A VOICE FROM THE STREET

HAVE WE PASSED INTO ORWELL'S "1984"?

2012-02-09T11:11:00.001-08:00

The door appears to have opened and we are now passing into Orwell’s “1984”. I feel “Big Brother’ is watching my every movement. Soon, I will become a number among many.

Everyday, I hear more and more about the invasion of privacy. Do I have any rights to my privacy? What right does government or other parties have to my information? Is there anything I can do to stop this invasion? Is my use of the internet safe? If not, why not? What business does anyone have to the information on my computer? The 4th Amendment guarantees:’ the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers and effect against unreasonable searches and seizures.” Is anyone paying attention to the Constitution? Is it the role of government to protect our 4th Amendment Rights, or violate them?

The government wants to control everything, but it can’t control and protect its own information. There is a story being told that a conversation between the FBI and Scotland Yard was hacked. Then there’s the drone that landed in Iran. The drone was hacked into by the Russians or Chinese and forced to land in Iran. This is big stuff. What is government doing to combat these serious violations and protect us from cyber attacks?

In a recent 60 Minute segment, the show highlighted the fact that drones would be used in New York for surveillance. Street cameras are not enough, now we need drones. Have these tools decreased crimes or accidents? There are plenty of laws on the books to protect the citizenry. In severe cases of terrorism or crimes drones should be considered. I don’t know if I want Big Bother watching my every move.

Government has intruded into our lives by trying to control gun ownership, health care, what we eat, what we drink, what cars we drive, they want to control the air waves and internet, and who gets what. Where will it stop? What happened to common sense? What happened to the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness? Maybe government should get out of our lives and concentrate on jobs, the economy, national security and defense. Does government know what its mission is? Are we the enemy? I don’t believe Government has to become Big Brother and control us as Orwell described in his book “1984”.

Technology has made our lives more comfortable; while on the other hand it has also made it more complex. Who will steal my identity, pilfer my bank account, use my credit card, and use my personal information. Today I can go on the internet and for $39.95 buy your personal information. If I wanted a social security number; I can check death records. Who controls the wholesale use of personal information? Who gave anyone the right to sell my personal information or for that matter anyone’s information.

Fifty years ago this wasn’t a problem. Today we need to protect our information. We can no longer throw personal papers in the garbage; we have to burn or shred them. We need passwords and pin numbers for use on our computers and various accounts. Even with all types of security someone will find a way to get to your information. It can be government, corporations or individuals who invade our world. They use the information for the mailings that flood our mailboxes, the phone calls we get at suppertime, for personal gain, and the bugs they plant in our computers to monitor our usage. Anyone who violates my space and privacy should be prosecuted. I understand there are instances where government and businesses need information for security reasons. There is nothing wrong with collecting data for research as long as it is not personal. There should be limited reasons to know my social security number, phone number, religion, age, medical history, political affiliations, and financial information. That’s private information that should not be used against my wishes. Most companies have privacy procedures they follow to protect us. Maybe the people in government, corporations and individuals should pay attention to the 4th Amendment and privacy laws. We need to close the door on the intrusions into our lives before it’s too late.

G8/NATO Summit Is Coming To Chicago

2012-02-03T09:51:00.000-08:00

In May the City of Chicago will be hosting the G8/NATO Summit. This will be the first time in 30 years that any city has hosted both meetings. This will be the 38th G8 Summit and will be held at McCormick Place on May 20-21. The G8 was created in 1975 as the G7 consisting of: France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, United States and Canada. The first meeting was held in 1977. Russia was later added to make it the G8. Today other emerging nations are invited: Brazil, China, New Mexico and others. They discuss global issues: security, economy, environment, and trade, NATO was created in 1949 after WW II. It includes the U.S. and 27 other countries. The summits are expected to attract over 2000 dignitaries from around the globe. On top of the summit the National Restaurant Association is scheduled to hold its annual trade show in Chicago, May 19-22, at McCormick Place... The NRA draws over 50,000 visitors and brought in an estimated $110 Million in 2004.The NRA has been coming to Chicago since 1950.

Chicago was selected as the site by President Obama after extensive lobbying by Chicago’s Mayor Rahm Emmanuel. Chicago offers 2 airports, great hotels, fine restaurants, transportation, entertainment and other amenities. The Summit will be hosted by President Obama. The Summit provides great economic opportunities for Chicago businesses. It is estimated that 10,000 hotel rooms will be booked for the event. Over 2000 journalist will come to cover the summit. The downside is that the summit also attracts protestors from around the world. Adbuster a radical Vancouver based anti consumerist magazine has called for 50,000 protestors to come to Chicago. The Occupy Wall Street Movement has already applied for protest permits. .Historically the summits have created violence in the form of broken windows, turned over cars, in London they wanted to bomb the subways. The riots of 1968 may look like child’s play compared to the planned summit. To counter any threats, the Chicago Police and Fire Departments have been preparing for months. They will be aided by Secret Service and foreign agents traveling with the foreign leaders. This will be an extremely difficult security challenge.

Normally these summits are held in remote locations. The City of Chicago may be disrupted for more than a week... Roads will be closed to provide security for the dignitaries... The Daley Center and McCormick Place can expect large numbers of protestors. It’s hard to predict what will happen at City Hall, the Federal Buildings and Thompson Center. Local businesses were asked to hire more security to protect their properties. The potential for violence is extremely high. The use of modern technology such as cell phones, ipads, and laptops increase communications for the protestors to converge more easily upon areas.

The media coverage will be enormous. If there is trouble the responsible groups and sponsors should be exposed and dealt with quickly. We know the City will protect the 1st Amendment Rights of everyone, citizens as well as protestors... The question is: how well can they maintain law and order? Because of the potential for trouble many people are planning to leave the city. If you work in downtown Chicago, what plans are you making? What do you think of the President and Mayor’s decision to host the summits? The final outcome, good or bad, will rest upon the shoulders of the President and Chicago’s Mayor. It was their decision. We can expect the worse, but let’s hope and pray for the best.

KICKING THE CAN DOWN THE ROAD

2012-01-29T06:33:00.001-08:00

You’ve probably heard the saying: “kick the can down the road”. In fact it’s starting to appear in radio and TV ads. It’s becoming very popular. Well, I’ve come to the conclusion the can has reached the end of the road. How much longer can Federal, State and Local governments kick the can? Most government entities are in dire straits. They’ve borrowed to pay for programs they couldn’t afford. Where did they get the money from, pensions and social security? They called it loans. The pension and social security funds have been exhausted to the point little money is left to meet future commitments. Once the money was borrowed it was never replaced, except by worthless IOU’s... Government cannot make up the lost funds. We now worry that this burden will be left to the next generation, our kids and grand kids. Ron Paul appropriately said, “We are the next generation.” We’ve reached the end of the road. There is no money for government to meet its commitments. Government may be good at kicking the can down the road, but they certainly don’t know how to manage or fix problems.

Maybe governments have to stop spending. You spend only what you have and can afford... You create a budget and follow it. You create an environment where people get jobs. Stop supporting and sending jobs over seas. Why is GE closing US plants and spending billions to create jobs in China? We need to start supporting US companies. We need to make it profitable for companies to invest in America. Government has talked about energy independence for years. What have we received, procrastination. Government keeps supporting oil rich Arab countries. The President prefers to see Canada build a pipeline to supply China instead of the US. The President gives money to Brazil to support oil drilling so the Brazilians can sell oil to China. Is anyone paying attention? Who is the President working for?

We need jobs and it’s getting clear that government is working against us. Do you prefer receiving a government check each month or getting a job that pays you a salary.? You can’t keep a country running on welfare checks. Jobs will kick start the economy. With jobs there will be a demand for goods, services and housing. You can’t tell me the U.S. can’t compete with China or any other country. We have the ingenuity and with the right leadership and motivation we can meet any objective. We don’t need a government that wants us to feel sorry for ourselves.

All entities of government need to start learning about controlling money. They need to learn how to squeeze the dollar to get more bangs for the buck. You can’t have slush funds for coffee and rolls. They need to have specific missions and work to meet their objectives in an efficient and productive manner. If you can’t do the job, make room for someone who can. This is the way to get out of the hole.

What has happened to old fashioned accounting principles? In school I learned the importance of balancing accounts, checks and balances, auditing and ethical practices. Are these practices only for the private sector? We have regulations upon regulations for the private sector, what about the public sector? What has happened to reserves for banks, annual audits? If it’s good enough for the private sector, it should be good enough for governments. We used to back up our monetary system with gold, now we back it up with a printing press. Washington, Springfield, Chicago, and Cook County are all in debt. Where were the accountants to oversee this travesty? Where was the use of good accounting practices and standards? The overseers who authorized the use of funds they didn’t have should be in jail. If you finagle the books in the private sector you go to jail. There is no oversight, there is no accountability. Government books should be audited and certified each year, after each audit there should be a published report presented to the public. The time has come to control the mismanagement of public monies. The time has come for government to be answerable to the taxpayers of this country.

Washington, Springfield, Chicago, Orland Park and Cook County have looked and keep looking for more taxes and fees to pay bills. It hasn’t worked. What’s happened is that they borrow more to pay interest on debt. It keeps mounting. They have no idea on how to solve monetary problems. They keep talking and do nothing. So how do they solve the problem, they talk some more. Maybe they should hire some intelligent people with a few brains to help them. I know we can’t send all politicians to jail, but we can start replacing them with competent, honest people who know how to manage money and solve problems. We need to know how the candidates will balance budgets and solve debt problems. What are their answers to social security and pension shortfalls? We don’t need candidates answering questions about sugar cane subsidies or the TV shows they watch. We’ve had enough talk, its time for them to own up to their failures. They can’t kick the can down the road anymore, we won’t let them. Now’s the time to start kicking politicians down the road to oblivion.

A NATION OF COWARDS

2012-01-21T12:15:00.000-08:00

Eric Holder as U.S. Attorney General is the chief law enforcement officer for our government. He acts as the country’s representative in legal matters and acts as lead legal counsel for government. He advises the President on legal matters. To accomplish his task he has a staff of over 300 people.

Since his nomination in 2009, Attorney General Holder has been plagued by one controversy after another. The one that irritates me the most is when Attorney General Holder called the “U.S. a nation of cowards” on racial issues. I don’t believe we are a nation of cowards. I believe the AG is the one with the problem regarding race. In his position, he should be color blind to enforcing laws and work to better race relations. He is the man who wanted to try noted terrorist Khalid Sheikh Mohammed in New York. He wanted to close Guantanamo and move it to your backyard. He criticized Arizona’s Immigration Law (without reading it), dropped charges against the Black Panthers who intimidated voters at a polling place. He won’t defend the Defense of Marriage Act, provides little cooperation in the Fast and Furious case where weapons were sold to Mexican Cartels. He’s against the use of voter ID’s, he says it’s discriminatory. I say without ID’s the validity of each and every election is questionable. I say my rights are violated by not ensuring that each and every voter is registered and is who he or she alleges to be. How does he justify illegals and dead people voting? I thought the job of the AG is to help States with legal issues to enforce the law. He is abusing his power and position. Where is his justification to backup his off the wall decisions?

SOPA (Stop Online Piracy Act) is presently being considered by the Congress. It would give the AG major powers over the internet. Could you imagine what changes to the internet this man could make? For that reason alone SOPA should be defeated.

I believe we have a lot to be concerned when it comes to the AG’s performance. Is he for justice or injustice? The President says he has complete confidence in AG Holder. This means the President supports and backs the actions of the AG... In my opinion the performance of AG Holder is sufficient for removal from office. We know the President won’t ask for his resignation, fortunately there are some in Congress who are working to create a case to force his resignation. Why isn’t the entire Congress working towards that end? I believe it’s because the AG and the President would use the race card as the reason for his resignation. Where’s the courage? It’s not about race or color, it’s about performance. If you fail to do the job you should be relieved of your position.

In 1988 he was appointed by President Ronald Reagan as judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. He served briefly as Acting AG under President Bush (41). Under President Clinton he worked for Janet Reno as Deputy AG. When President Obama nominated him for AG he was quickly approved. His ascension and recognition at the Justice Department was fast and noteworthy. From day one he was given plenty of opportunity and was moved up the ladder. Can someone please explain his success story? I believe he has worked against the States and the Congress in failing to enforce existing laws. In my opinion he believes the law should fit his ideology and beliefs. If the AG is unwilling to follow the Constitution and uphold the laws of the United States, than he should be removed by the President. It’s not going to happen. Is this the type of leadership we want to direct the legal matters of our country? If this is a good job, what is a bad job? This is just another reason why the election of 2012 is so important.

WHERE DO YOU SHOP NOW THAT THE ORLAND PLAZA IS NOW GONE?

2012-01-11T16:04:00.000-08:00

Since Randy’s closed in July my family has had a tough time in finding a new supermarket/meat market. If you were a Randy’s customer you know what I mean. It was always a pleasure to go to Randy’s on a Wednesday to shop for groceries and meat. Wednesday was Seniors Day (5% discount) and Thursday double coupon day. The staff was always friendly and helpful. Dave the butcher was available to help in selecting or seeing that you got that special cut of meat you wanted. He was there to guide and help you with advice on how to prepare your meats. Rick the store manager/owner was always moving about checking stock, refilling shelves, helping the checkout and bagging orders. Since then, we have tried numerous stores and haven’t found one comparable to the service, prices and quality of Randy’s. I don’t know if we’ll ever find that satisfaction, but we keep looking.

I considered Randy’s to be the anchor for the Orland Plaza; it was the main stop that led you to the bakery next door. Remember paczki day? I love the rye bread and coffee cakes. It was the place to order cakes for special occasions. It was a one stop venture. The bakery may be re-locating but the convenience of one stop shopping has been lost.

While in the mall you could have your watch fixed, clothes cleaned, buy flowers, liquor, get new shoes, get a haircut and more and top it off with breakfast/lunch at the Café and/or lunch or dinner at Lang Lees. That was convenience. Where in the area can you now find a mall with such versatility? These were proud independent store owners who had taken the risk, energy and monies to build their businesses. They were the example of what America is about. There were no vacancies.

So as we now trudge along on Wednesdays, going from stop to stop, wasting gas and time, we think of what we had and is now gone. We think of the goodwill that these people bestowed upon us. It was something good with true meaning. Unfortunately, the Village thought differently. In my opinion they didn’t understand the good and the values that these businesses brought to Orland Park. They used their power and influence to bring change. Change in values and the destruction of something that was exceptional in today’s market place, pride in ownership. They wanted to take us in a new direction. They failed to consider the most important thing in life, people. This was to be their vision of a new and dynamic society. The family values of the old Orland Park were to change. There was to be a transition. The Village was taking us into the future. They were thinking in terms of a mobile, young, social, liberal, modern society. They were preparing us for a new Orland Park. I don’t know if that is your vision? Maybe it is, maybe it isn’t. Change doesn’t always make something better; you have to measure what is being lost.

In short order the buildings will come down and the mall will only be a memory. We’ll miss the mall, the service and feeling of friendship and family. It’s a sad day as we watch a part of history fade away. The small store owner is becoming extinct as they are replaced by larger chains and franchises. It’s not the same. We’re losing our traditions, we’re losing our past. The only thing I can say is “We’ll Miss You Guys”. Thank You, Good Bye, Good Luck, God Bless.

TERM LIMITS?

2012-01-06T08:59:00.001-08:00

One political issue that seems to get little or no traction, in Washington, is term limits. It seems to be a dirty word. Why should Congress change their culture when they control their pay and benefits? They decide when and how much their salary should be. Presently a Congressman/woman earns $174,000 a year. Higher ranking positions earn more. They receive substantial allowances for office space and staff, both in Washington and their home district. By serving only 5 years they are entitled to a pension at age 62. They are eligible at 50 if they serve 20 years, and at anytime if they serve 25 years. They exempted themselves from laws like insider trading. and Obama Care. The only control the taxpayer has is at the ballot box.

It’s interesting to note that from 1789-1855 members of Congress received only a daily pay of $6 while in session. It was about patriotism not pay. That has gradually changed over the years as the pay, benefits and perks have grown. I can understand that they want fair pay, but I also believe the tax payer is entitled to a day’s work for a days pay. As in the private sector there should be some return. What are we getting for our money? The taxpayer expects low unemployment, little or no debt, a sound fiscal policy, legal immigration, affordable health care, elimination of waste and fraud, honest representation, a secure country, a balanced budget, and enforcement of the laws of the land. Don’t they understand why their approval ratings are so low? Washington has failed on all counts. Based on their current performance they certainly don’t deserve the monies, benefits, perks and positions they hold.

In the private sector if you don’t do your job you lose it. In the public sector officials have to be voted out of office. That seems like a simple thing, but historically we keep re-electing the same people regardless of good performance or poor performance. Once in office it seems impossible to remove them. Robert Byrd, of West Virginia, served an unprecedented 57 years. At the end he couldn’t walk and was dying when he was practically carried to the chambers to vote. Presently his family receives his $193,000 pension. The voters are at fault for supporting and re-electing unproductive representatives.

Will term limits solve the problem? Probably not, it will only eliminate some hardworking, productive representatives. I would recommend revamping the compensation, benefits and perks presently received by elected officials. It should be modeled after the private sector. To be honest, many of our elected officials have no real qualifications to serve. Their major qualification was to talk the voters into voting for them. Most of them use the talking points given them by Party Leaders and spend little or no real time creating ideas or solving problems. They vote the party line. Isn’t it interesting to listen to Senators and Congressmen repeat the same words and talking points in interviews? Did we elect puppets? How serious are these people? They should be reading and doing their homework on the legislation they vote on. In the private sector they would be fired. So my recommendation is to tie all of their compensation, benefits and perks to a plan that is comparable to the private sector.

First, I would set the retirement age at 75. Their pensions would be social security with the same conditions as everyone else. If they want, they can pay for their own IRA’s. or retirement... Congress should no longer vote themselves pay raises. It should be determined by the Cost Of Living Index and given when Senior Citizens get their pay raises. Congress should participate in the same health care system as the private sector. All contracts made by congress should be null and void, they did not make them with the American people, and they were made between themselves for their own betterment... How many people running for office in 2012 will run on a platform to make these changes? If they talk the talk about change, than they should be willing to change their compensation, benefits and perks. They should not be allowed to serve as a lobbyists or consultant to government until 5 years has passed since leaving office....Serving in Congress is an honor not a career. They should not look upon it as a way to enrich themselves.

It’s time that we make elected officials accountable to the taxpayer. They are not royalty, they are public servants... If they don’t want to change their culture and start being productive, we need to vote them out. If the voter doesn’t change and take voting seriously than we will get what we deserve, crooked, corrupt politicians... Politicians talk change, but we must demand and tell them the changes we want. If they are above making the necessary changes, than its time to say good bye. YOU”RE FIRED!

ORLAND PARK SURVEY

2011-12-30T16:29:00.000-08:00

Posted on December 30, 2011 at 6:26 pm The December 29th edition of the Orland Park Prairie Newspaper published an article that the Village wanted to conduct a survey to find out how the people think the Village can improve Orland Park. The paper conducted their own survey asking such questions as: the need to fill empty stores, repair roads, timing of traffic lights, more bike and pedestrian paths and other. The cost of the survey(s) would be around $30,000.

In these difficult times do you think a Village should be spending $30,000 on things they should already know? All of the questions asked in the newspaper have been around for some time. Isn't the staff and Board of Trustees competent enough to handle these issues? Could it be that a friend or donor needs some work that the Village is willing to waste $30,000 on another survey. What ticks me off is when the people filled the hearings for the Orland Plaza they ignored us. They wouldn't listen and gave no credence to the issues raised. They wouldn't compromise. Only one trustee voted with the people. Now they want the people's opinion. Give me a break. That proposal has only one place to go and that's the trash can. Don't be fooled. They can't afford $30,000 and they don't want your opinion.

CLOSING THE BOOK ON 2011

2011-12-29T07:53:00.001-08:00

I don’t know about you, but I’m glad the time has come to close the book on 2011. For many it was the worse year in their lifetime. If you lost your job or your home thru foreclosure, it was a disaster. For those who survived, unscathed, it was still a time of doubt and anticipation. Very few were confident that their job or financial security would be there tomorrow. As we open the pages for 2012, it is a time of uncertainty.

