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NEWS
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Kirk still backs water boarding
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May 09, 2008
Daily Herald
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Mark Kirk voted once again with the Bush administration against outlawing water boarding.
Despite concerns over the humaneness of water boarding and its effectiveness, Kirk continues to show that he lacks the courage and independence to stand up to the Bush administration.
Military leaders have questioned the effectiveness of water boarding, saying it often results in unreliable confessions and puts our own troops at risk for inhumane treatment at the hands of our enemies.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=187590&src=
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LAUREL to the Nike Reuse-A-Shoe program
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May 09, 2008
The NewsSun
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LAUREL
To the Nike Reuse-A-Shoe program, which this year, in conjunction with the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County, collected more than 25,000 old athletic shoes in the county in the recent drive. It's the fourth year SWALCO has been involved in the program and 2,000 pairs were donated to community agencies. The used shoes are turned into athletic surface material. If you still want to donate, the office of state Rep. Kathy Ryg, D-Vernon Hills, and the Vernon Hills Public Works building are year-round drop-off sites.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/940272,5_4_WA09_DARTS_S1.article
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House votes down officials' pay hikes
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May 08, 2008
Daily Herald
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State Rep. Fred Crespo said that before taking a raise, lawmakers need to take into account everyone else's struggles.
"People are concerned about homes, concerned about their jobs," the Hoffman Estates Democrat said. "People are tapping into their pensions to pay for their child's tuition."
Crespo and others in favor of rejecting the board's suggestions also pointed to other issues that should come first.
"I feel it is inexcusable that legislators are ready to accept a raise when the state can't make their school aid payments, can't make their Medicaid payments and we haven't yet been able to come up with a budget," said state Sen. Susan Garrett, a Lake Forest Democrat with a similar rejection proposal pending in the Senate. "Our job is to make sure we take care of the finances of the state of Illinois, first and foremost. That should be our priority, not to give ourselves raises."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=186912&src=1
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Population growth requires conservation
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May 08, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Susan Garrett said she believes the study needs to look at all users of water and not just residential consumers. She noted the state's nuclear power plants are one of the largest users of water in Illinois, even though most of the water they use is recycled and returned to the environment.
"We're asking for accountability from everybody else," she said. "We need to also ask for accountability from the power plants."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/939398,G3-watersupply-050808-s1.article
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Political pair does job
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May 08, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Susan Garrett and Elaine Nekritz co-host citizen forums and town meetings around the North Shore. At such events current problems are reviewed, updated and clarified. After the August 2007 super-storms, Garrett hosted a major ComEd review event in Des Plaines. ComEd officials tried to rationalize why it couldn't cope with the storms. She demanded ComEd develop and implement a new storms plan so it could handle future, possibly tragic storms. To date, ComEd has revealed no plan.
The legislators' forums always attract big crowds and do help district citizens get answers and understand timely matters.
The North Shore needs both these ladies during these trying times in Illinois.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/deerfield/news/937825,de-letters-050808-s1.article
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Garrett bill to build job opportunities
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May 08, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Legislation to expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities has passed the Illinois Senate and now will be considered by the House.
The legislation is intended to expand public awareness of issues that affect those with disabilities and would be administered by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Department of Human Services. Senate Bill 2538 includes provisions to augment Illinois employment opportunities for the disabled. Annual progress reports must be submitted to the Governor and General Assembly.
"This legislation will show the people of Illinois that we are serious about equal opportunity," said State Sen. Susan Garrett, D-29th, of Lake Forest. "Those individuals with disabilities should be afforded the same opportunities with the State of Illinois as other taxpaying citizens."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/highlandpark/news/937768,HP-Briefs-050808-s1.article
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Village ponders turns
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May 08, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Trustee Richard Garling who voted for the turning lane told the board last week during the meeting that the village should look at amending the ordinance.
