco prevention programs, telephone the Will County Health Department’s Tobacco Control & Prevention program at (815) 774-7312.

NEWS

Weekly REPORTER Bank Robbery Continued from page 3 exchanged between the occupants of the minivan and pursuing police officers .Martin and Gower were arrested at the scene of the crash, A Sauk Village Police Officer, whose patrol car was involved in the crash, was treated for injuries at a local hospital and released. No other injuries were reported during either the chase or crash.

A sweep of the bank building and surrounding area by the Cook County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad did not uncover any explosive devices.

An investigation determined that Martin and Gower traveled to the Chicago area for the express purpose of robbing banks and had apparently planned the robbery for several months.

Martin and Gower appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Arlander Keys in Chicago, earlier today, at which time they were formally charged. Both men were ordered held without bond, pending their next court appearance, which is scheduled for Wednesday, October 7th at 2:00 p.m. Until then, they will be housed at the Metropolitan Correctional Center (MCC) in Chicago. If convicted of the charges filed against them, Martin

Suspect in Nationwide Bank Robbery Spree Captured

vehicle stop after he was spotted in a residential neighborhood of Boca Raton, Florida.

Robert D. Grant, Special Agent-in-Charge (SAC) of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was joined by Steven Ibison, SAC of the FBI’s Tampa office and Michael J. Folmar, Acting SAC of the FBI’s Miami office, in announcing the arrest of an individual who is believed responsible for as many as 12 bank robberies that have taken place over a five state region during the past month.

Jonathan A. Gilmore, age 29, whose last known address was 59 Russet Lane in Southington, Connecticut, was arrested on September 29th, without incident,

by FBI Special Agents of the Miami Field Office. Gilmore was taken into custody after a brief surveillance and subsequent

Jonathon Gilmore

Pop says I awtta be a public employee. When dey Get tired a woikin dey retire and get a fat raise by callin demselves consultants. What a great racket dat is. Pop says it’s better‘n stealin!

Guess I’m dumb I don’t see da difference.

MUTTONHEAD

October 8 - October 14, 2009 - 8

Gilmore has been the subject of a nationwide manhunt, coordinated by the Chicago FBI, since being charged in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago on September 11th with one count of Bank Robbery, which is a felony offense. This complaint charges Gilmore with the September 1, 2009 robbery of the InBank branch, located at 15533 S. Cicero Avenue in Oak Forest, Illinois.

According to the complaint, Gilmore entered the bank just after 1:00 PM and confronted a teller. He handed her a note, announcing a robbery and threatening her with harm if she didn’t comply with his demands.

In the note, Gilmore also claimed to be armed with a handgun, but no weapon was displayed. After receiving an undisclosed amount of money from the teller, Gilmore took the note exited the bank and was last seen running across the parking lot. No injuries were reported during the robbery.

On October 1st , Gilmore was indicted by a Federal Grand Jury in Tampa, changed with three

How Are Your Driving?

Safety is No Accident ©Copyright 2009 John Gabriel

"Lord, what fools these mortals be",

Illinois vehicle law requires drivers to buckle up, turn their headlamps on at sunset, and to turn on the headlamps when the windshield wipers are turned on.

Other times when your headlights must be on are when the conditions require such as when it is prematurely dark. One such time

counts of Bank Robbery for his alleged involvement in three separate thefts that he his suspected of having committed in the Tampa area. Additionally, Gilmore has been charged with one count of Bank Robbery in the Eastern District of Tennessee for a robbery that Gilmore is alleged to have committed on September 11th in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Gilmore is also a suspect in unsolved bank robberies in Wisconsin and Indiana.

Photo taken during bank robbery

Gilmore appeared in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida on Wednesday, at which time he was charged in a criminal complaint with one count of Bank Robbery for the September 28, 2009 theft from the Riverside Bank branch in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Gilmore was ordered held without bond, pending his next scheduled court appearance.

If convicted of the charges filed against him, Gilmore faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years incarceration for each robbery.

The public is reminded that neither an indictment nor a complaint is evidence of guilt and that all defendants in a criminal case are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

might be when there is a storm on the way and clouds create a dark day at a time when it would ordinarily be light.

Plain old commonsense can help you drive safer and to avoid citations for simple things that cost you nothing but complying with the rules of the road.

Remember, it is always your duty while driving to avoid an accident and that may mean giving up your rights to drive safely and to avoid an accident. Always allow commonsense to prevail.

Weekly REPORTER

Late Breaking News

Jury Takes 15 Minutes Finds Romeoville Man Not Guity Replay of Another Romeoville DUI Dan Warren has been in the crosshairs of the Romeoville Police Department for longer than he can remember. For some unknown reason Warren returns to Romeoville time and time again and time and time again he stopped by the police. Dan says he is one of the faces that appear in Romeoville’s infamous “No Break Book”. That is a book the police allegedly use to target individuals who have caught their attention for any reason.

Dan Warren certainly brings too much attention to himself because he has a tendency to be anything but diplomatic.