During 2011 government seemed to lose all sense of purpose. It was all about politics and little or nothing about governing. The actions and decisions of our leaders made you wonder if they knew what they were doing. They created bills, 2000 pages in length, that no read or understood and then passed them... We have a deficit of 15 trillion dollars and they keep spending. They don’t have the guts to face the reality of making tough decisions. Washington hasn’t passed a budget in over two years and they continue to pass short term measures to keep the government running. The Fed prints money as needed... How’s your money tree doing? Is this the way you manage your money? When it comes to their own money they used insider information to buy and sell investments that benefitted themselves, their family and friends. In 2012 we need to send people to Washington who will represent the people not themselves or their Party.

In Illinois, another Governor was sentenced to prison. Before that we saw power brokers Tony Rezko and Dave Cellini take the fall. Maybe one day we’ll see the corruption and power politics in Illinois end. Do you see that happening soon? Will the day come when the state enacts fair and honest legislation? Were you upset to see Union Bosses getting state funded pensions for practically no time working in the system? Were you upset to see how clout benefitted those seeking free tuition to state schools? How’s clout working for you? In Orland Park the Village won its eminent domain battle to take over the Orland Plaza. It was another win for developers and a loss for the little guy. We said good bye to Randys’ and Lang Lee’s as they closed their doors forever. Orland Bakery, the Barber Shop, Mirobellis, will move to new locations while the remaining establishments will move to places in or around Orland Park.

The City of Chicago elected a new mayor while it searched for ways to fund big government. The Occupy Movement invaded downtown Chicago. It was a good idea to challenge Wall Street but it went awry when it was taken over by radicals and unions. Gangs continued to plague Chicago as we saw innocent life’s lost to senseless violence... Schools continued to be a major problem and the new mayor seems determined to make changes to fix the problem. The new mayor has made a good start and hopefully things will improve for the people of Chicago.

2011 was a tough year with a lot of concern for families and their way of life. As we leave 2011 we pray and hope that 2012 will bring the Hope and Change needed to create a stable, free and safe society. So as we close the book on 2011 we wish you a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.

SHOPPING FOR A PRESIDENT

2011-12-16T11:23:00.001-08:00

During this Christmas season have you taken any time to think about the up and coming 2012 Presidential Election? With current events so volatile most people can’t avoid the politicking that is taking place, but again there are always those that will be oblivious to what’s going on around them.. The Republican Debates have been numerous and informative. The dirt is being dug up and sometimes brutal as the candidates begin to fall. The polls change daily. The good news is that the electorate is getting an opportunity to uncover each candidates good and bad points. The candidates are being forced to expose their positions on the issues: economy, jobs, taxes, social security, housing, health care, debt, immigration, big government, environment, abortion, marriage, foreign affairs, corruption, leadership, experience, integrity, moral values, consistency , trust. Is there anything that is not an issue? There are big differences between the incumbent, Barack Obama, and the Republican candidates. Next year will be the debate of all debates as Barack Obama goes up against the last Republican standing.

We know that Barack Obama, at this time, faces no Democratic opposition. The Republican Candidate is yet to be decided. The Republican candidates have been campaigning hard and long. Primaries will soon be held in Iowa and New Hampshire. As November 2012 draws near we have to start shopping and determining who will be the best candidate to serve as President of the United States. During Christmas you spend a lot of time shopping for family and friends. At Christmas, maybe you prepare a list of people with dollars to spend, than you search the ads, stores and internet for the gifts. Or maybe you use a helter skelter approach to which store you will shop or maybe use the internet. Which approach will you use to make your Presidential choice? Will it be planned and thought out or helter skelter? Will it be for the good of the country?

Many have said the 2012 election will be the most important election in our lifetime. The choices will be very different. Will it be the liberal, Barack Obama or the yet to be decided conservative or moderate Republican. The question is, should the country continue its move to the left or return to the right. It will be a battle of ideologies: big government, social justice and redristribution of wealth vs smaller government, a return to the constitution, and capitalism You’re going to have to make a choice. What do you want the United States to look like? A European socialistic society or a capitalistic ,free enterprise system. After Christmas and your shopping and partying is done, I ask that you take the time to seriously think about shopping for the next President. I truly agree with the ideology that this will be the most important election in our lifetime. If you love the United States and what it stands for, let’s make it right. Make this decision more important than selecting a Christmas gift.

WHERE DID WE GO WRONG?

2011-11-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

Where did we go wrong? The world appears to be in chaos. People are rioting and protesting. No one’s happy. Government has no answers and their solutions are worse. We have forgotten the values that made our country great: ingenuity, creativity, individualism, hard work, family, a sense of common decency, a belief in God and oneself. Each and everyday these values are under attack. We are no longer encouraged to be individuals with self esteem, but to become members of a collective society that is dependent on one another and above all, government. Somewhere along the way we have been led to believe that government is the answer. If government was the answer our lives and our society would be perfect. We know that the world and man is not perfect. Corruption is rampant and money is truly the root of all evil. To commit a crime has almost become common place. Where is the remorse? We no longer know the difference between right and wrong. We are envious and jealous of those who have more than us and feel justified to think that we are entitled to their riches. There is nothing in this life that is free, you have to work and earn it. To take it from someone is called stealing. For government to think they can spread the wealth is a way to destroy ones soul. God created us as free thinking individuals with a conscience. We must return to our basic values and individualism if are to survive the evil and corruption that abounds in today’s society. We must be responsible for our own actions. It starts with each and everyone of us becoming a model for goodness and true justice. This is not easy, as we discover the difficulties of finding the leadership and the values to lead us out of this sad state of affairs. We the people must stand up and provide the answers and demand the values to turn our country around. If we don’t, we can start saying goodbye to a nation that was once called the “Home Of Liberty and Freedom”.

WHAT'S FAIR?

2011-09-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

The question was recently asked: how much of the money I earn should I keep? I would like to turn that around and ask how much of my money should the government take? Remember we not only pay federal taxes but also city, state, and county taxes. We are taxed for practically everything we buy and use. We understand taxes are necessary for security, safety, roads, and services. The problem becomes how much? How much money does government need to maintain our society? What is fair? Right now we are getting very little for our tax dollar. Would you invest in a corporation that is losing money? Do you condone the waste in the corruption of Solyndra and Light Square? Government’s role is to serve the people not friends and donors. Is it fair that government treats itself as elitists? Why is it that government pays itself more than the private sector? Why is it that Washington officials exempt themselves from social security and health care programs? Wouldn’t you like to have a Congressman’s pension plan? Why is it that governmental entities have the right to vote their salaries? Based on performance they should be paying the people for serving. Why is it that so many beau crates are millionaires? Have you seen any of them running to change their benefit packages? They should have the same benefits as the private sector. Why isn’t that an election issue? Should someone be taxed and penalized for working hard to earn money, while rewarding the laggards of society who look to government for support? Should we be adopting the socialistic approach of redistributing the wealth? Is that fair? Redistribution of wealth leads to the destruction of all incentives and destroys the creativity and ingenuity that made this country great. In the end we will all be poor, except for the elitists in Washington. Look at Russia, Iran, Cuba, Venezuela and China; is that the type of society we want to live in? Everyone has to accept their responsibility to make our society work. Yes, we have to help people in need, but to turn capable minds and bodies into wards of the state is wrong. They need jobs. Too much taxation is what we fought against to become independent, over taxation will lead to our self destruction.

WHERE'S THE BILL?

2011-09-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

The President announced “Pass This Bill Now”, but Mr. President where is the Bill? My Congresswoman says she hasn’t received it. The Senate hasn’t received it. Aren’t you taking the cart before the horse? Where is the money coming from? The President has been preparing this “Jobs Bill” for weeks and we have nothing of real substance or detail except “Pass This Bill Now”. The day after his speech the President ventured out to sell the bill to the people. The media was debating the merits of the Bill. How stupid and naïve have we become when we buy smoke and mirrors. Where’s the Bill? Obama Care was passed with the same stupidity, and over a year later we’re finding out how bad it is. Don’t we learn from mistakes? The credibility of any represesentative who supports this non existent bill should be questioned. The President gets an “A” for speech presentation but an “F” for his inability to produce productive legislation. I’m tired of being played as an idiot by Washington. Stop the horse and pony shows and get down to business. Cut spending, end the fraud, follow the laws, create real jobs, drill, rescind regulations, balance the budget, no more debt, and get people back to work.

LANDLORD

2011-09-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

Question, should the Village of OP become a landlord? It reminds me of the federal government running General Motors and Banks. Was the Federal Government qualified to run a private enterprise? No. What we have in OP is an administration that is running away from the truth. For almost 10 years the administration has tried o come up with a plan/solution for the Metra Triangle, and for 10 years they keep making changes. No developer was willing to put up the money for this project. To save face, the administration has found a way to build the development with taxpayer money... Hello, and welcome to Government Apartments of Orland Park. OP is no more fit to be a landlord than Washington was to run GM. As representatives of the people the Administration must have the courage to admit they were wrong. Admit your mistakes and find private developers to dig us out of this mess. Do we need residential development? Why not a hospital, manufacturing, private health facilities, a university there are alternatives. Public ownership only leads to more corruption and deals. The Metra Triangle project is a disgrace and shows how incompetent government can be when it comes to spending taxpayer money.

RISKIER THAN RISKY

2011-08-27T13:37:00.000-07:00

I concur with the Southtown Editorial’s logic to fund the Metra Triangle Project,” Fails the Smell Test.” To say the least the plan is more riskier than risky. You don’t need a lot of statististics or testimonials from groups who have everything to gain and nothing to lose to conclude that this is a bad deal. If you have common sense and some real life experience you would back off from this plan. Unfortunately that’s not how the OP Administration sees it. They are ready to ram it down our throats.

Let’s look at some of the facts: national unemployment is at 9% and probably 10% in Illinois. Businesses are leaving Illinois and people are following the jobs. I believe 41% of the people between 25 and 54 were unemployed for an average of 27 weeks or longer in 2010 and 2011. This is the target group that OP is looking at to rent too for $1500 -$2000 a month. When I read the newspapers I hear that college grads are having difficulty finding employment. In 2009 the average 1 BR rental apartment went for around $900, the average today is around$1200. Do you really think this group is willing to pay 1500-2000 to live close to a train in OP? If I was a young and up and coming adult I would look to downtown Chicago with all its amenities. On top of it, haven’t they heard that more and more young people are moving back home?

For the life of me I can’t understand the logic in the Village investing in rental units. Here is were common sense and experience comes in. What is the turnover and cost of maintaining a rental building? Maybe there are people who can’t buy and would rent. First and foremost do they have a constant income to pay the rent? The problems with the Village renting are insurmountable. We could be looking at a development investment that could be destroyed within 10-20 years.

I guess the Administration doesn’t realize that the economy is tanking. The Federal Government is in debt to their eyeballs. Orland Park’s debt is nothing to sneeze at. During the last Mayoral Election the Debt was in the vicinity of 100-200 million dollars. The Administration has an obligation to balance the books. They say there is no risk. If there are problems,will the money come out of McLaughlin’s or Grime’s pocket? No, it will come out of the pockets of the taxpayers of Orland Park. The Administration has no risk, just being booted out of office.

History tells us that this Administration has not been friendly to the Orland business community; we lost the Andrew Corporation, a lumber company, the Orland Plaza, attempts to bring in Von Mar and other high scale retailers failed. What we’ve gotten was a Fat burger that lasted a year. The Mayor says vacancies are low. Well, ask the people what they think about that estimate. We look at the empty store fronts and failures. That’s what we see not your slant on how good things are. The Mayor is a politician who believes we will fall for his line.

Is this a good deal, “NO”. When a developer comes in with only a million dollar investment for a $62 million project, I say he’s getting a steal. If the project works out and he gets the development, I say that’s a steal. This is highway robbery especially when the developer’s record is anything but superb. With a bankruptcy and tales of faulty workmanship in the background would you give this developer or any developer the opportunity to represent you? With the Mayor’s experience in the plumbing trade I would recommend that he flush this plan and his vision down the drain.

POLITICAL LABELING

2011-08-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

I find it interesting that the media spends so much time classifying voters: liberal, conservative, moderate, Republican, Democrat, Independent, religion, right, left, center, race or whatever category they can think of. I would prefer that the pollsters and pundits spend time in asking tough questions so that I can evaluate the candidate to make an intelligent voting decision. . My voting decision should not be based upon some classification system. Since the pollsters and pundits like labels, why not classify candidates as Progressive, Libertarian, Marxist, Socialist, Constitutionalist, Patriot etc. I would like to know the candidates values and how those values relate to their decision making. During the 2008 campaign Hilary Clinton announced she was a Modern Progressive. She was honest as to her ideology. I interpret that to mean she believes in big government, taxation, deficits, one world government, redistribution of wealth etc George W. Bush wasn’t identified as a Progressive Republican until he left office. I believe the media needs to spend more time investigating, researching, asking questions and then classifying a candidate as to his/her ideology. There should be no free ride for any candidate. The voter needs to know more about the candidate than the media knows about the voter.

WHAT'S THE REAL STORY BEHIND THE DEBT CRISIS

2011-07-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

Are we focused on the real problem in Washington: is it raising the debt limit? Going into default, losing our AAA Credit Rating, lack of a balanced budget, too much spending, not enough taxes or the culture of the way Washington does business? I say the underlying cause of all problems is the culture in the way Washington conducts business... Washington does little to fix problems; it’s all about politics and getting re-elected... Just look at the shenanigans of the past week. Speaker Boehner tells the members of Congress to “get in line’. He states “I’m sticking my neck out”. Majority Leader, Harry Reid states “It’s dead on arrival”. He tables debate. There has been no budget for over 800 days. The President says everyone should act like adults and should work out a compromise while using scare tactics to meet an August 2nd deadline. Is that the way Washington is suppose to work? Maybe Speaker Boehner needs to get in line. Why did he want the job? Maybe we need to ask Steve Wynn why he supported Harry Reid while calling out the President on the economy. Mr. Wynn is partially responsible for our problems by promoting and funding Harry Reid’s re-election. The President hasn’t presented a plan and has shown little or no leadership. He thinks his job is campaigning. Is that what we want from Washington?

The elections of 2010 provided a ray of hope. When was the last time someone stood up to the Speaker and said “NO”? Well it’s happening and it’s about time. The members of Congress and the Senate should be tired of the Republican and Democratic Leadership going behind closed doors and emerging to tell them how to vote. We didn’t elect “YES Men” we sent people to Washington to solve problems. Everyone should have an opportunity to put their two cents on the table. Supposedly Connie Mack and Rand Paul have a proposal to trim spending by 1%, each year, over 6 or 7 years. Why hasn’t that proposal come up? The leaders keep saying there must be compromise. I say “FIX THE PROBLEM, Look out Of the Box’. Under the present situation politicians are acting like politicians... We need more input from the statesmen. One of the problems is that the Republicans control the House while the Democrats control both the Senate and White House. Is that a good enough reason not to work together and cause a stalemate? When the Democrats controlled all three, they did nothing to fix the problems. The people are sick of the game playing and politics. Moody’s presented comments on what needs to be done to save the AAA Credit Rating, why hasn’t the leadership been responsive to these prompts? Too me the priority should be to save the AAA Credit Rating and prevent defaults by cutting spending... Is it necessary to raise the debt limit to create more debt? I don’t think so. We need to find ways to start paying down the debt, not increasing it.

I don’t know if there will be a happy ending to this story. Whatever happens will be debated and argued for months to come. What I do know is that we must continue the change that we started in 2010. We must elect people who will stand up and fight for what’s right and solve problems. We don’t need “YES MEN” who will bow to a leadership that has been corrupted by a culture that has begun to destroy the freedoms, liberties and financial stability of the United States of America...

TIME TO PUT UP OR SHUT UP

2011-07-17T08:50:00.001-07:00

What bugs me about the current deficit situation is that Government can’t find any money to cut. Everything is critical, too important. I disagree, look around, what about all the fraud that is taking place in federal programs, how about subsidies, money we give to Greece, Brazil,UN the IMF. We pour money into the Middle East and we don’t know who’s getting it. GM pays no taxes and Immelt asks why people complain about government. I wonder why? Billions are given to illegal’s who won’t learn English or respect our customs. We won’t drill or mine. Washington is destroying jobs not creating jobs... Government salaries and benefits increase while they talk of cutting Social Security and Medicare, Will the sky fall? Yes, Social Security and Medicare is a problem and needs to be fixed, so what are they doing about it, nothing. Talk, talk and more talk. We give billions in bailouts with no results. We want everyone to own a home they can’t afford than subsidize the mortgages. Washington wants to tax the rich while 50% of the population pays no taxes. I understand there are people in need, but 50%. We punish people for thrift and ingenuity while rewarding people who look to government for support. What a mess. The late Everett Dirksen once said when you take a million from here and a billion from there you begin to talk real money. We’re talking real money folks. Why can’t Washington see the waste?

Washington is all about politics. They are destroying the country. If you want to campaign, do it on your own time, not my dime. How can you solve problems when you measure everything in votes? In 2010 the people sent a message to clean up the mess. Well, the mess is getting worse and 2012 is still some time away. When will our elected officials learn that they work for the country not themselves, special interest or their party? The hot air floating around is ready to explode.. It’s more about ambiguity than substance. How can you resolve problems when you don’t even know why you’re in Washington? Why did you take an oath? Why did you run for office? Like the kids in the neighborhood used to say, “TIME TO PUT UP OR SHUT UP”.

IS BIG GOVERNMENT THE ANSWER

2011-06-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Is big government the answer to our problems? Look at your present situation and think back 5 or 10 years, are you better or worse off. I would say you are worse off. Why, because you have less discretionary spending. Prices are rising, your salary can’t keep pace with the cost of living, and maybe you lost your job or can’t pay your mortgage. Each day seems to get worse. Your investments and property values are going down. It’s depressing. What’s the cause of our predicament? I say “BIG GOVERNMENT”. Washington keeps saying they need more money. I say cut the spending, cut the taxes. Is there anything that you buy that’s not taxed? Cut the size of the bureaucracy. There are regulations upon regulations to constrain our daily lives. You can’t do this, you can’t do that... Why not use our natural resources to create jobs and cut our dependence upon foreign resources? Government believes in the redistribution of wealth. Should we all be equal? I say we need to accept responsibility for our own actions and destiny, Dependency upon government makes us lazy and we lose our creativity and resourcefulness to be free and independent.

Big government is threatening the freedoms we have enjoyed for over 200 years. Government spends too much, regulates too much, taxes too much and is beginning to dictate too much. It classifies us by different traits instead of treating us as free and independent individuals. It stifles free enterprise and initiative by it regulations and taxes. It supports favoritism and friends. Promises are forgotten and replaced with contradicting decisions. They don’t listen, they won’t read their proposals and they ignore the will of the people. What has happened to the patriotism and pride of serving the electorate? The patriots in Washington are too few. We have elected too many representatives who are self serving and devoted to their party. How do we turn this around? It’s time that we the people start paying attention and start being concerned about what’s happening to our country. If we don’t, we may lose the greatest gift we have: freedom and liberty.

NEW WORLD ORDER

2011-04-07T08:16:00.000-07:00

For sometime there has been a push for what some call “The New World Order”. I interpret it to mean a one world government. This movement is growing and being pushed by George Soros, far left radicals and many of our own high ranking politicians. For one, Nancy Pelosi, is to speak at a Soros conference promoting the New World Order. I find it disturbing that the media is silent on this movement. It is a movement that opposes the U.S. Constitution and our way of life. It is a movement that rejects independence in favor of social justice and the redistribution of wealth. It’s disturbing when power brokers are moving this change without the consent of the American people. Isn’t it time for the media to speak out and inform the people what the” The New World Order” is so they can voice their opinions on this hidden issue?