"Laws are fluid," he told the board. "They weren't carved in stone." He added that having more businesses would bring in more jobs and business to Island Lake.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/wauconda/news/937903,wk-route176-050808-s1.article
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Deputies should be getting the raises
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May 07, 2008
Daily Herald
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We finally have a sheriff who is earning his money and not just collecting a paycheck. Sheriff Mark Curran is working in the streets with the deputies, and he recently attended the Police Training Institute for his certification as a police officer to get a better sense of what life's like for the deputies under his command.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=186201&src=
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Kirk still backs water boarding
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May 06, 2008
Daily Herald
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Mark Kirk voted once again with the Bush administration against outlawing water boarding.
Despite concerns over the humaneness of water boarding and its effectiveness, Kirk continues to show that he lacks the courage and independence to stand up to the Bush administration.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=185535&src=
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Cynor forms committee
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May 06, 2008
NorthWest Herald
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A McHenry County Democratic Party chairman-turned-candidate has formed a campaign committee in support of his race for the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Thomas J. Cynor created the committee Citizens for Cynor on Thursday and filed his statement of organization Monday, Illinois State Board of Elections records show. The Woodstock attorney had not filed financial reports as of Monday.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/05/06/news/local/doc481fe2c22c822634339761.txt
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Tenth Dems to host Let's Talk Politics
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May 05, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Tenth Dems University will host Let's Talk Politics in Highland Park Tuesday May 6 at 7 p.m. The event will take place at The Bar-B-Q Pit, 589 Elm Place in Highland Park.
Let's Talk Politics is a moderated discussion about the issue and political events of the day. The topic could be the war in Iraq, the latest polls on who's ahead in the race for the White House, how the economic picture is going to affect the election, and what should be done to deal with the cost of health care. The event will take place as results from the Indiana and North Carolina primaries come in.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/highlandpark/news/932396,hp-tenthdemsweb-050508-s1.article
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Demand for water expected to grow
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May 03, 2008
The NewsSun
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State Sen. Susan Garrett, D-Lake Forest, called the subject "a huge, huge issue that needs to be addressed from a regional standpoint."
Garrett has been a legislative leader in fighting E. coli pollution of Lake Michigan's beaches. She told the group she was concerned about recent news reports regarding possible prescription drugs and toxic matter found in Lake Michigan drinking water.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/929513,5_1_WA03_WATER_S1.article
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Garrett decries legislator raises
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May 03, 2008
The NewsSun
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"I strongly believe every legislator should be of the mindset to completely reject another salary increase as the state faces hard economic times," said Garrett, who has been a member of the General Assembly since 1999. "This state can't pay its own bills, and there are thousands of people out of work.
"Those who are employed are not being offered raises. I don't believe there is any justification for a pay increase for state legislators," she said.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/929776,5_1_WA03_NORAISE_S1.article
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LETTER TO THE EDITOR
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May 03, 2008
The NewsSun
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I had the pleasure of joining Democratic congressional candidate Dan Seals and his campaign in an Earth Day cleanup in Somme Woods in Northbrook. Many candidates for public office talk about what they're going to do to clean up our environment, but Dan actually rolled up his sleeves, organized a cleanup activity, and joined his volunteers in cleaning up Somme Woods.
That is why I will be voting for Dan in November. I know he won't hesitate to roll up his sleeves and bring the change we need in Washington.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/letters/929777,5_4_WA03_LETTERS_S1.article
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Lake County Board members boost their pay
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May 01, 2008
The NewsSun
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Board member Bob Sabonjian was against the increase in salary for elected officials, considering residents are forced to deal with the growing costs of energy expenses.
"It is not right that board members vote to increase their salary," he said. "I think it is inappropriate to do that when the average man is making less money."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/925544,5_1_WA01_SALARIES_S1.article
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Antioch Dems
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May 01, 2008
The NewsSun
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The Antioch Democratic Organization has elected Gene Kryczka as its chairman. Other new officers are Peter Grant and Diana Camp, who become vice chairmen. Tim Chichester was elected treasurer, and Sandy Frances was named secretary. Kryczka, in announcing his goals as chairman, said, "The days of one-party rule are over in Antioch Township. I will dedicate myself to giving our community an alternative to the status quo for probably the past century. I will make sure all of our residents, regardless of political party, will have a voice in county and in state government as well as at the federal level for many of the issues." For more information, call Kryczka at (708) 516-3009
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/925560,5_1_WA01_ANTPOLBRFS_S1.article
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Bill pushes to recycle electronic products
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May 01, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Susan Garrett said the proposed legislation seeks to "encourage electronic manufacturers to develop more environmentally friendly and less toxic computer printers, cell phones, monitors and televisions."