Dan should take a lesson from the Supreme “When cop’s testimony Court and keep his mouth shut when he is stopped by a cop. is different from the Warren was stopped by a Romeoville policeman on February 24, 2008. The squad video – is he Officer, Scott Stutler, said Warren was driving a car with a burned out taillight. That brain-locked or lying” gave him cause for a traffic stop and that was the beginning of big trouble for Dan Warren.

After the stop Officer Stutler asked Warrant to step out of his vehicle.

When he did so Stutler immediately suggested that he believed Warren had been driving under the influence; a charge Dan Warren denied immediately.

The normal procedure is to administer a series of tests known commonly as field sobriety tests. Warren was subjected to those tests and he successfully passed them tests with the exception of being able to successfully stand on one foot. He claims he told the officer that he had only recently discontinued using a cane for a back injury and that the lingering effects of that injury prevented him from doing such a balancing maneuver.

Stutler then placed Warren under arrest and charged him with DUI, driving under the influence and transported him to the Romeoville Police Station for booking.

Dan Warren said the officer made no request for him to take a Breatholyzer test until he was locked up for about five hours. When he was finally asked to submit to a test Warren said he was so angry he refused.

It took some nineteen months for Dan Warren to have his day in court.

He pled not guilty and asked for a jury trial and on October 6, 2009, a jury heard the case in the Will County Court House. Warren was represented by an attorney from the Public Defender’s Officer, Kate Flynn and he has nothing but praise for her representation.

Attorney Flynn used the video from the officer’s police squad to challenge his testimony on the stand. Apparently the video contradicted his testimony repeatedly according to Warren. Warren said, “He didn’t fool the jury.”

Dan Warren said the jury was out for less than 15 minutes when they returned a NOT GUILTY verdict in his case. He said “The jury wastold to bring a verdict based on the evidence and they did.”

The Warren case is very similar to other cases that have begun in Romeoville and one very similar is one. This writer reported about 3 years ago that a CPA named Robert Taylor was arrested as a drunk driver after he passed the field tests. In that case Taylor suffers from Multiple Sclerosis and had nerve damage that prevented him from balancing on one foot.

He hired an attorney, subpoenaed the video from the police squad and was found not guilty when the video tape contradicted the officer’s court testimony. In that case the officer told the judge the man had slurred speech drove erratically and that offended the judge who shot back that he spoke on the tape exactly as he spoke on the witness stand and that the video showed that he drove straight an normally.

Dan Warren has some advice for all drivers—don’t drive through or in Romeoville—it’s simply too risky. Dan, “Whatever you have to do, eat, drink, buy food, or purchase gasoline do your business some place safe—outside the reach of Romeoville cops.”

Sentenced For Possession And Receipt Of Child Pornography Victoria, Tx—Roselio Garcia, 56, of Port Lavaca, Texas, has been sentenced to 135 months in the Bureau of Prisons for both possession and receipt of child pornography, United States Attorney Tim Johnson announced today. The sentence was pronounced today.

The investigation leading to the charges and Garcia’s subsequent conviction was initiated by the Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) after receiving information in 2008 from investigators at the Louisiana State Attorney General’s Office regarding several provocative photographs which included a truck bearing a Texas license plate. That license plate number lead CCPD and the FBI to identify Garcia as the registered owner of the truck. A search of Garcia’s house, where he lived with his wife and other members of his family, including

October 8 - October 14, 2009- 9 young children, yielded a computer system and hard drive containing the child pornography.

When addressing the charges, the court noted the importance of trying to deter the defendant as well as others from possessing and distributing child pornography, commenting that Garcia had received almost every enhancement possible that applied to his offenses. Those included the young age of the children, transferring images for something of value, images that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct, the large number of images (in excess of 600 images) and the use of a computer for the possession, transmission, receipt or distribution of the child pornographic material.

Following the 135-month term, Garcia will serve 10 years on supervised release for possession and receipt of child pornography during which he will be required to attend sex offender counseling and to register as a sex offender. He may not own or have access to any device connected to the Internet, and must remain at least 100 feet away from schools, parks, and other recreational areas where children assemble.

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Weekly REPORTER

Somethin’s Cookin’

Somethin’s Cookin’

Making comfort food comforting to your waistline (ARA) - Comfort foods are familiar, simple foods that are usually home-cooked and are often emotionally significant and sometimes related to pleasant associations of childhood.

Comfort foods are typically inexpensive, uncomplicated and easy to prepare. Many people eat comfort food because it is generally easily digestible, is tasty and flavorful, or as a way to reward oneself.

However, when people think of comfort foods, they don't typically think of healthy foods. Comfort foods tend to be high in fat and calories, rather than vitamins and minerals. Things like macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes and fried chicken may be soothing to the soul, but not to the waistline.

Amy Haynes, a registered dietician and culinary instructor at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Dallas, explains that "high-fat, high-sugar foods such as comfort foods elicit 'feel good' hormones quicker than a plate of raw vegetables." These comfort foods therefore bring us back to fond memories and instant satisfaction, creating a psychological connection with the food that is difficult to break.