RETHINKING LIZ GORMAN

2011-03-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

For a long time I’ve had a negative opinion of Liz Gorman. Her initial performance as Cook County Commissioner was questionable, she failed to take a leadership role in OP politics and there were questions about her personal life. More recently I have been rethinking my opinion. For one she has taken a leadership role at the County Board to fight taxes.. In the past several OP elections there was no opposition to the McLaughlin Machine. I always questioned, why? She has corrected that by fielding an excellent slate of candidates to run in the April 5th election. I don’t know anything about her personal problems, but in regards to the things that affect me she‘s on the right track.

One thing that bothers me is that the election is more about Liz Gorman than the candidates. She has become the focal issue on why you should not vote for the “Fiscal Voices for Orland”. That’s wrong! No one has made Mayor McLaughlin and his candidates an issue. Why not? His policies and leadership should be in question: no one talks about the large debt that hangs over OP; this was brought out in the last mayoral election. No one talks about his union ties, contributors or help from the Chicago Machine. No one talks about the mailings that deceive you and tell you: there have been no new taxes, what about the new fees, elimination of the rebate and the affect of the TIF’s on your property tax bill? Was he willing to change and compromise on the Orland Plaza? The Mayor and his people won’t change. Liz Gorman has made efforts to change and hopefully has seen the light. I have to give her credit for that. That’s why I say it’s time to rethink Liz Gorman. Think about it. Vote for change on April 5th.

PACZKI AND THE OP ELECTION

2011-03-19T08:42:00.001-07:00

On March 8th people lined up at the Orland Park Bakery to buy an estimated. 30,000 paczki. This makes me wonder if people will line up on April 5th to vote in the Orland Park Election. This election is extremely important because it gives the people of OP the opportunity to vote against the McLaughlin candidates: Schussler, Gira and Ruzich. These are some of the people who have worked to close the Orland Plaza , the Orland Bakery and the places where you buy your: meats, groceries, get your haircut, jewelry, morning coffee, flowers, and more. The McLaughlin allies will be responsible for closing 24 stores and sending your friends and neighbors into unemployment. This election should not only be a response to the closing of the Orland Plaza but also against rising property taxes, increased fees, debt, elimination of property tax rebates and a deteriorating OP. It’s about an administration that has squandered the treasures of OP. It’s about 30,000 paczki and a need to start cleaning up the Village, VOTE Tuesday April 5th.

BULLYING

2011-03-13T09:35:00.000-07:00

Recently the White House held a conference to condone bullying in schools. I agree we should do what we can to stop bullying. Unfortunately, bullying is not only taking place in our schools and playgrounds. The intimidation, death threats, destruction of property and action of thugs, displayed by adults in Wisconsin, has been irreprehensible. Has any one condoned this type of bullying? Is anyone going to be held accountable? Some of the people doing the bullying are the same ones the White House is calling on to control bullying in our schools. What an example.

WHERE'S THE MONEY

2011-03-05T06:14:00.001-08:00

It’s getting very troublesome watching the actions of pickets throughout the United States. You have to wonder if it’s only about union rights. It’s become clear that radicals have infiltrated the ranks with their own agenda under the guise of solidarity. Is this the ideology that the ordinary union worker wants to support his/her cause?

There was a time when Unions served a purpose: namely good working conditions and fair pay. They worked hard for the passage of Fair Labor Laws. Somewhere along the way they got greedy and stopped worrying about change and started concentrating on money and power. Their ideology changed. They were not concerned about where the money was coming from or the consequences. The best example is the destruction of the auto industry. As private sector membership declined they turned to the public sector. As in the private sector they continued to push and get greedy. It was not about producing a good product; it was about power and control. The problem is, government does not produce a tangible product. Government is supported by the taxpayer, not large corporations. Well, the taxpayer is waking up and feeling the pinch. The taxpayer looks into his/her wallet and says” I can’t I afford those salaries, benefits and pensions”. They ask the question, “What’s my return on the dollar”? They find the results to be: failing schools, waste, fraud, corruption, play to pay, favoritism, problems with tenure and on and on? The end results have produced huge deficits throughout the country. The country is broke! The taxpayer knows he must balance his/her budget or lose everything, they cannot print money. They make sacrifices to make ends meet. Government must do the same. It’s time to face reality. We must all stand together and make sacrifices. It’s time for all parties to do what’s best for the country. Once the taxpayer has been bled dry, there will be no money for government salaries, benefits or pensions. There will be chaos. Changes must be made. Workers need to control and cleanup their unions, and taxpayers must control and cleanup government. Things have been upside down too long. It’s time to face the facts and act like adults and deal with reality.

WHERE WAS THE DEBATE

2010-12-23T06:22:00.001-08:00

The year 2010 was the year of “Pass the Legislation”. The Congress and Senate were guided around like sheep. Where was the debate, the questions: WHAT, WHY, WHERE, WHEN, HOW and WHO? No time? The leaders didn’t know what they were voting for. “We’ll worry about it later.” My advice this holiday season is that all elected officials watch, “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.” Maybe Jimmy Stewart will give them some inspiration. In their Christmas stocking, I would hope that Santa leaves them some wisdom, sense of duty and a copy of the Constitution.

COMING TO AMERICA?

2010-12-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

Recent events in England and Greece should be of concern to all Americans. It’s a signal of what can happen when government gets too big and people become dependent on entitlements. There comes a time when everyone must face reality. The question becomes where does all that money come from? Someone has to pay. It’s definitely not governments’ money; it’s taxpayer money paying for those entitlements. Something has to give. Government has to cut costs, unions have to stop demanding and instigating, and everyone has to make sacrifices. There is no free ride. When you’re in a hole you dig yourself out. It is a time that will determine what type of country you will live in.

There are many lessons coming out of Europe. Unfortunately our government believes this is the path to follow, I call it the path to Socialism. It’s big government’s wish to redistribute wealth so everyone can be equal. We saw what happened when Freddie and Fannie provided everyone with the opportunity to own a home. The housing market collapsed, leading to high unemployment and huge deficits. This was the initiative that created the problems we are in today. This was government’s approach to change and equality. We were not to be treated as individuals but as collectives.

We must learn from what’s happening in Europe and get back on track. Government must cut back, Union member must regain control of their unions, creativity and ingenuity must be promoted. Dependence on entitlements leads to control of the individual. You lose your identify and become a pawn of the state. If we don’t wake up and pay attention, it may be too late. Europe is not a model to follow, we must return to basic free market principles and individualism. The best model and hope for freedom is and will always be the Constitution of the United States of America.

DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR

2010-11-24T12:50:00.000-08:00

During the past election candidates stated that they recognized the fact that Washington wasn’t listening. Have you heard the recent clamor over airport security, it’s loud and clear. Unfortunately, Washington has a problem hearing it. They do what they want, and ignore alternatives. Are they listening? Does it make sense to grope grandma or a 3 year old? They’ve lost the ability to reason and use common sense. Washington has become so arrogant they now feel they know what’s best for everyone. The problem is, what’s good for America doesn’t seem to be good for the elite in Washington. They’ve begun to act like dictators. Could you please tell me why Washington’s elite are given a pass at airports? They’re no better than anybody else. Why is Washington getting salary increases when social security is frozen? Why is Congress exempt from Obama Care? Why is it that more and more large companies are getting waivers from the new health care law? Shouldn’t everyone be treated the same. Why is it that we keep spending when we’re broke? Tax paying America is paying for this fiscal mess through higher prices and taxes. We’ve mortgaged our future to China, and Washington thinks nothing of it.

What a mess. Washington listens to Unions, lobbyists, billionaires who don’t know what to do with their money and far left ideologues. The average American is being shut out. This is not the America I grew up in or believe in. Main stream America will only take so much. Washington has exceeded its boundaries by ignoring the voices of the people. The battle is to restore America not destroy it. Maybe it’s time for Washington to start paying attention to the people. Maybe it’s time for Washington to feel the pain. Maybe it’s time to listen.

POLITICAL CORRECTNESS

2010-10-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

Some years ago they had a saying: “sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never harm you”. “POLITICAL CORRECTNESS.” has changed the depth and meaning of that old saying. If you use the wrong word you can be chastised as offensive, insensitive, racist, sexist, and homophobic and more Recently the word extremist was used on the “View” in reference to 9/11 and the building of a mosque, Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar walked off the set over the word extremist. The expression of this idea. word, action or opinion created hysteria. Instead of a civil debate we had adults behave like children.

Twenty or thirty years ago comedians made a living off of ethnic jokes; people laughed and enjoyed the humor. The Archie Bunker/All In The Family Show entertained millions in the 1970”s with ethnic humor. Some complained but it had little affect on its popularity... Today’s comedy depends on vulgarity and sexism. It’s entertainment that exhibits a lack of discipline and character. Its popularity can be found in poor ratings. Ethnic jokes lost out to political correctness and vulgarity. In the process we’ve lost the art of humor and laughing at ourselves. Political correctness has gone so far as to attempt to ban the Nativity Scene at public places at Christmas time, greeting people with Merry Christmas was to be replaced by Happy Holidays, Santa’s Ho Ho was misconstrued as something evil, and the White House no longer sends Christmas Cards because they believe it can be offensive. The White House banned the word terrorism
and replaced it with “Manmade Disaster”. Political correctness has become a way to confront someone who disagrees with your opinion in a way to create fears to dismantle your beliefs and traditions. That’s not political correctness, that’s political incorrectness. Someone termed it social demolition.

If someone can turn the American Flag upside down, and degrade the traditions and customs of America without retribution, than I say it’s time to put an end to political correctness. Yes, every human being deserves respect but not at the cost of every word or action being censored. We cannot be intimidated by the agenda and demands of those presented under the guise of “Political Correctness”. It’s time to replace Political Correctness with plain old COMMON SENSE.

GONE INSANE

2010-10-02T09:41:00.000-07:00

On October 30th Jon Stewart and Steven Colbert will be holding a “Restore Sanity Rally” in Washington DC. I hope they can accomplish something because, I have some question and problems with the way Washington is doing business. Maybe they can answer the question, why we continue to spend when we’re broke? Why elected officials take an oath to defend the Constitution than tell us it’s irrelevant? Why Legislators pass laws without reading them and than tell us we’ll find out what’s in it later? DOJ sues the state of Arizona, but fails to question the civil right violations of China, Venezuela, Iran and most UN nations? Why did we stop drilling for oil, but support foreign drilling? Why rank and file union members allow union leaders to blindly spend their dues? Why government needs to nationalize banks and industry? How much tax do people have to pay before it’s enough for government? Why do we continue to send jobs overseas when we have high unemployment? What happened to the free market? Why is social security broke, but we provide aid to illegals for education and health care? Why isn’t Washington protecting our borders when Mexico and Guatemala have erected fences for their border? Why is Washington letting the greatest nation on earth become second rate?

I doubt that two comedians will change anything, but their premise is right. Washington and our elected officials have gone insane and we need to restore sanity to government.

NOVEMBER IS COMING

2010-09-18T08:46:00.001-07:00

The elections are fast approaching and the mud and dirt has begun to fly. People are angry and are looking for people to solve problems. They’re tired of the entrenched politicians and their promises. They’re tired of the old rhetoric and phony endorsements. They’re tired of the pundits and their elitist attitudes and predictions. They want action with results. They want leaders and problem solvers to fix the economy, immigration, education, create jobs, control taxes, eliminate debt, provide quality, affordable health care, create and follow fiscally sound budgets, enforce laws, understand they work for the people not a party or special interest group(s),,and above all, believe in the principles that made this country great. .The election should be about intelligent ideas and issues. It’s not about name calling, generalities or gutter politics. It’s too easy to call someone a racist, Nazi or hater, but difficult to develop solutions to problems and to discuss the issues in a clear and concise manner. The most precious freedom you have is the vote. Don’t be a complainer, vote on November 2nd for your convictions.

Government Is The Problem

2010-08-26T07:15:00.001-07:00

Former president Ronald Reagan said,”They spend like drunken sailors, but that would be unfair to drunken sailors because they spend their own money.” I guess it would be safe to say that our representatives in Washington are spending our money like drunken sailors. They spend and spend more. They don’t know when to stop. When the money trees are bare they print more. Why not, it’s not theirs, it belongs to the taxpayer. If it was theirs it would be a different story. It’s been reported that consumers are paying down their debt. Why isn’t Washington paying down the debt? The present deficit is around 13 trillion dollars and growing. The national debt is growing by about $4 billion a day with an estimated cost to each citizen of over $43 thousand dollars. Washington talks of increasing taxes and passing more costly legislation. People can t afford more taxes. We’re broke. They don’t get it. Presently a working person has to work 231 days out of the year to meet all costs imposed by government, that’s 8 days more than 2009.

Some will tell you we’re in a recession; some say it’s a depression while the administration say’s we’re in recovery. If you’re one of the 9.5% unemployed you tell me where we’re at. What troubles me, is that public sector jobs have been increasing while private sector jobs are decreasing. We don’t need more bureaucrats; we need real jobs, jobs that produce value. Government jobs take money from the private sector that should go to buy goods and services that would put people back to work. Hiring more bureaucrats isn’t the answer. Government needs to provide the private sector with the economic freedom to make business decisions. Business leaders need that freedom to create and produce goods and services that consumers need and want. The present advice coming out of Washington is from academics, lobbyists, activists, union leaders and community organizers; people with little or no business experience. We have bureaucrats telling business what and how to do it. The Congress has been incapable of controlling the bureaucrats. That is a problem. These people have no real business experience that would qualify them to solve business problems. We need less government, less regulations, and the free market to do its job.

As President Reagan said,” Government is not the solution to the problem, it is the problem.”

ON THE ROAD TO SOCIALISM. IT'S TIME FOR AN HONEST DEBATE.

2010-07-29T15:04:00.000-07:00

Socialism can be defined as “an economic and political theory based on public or common ownership and cooperative management of the means of production and allocation of resources”. The basic premise is that everything is collective under the direction of government. Government rules. The winners are the rulers.

If we analyze what is happening, in America, the indicators are saying we are headed towards socialism. Our government is growing bigger and more powerful They’ve created greater controls through more regulations. The Health Care and Financial Reform Legislation meet that criteria. When government takes over manufacturing and banks it meets that criteria. They don’t believe in a capitalistic society. When the Congress is no longer relevant and decisions are made by czars and unions it becomes clear that something is wrong. When government obstructs, instead of enforcing laws, we must be concerned; examples: Acorn, Black Panthers, and immigration. Laws are for everyone, government can’t arbitrarily decide who the law applies to.

The signs and actions of what government is doing should make every citizen worried. When a once great nation bows to foreign leaders and turns it’s back on allies, aren’t you concerned? Don’t you ask yourself, what’s happening? When our government fails to abide by the Constitution and treats it as an outdated document, aren’t you concerned? When new legislation is so ambiguous that leaders tell you “you’ll find out later”. Do you accept that? When your representatives fail to read legislation and vote on command, do you accept that as good government? When the President dictates the outcome and timelines for legislation do you agree? Where is the debate? Are the voices of the people being heard? Does you representative care what you think? Why don’t we have term or age limits and enforceable ethics to rid government of corruption? If you’re not upset or angry, do you accept socialism as the way to go? Maybe this is the type of government you want.

We the people have allowed this to happen. We have become complacent and trusted our elected officials. What have we gotten: insurmountable deficits, high unemployment, attempts to redistribute the wealth, a bigger and more powerful government, bureaucrats who treat themselves like kings ( they can’t buy their own newspapers, bottled water, donuts, coffee or lunches). There is talk of a one world government and the dismantling of the Electoral College. The founding fathers fought for less government, less taxes, greater freedoms and liberty. Washington tells us they are transforming the country. They say “we’re not going back”, but that’s exactly where we’re headed, 1750. Is this the transformation you want? We need to get back to basics; we need to follow the Constitution We need to get back on track. To make that happen, we the voters must go to the polls and elect people who believe and will defend the Constitution. People who are proud of America and will dedicate their service to liberty, freedom and our motto “In God We Trust”.

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CLUELESS

2010-07-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

In regards to your recent article: “Future Shape of the Triangle”, I say, show me the money! The Orland Park Administration thinks big, but where is the money to pay for the project? Where is the money to pay the Orland Plaza Owners and Tenants? The Administration is clueless! They must be held accountable. .The days of overflowing sales tax revenues are gone. The market has changed, more store are closing than opening. The housing market is down, unemployment is over 9%. Orland Park is already in deep debt and continues to refinance and add to the tax payer burden. Will they raise taxes; create more TIF’s so schools will have less? Does anyone on the Board have any concept of value or money?

The Orland Plaza is a jewel in the rough. It continues to bring in a steady flow of revenue. Even with the threat of closure there are very few. The Plaza provides steady employment for the Village and has a dedicated customer base. Is this what you do in difficult financial times, cut revenues and increase unemployment? What guarantees and cost justification has the public received that this is a safe venture? Wake up, the economy and levels of government are all in trouble. The Orland Park Administration has a responsibility to provide sound financial plans and services to its taxpayers. This is not their money; it’s the people’s money.

Unless the Orland Park Administration can provide a sound, justifiable, debt free, financial plan for the Triangle it should be shelved. The revenues from the Plaza are needed; they can not afford to destroy it. The Plaza should be renovated. Elected officials need to be fiscally responsible. If they do not know how to manage their vested resources, they should be removed. There are too many incompetent, self serving officials serving us, the people are fed up.

INDEPENDENCE

2010-06-28T10:28:00.000-07:00

As we celebrate the 4th of July our thoughts should focus on independence. It is a day to say thank you to the Founding Fathers for their courage and wisdom to create the foundation for the greatest country on earth, America. In 1776 the world was much like it is today. We had rulers, empires and dictators. People were controlled and told what they could and couldn’t do. Fortunately, men like Washington, Jefferson, Franklin and Adams didn’t like being controlled, they believed in liberty and freedom. They were individuals who were willing to lead and fight for freedom. They set the foundation that has guided us for the past 234 years. The foundation we call the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. It was these documents that established our heritage, culture, traditions and beliefs. These were the pillars that have made us strong and free. These documents defined who we are and who we are to be.

Unfortunately, today, we have people who find these pillars and documents outdated. People with ideologies that apologize for who we are and what we have done. They disagree with Jefferson that good government is less government. They want more control and power. They want to revert to where we came from or adopt the failing political concepts of allies and even enemies.

To retain our freedoms, we must fight to keep our Constitution and to live by the principles established by the Founding Fathers. We cannot allow the proponents of change to win. Freedom is our birthright and we must preserve it. Government has its place, but it must not stray from the guiding principles of the Constitution and the examples set forth by the Founding Fathers.

From the beginning, people have come from all parts of the world, to America, to enjoy our freedoms, opportunities and liberties. They came, embraced our laws, Constitution, flag and proudly called themselves Americans. This is what has made America strong and great. We have been the beacon of light and hope to the world that freedom reigns.

It is on the Fourth of July that we pay homage to the Founding Fathers, it is the day we honor and pay tribute to the brave men and women who have fought and died to maintain these freedoms. It is the day we praise the legacy that was bequeathed to us. We cannot and must not falter in following the path established by these brave men and women. The path is clear; the tools were put in place. We must not waver. We must continue to live by these principles. On this Fourth of July let us continue this work and pray to God for everlasting Freedom and Independence.

WHO DO YOU BELIEVE?

2010-06-11T13:20:00.000-07:00

Everyday we are inundated with information. It comes from TV, the internet, newspapers, friends, radio, phone, mail and on and on. How do you process this information? How do you react? Do you believe the information? Is it important enough to store in your memory? As you collect and process the information is it from a reliable source that you believe and trust?

It’s becoming harder and harder to trust the sources of information. Most of the information we gather is opinion. Much of the information is manufactured and tailored to suit ones opinion or position. Place a conservative and a liberal side by side and you get different views and opinions. Who do you believe? Whose side do you take? Can you tell the truth from fiction? Words are powerful, they influence and motivate. Change and Hope were powerful and motivating words in the election of 2008... Some sources prey on your best instincts. Remember how Bernie Madoff conned influential and wealthy people into trusting and believing his ponzi scheme. How can we protect ourselves from being conned?