She said many of these products contain potentially toxic components such as lead, mercury and cadmium that can leach into the ground or air if disposed of in landfills, she said.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/mundelein/news/925136,mu-recycling-050108-s1.article
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Ballot appeal likely
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April 29, 2008
Daily Herald
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An appeal is expected to be filed in Lake County circuit court on behalf of four Democrats who were removed from the November ballot. Republican activists filed the objections involving candidates for four Lake County board seats. The Republicans contended the Democrats' candidacies were invalid because they weren't nominated by local precinct representatives as required by state law. Last week, the Lake County electoral board heard testimony and agreed the four Democrats should be yanked from the Nov. 4 ballot. Removed were: Mark Nielsen, of Round Lake Beach, in county board District 3; Davita Siegel, of Buffalo Grove, in county board District 20; Sari Ann Hurtig, of Mundelein, in county board District 10; and Steve Pearson, of Ingleside, in county board District 5.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=181505&src=1
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Big Lake County road projects on hold for now
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April 29, 2008
Daily Herald
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Democratic state Sen. Michael Bond of Grayslake, with IDOT Secretary Milton Sees and O'Keefe, briefed local mayors on snow removal and road projects.
"We're running out of money and our dollars buy less," Sees said.
Bond said $186 million in road projects targeted for Lake County would improve the quality of life and attract new business, which could temper residential property tax bills.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=181534&src=3
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John Michael Gonzalez
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April 29, 2008
Politico.com
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This is partly why John Gonzalez wanted to work for Melissa Bean after his stint as chief of staff for close friend and former Texas Rep. Chris Bell, who fell prey to the redistricting crusade of then-Rep. Tom DeLay (R-Texas) in 2004. That same year, Bean pulled off what was arguably the most impressive win in the country, besting a longtime Republican incumbent in a Republican-leaning district, in the backyard of then-House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.).
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Read the full story ...
http://www.politico.com/politicopros/johnmichaelgonzalez.html
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Ex-student trustee joins Harper Board
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April 29, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Nontraditional student and former Student Trustee Carlos Borro is now a Harper College Board trustee.
The board appointed Borro, 40, of Palatine, to fill the seat left vacant by Trustee Patrick Botterman, 44, of Arlington Heights, who died March 10 of a heart attack.
"I worked with (Botterman) for a whole year when I was a student trustee," Borro said. "I respected and looked up to him. When he passed away, I thought to honor his memory and applied to be a trustee."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/arlingtonheights/news/921753,pa-newharpt-042908-s1.article
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Democrats voted off County Board ballot
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April 26, 2008
The NewsSun
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Peter Couvall, first vice chairman of the Lake County Democratic Party, said the party will definitely appeal the Davita Siegel ruling and may appeal all of the cases once it's had a chance to review each case with their attorney. He called the objections a politically motivated attempt by Republicans to remove Democrats from the ballot.
"I think they're scared out of their minds," he said. "It's a Democratic year and they don't want opposition."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/916486,5_1_WA26_ELECTBOARD_S1.article
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Democratic quartet voted off Lake County Board ballot
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April 24, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Peter Couvall, first vice chairman of the Lake County Democratic Party, said the party will definitely appeal the Siegel ruling and may appeal all of the cases once it's had a chance to review each case with their attorney. He called the objections a politically motivated attempt by Republicans to remove Democrats from the ballot.