With the holidays approaching, many traditional family recipes of favorite comfort foods will be made. Many experts say that you don't have to give up these old friends to lose weight. It just takes planning and portion control.

Haynes suggests an even more lax attitude during this time: "If you plan on indulging in one or two of these holiday feasts for the month, don't worry about it! If you really want to make your recipes healthier, try to make simple modifications that won't change the end product drastically."

Chef Whitney Anderson, nutritionist, certified executive chef, and instructor at The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of Tampa (a branch of Miami International University of Art & Design), agrees. "The question we should really be asking ourselves is, how healthy do you really want to go when eating a comfort food," says Anderson. "Do you really want to alter the taste so much that it is no longer a comfort food to you?"

Simple substitutions and recipe modifications can help save the flavor of your favorite comfort foods and stall any holiday weight gain.

For example, when making pumpkin pie, Anderson suggests, "altering some of the ingredients will change the consistency of the pie but should not change the taste. When the recipe calls for four whole eggs, you can change it to two egg whites and two whole eggs, using pumpkin puree (a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium) instead of pie filling, replacing granulated sugar with a natural sugar like Xylitol (a natural five-carbon sugar found in birch trees, fibers of many fruits and vegetables, mushrooms, corn cobs and more), and using skim evaporated milk instead of whole-fat evaporated milk with lots of spices like cinnamon, which enhances the pumpkin flavor and helps control the spiking of the blood sugar."

Another holiday favorite is macaroni and cheese. "One of my favorite comfort foods is macaroni and cheese. About 10 years ago, I discovered that I have a gluten intolerance which does not allow me to eat anything made with barley, rye or wheat. In dealing with these food limitations, I discovered some wonderful alternative products such as pasta made from corn, brown

October 1 - October 7- 10

rice or quinoa," says Haynes. "I researched to find a good homemade macaroni and cheese recipe and simply substituted gluten-free pasta for the regular pasta the recipe called for.

"You may not have a gluten intolerance, but you may have the desire to make your favorite comfort foods more nutritionally beneficial. Using my favorite comfort food, macaroni and cheese as an example, you can easily substitute whole grain pasta for the refined white pasta, and replace half of the cheese with mozzarella, which is inherently lower in fat per ounce compared to other cheeses. This immediately improves the nutritional profile of the dish without compromising flavor."

As this recipe illustrates, you can take the fat and calories out of comfort foods while keeping the taste - and comfort.

Gluten-free Macaroni and Cheese Serves: Eight 16 ounces penne pasta - brown rice or quinoa (uncooked) 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup potato flour 3 cups milk 1/2 cup chicken stock 1 cup mozzarella cheese - shredded 1 1/4 cups cheddar cheese - shredded, reserve 1/4 cup for topping 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder fresh ground pepper to taste Directions: Preheat oven to 375 F. Cook pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan melt butter over medium heat, add potato flour and stir until flour is moistened and begins to bubble. Add milk and chicken stock and stir until smooth. Add cheese (except for 1/4 cup of cheddar for topping), and onion, garlic powder and fresh ground pepper to taste. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is

smooth. Drain pasta. Add cheese sauce to pasta and mix well.

Place macaroni in ungreased 3 quart casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with remainder of cheddar cheese and bake five more minutes or until cheese is melted.

Per serving (excluding unknown items): 518 calories; 24 grams fat (42.1 percent calories from fat); 19 grams protein; 56 grams carbohydrate; 3 grams dietary fiber; 75 milligrams cholesterol; 469 milligrams sodium. Exchanges: 3 1/2 grain(starch); 1 lean meat; 1/2 non-fat milk; 4 fat.

Great Mexican Dishes Served by A Warm, Friendly Staff

Weekly REPORTER

Your Dog May Benefit From Glucosamine & Chondroitin Recently our dog, a one hundred pound healthy Black Lab, began to hesitate when attempting to go up or down stairs. At first it seemed he might be experiencing some difficulty seeing where he was about to go.

Naturally if he were not seeing clearly he would be reluctant to proceed.

The sensible thing was to observe him, gather all the information available that might help the vet with a diagnosis.

After some observation it seemed clear that it was not his sight that was the problem. It

Oswego Businesses Pass the Test Detail Targets Sales to Minors JOLIET – Illinois State Police Zone 3 Investigations and Oswego Police Department conducted Alcohol Countermeasure Enforcement (A.C.E.) surveys at various establishments during the evening hours of Thursday, September 24, 2009 in Oswego. The purpose of the A.C.E. surveys is to determine which businesses may be selling alcoholic beverages to minors (person under 21 years of age).