The time has come to ask more questions. We need to remember the words: WHO, WHAT, WHY, WHERE, WHEN, HOW when evaluating information... In November we will be called upon to elect leaders to represent us in Washington D.C. And our individual states. Based on past experience we’ve done a poor job. This time we need to do better in evaluating individuals in regards to their abilities to make decisions, and solve problems. We need people who will represent their constituency not a party, union, or special interest group. We must cast aside the political rhetoric and judge the character, honesty and capabilities of the individual to do the job. We don’t need more politicians; we need statesman who will stand up for our country and its Constitution. We need people we can believe in.

BEING THROWN UNDER THE BUS

2010-05-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

Why is it that everyday I wake up to bad news? The oil spill, declining market, growing debt, crime, corruption, giveaways and no common sense. Few read or understand legislation. While this is happening the main stream media reacts with indifference to the opinions of the man on the street. The spin is to justify the Administration and the players in Washington.

Maybe it’s time to start dealing with the issues. How much paper can Washington print and pretend is real? Does Washington have a budget? Apparently not, or it’s worthless. I always thought the budget was the plan or guide to administer receipts against expenditures. If you run out of receipts you stop spending or start cutting. There is no magic money tree, this is reality. If you’ve noticed, there always seems to be money to bail out or help unions, education and large corporations. Is there some coincidence between political contributions and the money doled out to these entities? How can these organizations have millions for candidates, but fail to have sufficient funds to support pension programs?

How much taxation can the public endure? Washington doesn’t create anything, its private enterprise that stimulates the economy. If that’s the case why are we creating more government jobs than private jobs? You can’t create money or improve the economy through bigger government. The Washington premise is wrong and needs to change. Nine percent unemployment is unacceptable. People need to become more responsible for their own destiny and not dependent on government. Government’s philosophy of entitlements is destroying the human spirit. Government has a role but not to destroy my independence and free spirit. Where’s the common sense? We’re on a track to destruction.

Tomorrow I hope I’ll wake up to better news. Being a skeptic, I doubt it, especially when I feel that Government is throwing me under the bus.

AMERICA AT ITS BEST

2010-04-18T14:26:00.000-07:00

The Tea Party People have struck the nerves of the main stream media and politicians. The Tea Party Movement is becoming the biggest movement since the American Revolution to challenge government. The difference between the American Revolution and the Tea Party Movement is that this is a peaceful revolution. Like the American Revolution people are speaking out against spending, representation, freedom of speech, failure to abide by the constitution, and our precious liberties. What’s wrong with that? It’s about policies and the course that the Obama Administration is leading the nation. It’s about time that the people have stood up and voiced their concerns and opinions. The people have been silent too long. For too long government has been telling and not listening. The politicians have gotten so bold they practically tell the PEOPLE to shut up and keep quiet. This is not a joke or a game; the people are angry and upset with Washington and the Administration’s Policies.

The Main Stream Media and the Administration paint the Tea Party People as troublemakers. They try to make them look like bullies and irrational. The Parties have been peaceful and orderly. Because they are peaceful, the Left is attempting to infiltrate disrupt and discredit these PEOPLE... The MSM continually blast Sarah Palin and Glen Beck for their conservative voices as if they are out to instigate mob action. Believe what you want, but Palin and Beck speak and act like true Americans, not radicals who want to destroy the country. The voices are growing to criticize the Administration and Big Government... God Bless talk radio and the Voice of the People. If you see something wrong are you supposed to lie down and play dead? The sleeping giant has awaken. Its time that the MSM and Washington take heed. It’s time for them to change, its time for them to listen. The Tea Party Movement is a People’s Movement that is grass roots driven that gives the people the opportunity to oppose big government and its policies. This is America at its best. God Bless the Tea Party People, God Bless America.

GET THE BROOMS

2010-04-16T10:39:00.001-07:00

Recently I received a form letter from my Congresswoman Judy Biggert R. IL. The letter stated her position on Term Limits. Congresswoman Biggert believes that we do not need term limits since every time we vote it’s an approval or disapproval of the candidate’s job performance. I disagree with the Congresswoman. I threw the letter in the garbage and said forget it. Than I read an article about the State Department spending $300,000, of taxpayer monies, for booze. This struck a nerve and I wrote the Congresswoman the following:

“Who in Washington authorizes agencies, State Department, to spend $300,000 for booze? Liquor should not be allowed in Federal Buildings. Is this the way you look over and spend our money? Received your letter re Term Limits, sorry but you're wrong you are a career politician and you, like the rest of the people serving us need term limits. The longer you stay, the more you get ingrained in the system and corruption. It's like being tempted by the devil. You may be honest but you have to pay for the people who come to Washington, not to serve the people but to fill their pockets. Sorry but we need to clean house. We need term limits. Will you sacrifice yourself for the common good? I doubt it. That's why, above it all, you're still a politician. You're still in office because no one worthy runs against you. That's going to change and we will see new faces in Washington. The day of the free ride is over. People are waking up and paying attention. No Democrat or Republican is safe. We need patriots, not politicians.”

The problem is that anyone who has served us for ten years or over is responsible for the current problems. They were there when the Republicans were in control, they were there when the Democrats were in control, and they were there when the House was split. They all failed to live up to their oath to defend and protect the Constitution and laws of the land. Every incumbent is responsible for the deficit, corruption, failure to stand up and defend our laws, they neglected to maintain our system of checks and balances and the ability to be honest and trustworthy. They have failed us and we need to clean house. In 2010 we’ll need the brooms; in 2012 we’ll need to fumigate the White House. The country is waking up and regaining its patriotism. Keep it up. There is a lot of work to do, get the brooms and let’s clean house.

WHO ARE WE?

2010-04-12T06:56:00.000-07:00

I’m getting confused. When I was growing up I always felt a love and dedication to country. I admired George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Douglas McArthur, and Dwight Eisenhower. I looked to them as role models, people who fought and believed in America. As I grew older I voted for John Kennedy and supported the Democratic Party. As time went on things started to change and I started to look at politics from a different perspective. My values had been molded from early years with a strong duty to country, family and God. I always thought that you had to work for what you had. If you wanted an education you did it on your own, once you got married you had the responsibility to feed, house and protect your family. I never thought that I needed government to help me. It was my responsibility, not government’s to take care of me and my family.

Things have apparently changed; the old American values must be dying. As government adds more entitlement people become more dependent on government. Fortunately not all people feel this way. Most people still believe in the American Way of hard work, not handouts. They believe in charity when it is justified, not the idea you wait for the government to take care of you. If you are capable and healthy there is no reason that you can’t work and make it on your own. You are failing in your responsibility to society. You cannot feel sorry for yourself. The human soul is driven by challenges, needs, wants, desires that the individual must fulfill. These things cannot be fulfilled by government. Once you depend on government for your existence you become crippled and become a burden upon society.

TUNING IN

2010-03-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

Tuning into the morning news, in two short minutes, I found out what was happening in the media. First, I heard that Valerie Jarret felt that there was too much anger and we needed debate. I didn’t take kindly to that because I felt the debate was to have taken place in Washington. Ms. Jarret has a short memory remembering the close doors, bribes, the promised transparency and legislation that was to be posted and read. What really angers people is that Washington didn’t listen. There has been an outcry against Obama Care and they ignored it. Ms. Jarret there is a lot of reasons to be angry. Second, David Axelrod defended the Presidents move to make recess appointments. He blamed the Republicans for the delays in passing Obama’s appointments. Doesn’t he know that the Democrats control Congress? Maybe the Congress has a problem with the radical people already working in the Administration. Mr. Axelrod doesn’t like being called a Socialist, but he should look around and see who he’s hiring... That is more than enough to make people angry. Third, was Chuck Schummer professing that once people find out what’s in Health Care they’ll like it. Beyond the few up front positive changes, there isn’t much to praise. Senior Care will be decimated; taxes will destroy businesses and jobs, look at the changes. Maybe the Senator should read the bill. The only good thing that came out of that two or three minute report was Sarah Palin’s proclamation: “FIRE THEM”

THE SLEEPING GIANT HAS AWAKEN

2010-03-17T12:30:00.001-07:00

Congress in its quest to pass Obama Care has hit a new low. When you don’t have the votes, change the rules. You use gimmicks such as the Slaughter Rule (deeming) or something called reconciliation. You do whatever it takes to ram the legislation through regardless of the constituent’s outcry. Congress tells us this is not new; it’s been done many times. As a citizen have you heard of these gimmicks before? Probably not. Do you feel this is the way Congress should do business?

Congress has become a disgrace and needs a lot of housecleaning. People are tired of the lies and deceit. They want representatives who work for them not the President, the Party or special interest groups. The sleeping giant has awakened. The voices are growing and getting louder, people are mad. To pass Obama Care representatives are being bought and cajoled with promises, jobs and incentives. We don’t know what goes on behind those closed doors, but the deals are being made to swing the votes. What we do know is that $500 billion is being cut from Medicare, the debt will skyrocket, taxes will increase, premiums will go up, Washington will still have its benefits, few in Congress will understand or read the 2000 page bill, Education will be added, and don’t forget the pork and bribes to close the deals..

If something breaks in your home, do you buy a new house? No, you fix what’s broken. It’s time for Washington to stop playing games and fix what’s broken. We don’t need a new health care system: we need to fix the current system. What we do need is a new Congress that abides by the Constitution, The Bill of Rights and works for their constituents, not the President, Party or special interest groups.

THE END GAME

2010-03-01T10:29:00.000-08:00

In recent weeks Glen Beck has talked about categorizing people by political philosophy or ideology: Liberals, Conservatives, Libertines and Progressives. A survey was posted on his web site to determine where you fit. Glen has spent much time in defining Progressives. Progressives date back to Teddy Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson. It was a time when government started to stray from the precepts of the Constitution. It was the start of bigger government, taxes and social programs. Progressives want to change the way we are governed. It’s a slow process (evolution) in comparison to Marxism which is a quick (revolution) change. The end game is the same, government control and take over.

The American people may not be tuned in to history, labels or surveys, but they know when something is wrong... That’s why we’ve seen the rise of the Tea Party Movement and the falling poll numbers of Congress and the President. Elections in Virginia, NJ and Massachusetts have called for change. The people can no longer be fooled by political rhetoric, the deception and lies that come from the mouths of our elected officials will no longer be tolerated. We watch them spin and twist information and data to fit their needs. I found it disturbing when the President told Senator McCain, at the HC Summit, that the campaign is over. The campaign may be over, but the words live on. I guess what a Politician says during a campaign and what he does, once elected, doesn’t matter. The problem is, it does matter, it s a reflection of his/her character and integrity. I’m beginning to wonder if anyone in Washington has any integrity or character. Through modern technology we follow their every move and have clips to proof what they say and do.

The past year has awakened the soul of the nation. People are angry. They only have to look at the bailouts, takeovers and insurmountable debt to know government isn’t working. They know government is getting too big and arrogant. Many in government and the media look upon the American people as stupid and that government knows best. That type of philosophy is an indicator that we have moved into a Progressive ideology. It’s a sign that the evolution needs to be stopped. It’s a sign we need to find leaders who believe in the Constitution, our motto: In God We Trust and the laws of this country. We need leaders with common sense who can admit failure and correct mistakes. We’re tired of the talk, the lectures, and the arrogance. The goals and ambitions of some elected officials are getting dangerous. Their actions are becoming more dictatorial than representative. If you don’t like it, we’ll change the laws, we’ll change the way we do things. That’s not good and not what this country is about. If these are the signs of Progressive behavior we’re in deep trouble. What’s next, Marxism? If government can takeover banks, large companies; they can try and control people. We need to put the brakes on Washington and the rest of the incompetents that are running our cities and states. We need to understand what can happen if we are controlled instead of controlling. A free nation depends on a concerned and vigilant electorate that demands representation not party loyalty. Beware, know and understand the end game and its consequences.

ILLUSIONS OF CHANGE

2010-02-08T07:04:00.000-08:00

I’m beginning to wonder if anyone in government understands how to build or manage a budget. Everywhere you look, Federal, State, and Local Government, they’re in debt or bankrupt. Washington tells you to tighten your belt while they continue to spend and create debt. They give you the illusion that something is being done, but in reality the debt gets bigger. Instead of telling us how to manage money maybe it’s time for us to tell government how to manage the people’s money. Why is it that government employees earn an average of over $70,000 and non government employee’s average earnings are only $40,000? Do they work harder, are they smarter or do they produce better results? Definitely not. Based on performance government employees are over paid. If you want to start bringing Government’s fiscal house in order you start with salaries. Budgets must be cost justified. Salaries should be based on performance not resumes, past experience or patronage, but on meeting quantifiable and measurable goals, like cutting cost and creating efficiency. We need to bring Government in line with the rest of us. There is no reason to treat government as royalty. We hire and elect them to do a job and they must be in line with the rest of the job market.

It’s time to end the pension programs that government has enacted for themselves. Who in the private sector gets pensions after 4 years of service? In fact how many people still get pensions? Social Security is the norm coupled with a 401 Plan. Why aren’t all governmental employees covered under social security? That needs to change along with their Cadillac health care plans. Everyone should pay a percentage of their salary for health care. The people shouldn’t pay for the morning donuts and coffee at meetings. Go and buy your own. Expenses must be based on need not want. You don’t need expensive private jets to get around. Travel the cheapest way.

Let’s attack PORK! Legislative Bills are developed for specific purposes. We don’t need to add Climate, Energy, Transportation or whatever into legislation. This is the biggest waste of tax payer money and needs to stop. How about ending free lunches and trips from lobbyists which are the bribes that create the pork and bad legislation. Governmental employees need to wait 5 years before they can register to become a lobbyist. This is a lucrative sin that tempts and corrupts Government and must be controlled.

The country must be ruled by the Constitution, not by the seat of the pants of politicians. The Founding Fathers created the framework upon which this nation is to be governed. They created three branches to provide the checks and balances so that we would be free. Government is trying to destroy this structure. We must not allow this to happen. The government’s motto is “In God We Trust” and must remain. The people in Washington and our State and Local Governments have gotten so powerful they have forgotten what it’s all about.

We have laws that must be followed. Why is it that illegal’s have more rights and benefits than citizens? Government has no problem in paying for their education, healthcare and subsidizes their existence. Why are we paying for this? Have we no laws? This is bankrupting government. We can be fair, but not frivolous. If you want to live in this country and enjoy its benefits do it legally. End the fraud.

Private enterprise must be allowed to flourish. Businesses need to succeed or fail on their own. That’s the American Way. That’s the risk and beauty of a capitalistic society. Government needs to keep their mitts off of individual ingenuity and creativity. We don’t need government controlling banks, industry or any business. If a business fails someone will be waiting to replace them. I know this is debatable but since the days of our founding the people have depended on business for jobs, goods and services. Government provides us with taxes for their justification. I believe in the American Way not the Government Way which leads to bigger government and eventually socialism.

The recovery of our economy is not dependent on Government but on individual creativity and ingenuity. That’s the strength of this country, its people. The people know what’s best for them and the country. Government has come to know what’s best for government, not the people. They have created illusions of false change. Why have they done this, I believe they no longer believe in this country, its constitution, flag, traditions and culture? It’s forgotten the sacrifices that people made to make and develop this great land. We must return to our roots and values. Government uses the word “I”. It’s not “I”, its “WE THE PEOPLE.” Don’t be caught in the ILLUSION OF CHANGE. It’s time to tell your government to change. It’s time to tell them what to cut and how to behave. It’s time to return to our roots.

IS ILLINOIS READY FOR CHANGE?

2010-01-27T06:38:00.000-08:00

As you look over the candidates on the February 2nd Democratic and Republican Primary Ballots what do you find? I find the names of many of the same old candidates running to retain or regain power. There are a few new names that are willing to battle the money and power of the entrenched Democratic and Republican Candidates. What are their chances? Everyone complains about corruption and the lack of leadership, but we find little support to find and promote new ideas and new leaders. The media continues to support most of the people who have been part of the system and problems that have plagued Cook County and the State Of Illinois for years. We need new leadership. Will the people go to the polls and vote for new people and new ideas or will the voters continue to vote for the old names and status quo. We can break that mindset, Massachusetts did. If the Parties were really interested in change and efficiency, they would inject new blood, into their parties, and support new ideas and skilled people to clean up the mess. That won’t happen because the people who control the Democratic and Republican Party like the control and status quo. With too much change they wouldn’t be able to make the deals that keep them and their cronies in power. It’s up to us, the voters, to pick and choose the candidates, for the November 2, 2010 election, that will work for us, not themselves or their party. Vote February 2nd.

2010 - TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR GOVERNMENT

2009-12-25T16:06:00.000-08:00

2009 was a year that will be looked upon as one of the most politically corrupt in the history of the United States. President Obama was to bring change and hope. There was to be an end to back door politics, an end to influence and payoffs. There was to be transparency and openness. What we got was Chicago Politics. Tell them what they want to hear, once elected do what you want. You only need the voters every four years, they have short memories. President Obama learned his craft well and makes most Chicago politicians look like amateurs.

Why am I so critical? Some of the events of the past year will explain. The best example is the Health Care Reform Bill. I know deals are cut and pork is tied to legislation, but the techniques used to get votes for this bill were far and beyond normal arm twisting. It was downright immoral. $300 million to Louisiana Senator Landrieu, $1 million to Nebraska Senator Ben Nelson, $1 million to Chris Dodd. Chairman Harry Reid said, if a Senator didn’t get something in this bill, he or she didn’t do their job. I always thought you voted on the merits of a bill, not how much pork was brought to your state. That’s a crime, it’s a bribe, it’s wrong. How can you treat states differently in creating legislation? That’s discrimination. Any bill that passes with such questionable activity needs to be brought before the courts and the people responsible prosecuted and sent to prison. I thought there was a code of ethics for Congress?

In 2009 there were bailouts for the auto industry and financial institutions. We learned that government pushed for quick and easy mortgages for those who could not afford homes. No questions, no down payments just sign on the dotted line. That’s not how banks used to work. In the long run, who suffered, it was the people who thought they could afford the home, they lost everything. The Barney Franks, Chris Dodd’s and Freddie or Fannie Mae’s, who created the policies, ignored the outcomes and went along as if nothing had happened. In the process Freddie and Fannie were bailed out and safe. Not so for the poor souls who trusted and believed in Washington. Was there an investigation or any accountability, no?

The year found a Stimulus Bill, Cash for Clunkers, Health Care Reform, Bailouts which raised the national debt into the trillions. The value of the dollar was less than the Euro or Canadian currency. China said no more borrowing. The administration’s position was that the only way out of a recession was to spend. The Feds kept printing and the Administration kept spending. They say the recession is over. They say the Stimulus added and saved millions of jobs. They predict 2010 will be a boom with millions of new jobs. The administration has been wrong and fudges numbers; there is no reason to believe this prophecy. With a huge debt and increasing cost coming out of Health Care it is more probable that we will see companies reducing budgets, while the cost to cover an additional 30 million insured will impact everyone. We will see higher insurance premiums, cost of commodities will go up, there will be new and higher taxes to pay for Obama’s follies. It is my opinion, as cost rise, we will enter a period of inflation which will lead to tougher times.
The laws of the land seem to have no meaning to the Obama Administration. When a friend of Obama creates a controversy and police come to help, Obama comes to his aid, no questions asked, he supports the friend. When 13 soldiers were killed at Fort Hood he said, we must be deliberate and look at the facts. How can a President be outraged when a friend gets into a controversy and have so little remorse and outrage when 13 soldiers are killed? There’s a big difference between the two incidents. We found that Attorney General Holder was quick to protect Acorn, and the Black Panthers. He wants to try 5 Gitmo detainees in New York so that they can have the same rights as all US citizens. Does he want to make them heroes? He wants to close Gitmo and bring those detainees to Illinois so they can be treated as equals with the same rights as you and I. It makes no difference that over 3000 people were killed on 9/11. Wasn’t that an act of war Mr. Attorney General? If someone is captured and classified as an enemy combatant they should be tried under military law, not civil law. Harry Reid’s actions to bribe Senators for Health Care was a good example of a lawless government. Washington seems to be creating their own laws and rules to fit the situation. The Constitution is ignored and Washington trashes the very foundations upon which this country was founded.