"I think they're scared out of their minds," he said. "It's a Democratic year and they don't want opposition."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/914489,pp-objections-042408-s1.article
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Garrett authors bill to try to get park funds for Lake Forest, others
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April 24, 2008
Pioneer Press
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With many suburban park districts eager to begin improvement projects, State Sen. Susan Garrett, D-29th, of Lake Forest authored a Senate Resolution April 16, calling for an audit of the Department of Natural Resources program that issues grants to park districts.
Called the Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development program, Garrett's home town of Lake Forest is one of 13 north and west suburban park districts in line for a grant. Lake Forest is expecting $400,000 for the development of the Route 60 Park.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/912215,pp-parkgrants-042408-s1.article
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GOP files objections to 4 Democratic candidates for Lake County Board
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April 24, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Lake County Democrat officials claim the objections are without merit, and an attempt by Republicans to prevent competition for the board seats in the upcoming November general election.
"I just think they're a little nervous because it's a Democratic year, and it looks like Barack Obama is going to be leading the ticket," said Peter Couvall, first vice chairman of the Lake County Democratic Party.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/912244,G3-objections-042408-s1.article
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Straight-party voting makes push for return
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April 24, 2008
Pioneer Press
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But Peter Couvall, first vice chairman of the Lake County Democratic Party, said he is "totally against" bringing back straight-ticket voting.
Couvall said much of the reason for Democratic gains in the county in recent years has been because many Republican and Independent voters have crossed over and voted for Democratic candidates.
"Especially in the western part of the county, we have a tremendous amount of independent-minded voters who can go either way," he said. "The way it is now they can go down the ballot. It gives people the option to vote for the person, not just the party."
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/mundelein/news/911988,mu-straightvote-042408-s1.article
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Tired of automated political calls
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April 23, 2008
Daily Herald
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Recently U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean joined with U.S. Sen. Diane Feinstein of California and introduced the Robocall Privacy Act to bring relief to voters across the nation who are experiencing an epidemic of robo calls this election.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=177547&src=
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Olympic equestrian events at Tempel wins support
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April 22, 2008
Daily Herald
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Jay Glenn, president of a group called Voters for Preservation, said he is pleased with the move but will continue to monitor the plans.
"We're watchful of taxpayer money being used to finance this elitist event," said Glenn, of Lake Barrington.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=176899&src=3
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Lake County Democrats wait to hear if they'll stay on the ballot
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April 22, 2008
Daily Herald
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• Mark Nielsen of Round Lake Beach. He's running for the 3rd District seat held by Republican Suzi Schmidt.
• Steve Pearson of Ingleside. He's seeking the 5th District seat held by Republican Bonnie Thomson Carter.
• Sari Hurtig of Mundelein. She's running for the 10th District post held by Republican Diana O'Kelly.
• Davita Siegel of Buffalo Grove. She's trying to unseat Republican David Stolman in the 20th District.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=177156&src=3
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Seals will fight for middle class
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April 21, 2008
Daily Herald
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Over the past seven years, I've watched the wealthiest Americans receive huge tax cuts from the Bush administration and Republicans in Congress, while families like mine have been hit by the AMT. I believe it's time we elect representatives who will fight to make our tax code fairer for all of our middle class families.
That is why I will be voting for Dan Seals in November. Dan has three young daughters and he understands the struggles of families to pay for expenses and health care, while saving up for college.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=176514&src=
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Suburbs are key to Democratic victory
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April 21, 2008
Politico.com
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My home state of Illinois provides a good example. In the 2008 Illinois Democratic primary, voter turnout increased by 67.4 percent statewide. With a favorite son on the ballot, that figure isn’t terribly surprising. But dig deeper, and you find that turnout in large suburban counties exploded. DuPage County turnout increased by 116.2 percent, Lake County turnout was up by 103.2 percent and Will County turnout shot up by 121.9 percent.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0408/9752.html
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Woodland trustee challenges Sandy Cole for House seat
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April 18, 2008
The NewsSun
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Terry Hall, a certified public accountant and Gurnee resident who has served on the School Board for one year, said she believes her financial expertise could be of use in sorting out the state's funding problems.