A total of seventeen (17) locations were surveyed during the detail and all were found to be in compliance. The following establishments were surveyed in Oswego: Gas City Howey’s 7-Eleven

4021 Route 34 4571 Route 71 2 E. Merchant

Family Living appeared that the difficulty was in of research done on Glucosamine his hind hips. and Chondroitin in the United There is always the Internet to States, they conclude, because the lend a hand so the next step was product cannot be patented and to peruse it to see if there was any therefore there is little incentive help there; sure, enough, it helped determine that dogs, particularly large dogs, develop hip problems as they grow older. Our Lab is about seven-years old so the information seemed to fit him Glucosamine & Chondroitin helped him quite to the tee.

In the course of my searches I came across a valuable for drug companies in the U.S. to site called pursue such inquiries. www.peteducation.com. That site Fortunately, researchers in other is belongs to Doctors Foster and parts of the world, perhaps not so Smith, Veterinarians. dollar-driven, have taken up that The doctors say, “ slack.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin have The note further that been used to treat osteoarthritis in “Glucosamine products have been Europe for over twenty years. studied and used for the healing Recently, physicians and of skin wounds, stomach ailments, veterinarians in the United States and joint problems. Their use in have begun to prescribe this the relief and healing of the product for their patients and have symptoms of joint disease is been extremely happy with the currently their biggest use. results. These products are Glucosamine and chondroitin proving to be one of the safest and have been successfully used in best treatments for the crippling humans, horses, dogs, and cats. effects of osteoarthritis that This article deals only with affects millions of aging dogs glucosamine and chondroitin and throughout the United States.” their therapeutic use for They continue to say that there osteoarthritis in the dog and cat.” has not been a significant amount BP Gas Station 6501 Route 34 Dominick’s Foods 3010 Route 34 Walmart 2300 Route 34 Scoreboard Sports 1100 Douglas Road Riley Flynn’s 4566 Route 71 BP Gas Station 2791 Route 34 Meijer Store 2700 Route 34 Meijer Gas Station 2720 Route 34 Jewel Express 160 Douglas Road Jewel-Osco 2530 Lakeside Drive Oswego Shell 1190 Route 30 Solo Liquors 2753 Route 34 Gasmart USA 2501 Light Road Lianes Liquors 4574 Route 71 A.C.E. surveys are funded through a grant from the United States Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and are part of the “You Drink, You Drive, You Lose” Campaign. The grant is administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.

October 8 - October 14,2009 - 11 Encouraged by that article and also by the fact that no prescription is needed to purchase the drug for either humans or animals the course seemed clear: Start sharing your daily intake of Glucosamine & Chondroitin with our Lab. The results were astonishing!

After only three days he up the six steps from our family room. The next test would be to see if he was still reluctant to go upstairs to the bedroom area; there are eight stairs for him to climb to go there.

That was about three months ago and he is back to normal. He runs in the yard, goes up and down the stairs and meanders wherever he pleases. He knows this is his home and he treats it as such. If he chooses to nap in the front room he may; if it is the family room that he feels like settling in he goes there. We have no problem with him going anyplace in the house he pleases because he is clean and well brushed.

So, you just might consider such an approach if your dog is having similar difficulty. The doctors do note that in some instances the symptoms may be relieved but the disease may not be fully stopped by such treatment.

Of course you should consult with your veterinarian before undertaking any sort of treatment for your pet.

Weekly REPORTER

LIFE

October 8 - October 14, 2009 - 12

From The Lips Of John Cappas I had only a few studies to go before I would earn my degree when the funding was stopped for the program. Some people complained that prisoners were getting a free college education while they were paying for their own kid’s education. That’s a reasonable argument, but there is another side to it; there is a better chance that someone with an education will leave prison and lead a productive life than if you send him back to the same lifestyle he was living that got him into trouble. Sometimes people make dumb decisions but that’s life.

Fortunately I was able pay for the remainder of my courses and I did get my degree. When I walked out of that damned place I was a new person. I had an education, I understood how badly I had treated myself and I was ready to make a whole new world for myself.

Maybe you think coming out of the joint is easy. Well it isn’t! It’s hard to come out and to readjust to living a normal life. Things you take for granted like having access to knivesLIPS and scissors are like new experiences. Having access to FROM THE OF JOHN CAPPAS © Copyright 2009 John Gabriel

I had only a few studies to go experiences. Having access to money before I could earn my degree when and simple things: Postage stamps the funding was stopped for the and women, are all things you have program. Some people complained to get used to even though it sounds that prisoners were getting a free like they shouldn’t be important at college education while they were all. paying for their own kid’s education.

Now remember when I went That’s a reasonable argument, but there is another side to it; there is a better chance that someone with an education will leave prison and lead a productive life than if you send him back to the same lifestyle he was living that got him into trouble.

Sometimes people make dumb decisions but that’s life.