In foreign affairs the President apologized for America’s misgivings and works to form and lead a world union. His agenda and objective appears to be one to dismantle our laws, traditions and constitution so that everyone is equal. This is part of his plan to redistribute the wealth. You may say this is far fetched, but this is how this man and his inside cronies see the future. There should be no independence, no liberties no freedom we should all be alike. It’s like something out of Orwell’s “1984”. The president has surrounded himself with czars and czarinas that follow far left and socialistic ideologies. Van Jones was an avowed communist, Anita Dunne lives by the teachings of Mao, the communication czar Mark Lloyd praises Hugo Chavez’s takeover of the media, Rahm Emmual’s brother writes and talks about “death panels”, Andy Stern, SEIU, is pushing to unionize the world. Is this the direction we want our country to go? These are the people the president listens to.

The drive by media continues to ignore the realities of what is happening. The spin is so good you want to believe it. The President is a master of the word, but short on truth and substance. You must pay attention to the truth and what is happening. Our country is being stolen right in front of our noses. The White House wants to control and dictate. They’re not interested in what you think or say. The Tea Parties were chastised as being Nazi’s and trouble makers. Why is it that the actions of Acorn and SEIU are never challenged or questioned? The PEOPLE have been relegated to being non existent. Washington no longer works for the people; we no longer have a representative government. It’s broke and needs to be fixed. Where is the hope, where is the change. Stand up America; let’s make 2010 the year that we take back our government. God Bless America.

NO SUBSTITUTE FOR VICTORY

2009-12-08T11:02:00.001-08:00

The military credo has been and will always be “NO SUBSTITUTE FOR VICTORY”. While watching the President’s Afghanistan Speech, at West Point, I had to wonder if he really understood the military. To me his presence at West Point was to use the Cadets as props to deliver an uninspiring speech. I felt a letdown from the man who is called “Commander In Chief”. I was not inspired nor would be desirous of following this man into battle. Remember, we respect the Office, but we don’t have to respect the man. He never spoke of the history or the great leaders that passed through the halls of the Point. He never spoke of Duty, Honor, and Country. He appeared to be programmed in giving this lackluster speech. He had no feeling or empathy with his audience. He outlined the Mission as something that was to be accomplished in 18 months. What was the specific mission? I always thought it was to rid the world of the Jihad terrorist that call themselves Al Qaeda. The Jihadist has a clear mission, kill the infidels. This is a declaration of war and we must defeat this ideology. The strategy and tactics presented by General’s Paetreus and McCrystal is clear and concise. . You can’t win a war by playing politics. It takes a dedication to the mission and planned objectives. The military has done a wonderful job in learning. adjusting and applying new tactics to changing situations and terrain. The war will be fought in phases with specific objectives. The time table is the accomplishment of successfully completing each phase and objective. The timetables cannot be related to elections. We must support our troops to defeat the Jihadist and bring civility back to the world. You don’t wage a war or go into battle to lose. There Is No Substitute For Victory.

NO SHAME

2009-11-22T07:45:00.000-08:00

The inclusion of $100 Million Dollars in the Senate Health Care Reform Bill, for Louisiana Disaster Recovery, was an obvious blatant act to bribe Louisiana Senator Landrieu. This section and any section with the same intent must be removed before any final vote. It is a clear cut example of how low and corrupt Washington has become. They no longer have any shame.

LIES AND/OR DECEPTION

2009-11-19T09:40:00.000-08:00

It’s becoming obvious that the Obama Administration is playing a game of lies and deception. You don’t have to go far to find contradictions. Recently the media reported large discrepancies in the number of jobs created from the Stimulus Package. Closer examination found that some of the jobs were created in non existent Congressional Districts and that numerous errors were found in the calculation of jobs saved. In fact, it was found that more jobs were saved than those that existed. Was this incompetency or lies and/ or deception. Yesterday the Department of Health and Human Services came out with a report stating that women under 40 and over 75 did not need mammograms. This was immediately challenged by doctors and the medical profession. It contradicted previous studies and the fact that early detection saves lives. Can HHS support this conclusion or is it another case of lies and/or deception? Are Death Panels really dead? Recently we found that AG Eric Holder recommended holding court in New York City for 5 of the Gitmo detainees. This is a case that will put the U.S. at risk: security, cost, embarrassment, and the possibility that the detainees will walk free. Again this is a contradiction. We know that military tribunals are being held and that a criminal trial gives detainees the rights of an American citizen. I read that Holder’s previous law firm is instrumental in representing many Gitmo detainees. Wouldn’t you call this a conflict of interest? Yesterday Harry Reid walked to the podium followed by the three stooges; Durbin, Schummer and Dodd to announce that the Senate had just completed a Health Care Bill. “It is affordable and covers 96% of all Americans.” The Bill is 2047 pages. The details presented were astounding, affordable and covers almost everyone. It was completed behind closed doors, more transparency. The full Senate and the Public were to have access to read and critique this bill. Another act of lies and/or deception. I guess we can go on and on and the results would be the same, more lies and or deceptions.

Charles Krauthammer nailed it yesterday, when he stated that President Obama’s comments on the economy came after meeting with China. The President is quick to respond to China, but is deaf to the people of the U.S. Charles went further in relating this to the concept of the world order. It is becoming clear that President Obama isn’t concerned with the United States, but converting us to a part of a United World. This man with his charisma and smooth talk is slowly dismantling the U.S. He can no longer be trusted. Unfortunately the Congress continues to dance to his tune. This reminds me of the new TV series “V” were aliens where planted here to overthrow and take over the world. This may be far fetched, but the game is the same; power, lies and/or deception.

GENERALITIES OF HEALTH CARE

2009-11-08T09:15:00.000-08:00

The Congress passed the 2000 page Health Care Reform Bill last night by 5 votes. Nancy Pelosi declared that people can finally have affordable health care. Can someone please tell me how you can boil down a 2000 page bill to a few meaningless words? It reminds me of the 2008 campaign, “Hope and Change“, words that no one challenged. Maybe it’s time to challenge what Congress means by affordable health care. What’s it going to cost me? You say it will be cheaper, how can it be cheaper. Please give me an example. You say it will cover 96% of the people, where’s the money coming from? Cheaper and covering more people, that’s very interesting. You say everyone must have insurance or pay a fine or spend time in jail. Very democratic. What if I can’t afford insurance, will you send me to jail? How does that work? You say that there is going to be a public option, but you can keep your present insurance. What choice do I have if I belong to a group and the business decides for the public option how can I keep my present insurance? You say abortion won’t be paid but provide no guarantee, how can I trust you? What else is hidden in the 2000 pages that you don’t want me to know? How are you going to cover illegal’s, what’s the catch? I know you’re going to sneak it in. There will be a life time maximum, how much? How many beauracrates will it take and cost to administer this bill? How about ending fraud and corruption? Why didn’t we have the option of going across state lines to buy insurance and what did you do about tort reform? If nothing, why?

At this point I think it’s a big game. A game of trying to win public opinion. Remember, “Hope and Change”, trust me. Don’t trust anyone and don’t believe what you read or hear. Ask questions and get as many facts as you can. It’s a political game about control and power. It’s a game about taking away my freedoms and giving them to the government. A government that can’t manage much of anything. It’s no longer common sense, its lies and deception. Why should I trust or believe in any politician?

Just remember, health care reform is going to provide everyone with affordable health care. That’s what Speaker Pelosi says and that’s what her 2000 page bill guarantees. So says Pelosi. Now if you believe all of that, step forward and buy a bottle of my Fountain of Youth Tonic.

REDISTRIBUTE THE WEALTH

2009-11-07T08:43:00.000-08:00

One of Barack Obama’s objectives is to redistribute the wealth. What does he really mean by that? Does that mean that people with nothing get to have what others have worked and earned? That’s what you really call incentive and motivation. Why should I work, go to school and save so someone can come and take my endeavors. I have a suggestion to test this ideology. I just read that there are more than 200 millionaires in Congress. My suggestion is that we start by taking our representatives wealth and redistribute it to the poor. First let’s start with the President. Let’s start with his house in Chicago. Next let’s empty his bank and stock accounts. Take away his perks to free health care and give it to the poor. Let him go to a free clinic on the Southside of Chicago. Take away Air force one and let those who can’t afford airfare use it to visit friends and relatives. Let’s take all the cars and limos and raffle them off to those without cars. Let’s take away the free food and services and have Michelle cook the family meals. Once we’ve stripped the President of his wealth let’s concentrate on the Congress and Senate, the czars and cabinet members. Now I think that’s a great idea for redistributing the wealth.

THE TURNING TIDE

2009-10-31T10:01:00.000-07:00

The tide appears to be turning. People are waking up and finding that Barrack Obama is not the brilliant wizard he was made out to be. His golden oratory is turning sour and people now question his words. Where’s the transparency, the end to corruption and lobbyists. The data and people making decisions, for the President, are being challenged. The President’s decision making ability has become more like one of indecision than of decisiveness. He needs months to make a decision on Afghanistan, but rushes legislation through Congress, giving no time to read or analyze the material. What would happen if the United States was confronted with a tragedy calling for an immediate decision, is Barrack Obama up to it? He follows the rule of Chicago politics; count the votes than make the decision. Washington is being run in campaign mode not as an efficient business. Their model is the Chicago Political Machine.

There are many who believe Obama is a savior, some call him the messiah, I ask them. Do you want government telling you what you can and can’t do? Do you realize the consequences of a big intrusive government? It’s a step towards socialism. Government will make your decisions. If you like that type of government you should be living in: Cuba, Venezuela, Iran, or China. Is that what you want? Am I wrong to feel that way? Look at the radicals now making decisions in Washington. Czars that were not approved by Congress, but have more power than those approved to Cabinet posts. Do you want the likes of Barney Frank, Chris Dodd, Nancy Pelosi or Harry Reid running your life? You only have to look at their record: Stimulus Package, Cash for Clunkers, Fannie and Freddie, Bailouts, Insurmountable debt, Government Health Care Reform (paid abortions, cuts in Medicare, rationing, public options, limited choice, higher taxes, etc) more power for Unions, Acorn and of course government. The Obama Administration chastises: Fox News, Chamber of Commerce, Insurance Companies, Edmonds and anyone who disagrees with their policies or data. That’s what a socialistic regime does and that’s what they want us to become, servants of big government. I’m sorry, but that’s wrong, and I’m worried. I’m worried for my country, my grandchildren and the honest hard working people that have made America great. We can’t stand idly by and let Washington destroy our beliefs and traditions.

Living in Illinois I find it frustrating to be represented by Dick Durbin and Roland Burris. They don’t listen, and if you send them your opinions they respond with unrelated issues. Will the people of Illinois boot them out? Will Nevada re-elect Harry Reid, will Massachusetts keep Barney Frank or will California kick out Nancy Pelosi. Wake up America, these people don’t represent this country, they believe in an ideology that is based on Socialism. They now call themselves Progressives. Because we complain, they call us Nazi’s, tea baggers, anti American. The problem is they have become corrupt with power and arrogance. The only way to clean up the mess is to kick them out. We need more Mr. Smith’s in Washington and less Dick Durbin’s, Barney Franks and Chris Dodd’s. We need to send people to Washington who believe in the Constitution and our history. We need people whose role models are Washington, Jefferson, and Adams not Mao, Chavez or Castro. We need people who are proud of our nation, the Constitution, the flag and the traditions and values created by our founding fathers.

WHAT CHANGE? WHAT HOPE?

2009-10-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

In 2008 Barack Obama was elected President. His message was one of HOPE and CHANGE. It is now October 2009 and we have seen little hope or change. I look to the President for leadership and direction. The office sets the tone for the movement of the country. The President is to inspire the nation to greater things. In a way, Barack Obama does these things, but in a negative way. I do not feel inspired and the reason is that the President has a different view of this great nation than I do. I find little patriotism in his leadership or message. He seems to be ashamed of the things we have accomplished and our history. He apologizes to the world for what he considers our misgivings. Our country has been more generous in helping nations and defending freedom than any on earth. We need not be apologetic for our past actions; we should be proud and shout them from the highest mountain.

Barack Obama is a mystery. Some say he is brilliant and gifted. Yes, he can move audiences but has he demonstrated that he can make the tough decisions necessary for the good of the country? His economic policies are questionable. Look at the Stimulus Package, Bailouts, and Cash for Clunkers; have they turned the economy around? Did anyone hear of the free enterprise system? Unemployment stays at around 10%; most financial institutions that received bailout monies are making large profits, while Cash for Clunkers increased sales for a month and quickly returned to its downturn. He believes in gimmicks, not substance. Barack Obama has surrounded himself with many questionalable people. People with radical backgrounds and ideas. Many espouse a socialistic or communistic ideology. Is this the change he campaigned on? Maybe that’s why many of the programs coming out of the White House are questionable. Ideas on freedom of speech, who lives or dies, a belief that everyone is the same, global warming, a new world order and on and on. If you differ with the White House you are tagged an enemy and attacked. Fox News provides coverage that is diversified and asks the tough questions. Many idolize the President as if he can do no wrong. Fox is continually singled out for doing its job. That’s what they’re supposed to do, report the news and provide opinions. Obama Health Reform brought out the issue on how much care a person should receive as they age. Is this the change he talked about? He talks about redistributing the wealth. Take from the rich, give to the poor. Aren’t you supposed to work hard and earn your way? You don’t need a government handout. This does not mean that people shouldn’t help each other. But this certainly isn’t the way to motivate people to help themselves and grow and improve. They talk about climate change and question Mother Nature. Maybe we need to clean up the air, but let’s listen to all sides. Barack Obama goes before foreign audiences as if he seeks a new world order. Let’s be realistic, look at the dictators and how they wield power to control their countries. We must deal with the real world, not a fantasy world. The United States has always acted out of power not weakness.

It appears that the White House wants to be all controlling. They want to control what we hear, what we see, how we think, and what we do and how we do it. Where is the Congress? Are they in the tank and working for the President or do they work for us? They were sent to Washington to maintain a check and balance, not to be a rubber stamp. This is serious, and scares me. This is not the America I know or want to know. This is not what this country is about. The agenda is clear, CONTROL. Government knows best and you must listen and follow what they say. That’s the message and image being portrayed by this Administration. That is not what the people voted for. That is not the change or hope they were looking for. They were fooled and most are still being fooled. They don’t read or look for different sources to find the truth or what’s really happening. The media has become a joke. They don’t report facts; most have become spokesmen for the White House. Maybe, just maybe that’s why fewer and fewer tune into the national media for news. The American people are not dumb and will not tolerate this type of control. We believe in our freedoms and we’ll fight for it. The President and his radical friends can’t fool us any longer. The ball is in the President’s court and it’s time for him to change. It’s time to clean out the radicals and bring in people who believe in America and what it stands for. Congress needs to also get in line and start doing its job. They can’t all be bought. Most Congressmen and Senators believe in this country and will fight to preserve it. We need to pressure them to protect this country and to stand up against the radical leadership and thinking that is taking over the White House. We need to continue to bombard Washington with our concerns so we can protect the Constitution and the liberties that made this country great.

WHERE IS AMERICA HEADED

2009-08-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

For the past two months the Health Care Debate has taken center stage. The arguments have been heated and real. The electorate has taken on their elected representatives. They want answers. What do they get, platitudes and worn out rhetoric. The President is sent on the road to quell the dissension. He tries to mesmerize us with smooth talk and innuendos. Hope and Change. He has failed to convince people of a plan that will work. He talks around the issues: the public option, abortion, cost, deficits, government intervention, and death panels. He dismisses them by telling us to believe him, trust him. The problem, where is it in writing? How do we know we’re playing with a straight deck? Our representatives don’t read and understand proposals. Most do what they’re told. They fail to act responsibly on behalf of the people who hired them. What have we got, two parties, who represent their party and vote the party line? No one is against constructive change, provided there is sufficient debate that it is acted upon responsibly, not rammed down everyone’s throat. This is unfortunate and must end. We need independent thinkers who don’t work for their party or the President, they work for the people.

We have seen failure after failure: the stimulus package, health care reform, cash for clunkers, bailouts, perks, rising deficits, government dictating who gets what and more. Washington tells us everything is well and working. Is it really? This is not acceptable. What is government trying to do? I don’t believe these actions are the objectives to create a better society. Indirectly the objective is to solidify the Democratic Party. By providing favors to special interest groups such as Acorn, Unions, legalizing illegal’s, and providing health care for 40-50 million uninsured, they believe they will create a base of voters who will ensure an unending era of power for the Democratic Party. The problem with this objective is that it will destroy the foundation of our democracy and create a socialistic society. Maybe the Czars were created to prepare us for this reality. Government will tell us what and what not to do. Free enterprise as we know it will no longer exist. Our individualism will be gone; we will be a commune with rules set by Government for conformity. Free speech is already being attacked and will die. I firmly believe this is the true objective of the Democratic Party. If you look at what is happening in the media, the reaction and verbal denunciation of senior citizens, the power and money given to unions and Acorn, the Presidents flip flopping, this is a clear message, something is wrong and a call for concern.

This is not a good situation. The Representatives and the President aren’t listening and don’t want to listen. They know better. They know what their objective is. The polls are supporting the people’s concerns. They are real and true. The Democrats have the votes and can do whatever they want. The question is, will our representatives support the President or the People. Maybe they should reconsider their role and start doing their job, represent the people .If they support and back the policies of the President for a Socialistic Society and believe adding illegal’s and counting on people who want government control ,they may find this to be their demise.. I find very few if any patriots in Washington. I find individuals who are indebted to certain interest groups and their own welfare. This is not the country I was growing up in or the type of country I want to be part of... I desire a return to the basic beliefs of God and Country. I want a country that follows the dictates of our founding fathers, not power hungry individuals who pretend to work for a better society while trampling on the Constitution. I don’t want a country where government controls freedom of speech. I want to be proud when they play the Star Spangled Banner, or say the Pledge to the Flag. I want to get goose bumps when they play the Stars and Stripes and watch a marching band. I want to be proud when I see the flag flapping in the breeze. I don’t want a country that forgets its heritage or traditions. I believe in the traditions of working hard and earning what you get, not being dependent on government to make my decisions. I believe most Americans feel this way. Yes, there are those who don’t want to work or take responsibility, they want government to be their savior. We must return to the principals upon which this country was founded. We must stand up and take back that country. We must continue to speak out and demand that our representatives listen and act on our behalf. We must vote, if our elected officials don’t know who they work for, kick them out. It’s time for Congress to stop funding, using and supporting thugs to control the opposition, it’s time to end the pay to play politics and corruption that exists in Washington; it’s time to adhere to the Constitution. It’s time for elected officials to be their own man or woman, not a pawn of the President, special interest groups or Party. It’s time for everyone to work together to improve our society. This is America and its time to act as Americans.

ENGLISH 101

2009-08-14T06:43:00.001-07:00

When the people in Washington write Health Care Legislation that is clear, has clarity and is concise then maybe we can have an honest debate regarding health care. Until then the grade stands. "F".

ONE THOUSAND PAGES OF WHAT?

2009-08-10T16:09:00.000-07:00

Started to read the Congressional 1018 page Health Care Program and stopped. No wonder no one reads it, they can't understand it It goes on forever.. You need to be a lawyer who takes the time to study and analyze every word and sentence. We talk about getting rid of small print and extreme language, well maybe Congress and the Senate can come up with plain old English that people can understand. Example: The bill will not (will) cover abortion, the bill will not(will) cover euthanasia.The government will not make individual health decisions, this is reserved for the doctor and patient. The present language provides too much leeway for fudging and misappropriation. It needs to be specific, why should anyone trust a 1018 page document that hems and haws about everything. If it can't be understood by the common man, than it needs to be re written, Keep It Simple Stupid. Follow that rule and maybe people will trust government. People need to understand the specifics. At the present time there is no Health Care Reform Bill that is suitable for passage.

LET FREEDOM RING

2009-08-05T06:50:00.000-07:00

August 5, 2009 email to Senator Dick Durbin.