Hall, sister of Lake County Circuit Court Chief Judge David Hall, said she has no prior elected experience beyond the School Board, but added that she has been a lifelong county resident involved in politics.
Hall has run her own small accounting business for about 30 years, she said.
School funding is one of the issues that needs to be addressed to help improve education statewide, Hall said.
"From my time on the School Board, I know how important it is to these kids that we get these things resolved," she said.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/901922,5_1_WA18_62NDDIST_S1.article
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Property assessment bill passes Senate
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April 18, 2008
Pioneer Press
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"With property assessments continuing to rise in northern Lake county and throughout the suburbs, we must be proactive in our efforts to achieve equity across neighborhoods and across townships," stated Michael Bond, who worked on the legislation with the Grayslake-based Citizen's Action Project (CAP), a non-profit group formed in Jan. 2007 by a group of homeowners concerned about the property tax assessment process in Lake County.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/902721,gu-INTbond-041808-s1.article
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Lake GOP objects to Democrat candidates
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April 17, 2008
Daily Herald
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The candidates are:
• Mark Nielsen of Round Lake Beach. He's running for the 3rd District seat held by Suzi Schmidt.
• Steve Pearson of Ingleside. He's seeking the 5th District seat held by Bonnie Thomson Carter.
• Sari Hurtig of Mundelein. She's running for the 10th District post held by Diana O'Kelly.
• Davita Siegel of Buffalo Grove. She's trying to unseat David Stolman in the 20th District.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=174178&src=3
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Third judge is shuffled out of child porn case
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April 17, 2008
Daily Herald
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The third judge to be assigned to hear the child pornography distribution case against former Green Oaks mayor Thomas Adams held his first hearing in the case Wednesday.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=174165&src=3
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Gurnee's Hall to take on Cole in 62nd District
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April 17, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Terry Hall, an accountant and school board member for Woodland Community Consolidated School District 50 in Gurnee, believes her background in financial matters would allow her to bring a fresh perspective to the state budget woes.
"The resources of the state need to be allocated to meet the needs," Hall said. "I feel like they've been playing a game of musical chairs. They need to take an overall look at the entire system of the tax base and the budget."
Hall said she has lived in Lake County her whole life and understands the issues facing residents.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/gurnee/news/899001,gr-thall-041708-s1.article
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Bond visit
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April 17, 2008
Pioneer Press
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State Sen. Michael Bond, D -31 of Grayslake, will meet with residents for coffee and conversation from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. April 18. The event will be held in the atrium adjacent to the College of Lake County Library, 19351 Washington Street in Grayslake.
Bond will be available to discuss recent initiatives on property tax assessments and improving road issues in Lake County, as well as answering questions or concerns relating to state government.
For more information, call Bond's district office at (847) 752-7004.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/grayslake/news/898977,gr-whatsnew-041708-s1.article
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Shields Township residents look for property tax relief
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April 17, 2008
Pioneer Press
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State Sen. Susan Garrett said last week that the action by Shields Township "may not be legally binding, but I think it will send a strong message that people really are at their wit's end about their high property tax bills."
Garrett said she has heard similar complaints throughout her district and throughout the state.
"Property tax costs are extremely high and in many cases very difficult for people to pay especially when senior citizens are on a fixed income," she said.
The action taken in Shields Township and elsewhere in the state "do have credibility," Garrett said. "I'm receptive to Shields Township's request to lower their property taxes. Can we do exactly what they've asked? I'm not sure."
Garrett said state leaders are "working on legislation to reduce property taxes or at least make property taxes more fair," she said.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/lakeforest/news/898870,lf-shieldstax-041708-s1.article
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New judge, another delay in Adams trial
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April 17, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Tom Adams was arrested at his home in Green Oaks in July 2006 and was charged with 11 counts of disseminating child pornography over the Internet, a Class 1 felony punishable by a possible prison term of between 4 and 15 years if convicted. He is also facing possession of child pornography charges.