Fortunately I was able pay for the remainder of my courses and I did get my degree. When I walked out of that damned place I was a new person. I had an education, I understood how badly I had treated myself “There’s a time when prison I was used to and I was ready to someone is going to having fast cars, lots of make a whole new bust your bubble.” money and anything I world for myself. wanted. Coming out was Maybe you think coming out of different. The feds took whatever I the joint is easy. Well it isn’t! It’s had when I got busted so I had to hard to come out and to readjust to adjust to that too. living a normal life. Things you take Being in the joint sort of helped for granted like having access to in that respect because you don’t knives and scissors are like new have much of anything in there. I

went to work, but something was for the feds. If anyone thinks they can bothering me. I just finished a long beat the cops they’re just fooling tour in hell. I mean in pure living hell themselves, you can’t. and somehow I didn’t want to waste So I came home went to work that experience. I realized that in the and I saved. I wanted to be joint. I really wanted people to know something. I wanted to be an what happened to me. I really wanted achiever. I also worked to win back people just the trust of my family like you to “Remember – I read and my friends. understand Luckily they My way out of prison. that you responded. They never Read, Read. Read.” gave up on me. can only get away with the fast If you’re interested in the rest of life for awhile and then the story come and see me. I’m easy you’re going to get to find. I own Johnny’s Weenie busted.

Wagon at 159th and Pulaski Road in No matter how Markham. You can’t miss it.; ask for good you think you are, me. and I thought I was good I encourage you to come for a at what I was doing, chat. I’ll answer your questions. someone is going to Maybe you can spare yourself the bring you down. When misery I knew for over 15 years. you live the fast life, when you have Really, I don’t want anyone to go fancy cars, when you have through that. Me? I’m lucky. I got everything you want, you are going another chance and I’m making good to attract attention. It won’t be long on it. That won’t be the story for before that attention gets you busted. some people out there. They might Believe me, there’s a time when not get the second shot at life I got. someone is going to bust your bubble. Remember, I read my way out of I met some really slick, fast, prison. Help yourself–READstreetwise people in Lewisburg, and READ-READ. Don’t wait until believe me they were still no match you’re locked in a cage.

Thomas Silverstein –No Human Contact

Despite the multiple killings he allegedly ADX Florence Colorado carried out Silverstein continues to live albeit in confinement.

According to the Federal Bureau of Prisons his release date is tentatively November 2, 2095. If he were to survive that long he would be 145 years old upon release.

The federal law did not allow the death sentence except in a few rare instances when Silverstein carried out his killings, (one of which he has since been found not to have committed). So there was no penalty that could be imposed upon Silverstein to prevent him from committing more murders. He could be confined and nothing more.

The murders committed by Silverstein are sad and tragic but there is another tragedy; what Silverstein has done to himself is in itself a terrible act

The Cuban prisoners that rioted in the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary freed Thomas Silverstein from his cell during the uprising. When the prison staff learned that Silverstein was loose they realized he just might use that opportunity to begin killing correctional officers that were being held by the Cubans as hostages.

The riot leaders that were bargaining with prison officials were given an opportunity to show their good faith in the negotiating process by surrendering Silverstein to them. The Cubans owed no allegiance to Silverstein and recognizing that it might have some sway in the negotiations gave him up.

He was transferred to Leavenworth Federal Penitentiary and has been confined in solitary confinement since 1980, without human contact.

Silverstein eventually found himself confined to the strictest of confinements, that is, the Administrative Maximum Facility (ADX) in Florence, Colorado. ADX Florence is located on State Highway 67, 90 miles south of Denver, 45 miles south of Colorado Springs, and 40 miles west of Pueblo.

Silverstein won’t kill again. He has constant supervisionHe is locked up for 23 hours each day. He has no contact with other prisoners.

Continued on page 15

Weekly REPORTER

Your Life

October 8- October 14 2009 - 13

The Summer Adventure Part 18 Dear Lindsey: My boyfriend and I have been staying together for about 9 months.

When we moved in together he was working as a helper in an automobile repair shop. I was working as a dental assistant and I am still on that job. I have been there for about 3 years. About 3 months ago my boyfriend was laid off and he has not found a job. He is getting unemployment but that really doesn’t pay the bills. At first he did go out to look for work but in the last month he has stopped and stays home playing video games. He always says there are no jobs and says he still has a lot of unemployment coming. I expect him to get out and get a job but he has gotten lazy and just lays around the house now.

What can I do?

Dear What Can I do?

You can give him an ultimatum. Either he goes out to actively look for a job or he’s out and stick to it. Imagine yourself staying with him for the rest of your life, or for a lot of years at least, if he’s going to be lazy. Many people experience disappointment and dejection when they are unable to find work but that is not an excuse to stop looking. The least he can do is to get up early in the morning and start pounding the pavement. There is always something a person can do to help themselves. I am not suggesting that he do it, but I see people out there hunting for pop cans to sell for junk because they want to make money.

Tell him you have lost your patience with him and that unless he makes some real effort to find work you will be forced to dissolve your current living arrangement with him. Don’t take chances that might result in having to spend your life with someone lazy because you will regret it. People with a genuine desire to extricate themselves from bad situations seek answers they do just accept them.

Dear Lindsey: I enjoy reading your column every week but now I have my own problem and I am hoping you can come up with an answer to it. I work next to a young guy who is nice, polite and good looking but he smells.