This is not a manufactured email. I belong to no group or organization, I am a free thinking American who believes in this country. The townhall rabble rousers are like me, they are expressing their freedom of speech. Unfortunately you don't appreciate freedom of speech unless it's for what you believe. The pro health care rally in Chicago was manufactured by Unions, why didn't you come out and criticize those folks? If the polls say people don't believe in Obamacare, it's all hog wash. What kind of representative are you. You don't represent me or Illinois you represent the Democratic Party. That's unfortunate because you might as well say you are a Communist. That's not democracy or representation. I guess you approve of Chavez's control of the media. Then you could do whatever you want and the people are relegated to slavery. We are not slaves of any party and will fight for our rights and liberty. You are no longer what I consider a believer of the Constitution or what America is about. You are a traitor to the beliefs of our forefathers. God Bless America.

LETTER TO SENATOR RICHARD DURBIN

2009-07-27T15:52:00.000-07:00

I know that you don't care what I write, but I want to tell you that you are not suited to represent the people of the State of Illinois. You are not protecting and defending the Constitution, you allow the President to do what he wants with no checks and balances and you don't insure that the law is executed. Why Acorn and Barney Frank and Chris Dodd have not been charged for their actions is beyond me.You support OBama Care with no justification or money. You want to destroy the best health care sytem in the world. You want us to imitate Europe, you don't want to secure our borders, you want illegals to get, while we pay, so you can get votes. This is not America, you support a dictator as President and fail to fulfil your duties. The State of Illinois is bankrupt, the city of Chicago is corrupt and the County is a disgrace. This is what you, Obama, Axelrod and Emanuel come from. What a resume. The people fought for their freedom and rights in 1776 and we'll fight for them again in 2009. God Bless America.

BUYER BEWARE

2009-07-21T06:35:00.000-07:00

I believe we now have an analogy that there is a bunch of used car salespeople running Washington. They don’t want you to read the contract, they don’t want you to look under the hood or test drive their programs. They want you to trust them because they know what’s best for you. My advice, BUYER BEWARE.

WHAT'S GOING ON?

2009-07-06T16:44:00.000-07:00

Recent political events are perplexing. Who do you listen to, who do you believe? The pundits put their spin on every possible event from Michael Jackson's death to Sarah Palins’s resignation . It’s all opinion and nothing more. If we go back and read or listen to previous sound bites we’ll probably find it’s all hog wash. Where is the serious discussion of real problems? How do we put people back to work? How do we get money back into the market? How do we create new innovations and ideas? When do we start making our elected officials accountable? Why do we support dictators who do not believe in democracy and let our officials say nothing? Why don’t we stand up for the Constitution instead of allowing elected officials destroy it? Why don’t we demand elected representatives to read and justify legislative votes? Why do we allow legislation be passed on the whims of a few without little or no debate? Do you believe in superficial deadlines? Our government is acting as this is a game. This is not a game and all issues need to be treated with intelligence and in depth consideration. Michael Jackson and Sarah Palin are diversions, let’s deal with the issues that affect our daily live’s.

GOING BROKE

2009-06-10T13:54:00.000-07:00

The United States is going broke. Once the envy of the world, our policies are now being mocked and laughed at. We used to be looked upon as a country of laws and free markets. The lessons of the past are being abandoned for a socialistic approach. Government tells us that everyone is equal and wealth must be divided. It makes no difference if you work hard or idle your time away. We must share the wealth. Is this the path the people of the United States voted for?

The free market system is being replaced by the nationalization of our monetary, auto and health care systems. Instead of allowing the market to adjust and self correct, government has become intrusive in dictating solutions. The solution is spend. By spending and avoiding reality the government has placed us in deep debt. The President tells us that we should not spend what we can’t afford. We must act responsibly. This does not correspond with government actions. Some states rejected TARP Funds and government forces it upon them. Banks wanted to pay back bailout funds and government said no. Now government is taking back the TARP Funds to recycle into more bailout money. Is this acting responsibly? Is this how you pay down debt?

As we go deeper into debt government continues to spend. They tell us health care is broken and must be fixed. Yes, there are problems with health care, but do we need government taking over a system that provides the best health care in the world. Government just can’t keep their hands off. It’s as if they want to destroy everything that made this country great. Our Congressmen and Senators sit blindly by as the President and his men lead us into catastrophic debt and socialistic policies. The media flaunts the President as if he is infallible. Most Americans have no idea what is happening and are mesmerized by the President’s words.

They say time heals. Wake up America and demand that government act responsibly. Government needs to stop spending and perform its constitutional duties. Our founders set guidelines to dictate the role of government. They did not design or establish our government to be a dictatorship.

REASONS TO BE CONCERNED

2009-05-05T16:14:00.000-07:00

I’m upset on how much waste goes into mailing political form letters. For one they never respond to the writer’s issues and concerns... Maybe the politicians need to listen and start worrying about the main issue, OUR FREEDOM. Everyday some freedom is being quietly stripped away and our elected officials say nothing. Money is going out the door faster than it can be printed, and they say nothing. Ordinary Americans gather to protest government taxes and spending and they’re labeled fanatics... It appears that the politician’s attitude is that they don’t have to listen and that their time should be dedicated to contemplating future votes. My advice, stop counting and start serving. There is only one difference between Democrats and Republicans, one says yes and the other says no. That means they serve a master other than the people. The present administration is becoming a bully and everyone is afraid to stand up and say: “this is America the Land of the Brave and Free”. The people rule, not government. Patriotism, in Washington, is dying and the people we elected are killing it. I’m sorry, but I’m greatly concerned and fearful that our elected officials are destroying the Constitution and the greatest country on earth, The United States of America.

IS IT WASHINGTON OR CHICAGO

2009-04-30T07:11:00.000-07:00

I’m having a difficult time discerning if Washington is Chicago or is Chicago Washington. The style and tactics are the same, CONTROL. Washington is being transposed into Chicago Style Machine Politics. Compare the City Council with the Congress, what a startling resemblance .The Mayor has the Council pretty much in hand and the President is starting to wield the power to do the same. The Mayor is aligning minority communities with jobs and political power, the President is following the example. The City’s political blueprint is now Washington’s blueprint for action.

VOTE THE ISSUES

2009-03-28T13:08:00.001-07:00

The April 7th Orland Park Election is fast approaching and the future rests in your hands. Will you vote? This may be the most important election in the history of Orland Park. The issues are clear. Do you believe in a government that exercises eminent domain to take profitable private property? Do you believe that TIF’s are the best way to fund new development? Do you feel that $35 million in debt was a wise investment in the Metra Triangle? Do you feel that by this time there should have been a return on your tax dollars for the Metra Triangle? Do you feel the Village is forcing small, independent businesses out in favor of large conglomerates? Do you feel that the Village has failed in creating a diversity of business enterprises to move our economy forward? Do you think the 15 month budget was a cover-up to a budget that could not be balanced in 12 months? Do you feel the Village is raising taxes and fees to cover its debt of over $100 million in bonds and another $176 million in overlapping debt? Do you feel the village has been fiscally responsible with your money and the valuable assets that reside in Orland Park? Do you feel the Village is justified in paying an inappropriate portion of funds for state roads? The list is long and incriminating. If you feel the Village is doing a good job than you believe in eminent domain, you believe in higher taxes and fees. You believe in financial cover-ups and high debt. Debt that eventually must be paid by you the taxpayer. The Village can talk of successes and awards but we must face the reality, the Village of Orland Park is in debt and heading in the wrong direction.

You have a choice to continue the abuse of small businesses. higher fees and taxes or you can vote for fiscal responsibility and a doctrine that supports equality and fairness to everyone in the village. This time around you have a choice. The choice is the Concerned Citizens of Orland Park who have vowed to bring back good, honest, decent government to Orland Park. They will work to end eminent domain and bring back fiscal responsibility to Orland Park. They’re up against a machine that has money, experience and outside support. The question is: will you be swayed by signs, outside support,
pay to play money, expensive brochures, and deceptions, or will you vote the issues. Know the issues and make your choice. The choice should be clear: Gerald Maher for Mayor, Patrice Pykett Village Clerk and Kenneth Wzorek, Kenneth Houston and Marian Klemmen for Trustees. Vote April 7th.

LIVING IN ORLAND PARK

2009-03-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

Several years ago I moved and downsized to Orland Park. I had heard many great things to entice me: tax rebates, city water, great shopping and easy access to express and toll ways. Maybe the information was over stated. I moved to a condo and quickly found that the condo was located on a street classified as a private street. This meant the Association has to pay for the snow plowing and maintenance of the street. The street was private because it was designed and approved to have a width less than that of a normal, standard street. .Further down the street is another condo association that uses our private street and faces the same problem... This was a decision made between the village and the developer to save each other money... This type of decision costs many condo and townhome associations a minimum of $4000 a year. On the property we have two ponds that receive overflow from other properties. The Village has twice rejected the proposal to maintain ponds. This costs the association $1200 yearly to maintain the ponds We have 24 units that pay for garbage pickup. The association is charged $60 monthly for a dumpster that has been paid 10 times over... All of these charges were brought to the attention of the Village to no avail. In addition annual inspection fees for fire, elevators and sprinklers have gone up.

This experience led me to believe that the Village was treating condo and townhome owners with a different set of standards... In a short time, I also found that Village policies weren’t always fair and equitable to local businesses. Many of the stores and businesses that I frequented were threatened with eminent domain. The Village said this was in the name of progress to clear a blighted area.. Progress that was to use TIF’s (Tax Incentive Financing) to finance the Metra Triangle Project. This meant taking money from taxing bodies, such as schools, to provide the needed funds to demolish successful businesses to build condos, streets and restaurants. The taxing bodies that approved this action subsequently raised rates and property taxes went up. The Village was relentless in its goal for progress and soon cut the tax rebate. The Village’s financial position was becoming desperate as it instituted a 15 month budget to cover its debt. Debt that includes $100 million for bonds and another $100 million for something called overlapping debt. Debt that the citizens of Orland Park are now responsible for. These figure can be verified on pages 14 and 15 of the June 2008 Speer Financial Analysis of the Villages request for Water and Sewer Bonds. Fees and services were also increased. On top of this it was becoming clear that the village was a satellite of the City of Chicago’s 19th Ward. This isn’t a pretty picture. In my opinion the present administration has taken a once successful Village and led it astray with unrealistic ambitions and greed. Don’t get me wrong, the people and businesses are great. It’s that I expect more from a government that was handed one of the richest and greatest retail treasures in the Southland. You won’t find this story in the nicely packaged brochures that the Administration mailed to your homes in the past few weeks. This is the story you need to hear and why I will be supporting and voting for Gerald Maher and the Concerned Citizens of Orland Park on April 7th.

LETTER TO SENATOR RICHARD DURBIN

2009-03-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

Senator, how's your investments? I hope they've crashed like everyone elses. What are you and your colleagues doing? Why isn't the credit market fixed? By this time every foreclosed home should have been assessed. Some should have been saved by refinancing. Why all the pork? Do you believe in putting everyone including our future generation s in debt? Senator, do you know how to balance your checkbook? You certainly have no clue when it comes to my money. Do you have any idea what a trillion dollars is? You're throwing it around like pennies. You back every stupid socialized program. Do you really believe socialized medicine will solve all problems. Right now we have the best system in the world. Cost are high, that's what you work on, cut cost. Jesus said the poor will be with us until the end of time. Everyone has choices. Your idea that everyone must have a home led us to this disaster. If you call yourself an American and believe in what made this country great you'll re-evaluate your positions. Foreign affairs in a few short days has become a joke: 900 mil to the Palestians, ridiculed PM Brown and sent a foolish letter to Medeve. If you want to destroy this country your on the right track. Keep up this foolishness so we can cast you off into oblivion.

CHANGE, HOPE OR CONTRADICTIONS

2009-02-25T13:46:00.000-08:00

In listening and watching President Obama, I find more contradictions than substance. By now it’s hard for anyone to deny that the Stimulus Package is loaded with pork. Keep looking and you’ll find more. If it’s not pork it’s rewards and incentives for friends and supporters. The Democrats have been honest in stating “now is the opportunity to get the things we want”. “The people don’t care”. The people do care, especially when they’re losing jobs and seeing their life savings and investments crash.

The President talks about cutting the deficit, but creates more deficits. Where’s the logic? He talks about responsibility. Who’s responsibility? Most people are responsible and do what is right. The problem is that the irresponsible people are sitting in Washington. Who led the people and banks down the path to destruction, Washington, why, because they believed everyone must have a house, if you can afford it or not. That’s not the American Way, The American Way is that you work hard and earn it. The people in Washington have fallen in love with themselves. They love their self importance and stumble in their arrogance... They’re so important that no one reads legislative bills, if you’re Democrat, you vote yes, if Republican, no. That’s the type of government we have, no discussion no debate, that’s not what created this great country. That’s why no one believes or trusts an elected official. They have no idea who they answer to.

The word is that CEO’s must be accountable. How about elected officials? Government needs to step back and look at its spending. .How about government perks and ear marks? I guess they’re OK. Certainly looks like a double standard... I love the line: “I feel your pain”, but what government official is willing to share that pain?. If you don’t think we’re in trouble, just watch and listen to your elected officials in action. They’ve become a disgrace and it’s time that be held accountable.

BAILING OUT GOVERNMENT

2009-02-11T07:42:00.000-08:00

The Stimulus Package has become quite controversial. It’s loaded with all kinds of goodies. Everyone seems to have their hand out. Is it up to $2 trillion, or $4 trillion? It’s become inconceivable that that much money can be effectively managed and spent under one piece of legislation. Good managers break things down into manageable parts. I don’t believe legislators are good business managers. For example we still don’t know what happened to the first bailout for $350 billion. In its present form the package is more of a bailout for states and local governments than a jobs creations bill.

The Stimulus Bill needs to be broken down into independent pieces with established priorities: Housing and Credit, Tax Cuts, Business Incentives to Spend and Create New Products/Markets, Infrastructure, Education. There needs to be justification, goals and objectives, targets with specified outcomes and defined responsibilities and accountability. The Stimulus should follow well established business standards, not government standards. Until our leaders in Washington come up with a clear and concise plan, there should be no action. I say go back to the drawing board and keep reworking it until you come up with legislation that clearly creates jobs. Follow the old business principle,” Keep It Simple Stupid”.

A VILLAGE IN CRISIS

2009-01-26T09:15:00.000-08:00

The Village of Orland Park can be described as a prosperous and striving community. It wins many awards and accolades for its history and progress. It’s the retail hub and envy of the southwest suburbs. But something is happening to shake that image. It’s the financial condition of the Village. In the past year we’ve seen the creation of new fees, the cutting of the property tax rebates, increased property taxes and the implementation of a 15 month budget. The Village acts as if it’s immune to the current recession. The heart of its revenues, retail sales, have declined. Nationally retail sales are down 10%, housing sales have stalled and foreclosures are on the rise. The bread and butter normally used to run the Village is drying up. The Village relies on debt in the form of bonds and TIF’s to provide the monies needed to pursue its ambitious goals. This is a problem, because many of these goals and ambitions are no longer affordable.

The debt that the Village is incurring must be repaid and that is why we see the increases in fees and taxes. The 12 month budget couldn’t be balanced so the Village reverted to a 15 month budget. The burden of this debt is being transferred to the Citizens of Orland Park. The Village is failing to recognize the reality of the recession and continues to operate as if nothing has changed. It continues to pursue projects that are too costly to support. For instance, millions of dollars have been invested in the Metra Triangle with little or no return. The Mayor continues to pressure the Orland Plaza into extinction. To continue this course of action will only provide less sales and property tax dollars for the Village. The Mayor’s arrogance of power is becoming a burden upon the taxpayers of Orland Park. There comes a time when leaders must face unpleasant decisions and admit failure. The Mayor’s dream for the Metra Triangle is no longer possible and has been better described as the “Bermuda Triangle.” There are no developers standing in line to invest in this dream. It’s time to abandon the harassment of the Orland Plaza and seek more feasible options for the vacant land.
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Where's The Republican Party

2009-01-13T08:24:00.000-08:00

Can someone tell me why the Republican Party does not run a candidate for Mayor in Orland Park? This is the second straight Mayoral Election without a Republican candidate. The issues are clear: eminent domain, Orland Plaza, rising property taxes, TIF’s, reduction of property tax rebates, increased fees and entering the real estate business. These are all indicators that the present administration is in financial trouble. Mayor McLaughlin and his administration are beatable. It amazes me that the Republicans would not take advantage of this opportunity. Maybe, just maybe could it be that they support Mayor McLaughlin. Could it be that the Republicans are really Democrats in sheep’s clothing? You’ve read about pay to play in Springfield, has it come to Orland Park?

Fortunately a group of concerned citizens have taken up the banner of “Concerned Citizens of Orland Park” to challenge the McLaughlin Administration. I salute them for their efforts to take on a behemoth with a loaded campaign chest and clout. This is not an easy task which will be loaded with obstacles and tricks to derail their efforts to unseat this incumbent mayor..

AN UNCHANGING CULTURE

2009-01-07T08:40:00.000-08:00

Recently I watched a movie about the efforts to bring the Tucker Automobile to market in the late 40’s and 50’s. It was an amazing story about Preston Tucker’s dream of creating a car that was safe and ahead of its time. Unfortunately his dream wasn’t fulfilled because of pressures from the Big 3 Automakers, SEC, Media and Power Brokers. These forces combined to dehumanize and create a scandal to discredit Tucker.. Tucker was brought to court, for fraud, but was found Not Guilty. Against all odds Tucker was still able to build 50 automobiles.

The irony of the story is that this culture has not changed. The Big 3 Automakers still resist change and look to government and influence to protect them. It’s sad to see innovation and creativity squashed for the self interest of a few. Instead of helping innovators bring ideas to market we continue to protect the self interest of powerful companies to maintain the status quo...

Tucker is a classic example of an unchanging culture. It’s been over 60 years since Preston Tucker fought his battle and there has been little or no change. The culture has become so deep rooted it can no longer differentiate the trees from the forest. Washington continues to protect this culture. We need to learn from history and correct our mistakes. The new administration promises change. Can it change an unchanging culture?

GOODBYE 2008

2008-12-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

Looking back at 2008 it wasn’t the best of times. The year was marred by greed and a lack of accountability. The collapse of the stock and real estate markets affected everyone and caused businesses to fail. Jobs were lost as people faced the reality of a new life of sacrifice. The U.S. was going into a recession after years of uninterrupted prosperity and growth.

History will judge government on how they managed and dealt with the 2008 economic crisis. The word bailout will strike a chord as government’s strategy to rescue the money market and auto industry. Time will tell if the bailouts were good or bad for a capitalistic society. We will learn about the deals and cronyism that existed between government and various business leaders. The failures of business leaders will be studied in classrooms.
Books will be written on how prominence and payoffs led to many of the problems of 2008 through the abuse of power and position. The story would not be complete without an analysis of the public’s inability to keep informed and how they are influenced to vote.

The year 2008 echoed the words, Change and Hope. The people elected its first black president, Barack Obama. The election process seemed to be never ending with countless debates and tons of money spent to win office. Much of the public debt could have been paid with the monies collected to finance campaigns. 2009 will determine how much influence rhetoric and image had in electing the President. Getting good candidates to run for public office is getting more difficult. The public loses when only the rich and influential run. The election process is broken and the question is: can we fix it? Again it’s up to the people to force the change needed to maintain a free and democratic society.

The Iraq War was the major issue at the beginning of 2008, it faded as the elections came and the economy worsened. As the tide turned and victory became imminent the focus turned to other issues. The Iraq debate is not over and time will tell if our actions were worthy of the lives and dollars spent to spread democracy in the Middle East. The focus in 2009 will turn to Afghanistan.

The world remained unstable as we watched Iran push its quest for nuclear power. The Russians started to reheat the cold war with its push to realign itself with Boliva, Cuba and Iran. The Russian aggression into Georgia was an indicator that this is a power to be watched and reckoned with. China’s strength and power continued to grow as it advanced its economic strength with cheap labor. As the year was ending we watched with anticipation the conflicts between India and Pakistan and Israel and the Palestians. Europe seemed to be moving to the right towards a more free and democratic society. It continued to face threats from Russia and Al Qaeda. The world’s economy is now in crisis and will create new world tensions for the new President.