Adams resigned his post as mayor of Green Oaks shortly after his arrest.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/libertyville/news/898989,li-adamstrial-041708-s1.article
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Fuel efficiency is targeted in bill
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April 17, 2008
Pioneer Press
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"I introduced the bill because it will greatly improve public health by getting rid of sot and smog and it will reduce our carbon emissions, which is global warming pollution, by at least 30 percent," said Karen May.
May said the legislation also would improve fuel efficiency and save motorists money at the gas pump. The Illinois Clean Cars Act creates a new car fleet average of 39.2 mph by 2020, which is higher than the proposed federal standards.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/libertyville/news/900443,G3-maybill-041708-s1.article
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Island Lake giving away eco-friendly light bulbs
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April 17, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Island Lake Trustee Rich Garling said the light bulbs also will be given to parents as they pick up and drop off their children during the village's Creative Playtime preschool and to seniors in the Senior Center at the village complex.
Island Lake's Village Board passed a resolution last fall in support of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus for improving the environment.
At a recent Village Board meeting, Trustee John Ponio warned that CFLs do contain mercury.
However, Garling added that the bulbs are Energy Star-rated, last a long time and save money and energy.
"We encourage as many people as possible to come to the village Hall and pick up these free bulbs," Garling said.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/wauconda/news/898689,wk-lightbulbs-041708-s1.article
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Internships available
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April 16, 2008
Daily Herald
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The 10th Congressional District Democrats have begun accepting applications for internships. Applicants should be high school juniors or seniors, college students, or graduate or law students with a desire to help the Democratic Party. Computer skills are desired, and a commitment to work a minimum of 15 hours a week during the summer is required. Course credit is available with cooperating high schools and colleges. Students can apply for a summer internship, as well as one-semester internships or for the full year. There also are immediate internships available, with a requirement of at least eight hours after school or on weekends. Acceptance into the internship program is selective and contingent upon an interview. For more information on the program, or to apply, contact Lauren Beth Gash, chair, or Allen Wagner, intern coordinator, at info@tenthdems.org or call 847-266-VOTE (8683)
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Read the full story ...
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=173570&src=3
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Rejection of hospitals shortsighted
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April 14, 2008
The NewsSun
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Shame on the Health Facilities Planning Board for basing its decision on inaccurate information that does a disservice to the residents it is supposed to serve.
Both Vista Health and Advocate will be able to reapply and restate their cased for new hospitals after six months. We believe hospital and municipal officials should seek help from state legislators to put pressure on the board to come to its senses.
Residents who want to voice their frustration and displeasure over the decision should write the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board in care of the Illinois Department of Public Health, 535 W. Jefferson St., Springfield, IL 62761
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Read the full story ...
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/892773,5_4_WA14_EDIT1_S1.article
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Bean tops $2 million in campaign funds
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April 14, 2008
Pioneer Press
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U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean, D-8th, of Barrington announced today her campaign has raised $2.27 million this election cycle.
The second-term congresswoman raised $422,551 in the first quarter of 2008 ending March 31.
"I appreciate the broad support and recognition of my work in Congress for the 8th district families, businesses, and communities I represent," Bean said in a statement.
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Read the full story ...
http://www.pioneerlocal.com:80/schaumburg/news/893885,sc-8thfec-041408-s1.article
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New Democratic leader has big plans
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April 14, 2008
Pioneer Press
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Kathleen Sances is eyeing five legislative seats this year. It's a tough task given only one seat is currently held by an incumbent Democratic, state Sen. Dan Kotowski's 33rd District seat. Sances is also working on behalf of challengers Peter Gutzmer for state senator in the 27th District, Mark Walker for state representative in the 66th District, Carol Javens for state representative in the 53rd District and Dan Seals for U.S. representative in the 10th District.
"Our chances in 2008 are better than they've ever been," said Sances, who was installed into her new position April 9. "All the way down.
"Gutzmer and Seals ran in the last election and were very close," Sances continued, "so we're hopeful."
The Cook County Democratic Party selected Sances to replace Patrick Botterman, who died of a heart attack last month at age 44.