That’s right he has a terrible odor and it is driving me nuts. I don’t know why he isn’t aware of it, it seems like he would be able to smell it himself. He always comes to work dressed neatly and in fresh clothing but he still has a strong odor that is very offensive. Help! Help!

Dear Help! Help!: Not everyone who has body odor is guilty of poor personal hygiene.

There are many causes for such a condition so it is really difficult to give you a rock-solid answer. Body odor can be caused by consuming certain foods, diabetes, or other medical conditions. The person may not be aware of the situation themselves unless it is a sudden occurrence. What you might try is to come to work a little early and drop a printed note on his desk. Simply suggest that he try showering with a new bath soap or consider a visit to his family physician. I would include a line that says: As a friend I thought it would be helpful to tell you about this. Of course you will not sign it. And leave it at that. One way or another it is likely that your co-worker will be provoked to take some action unless of course he is aware of it and simply has not found a way to prevent it. Then you might consider asking to be placed somewhere else in your workplace.

Please include your telephone number with your letter.

Andy looked sheepishly at Kimmy, he was embarrassed.

“I guess—I guess I just forgot about it,” he stammered.

Hank gazed at him and while he did he moved his backpack around so he could reach into it. He pulled out the helmet!

“Well now what would you say lad if I told you I had it right here?”

With that Hank raised the helmet high for everyone to see.

“Hey that’s neat Hank! How did you ever think to bring along anyway?” Andy was grinning broadly and his gratitude shown on his face.

“I knew it must be important to you, important enough that you went through an awful lot to get it anyway.”

The rain was coming down hard again and suddenly everyone realized it.

“Come on everyone, get into the van and let’s get back to the house before all of us catch colds.” Father spoke loudly and he himself dashed toward the van.

Hank stood.

Grandfather, walking quickly toward the van, called out to him, “Let’s go Hank.

Get in the van before you’re soaked through.”

Hank paused momentarily but then jaunted to the van himself.

Kimmy began laughing. Soon everyone joined her as they viewed one another and realized how dirty and disheveled they were.

“What a mess we are,” Andy laughed. “Boy, I’ve got enough mud on me to plant a garden.”

Father was back behind the wheel and carefully drove forward away from the mine. The ground was thoroughly soaked and now the rain was beginning to puddle on top of it.

High above them the dark clouds continued to move across the sky quickly driven by high winds that pushed them.

A bolt of lightning flashed across the sky in front of them and seconds later there was a loud crack of thunder to complete the brilliant show of force in the sky.

The van rocked from side to side as father maneuvered it over the rocks and bumpy earth until finally they reached the road and headed toward home.

John Gabriel Award Winning writer Jgabriel@theweeklyreporter.com

The old helmet which Hank had wiped clean before placing it in his backpack sat perched upon Andy’s head. He leaned forward and gripped the back of the seat in front of him with both hands.

“How is it you were inside the mine when Andy went inside?”

Grandfather asked. His question was purely one of curiosity and not really did not really mean to be prying into Hank’s affairs.

“I guess you might say that was my home. Yes, you could call it that.

I been living in there for a few months now…just had no place to go.”

Grandfather was suddenly embarrassed by his own question. He wanted to know more but he dared not ask because he did not want to make Hank any more uncomfortable than he was at the moment. “I’m sorry I asked,” Grandfather apologized.

“Oh say now, there’s no need for that. No none at all. The fact is My wife died not so long ago and her illness just took everything we had.

When she died I just walked away and left what little was left. I was just tired; tired of the struggle and all. I just wanted a little peace I suppose.”

There was silence. No one had realized that Hank was down and out.

It had not occurred to anyone that he was homeless. He really didn’t appear to be desperate and he was just as natural as anyone else. Still the silence was so intense.

“Look now, I just want to thank you all for saving me. You did you know. Why if it wasn’t for Andy and all of you I would still be down in the god-forsaken mine and waiting to starve to death. But thanks to all of you I’m safe and sound, a bit wet but none the worse for wear.”

Continued next week

NEWS

Weekly REPORTER Mesothelioma Continued from page 4 (MN-4) have introduced resolutions in Congress designating September 26th as ''National Mesothelioma Awareness Day." For four years, volunteers of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation have rallied each September to raise awareness, contacting their local government officials and requesting a proclamation of "Mesothelioma Awareness Day". The Foundation anticipates that Senator Murray's and Congresswoman McCollum's work will now create needed awareness and action at the national level.

"Thanks to the concern of Senator Murray and Congresswoman McCollum, and their introduction of the federal 'National Mesothelioma Awareness Day' resolution, we hope that mesothelioma will finally become part of a broad national conversation about its tragic impact on our society and the critical need to fund research to develop treatments and, ultimately, find a cure for mesothelioma," states Chris Hahn, Executive Director of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation.