Oil was the big story through most of the year as prices fluctuated from over $120 a barrel to under $40. The world’s oil producers raked in the money and rode high until demand and prices fell. The Russians, Bolivians and Iranians flexed their muscles as prices soared. Once prices fell they found their economies in turmoil. Oil was their leverage. The U.S. was in conflict to drill or not drill. After an outcry to drill, we still have not seen any positive action to end our dependence upon foreign oil. With lower prices, the question is: do we again become complacent and do nothing? When will we learn?

The relevancy of newspapers faded as revenues shrank and many shut down. Was it because of the internet or bias and poor reporting? To me it was its failure to provide fair and equal reporting. It failed to scrutinize and provide unbiased analytical reports on all issues.. After the election, the Chicago Tribune tried to regain credibility by providing in-depth analysis of the issues. People looked to the internet for quick information. The problem is, where do you get good reliable information? The sources are many, but great care is needed to select the most reliable and credible coverage?

The issue of illegal immigration took center stage for part of the year. The battle continues with the politicians catering to the minorities for votes instead of applying the law. As the economy weakened we began to see many of the illegal’s return home. With the New Year the battle will continue and we can expect the politicians to cave and grant amnesty to the illegals. With the threat of terrorism and not securing our borders we are in danger of another 911. Our culture and attitudes are changing. We appear to be losing some of the patriotism and spirit that made America great. Government wants to run our lives and we must resist, we must maintain our independence and keep our minds free.

Many of the problems we faced in 2008 were due to the lack of leadership and foresight to deal with issues. Government wants to be everything to everyone. They wanted everyone to own a home. They promoted free credit and it boomeranged and created the banking crisis. They sponsored and promoted their friends to high positions at Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Government leaders will not accept responsibility for bad decisions. There is no accountability. Unions are praised even though their contacts and demands add to our economic woes. The UAW and Teachers Unions use blackmail as a tool to get what they want. Our Washington politicians gave themselves raises and more perks as the country fell into recession. Have they no shame? Pork is prominent in passing legislation. “If you want my vote this is what I want”. This is the greed and attitude that brings our country down. It’s not about you and me, it’s become about them. We must hold all elected official accountable. Who created this mess, we did by electing and re-electing the people who represent us. We the people must keep government in line.

2009 brings many challenges. With a new President who promises hope and change we can only pray for the best.

THE ECONOMY

2008-11-23T08:27:00.000-08:00

President Elect Obama has assigned John Podesta of his transition team to get input into solving the nation’s problems. The President Elect yesterday issued a statement regarding establishing an intiative to add 2.5 million jobs by 2011. My input to Mr. Podesta was as follows:

I agree, we need jobs and more jobs. Jobs are what drives the economy Where's the money?. Suggestion, take the balance of the 300 billion from the bailout and use it for creating and fixing the nations infrastructure.It's a start. 350 billion was more than enough for the Financial industry. That money was needed to fix the credit market. Banks need to resolve their own problems. Renegotiate mortgages and sell what people can't afford. There is a limit to bailouts Hopefully they learned a lesson in how to manage money and when to and when not to give credit.. They got into the mess, now work yourself out of it. You heard of tough love. Plus, get government out of the financial markets. Chris Dodd and Barney Frank have no clue what the're doing. Get your new Treasury Secretary to start carrying the ball when it comes to the Fiinancial Markets.Everyone needs to be accountable. Stop treating everyone like a baby.

Received an email describing Ford's shopisticated factory in Brazil.. Somethings wrong with the picture. If they can be successful in Brazil they can be successful in the U.S. They've got the talent and ideas. You need to transfer the Brazil model to the U.S. Get the politics out of the U.S. market. They need to go into receivership and dump the executives that were cajoling with Reid and Pelosi. Scrap the Board of Directors and have a complete reorganization of leadership. Find the people who made it work in Brazil and put them to work at fixing the problem.

Just heard, on the news ,some economists stated our cars were too good. Yes, my Toyota's a great car and will last 10 years. I expect it to last, it was a major investment. I stopped buying US when Olds , Chevy and Saturn became a pain to maintain. Make sure you don't listen to that economist. The prediction is that people are waiting for more fuel efficient cars. That's what I'm waiting for. Why should I buy when I can wait and demand to expect the technology to save money at the pump. We need to be energy independent. The publics not dumb, everyone wants value for their money. Government also needs to want value for their money, excuse me, the people's money.

The future of the auto industry is bright. The economies of China and India will need millions of cars. If we can compete with quality, fuel efficient automobiles we can capture that market. Don't look on the dark side look to the light. You need to get the right leadership in Detroit who are willing to solve problems and who will stop feeling sorry for themselves and continually run to government for help.. They're making big bucks, earn them. No bailout. We need to be leaders in innovation, not followers.

Your reps in the Senate and Congress, Reid and Pelosie are a disaster. I said it before and I'll say it time and time again, you need to manage their actions. Your team is doing a good job in providing direction and skills in trying to deal and identify solutions to the nations problems. Keep the politics to a minimum. We need common sense to solve economic problems. Different skills and abilities are needed to solve different problems.

Contact the Obama Biden Transition Team and provide your ideas to solve our nation's problems.

A PERSPECTIVE OF THE 2008 ELECTION

2008-11-11T16:17:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Presidential Election is over. The winner was Barack Obama. It was a long and drawn out campaign. Massive amounts of money were spent to finance and run the campaigns. Debates were conducted for both parties until it came down to Obama vs. McCain. Obama was eloquent in his presentations and provided a Presidential image. The media took to Obama and lost their perspective. The internet was a major source for information and news. Obama’s background was glossed over. His background and associations lost their importance as the economy went into a tailspin. The people were mad and wanted change. They felt that the Bush administration was to blame for the economy and Iraq War. It was an historical election in which a black man was to become President and a woman, Sarah Palin, was to run for Vice President.

Looking back we can recount the issues and promises made by the new President:
· Economy – Give 95% of Americans a tax cut.
· End the Iraq War.
· Provide Health Care for all Americans.
· Bring peace to the world.
· Change Washington.
· Quality education for our children.
· Create jobs.
· Balance the budget.

Those were general talking points, how they will be resolved is the issue. Will we have more government and more controls? There is a fear that we will adopt socialistic policies. Will the government get too intrusive in the free market and bring down the traditional hallmarks of a capitalistic society? Will our military strength and security be sacrificed to provide more self gratification? Will we lose our freedoms to express ourselves and to disagree with government? How will Washington change when we continue to hear and see the same old rhetoric and actions of business as usual?

The people voted and must now trust that President Elect Obama will keep America safe and strong. The rhetoric has ended and the real work begins. We are entering into a new period in history and await its story.

FAIRNESS DOCTRINE LETTER TO PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA

2008-11-11T07:26:00.000-08:00

Congratulations on your victory. Now, it's up to you to produce. You stated you would not support a Fairness Doctrine. Some of your colleagues: Schummer, Reid and Pelosi are plotting to introduce and pass this UnAmerican legislation. This would not create fairness it would create dictatorship. The purpose of such legislation is to eliminate political criticism. We need different views, would they limit the jokes on Leno and Letterman. Would they legislate what you could and could not laugh at. If a politician can't take criticism and defend him or herself they should not run for office. There are more important issues to attack: jobs, the economy, national security, defense, education etc. They waste so much time on taking care of themselves they neglect the real work that needs to be done. If this a major priority of a Democratic Congress it does not speak well of how they support your priorities. Let's remember this is America not Russia. You need to talk to Schummer, Reid and Pelosie and explain your priorities. This is a step in the wrong direction and needs to be taken off the Congressional agenda. Schummer, Reid and Pelosi are not your friends they have and will continue to hinder progress. Let's face it they certainly are not the smartest nor the brighest people to speak for the American people. By saying that, would I be chastised under their Fairness Doctrine?

DESTROYING AMERICA

2008-10-12T13:18:00.000-07:00

Destroying America is a topic, I don’t believe anyone wants to bring up or think about. It’s a devastating thought that America would no longer exist as a world power.. Our enemies have talked and prayed for our demise. Terrorist wrecked havoc on 911 and showed that we were no longer invincible. It’s not the terrorist or our enemies that I fear; it’s the enemies from within: the greed, blind ambition, and power hungry individuals that work for their selfish interest that worry me. Too many people look to government as their savior. Government has become the cause of our problems.. Government has lost site of the traditional values that made America great: hard work, ingenuity, self reliance, family , freedom of expression, and love and pride of country. Our founding fathers set the example and fought for independence in creating the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution as the blueprints to guide our nation. If we do not return to these principals and traditions, we will be the cause for the destruction of America.

THE ORGANIZATION MAN

2008-09-16T07:03:00.001-07:00

I have a question for the CEO's, Board of Directors, and managers of our largest corporations. How did you ever get your job? With large salaries, stock options, and buyouts you should be genius'. You should possess great wisdom and leadership in directing your organizations. With the discosure of so many business failures you need to examine yourselves and your positions of responsibility. It's not about you, it's about the success of your organizations. What happened to the Organization Man?

CHANGING WASHINGTON

2008-09-08T09:22:00.000-07:00

We describe someone running for political office, “A Politician”: Mayors, Aldermen, Representatives, Senators, and Presidents. The politician shines at election time. They smile, shake hands, kiss babies, make great speeches, there’s no problem too big or small they can’t solve. They reflect great energy and insight into our lives. They spend large sums of money to win our favor and votes. Many times the messages are negative and deceiving. They employ strategists and workers to prepare and pitch their message. It’s great theatre. They make us take sides and argue. They breakup long standing friendships.

The ones with the best theatre, money and organization normally win. Many politicians are veteran campaigners and continue to win year after year... A new candidate has the undaunting challenge to battle well heeled organizations that have the money and power of an incumbent. Something seems to happen after a person is elected. The words and promises of the campaign are lost. They take on a new personality and independence. They really don’t need us for another 2 to 4 years. Most seem to follow party lines and forget the problems of the people they serve. Every year a number of politicians will be caught for misdeeds and start a term in prison. Some will be disgraced and forced to resign. The position of power seems to create new egos and arrogance that lead them astray. The good intentioned person is transformed by a system that has forgotten its mission; Serve the People. Money abounds and opportunities arise to make great wealth. They charge large fees for speeches, they write books, travel by private jet and limos, get great pensions and free health care. When it comes to reviewing budgets they don’t cut, they increase... Why are they allowed great perks? They should have the same perks we have: social security, buses, subways, coach for air travel, use their own car, pay and pump their own gas, pay for health care, get merit raises and two week vacations. Something is wrong. When we elect people the intent isn’t to create a ruling class, but to get service to lead and solve problems. We need people who will maintains the standards and values that made America great. Instead of going forward, government seems to be going backwards. It doesn’t listen and has risen above the will of the people.

Don’t get me wrong, not all politicians are bad; many fight and serve us well. They have good values and work for the people. Everyone talks about changing Washington; I say we need to change all governments: cities, towns, counties, states, not only Washington. We need a cure for this disease and it’s not going to come from politicians, it must come from us, the voters. We need sincere candidates who will fight and work for good government. We the people have let it get out of control and we the people need to correct the problem. Each and every election is important and change will only come by electing people who believe in the mission of serving their constituents, not themselves or their party.

SILENT VOICES

2008-08-25T10:35:00.001-07:00

The story of the Orland Plaza appears to be coming to an end. Mayor McLaughlin’s vision may become a reality; although his vision of government of the people, by the people, for the people is blurred. His new Village Manager, Paul, The Sheriff, Grimes, is getting close to cleaning up and moving the old businesses out of town. The bulldozers may soon come in and Randy’s, Orland Bakery, Pete’s Barbershop, The Plaza Café, Bloomingfields …… may soon be history.

The part of the story that is unclear is the “Silent Voices”. I find it difficult to believe that there has been no dissent from the Village Board: Murphy, Fenton, O’Halloran, Dodge, Schussler and Gira. I question who they serve? I wonder why our local represesentatives: State Representaive McCarthy, State Senator Radogno, County Commissioner Gorman and Congresswoman Biggert have no opinion. Are they to busy to recognize that the abuse of TIF’s and eminent domain are important issues that need to be addressed and corrected? What about the taxing bodies, schools and county, who approve the TIF’s, but cry for more tax dollars? Where’s the opposing Republican Party? Have they already conceded the next election to Mayor McLaughlin?

The local newspapers carry articles regarding the Orland Plaza, but skip the problems with TIF’s and eminent domain. Our major newspapers, radio and TV stations dismiss these issues as unworthy of coverage. Although; the coming of Fatburgers, to Orland Park, is important and received coverage. Where’s the taxpayers who are being fleeced by the Illinois Tax Incentive Financing Act (TIF) that takes monies from property taxes to fund projects such as the Metra Triangle and destroy unblighted, profitable businesses.

TIF’s and eminent domain are major issues that affect most U.S. cities. In the past, Sixty Minutes presented segments on the abuse of eminent domain depicting the taking of private property for condo development in the name of the common good. In Orland Park their masking roads as the common good to build condos... Cook County Commissioner Quigley received a cold reception when he published his report “Tale of Two Cities” exposing the abuse of TIF’s. Our representatives in Washington are so busy playing political games and making deals that they have no time to recognize issues that affect Americans. It’s the call: “DRILL, DRILL” by over 70% of the electorate that’s gotten their attention to solve the energy crisis. Is it also possible that the politicians love the lavish contributions from developers? Is it true that money talks?

This story is not only about trying to save the Orland Plaza, but the need to control the power that Public officials have taken to abuse TIF’s and to take private property under eminent domain. Paraphrasing Mr. Gee, owner of the Orland Plaza,” I thought we live in America not Russia”. Silent Voices allow leaders to abuse their powers and control you. The issues of TIF’s and eminent domain affect many Americans. There still is time to make things right and save the Orland Plaza if people raised their voices in protest against the abuse of TIF’s and eminent domain... Don’t be a Silent Voice, keep informed, speak out.

VOICE OF FREEDOM

2008-08-18T07:46:00.001-07:00

Do you ever think what a privilege it is to pick up the daily paper, listen to the radio news or watch current events on TV? You have the freedom of choice to read, listen and watch what you want. This is not the case in countries where the government dictates what people read, listen or watch. These governments make a mockery of elections. They dictate what is taught in schools, take property and relegate the people to a life of servitude. These people have lost their rights and The Voice of Freedom.

Can this happen in the United States? Take a minute and think about that. What would your life be like if you lost the freedoms to read, listen, watch, think and act as an individual? What would you do if government dictated what the press printed or did not print? If you lost your right to express yourself in Letters to the Editor, or were prevented from phoning or writing your opinions to political leaders? You were constricted to live under a dictatorship? We cannot let this happen. Freedom of the Press and Freedom of Speech are foundations upon which our democracy was founded... Once we allow members of government to become all powerful, we threaten all freedoms. That’s why the vote is so important. With the vote we control the people that run our country, cities and states. A free media provides us with the information to make decisions to maintain our democracy. The media has been given the important responsibility of keeping us informed .They cannot and must not be intimidated by powerful people, they must insure that there is always debate and that all sides are heard.

WHAT'S NEXT?

2008-08-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

It appears that the pressure has hit home and our politicians have seen the light. They now recognize the fact that we must drill. We must drill to regain our energy independence. We must drill to stop our dollars from going overseas to fund initiatives to hurt America. We must drill to stabilize our economy and regain a favorable balance of trade. By drilling we give ourselves time to develop new and innovative ways to replace or limit the use of oil. So what’s next?

The people in Washington have dilly dallied for decades and we have sat with the problem. Now that it appears they will allow drilling, what will be the plan to develop alternative forms of energy? Should we trust Washington to lead the way or should we look to the free market to provide the leadership? I don’t know about you, but I would feel better if the free market was given the responsibility. Many options will come to market, some will succeed and many will fail. It's the market and the American ingenuity and creativeness that will solve the problem. The worse solution is to wait and depend on Washington to solve the problem.

A POOR MESSAGE

2008-08-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

Recent events make you wonder about the future of democracy. The Russians marched and bombed their way into Georgia. At the Olympics the Chinese presented a brilliant display of pageantry, but cover up a country of oppression and tyranny. Zimbabwe’s leader scares off all opposition in electing himself president and ruler. Iran continues to threaten the world with its nuclear ambitions. In Venezuela Chavez moves closer to creating a dictatorship. The hopes and dreams for freedom and peace are continuously threatened and trampled upon by ambitious and cruel leaders.

The United States is looked upon as the beacon of hope and the light for liberty and justice. We are the example of what democracy is about. Unfortunately, we don’t always get it right. Last week the Speaker of the House dimmed the lights on debate and freedom of expression. She single handedly dictated how the people’s representatives are to act. She closed down the People’s House when work was yet to be completed. She sent a poor message to the world by stopping debate. We the people do not elect representatives to act as puppets. We elect representative to serve and solve problems. We do not send people to Washington to have affairs, make money, write books and be yes men or women. If they can’t live up to the standards of integrity, intelligence and character they have no business seeking positions of such importance and honor.

I am proud of what America stands for. What I am not proud of are the many clowns we elect to represent us. Yes, much of it is our fault for believing and trusting them. The United States has a responsibility to live up to the standards set by our forefathers. We have been given the torch to lead the fight for freedom and justice. The people of the world look to us for hope. . The price for freedom does not come cheap and we must demand that our representatives take their work seriously. It’s too precious of a right to lose.

THE ORLAND PARK BUDGET

2008-08-02T07:38:00.000-07:00

The Village of Orland Park reported that it filled a budget shortfall by adjusting the formula for calculating the property tax rebate and raising certain recreational fees. The question: What are the causes for the shortfall and will the remedies solve the problem?

The Village has a competent staff that prepares the Budget. Their most difficult job is projecting revenues. This projection is critical because sale taxes account for almost 50% of the Village’s revenues, Property Taxes account for about 15%. These projections have been impacted by a troubled economy and a rise in Cook County taxes. If the Village is to meet its commitment to providing services and paying its employees it is dependent on solid projections to meet its budget goals.
My question: Is the Village meeting its revenue projections and what is the revenue plan for 2009 compared to the past three years?

In researching the 2008 Budget I found one chart (Page 53, 2008 OP Budget, Fund Balance History) that raised my eyebrows, it related to debt. and that debt was associated with the Metra Triangle. I have to challenge the logic of the Mayor and his Trustees when it comes to long term debt. Debt is debt and someone must pay and that will probably be you, the taxpayer. If you take a close look at the budget and where the revenues come from you have to ask yourself is it a wise decision to demolish the Orland Plaza?

The demolition of the Mall is based on assumptions and hopes, not factual data. The Mayor may in time recoup the property taxes, but will he ever regain the sales tax revenues generated from these businesses? The decision to use TIF’s impacts schools and other taxing bodies. TIF’s is just a way of stealing property tax dollars from taxing bodies. It’s called robbing Peter to pay Paul. It will raise your property taxes. By keeping the Orland Plaza the budget will remain sound and the Village will be on a better fiscal footing for the future
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Have you checked your wallet lately?

NEED THE WHOLE STORY

2008-07-21T17:24:00.000-07:00

The following is a copy of an email sent to Phil Kadner of the Southtown Star in response to his articles regarding the Orland Plaza. It is my opinion that the media has been amiss in reporting the whole Orland Plaza story.

I found your recent articles on the Orland Plaza quite interesting. You show two sides, which is fine, but what about the human side. The owners and the customers. It's not black and white. Would you like pennies on the dollar for your investment? What about the goodwill and effort to build these businesses. Would you like to start over? It's probably over for most of the businesses. Will they look elsewhere and start from scratch?

I don't know if you have the key to the feelings of the community when it comes to the demolition of the mall. Go on the street and question the customers. Go into the barbershops and beauty shops and get the opinions of the patrons.

Everyone talks about the development, no one talks about the financing. Have you asked the Village to give you a complete financial plan of the cost to build the Metra Triangle? How about the TIF's and their impact on the property tax bill. How will the taxing bodies make up for the lost revenues from the lose of the Orland Plaza? I bet they'll raise the tax rates to make their levies. It's not just about looking out a restaurant window and seeing a waterfall. It's about decision making, and what kinds of decisions the Mayor and the Trustees make in moving Orland Park foreward. The Village turned this into a fiasco with their decisions and treatment of the original Metra Triangle business owners. There is a right way and a wrong way. The Village selected the wrong way and should pay for their poor judgment. Unfortunately the community pays for their attitudes and decisions.Their decisions and mistakes don't come out of their pockets. It would be great if it did, government would certainly be more efficient.