"He was a very close friend of mine," she said. "They're very big shoes to fill, and I'm honored to have the opportunity to follow the path he was taking."
In memory of Botterman, Sances said, the Wheeling Township Democrats will honor an individual each year who shows the same fearless determination to fight for social change.
The Patrick S. Botterman Leadership Award will be given to an individual who volunteers within Wheeling Township at 11:30 a.m. May 18 at Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling.
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http://www.pioneerlocal.com/wheeling/news/894458,wh-sances-041408-s1.article
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No Olympic venues on our local lands
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April 12, 2008
Daily Herald
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From an environmental standpoint, building huge construction projects somewhere like Raven Glen may indeed be "less bad" than doing it at Lakewood -- but that does not make such ill-conceived plans "good." And either way, the eventual cost to taxpayers is all but certain. More information is available to the public at www.VotersForPreservation.org.
Bob Friend Secretary/Communications, Voters for Preservation, Inc.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=171262&src=
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Rail plan opposition grows
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April 12, 2008
NorthWest Herald
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U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean, an outspoken opponent of the sale, told TRAC members that while the Barrington coalition had taken a leadership role in the rally against the railroad, a unified front from throughout the region would magnify the push.
“Originally, CN thought they were just going to come in here and do this thing without any sort of discussion among the communities [that] would be affected,” said Bean, a Democrat from Barrington. “Showing the community support, so we can put the pressure on this agency, is what matters.
“Together, we’re going to hold the [Surface Transportation Board] accountable, however they proceed.”
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http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/12/news/local/doc4800889085ec1038389310.txt
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Bean proposes limits on political robocalls
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April 11, 2008
Daily Herald
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Melissa Bean, a Democrat from the suburban 8th District, has been particularly concerned about robocalls since her 2006 re-election campaign, when supporters of her Republican opponent barraged voters with automated calls.
Some of the calls began "Hello, I'm calling with information about Melissa Bean," leading many people to mistakenly believe the messages were from Bean's campaign team. Angry voters flooded her office with complaints, she said.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=170712&src=1
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How is that extra sales tax being used?
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April 10, 2008
Daily Herald
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State Sen. Susan Garrett, a Lake Forest Democrat, and sponsor of the follow-up legislation, said she felt it was important to have transparency when spending tax dollars. As lawmakers worked to stave off a transportation "doomsday" scenario, Garrett said she fielded concerns from the disabled community who felt they were forgotten.
The legislation now moves to the House for a vote. Garrett said she's optimistic it will pass.
"I can't imagine anybody voting against this, because everybody wants to make sure there's accountability when it comes to spending our tax money," she said. "And if anybody deserves a free ride, it certainly should be the disabled community."
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169933&src=1
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Constitutional convention discussion
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April 10, 2008
Pioneer Press
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The Barrington League of Women Voters will hold an informational meeting and discussion at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday Apr 15 at the Barrington Area Public Library, 505 N. Northwest Highway, regarding the question on the November ballot which will ask voters if legislators should hold a constitutional convention to revise the Illinois State Constitution.
There will be a presentation followed by discussion and a consensus decision as to whether or not the LWV of Illinois will support a constitutional convention.
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http://www.pioneerlocal.com/barrington/news/886982,ba-briefs-041008-s1.article
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How to apply
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April 10, 2008
Pioneer Press
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The West Deerfield Township Board will appoint a replacement for the remainder of Township Assessor Steven Stanger's term, which expires Dec. 31, 2009. The position will be up for election in April, 2009.
Supervisor Julie Morrison said anyone interested in filling the position should contact her immediately at (847) 945-0614.