"The dangers of asbestos went unrecognized for far too long, with tragic results for so many workers and families across the country who developed mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases," said

Representative Emily McAsey Hosts Shred Event

Senator Murray. "'National Mesothelioma Awareness Day' is an opportunity to raise awareness of efforts to treat this deadly disease and support the victims and their families."

According to Congresswoman McCollum, "Too many Americans don't know that asbestos exposure remains a problem.

Enacting National Mesothelioma Awareness Day (H.Res. 771) is an important step towards educating the nation about the causes of this deadly disease."

Both Senator Murray and Congresswoman McCollum pledged to continue their work to finally ban asbestos and provide real help for those suffering from mesothelioma.

To ensure the passage of "National Mesothelioma Awareness Day," the Foundation encourages the public to visit http://www.curemeso.org/action for an easy-to-use tool to contact their congressional representative and request that he or she co-sponsor House Resolution 771.

The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is the national non-profit dedicated to finding a cure for mesothelioma by funding

mesothelioma research, educating and supporting mesothelioma patients, and advocating for a national commitment to end the mesothelioma tragedy. More information is available on the Foundation's website: http://www.curemeso.org.

Hill. Nearly 75 local residents turned out for the public service event to safely dispose of old credit card statements and other documents with personal identifying information.

The refuse will be recycled, helping to p r e v e n t identity theft in an environmenta lly safe manner.

M a n y people are without such s i m p l e resources for

Rep. Emily McAsey pitches in to help with shredding

Crest Hill, IL – State Rep. Emily McAsey, D-Lockport, hosted a Community Shred Day on Saturday, Oct. 3 outside her constituent service office in Crest

protecting themselves. While those who can afford them have the convenience of shredders there remain many to whom such devises remain a luxury they cannot afford.

October 8- October 14, 2009 - 14

FBI Director Addresses International Assoc. Of Chiefs Of Police For the past few days, Director Robert Mueller has been in Denver— the site of a recent, much-publicized terror arrest—to rub elbows with the nation’s top cops at the annual

FBI Director Robert Mueller

Intern

ational Association of Chiefs of Police conference, which showcases cutting-edge strategies and technologies and underscores the depth and breadth of law enforcement partnerships around the nation and the world.

In his keynote address today, Mueller spoke not only about the threat of terrorism, but also about crime issues that may hit closer to home for many police chiefs and sheriffs, including the continued growth of violent gangs.

“As illustrated by the recent raids in New York and here in Denver,” Mueller said, “we still face significant threats to our safety from terrorists.” While the primary threat continues to come from al Qaeda and those around the world who embrace its ideology, “we are also concerned with domestic terrorism, and, in particular, lone offenders.”

Identifying and stopping terrorists before they act requires a level of intelligence gathering and sharing that can only result from the “continued collaboration” among law enforcement at every level, he explained. “Regardless of the threat, whether criminal or terrorist, we face the same challenges you do. We need

to know where any given threat is moving, and we need to get there first.”

The FBI understands that terrorism can’t always be a top priority when police have to contend with violent crime in their communities, Mueller added, “but we must find a way to make the most of our shared resources to fight both crime and terrorism.”

An outstanding example of sharing resources is Operation Knock Out, the nation’s largest ever gang investigation and prosecution, which has been unfolding in Los Angeles.

The investigation involved more than 1,400 officers from more than 40 federal, state, and local agencies.

Some 200 defendants have been indicted, with more than 130 already in custody. “No one department or agency could have had this kind of impact,” Mueller said. “It took a team.”

Operation Knock Out targeted the Varrio Hawaiian Gardens gang and other gangs and began after the fatal shooting of a Los Angeles sheriff's deputy four years ago by a Hawaiian Gardens gang member. Last May, a 57-defendant racketeering indictment detailed the gang’s war against the sheriff's department, along with its systematic efforts to rid the community of African-Americans with a campaign of shootings and violence. Raids in July were responsible for the arrests of 27 gang members.

For years, members of the investigative team met on a weekly basis and coordinated operations.

One of our Los Angeles agents who worked closely on the case described the collaboration as "truly a brotherhood—each partner working shoulder to shoulder and back to back."

Mueller noted that not long ago, some in law enforcement believed they were responsible only for what happened in their own backyards.

But in a global world where collecting and sharing intelligence has become critical, everyone recognizes the need for strong partnerships. “Today,” he said, “we understand that we share one backyard. We are part of one team, with one mission.”

Weekly REPORTER Foods Continued from page 5

leftovers unless you can safely chill them immediately after lunch and upon returning home.

Keep hot foods hot, cold foods cold Use an insulated container like a thermos for hot foods like chili, soup and stew. Before using the container, fill it with boiling water, let it stand for a few minutes, empty it and then pour in the piping hot food. Keep the container closed until lunchtime, which will help minimize bacterial contamination and growth.

Harmful bacteria multiply rapidly in the "danger zone" of temperatures between 40 and 140 degrees. Transport cold food with

Free Online Course 'Preparing For H1N1: Employer Responsibilities' Now Launched Safety Services Canada is proud to offer a free H1N1 flu prevention course for a limited time. The online course is specifically designed for employers and outlines their legal obligations regarding H1N1 flu prevention in the workplace.