The owners and tenants of the Plaza must stay and fight until they receive justice and fair payment for their investments and properties. Maybe you would take what they offered you.
But you're not in the shoes of the owners nor have you been treated as shabbily. Did you really sit down and have a heart to heart talk with the owners of Randy's, the Bakery and others? There were options in this project and the Village ignored them. Why didn't they build new stores and when ready move and then demolish? Why didn't they remodel and reconfigure the plan? It was a one way street and it wasn't in favor of the Plaza.

The whole story needs to come out and should become a case study for management students to discuss in developing large scale municipal projects..

TIME FOR FULL COST DISCLOSURE

2008-07-17T16:40:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's time for the Village of Orland Park to make a total cost presentation of what it will cost to demolish the Orland Plaza and where the funds will come from. I would like to see the dollars, in detail, the Village will offer for the land and what it offers for each store. The investment and goodwill for each store should not come cheaply and should be at today's market value. The presentation should include all costs, paybacks and the time it will take to recoup the millions lost by demolishing the mall. Can the village justify and guarantee the cost for this project? The question is: "Is the Village placing the Village in debt? Since the Village is so certain of their direction, they should have no problem sharing this data with the taxpayers of Orland Park. How else can they be so sure of success. I'll be looking for the data in the July 24th edition of the Orland Park Prairie Newspaper.

Eminent Domain

2008-07-16T07:46:00.000-07:00

The Village of Orland Park is acting as a bully in running the Orland Plaza out of town. They have no respect for individual rights. Maybe the problem is that they had an ill conceived plan from day one. Initially, if they had no assurances of rights to the Plaza, they should have had alternative plans to bypass the Plaza. It's not the owners fault for poor planning and they should not be penalized for the ignorance of the Village Administration.

The Village needs to be questioned on where the money is coming from for the buyout. If the money is coming from TIF's the State should step in and stop the abuse of the TIF Act. This is not a blighted area. You do not destroy sound businesses and sacrifice millions of dollars of tax revenues for the sake of following an ill conceived plan.

I say, stay and fight. Don't be bullied.

George A. Tarasuk

IS IT TIME TO RETIRE THE PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE

2008-07-06T08:43:00.000-07:00

July 6, 2008

Paul M. Howey's commentary "Is It Time To Retire The Pledge Allegiance" struck a nerve. I don't know if Mr. Howey is serious or just trying to be thought provoking, Whatever his motives, I disagree, I believe the Pledge shows a belief and faith in ones country. It's a way of saying thank you. It's a valuable tradition that should not be thrown aside beacause someone feels its old and worn out. We must continue to be proud of our heritage and traditions.

VOTERS LAMENT

2008-06-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

Today’s Presidential Elections have become so emotional and filled with anger that one can’t wait till it’s over. With all of the campaigning and analysis you can’t take any more. Opinions have become hot and heavy. Everyone is starting to be careful of what they say and who they say it too. Is a difference of opinion worth the lose of a friendship?

Today you have two people vying for the highest and most powerful office in the land. Why do they want this position? Is it power, ego or do they really want a better America? Are they true patriots who will defend the principles and freedoms of this country to death? Is the history, values and beliefs of our founding fathers a part of their fiber and soul? Is this a political game or contest to see who can collect more money and win the prize? Sometimes, I have to wonder how sincere the candidates are. This is a thankless job. You’re continually on the hot seat and under the microscope. I just hope that the motives to be President are the right motives. The prize is not to serve Democrats or Republicans. It’s to make decisions based on our history, laws and values. What scares me is that our ideals and principles of: freedom, liberty and justice are being abandoned. This Fourth of July proudly fly the flag to show your love and devotion for country, and salute the sacrifices that so many fought for to create and maintain this great land we call America..

OBSERVATIONS ON REACHING ENERGY INDEPENDENCE

2008-06-22T08:36:00.000-07:00

The energy controversy has stirred up much debate and talk of what has been going on behind the scenes to change the way we produce and use energy. Here are some of my observations.

To not drill for oil is wrong and time wasting. We’ve already wasted years in delaying the inevitable. Whatever anyone says we will need gas and oil for many years to come. Count the cars on the road today. Will everyone be able to convert and incur the cost to a new technology? This will be a slow drawn out process and will take years to accomplish. This is a step towards energy independence. We need to be realistic.
Some are pushing for nuclear power to heat and light our homes. It’s been successful in other countries and appears to be safe. My objection is the storage of waste materials. This could prove to be very dangerous in the long run. We need a solution that is safe, plentiful and will not disrupt our way of living. In my opinion coal is the way to go. It is plentiful, not a safety issue for storage and will not affect the use of farm land to feed the population. They say new and better ways to extract and use coal have been developed to make it economical.
A very realistic approach is to develop a smaller, powerful battery to replace the gas engine. Look at the storage capacity and power of today’s computers. We need to follow their lead and ingenuity to bring this to a reality.

My three step approach is:

Start drilling today to make the way for tomorrows goal of energy independence.
Invest in using our coal resources to produce the energy needed to heat and power our homes and industries. If this is found to be a weak argument than I would opt for nuclear energy. The storage of nuclear waste is still a major drawback. This is a serious issue and needs to resolved.
Invest in creating a self sustained battery to replace the gasoline engine. Keep in mind the initial cost to purchase this type of vehicle will be high but it will reduce the demand for gas and lower prices. Just as in any new technology as demand increases prices will fall and become more affordable,

The political statements of today are false and provide very little insight into looking at the problem and the development for a long term solution.

Orland Park's Main Street Triangle

2008-06-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

Your headline of June 20th relates to another chapter in the continuing saga of the Main Street Triangle. The Orland Park Administration has run into difficulties with their quest to demolish the Orland Plaza. The Request For Proposal appears to have been unsuccessful in finding a developer who would meet the Administration’s plan or requirements to re-develop The Orland Plaza. One reason may be the economy, but isn’t it possible that the controversy surrounding the demolition of Orland Plaza is a major reason? The OP Administration continues to paint a rosy picture of their vision and an unrelenting policy of no compromise.

It is my opinion, the once star studded image of Orland Park is beginning to fade. Why is it beginning to fade? The Administration has failed to communicate and work with the businesses that made OP a desirable place to live, shop and work. The Village has lost The Andrew Corporation, Beatty Lumber and is now working hard to destroy the property taxes and sales tax revenues generated by the Orland Plaza. Will the planned condo’s, townhomes and restaurants replace the tax base generated by these businesses?

Part of the problem rests with the State’s TIF Act which has given municipalities the power to re-develop areas with little or no control. The municipality freezes the tax assessments for the designated TIF area and accrues any dollars generated from increased assessments and new properties for a period of 23 years. The municipality provides little or no information on budgets, operating costs and the real affects on taxing bodies such as schools and the county. The TIF is not shown on your property tax bill or in the municipality’s budget. TIF’s are good when used to re-develop blighted or areas that are losing property tax dollars. To demolish the Orland Plaza will erase the tax dollars needed to support the Village, State and County Budgets. The Orland Park Administration has become reckless in its failure to take a realistic long term financial analysis of its vision of what’s good for the Village.

The Illinois TIF Act needs to be rewritten so that municipalities such as Orland Park cannot be given free rein to manipulate the use of property tax dollars.

DISARMING AMERICA

2008-06-21T06:07:00.000-07:00

Fr. Plager is pushing gun control. What type of gun control? I would hope that it would be criminal and gang gun control. We do not need to disarm America for the sake of criminals. This was not the intent of the founding fathers when they declared the right to bear arms. This right protects us from tyranny and unjust governments. Too disarm weakens this country. It has been proven that when the good people are disarmed the tyrants use their powers to take over countries.

The problem is one of parental responsibility. Make the parents responsible and maybe we'll see some changes. Fr. Plager needs to preach responsibility from the pulpit not punish decent god fearing people by taking away the guns they need to defend themselves from the criminals. If we follow Fr. Plager the only people with guns will be the criminals.

CHEAP SHOTS

2008-06-07T08:27:00.000-07:00

February 9.2008

Your editorial “McCain and the Purist” was unfair and unbalanced. It appears that you have a strong dislike for Mitt Romney and were bent on destroying the man. At the beginning you state that his campaign was manufactured and phony. Your last paragraph inferred that he snowed the purists. In between you attacked the purist and argued the case for John McCain. The attack on Romney was nor justified. It was a cheap shot that lacked documentation and facts. We continually hear of dirty politics, your editorial was dirty journalism.

Everyday we are snowed by the presidential candidates whose campaigns are all manufactured and phony. They pay big bucks for people to plan, direct and write their speeches. They all conjure up dreams, hopes and change. Why aren’t you asking the question, HOW? I f anybody is being snowed it’s the Chicago Tribune.

COOK COUNTY NEEDS RULES

2008-06-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

County needs rules 2007
The 4th of July is now a memory of fireworks, flag waving, speechmaking and remembering what made our country great.
Unfortunately this patriotism has now faded into our memory and it’s time to wake up to reality.
The reality of today’s public servants.
The people we elect to guide and protect our rights as citizens.
The people who take an oath to serve in accordance with the precedents of our forefathers, who declared: government of the people, by the people and for the people.
How quickly they forget that government is for the people and not for the self-interest and power of a few.
It is especially sad to watch the sham that is being played upon the people of Cook County.
Apparently most Cook County officials have abandoned the principles of good government.
I find it strange that most but not all private enterprise and government workers are governed by rules pertaining to illness and disability.
When someone becomes ill or incapacitated, the work continues, it doesn’t stop.
If the president of the United States becomes ill, we have rules to handle the situation.
Why is Cook County so different?
Doesn’t it have rules or procedures for succession?
Maybe it’s time for a higher authority, the state, to step in and see that rules and procedures governing the illness and succession of public officials are established.
We not only need rules and procedures for illness and succession but the establishment of laws that guide the replacement of candidates from the ballot for a general election. To have a group of committeemen sit in a room to pick a replacement is not government of the people, by the people and for the people. It’s government for a select few to maintain their power and interest.
We need laws to protect us from such a travesty.
We need laws that give the people the choice of selection.

THE WORD CHANGE

2008-06-04T06:37:00.000-07:00

January 7, 2008

The word is change. It’s become very powerful in the 2008 Presidential Campaign. People are flocking to the proponents that use the word “CHANGE” as part of their campaign. It’s interesting to watch because it’s a word and without substance has no meaning. What type of change, is it good change or bad change? What are you changing and how are you changing it? Is it a big change or a small change? What is the cost and how will it affect people, the environment, the economy, and other important factors? Everyone is for improving the world we live in, the economy, health care, social security, the war against terror, job security and on and on. We cannot be swayed by emotion or a word. We need to question this change and what it entails. We need a comprehensive view of the candidates change before we blindly select a candidate based on a word such as change.

POLITICS AND MONEY

2008-06-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

MAY 2008

I write this letter because I believe you feel the same frustration and anger with our representatives in Washington as I do. There are two points that I would like to address: dependence on oil and the crisis in the housing market.

I know your upset with the gas prices, I feel the same anger. Should we be angry? Yes, because this is not a new problem. It’s been around for decades with no action from Washington. Didn’t they see the writing on the wall or were they too concerned with protecting the investments of foreign oil, large oil companies, car manufacturers and unions? Washington has put us into a position of foreign dependence. How can we maintain a free and strong economy if we are dependent on foreign resources, be it oil or money.

The second point is the housing crisis. How did Washington allow lenders free rein in the creation of this crisis? No money down, mortgages above the cost of the home, basically a no questions policy. Historically we know there are ups and downs in the markets. How naïve have we become in the handling of money.

These two points demonstrate the inability of Washington and our representative to act on problems. Their policy is one of reaction. Once the fire is blazing they work to put it out. This is extremely serious because Washington has placed us and our economy into a critical situation. Let’s face it; Washington’s major concern has been the protection of big business and big money. They have no problem with bailing out lenders and borrowers. Whose money are they playing with? It’s your money. It’s easy to play with someone else’s money, what they have done is placed our investments, pensions and future at risk. Every evening our political leaders parade before the cameras to tell us how hard they work at spending our money. More earmarks and pork. Don’t they realize that pork makes you fat and lazy? Have they solved any problems, no!

The ratings and trust in our elected officials has dwindled to zero. How long can we tolerate Washington’s inability to prevent crises such as oil dependence and the housing problem? If you look down the road Social Security is a time bomb waiting to explode. These problems aren’t going away, they need to be solved. This is a great country with great minds and creativity. Maybe its time that Washington employ some of these resources to solve our problems. It’s become quite evident they do not possess the will nor the ability to solve problems.

RESPONSIBILITY

2008-06-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

2008

Everyday we read and hear about the killings on our city streets. We watch and listen to elected, civic and religious leaders condemn these actions. We watch weekly marches and prayer vigils. What we haven’t seen is the stopping of the killings. What is the problem and what should be done? Is it the gun laws, will tougher guns laws keep guns off the streets? Is it the schools? Is it gangs? Is it parents? Is it the violence and sex in movies and TV? Is it a permissive society? Is it the fear and unwillingness of communities to stand up against the gangs to end violence in their neighborhoods? Who is responsible?

I believe all of the above are responsible. Gun laws need to be enforced and anyone selling a gun illegally should be held accountable as an accessory to the crime. The schools need to continue to be diligent in maintaining discipline and identifying problem kids and creating programs to help them. Gangs need to be identified, monitored and controlled. They need to redirect their energies into constructive activities. To me parents are the biggest problem. Parents need to be responsible for their children. If children get in trouble, the parents get in trouble and should be treated accordingly. Programs need to identify problem children and reconcile parents and children... Just like we have programs for alcoholics, driving violations we need programs to educate parents to become responsible. Communities must work with law enforcement to insure their neighborhoods are safe and protected. TV and the movies need to clean up their act and the public must demand guidelines to establish controls to eliminate the trash that comes into our homes... Today’s society is losing its values and is abandoning its responsibility to young people... Everything is easy and now. We no longer have role models to exemplify good values. Who should young people look up to: drug dealers, gang bangers, gang leaders, corrupt politicians or the bad example and greed displayed by some professional athletes?

What it boils down to, is that we are all responsible. We must expect honesty and example from ourselves, elected officials and community leaders. The media must accept responsibility for the trashy sex and violence that poisons the mind of our youth. Parents need to be parents, gangs cannot be the substitute. Above all young people need to understand they have a responsibility to themselves and for their life and future. Alternative educational programs need to be developed to provide options other than dropping out of school. We have lost the difference between right and wrong... Maybe, it’s time to stop talking and start accepting responsibility. It’s through individual efforts, actions and promoting good values that we can only hope to end the violence and hate that plagues our city streets.

DUTY, HONOR, COUNTRY

2008-06-03T10:00:00.001-07:00

2007

Lately I’ve begun to notice a large number of Retired Generals appearing on TV. They come on with all kinds of analysis and suggestions to solving problems. As I watch, I begin to wonder why didn’t you come up with your suggestions and solutions while you where on active duty?

I for one, am not impressed by this parade of Stars. It gives me the impression that the top brass have become politicians and have forsaken the call of Duty, Honor and Country. Most ignore the strategies and tactics to accomplish the Mission. The question is, do they have solutions or where they part of the problem? If they have so much to say now, what did they say and how did they say it when they had their positions of responsibility. I have a strange sense that many where Yes Men willing to echo the words that their superiors wanted to hear. If this thesis is only partially true, we have a serious problem with our military leadership. We do not need people to rise to General because they belong to an old boys club, we need leaders who are willing to take a stand, leaders who take on missions to win, who believe in the axiom that” there is no substitute for victory”,

I have to salute General David Patreus because I believe he is a model of what a soldier should be: honest, has courage, a man of principles, good value systems, tactful but speaks his mind, has a vision, understands the needs of his troops, and understands his mission. The War in Iraq has presented many new challenges. A new type of war where your enemy isn’t visible; it requires new tactics, equipment and training. The manuals, tactics, strategies and training programs have just begun to take form. To accomplish this will take dedicated leaders who are committed to victory. We do not need the retired, political generals offering solutions when they have long forgotten the meaning of Duty, Honor and Country.

POLITICAL ARROGANCE

2008-06-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

2007

I don’t know about you, but I have been astounded by the arrogance of most local, county and state political leaders. It appears that they have been bitten by a bug that has cut off their ability to listen, see and reason. They have been caught up in the old adage that power corrupts. In most cases they are supported by aldermen, board trustees, county commissioners and state representatives. Any citizen unrest is countered by a new scheme to twist and turn the issue to deceive the public.

The political opposition to this arrogance is rare and few. County Commissioner Mike Quigley was courageous enough to speak out about TIF’s, Tax Investment Financing, which is being used by officials for pet projects instead of helping poor or economically distressed areas. Congressman Jesse Jackson has stood up to fight taxes. I have a question: where are the Republicans? Where is the Chairman of The Cook County Republican Party? They have nothing to say? Are they really Democrats in disguise?

People are speaking out, emails, letters, and phone calls. We must hold all elected officials accountable. They represent you and me, not the mayors, board presidents or governor. We must question the waste, patronage, TIF’s, pet projects and things that we cannot afford. Every citizen must live within his or her means, government must do the same. It would be nice if we could all lead the good life of our elected officials: good health care, pensions, big salaries, cars, expense accounts, favored friends, free lunches and on and on. We need to pull them in so they are like the rest of us, poor. Continue to speak out, send your letters, make your phone calls, emails. Enough is enough.

CONFRONTATIONAL POLITICS

2008-06-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

January 24, 2008

As the pace of the Presidential Campaign picks up, we have seen a twist in strategy from image building to one of confrontational politics. It was just a few weeks ago that the candidates were tweaking their images to look presidential. After a few primaries and caucuses the gloves have come off. The candidates are openly confronting their opponents i.e. associates, fund raising, voting records or anything that may tarnish the presidential image that the opponent has been trying to present... This is good because we are now getting the opportunity to see the candidates defend or try to defend their past life and actions. If the candidate is truthful and sincere this should not be a problem. This is an excellent test to determine which candidates can defend themselves in a dignified and presidential manner. The ability of a candidate to handle this form of scrutiny will demonstrate their ability to react to the tough domestic and foreign issues that will face them as President.

STOP TIF ABUSE

2008-06-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

Stop abuse of TIFs 2007
Now that you have your tax bill, are you still steaming? I believe we all understand taxes are necessary to pay for the services we receive. What makes me mad is the lack of interest in building tax systems that are fair and equitable. Year after year, the state Legislature has lacked the courage to reform the property tax system. What they did not lack the courage to do was allow Tax Incentive Financing to flourish. ...
The mayor of Chicago is not the only mayor using TIFs to support pet projects. It has become standard operating procedure for mayors throughout Illinois to use this money at their discretion. The money primarily goes to fund large development projects, not blighted or economically depressed areas. This is a flagrant abuse of taxpayer monies and needs to stop.
I have written my local representatives: Renee Kosel, Senator Christine Radogno and Cook County Commissioner Liz Gorman, asking for them for take action to stop this abuse. The one person who stood up, County Commissioner Mike Quigley, now is missing in action. The media doesn't see it as an issue.
If it's an abuse of the law, the attorney general should take action.

PAY UP SUCKER

2008-06-03T09:48:00.000-07:00

Pay Up Sucker 11/29/07

Money, money where’s the money? No money for roads, education, transportation and on and on. But wait, look down the street isn’t that a good spot for a mall or condo? But where’s the money? No problem, we can use our TIF Slush Funds. The people don’t care and we can keep our wealthy developer friends happy.

Ladies and gentlemen we’ve been scammed. Yes scammed by the best con artists in the business, our elected local, county and state officials. They’re so good they continuously give themselves pay raises and we continue to re-elect them. Why solve problems when the solution is raise taxes or find new taxes. Pay up sucker.

Sasaid