Halifax, Nova Scotia (PRWEB) October 5, 2009 -- Safety Services Canada is proud to offer a free H1N1 flu prevention course for a limited time. The online course is specifically designed for employers and outlines their legal obligations regarding H1N1 flu prevention in the workplace.

"We wanted to provide employers with an online resource that provides a greater understanding of their responsibility in reducing H1N1 exposure in the workplace," explains Jackie Norman, President of Safety Services Canada. "The course focuses on such topics as, what type of training employers should provide to their staff, how an employer can estimate the risk of H1N1 exposure associated with specific job tasks and the legal responsibilities of an employer."

NEWS an ice source and refrigerate it immediately once you reach your destination.

The right way to reheat If you reheat food in the microwave, cover the food to hold in the moisture and promote safe, even heating. Reheat leftovers to at least 165 degrees. Food should come out of the microwave steaming hot. Cook frozen convenience meals according to the package instructions.

"Following these simple steps can help you and your family enjoy a packed lunch at school or work, while reducing the risk of food-borne illness," Schaffner says.

To learn more about how to pack a safer lunch and download a free fact sheet, log on to www.IFTFoodFacts.org.

Many employers are unaware of their legal obligations regarding the prevention of H1N1 in the workplace or unsure of how to implement a prevention program. In this light, Safety Services Canada is offering Preparing for H1N1: Employer Responsibilities free of charge until October 31st, 2009.

"The process of pandemic planning may be unfamiliar to many organizations. We felt it was necessary to create a course that would answer important questions and give employers a solid foundation regarding H1N1 flu prevention in the workplace," explains Jackie Norman.

Employers can register for free online course Preparing for H1N1: Employer Responsibilities at www.provincialcouncils.ca. This offer will expire on October 31, 2009.

About Safety Services Canada

Safety Services Canada is Canada's not-for-profit safety service provider, offering seamless, nation-wide training and education that reduces injuries, manages risk and improves the overall health and wellness of workers and workplace environments.

www.editor@theweeklyreporter.com

Camcer Awareness Continued from page 5

will be Spielman Fund established, allowing users to make their own personal online donations directly to the fund.

About RentLizard.com: RentLizard.com provides property managers and renters a comprehensive resource for creating, managing and searching available rental property listings across the nation. RentLizard, LLC and its associated website was founded in 2008. After an extensive period of beta testing, RentLizard.com was brought live this past August. Despite its short

Annual Motorcycle Run Raised Scholarship Money Bolingbrook – More than $2,400 was raised for the Bolingbrook Hospital Silverstein Continued from page 12 of self-destruction. He was 23 years old when he was convicted of armed robbery and sentenced to 15 years.

At that time he probably could have been freed on parole after a few years, or if he had served his entire sentence, in about 10 years. Even with bad conduct, barring murder, he would have served the full fifteen years and walked away.

But Silverstein sentenced himself to a lifetime of confinement and he was fully aware of the severe consequences he would suffer if he were to kill Officer Merle Clutts.

That did not dissuade him.

When he was planning to kill Clutts he was warned, by other inmates who were aware of his plan, not to do it regardless of how he hated the guard. So Silverstein did not walk into a blind set of circumstances, he chose the path to the life he now endures.

October 8- October 14, 2009 - 15 existence, RentLizard.com is one of the fastest growing rental property listing websites in the nation, with over 800 listings activated in its first four weeks.

RentLizard.com is the brainchild of its co-founders Paul Gregg and David Fitzpatrick, and seeks to provide property managers maximum exposure for their rental listings, at minimal cost, by syndicating rental listings to over 20 additional sites. Both founders have a combined 30+ year background in all aspects of real estate investment, technology, and market research.

For more information visit RentLizard.com.

Foundation’s nursing scholarship during the annual “Nurses for Tomorrow” Bike Run sponsored by Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital Sept. 27. The 45-mile ride departed from the hospital, 500 Remington Boulevard, and ended at Fat Daddy’z in Seneca.

Forty-four people rode 35 bikes.

Derek Cazeau, executive director of the Bolingbrook Hospital Foundation, expressed his appreciation to the bike run participants: “Future nurses will benefit from the generosity demonstrated by our community through this event.”

What happened to Thomas Silverstein is a result of his own unwillingness to live by the rules. It should be a lesson to anyone who contemplates breaking the law.

Other men have been forced into situations where they were left with no choice but to kill to survive in prison.

As a consequence many have spent their lives in confinement or were executed for killing another prisoner. Often, like Silverstein, their sentences were such that they might have one day been released, but, sadly, they also wasted their lives as a result of taking another’s.

Prison is hell. There is always the possibility that someone may enter with a small sentence and spent the remainder of his or her life in confinement or worse because of unforeseen circumstances.

Sadly many sacrifice their own lives before they realize exactly how precious freedom really is.

Last of a series