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http://www.pioneerlocal.com/deerfield/news/886794,de-stanger-041008-s2.article
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Democrat official named
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April 09, 2008
Daily Herald
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The Cook County Democratic Party tonight will install Kathleen Sances, 48, of Arlington Heights, as the new Wheeling Township Democratic committeeman. She replaces Patrick Botterman, 44, who died last month of a heart attack. Following the 7 p.m. ceremony at the Wheeling-Palatine Democratic headquarters, 1310 W. Northwest Hwy. in Arlington Heights, Cook County Commissioners Forrest Claypool and Michael Quigley will speak about county board reform. Sances said she's been active in the township organization since 2003, running the office as a volunteer in 2004, running for township trustee in 2005 and serving as president of the township party's 10-member executive committee in recent years.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169225&src=1
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Vernon Hills park board vacancy
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April 09, 2008
Daily Herald
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The deadline to apply for a vacancy on the Vernon Hills Park District board has been extended to early May. The board is looking to fill a recent vacancy created with the resignation of Kelli Garvanian, who had held the spot for 22 years. The term will be from the date of appointment until the April 2009 election. It will then be filled by election for a 2-year term. Interested residents should send a letter of introduction and resume with qualifications and key interests in the district to Larry DeGraaf, 294 Evergreen Drive, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, or e-mail to larryd@vhparkdistrict.org or at (847) 996-6930.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168891&src=3
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Fire board opening
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April 09, 2008
Daily Herald
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The Lake Villa township board is looking for a person to fill the vacancy on the fire protection district board. The 3-year term begins May 1. Candidates must reside in Lake Villa Township; preference will be given Lindenhurst residents. Anyone interested in serving on the board should send their resume no later than April 18 to township Supervisor Dan Venturi, 37908 N. Fairfield Road, Lake Villa, IL 60046.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168891&src=3
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Nuclear power push beyond irresponsible
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April 09, 2008
Daily Herald
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No great urgency for new reactors -- or even large power plants -- currently exists in Illinois to justify such a bone-headed move. The urgency that does exist is to rapidly increase market share for truly sustainable renewable energy resources, like wind and solar, as is mandated in the recently passed Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards legislation. Repealing the nuclear moratorium deliberately undercuts the implementation of renewable energy sources in Illinois.
JoAnn Osmond and other supporters of this nonsense are simply shilling for Big Energy.
David A. Kraft, Director Nuclear Energy Information Service
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168886&src=
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Health board rejects Lake Co. hospitals
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April 09, 2008
Daily Herald
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Bill Gentes said a hospital would have brought a lot of commercial development and professional offices to Round Lake. He said he hopes Advocate's proposal to build an immediate-care center in the village will be approved so some of those projects can still come to fruition.
"I'm just flabbergasted," he said. "Here's two entities, Vista and Advocate, willing to spend $100 million because they recognize the market need, but a bunch of bureaucrats say no. It's ludicrous."
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169040
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Consitutional convention
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April 09, 2008
The NewsSun
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The League of Women Voters of the Barrington Area invites the public to its April meeting on a state constitutional convention Tuesday, April 15, at 9:30 a.m. at the Barrington Area Library, 505 N. Northwest Highway. Are you satisfied with how our state is run? Every 20 years, the citizens of the state of Illinois consider whether or not our state constitution needs to be revised. The League will be considering this question about whether or not to hold a state constitutional convention and try to develop our recomendation. The public is invited to come to learn more about how our state runs and consider what might be done to improve its functioning.
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http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/884567,5_1_WA09_POLBRFS_S1.article
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Garrett unopposed as GOP focuses on other state races
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April 09, 2008
Pioneer Press
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State Sen. Susan Garrett, D-29th, of Lake Forest will not face a Republican challenger in the November election since the Lake County Republican organization passed on slating an opponent to run against her.
"We interviewed a couple of people, but we decided that the people we had weren't going to be able to mount a legitimate campaign," Dan Venturi, chairman of the Lake County Republican Party, said Wednesday.
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http://www.pioneerlocal.com/lakeforest/news/885555,lf-republicans-040908-s1.article
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Cole to be challenged
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April 08, 2008
Daily Herald
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Republican state Rep. Sandy Cole will face a Democratic challenger in the Nov. 4 general election. Gurnee resident Terry Hall on Monday filed to represent the Democratic Party in the race for the 62nd state House seat. Hall is a certified public accountant and a member of the Woodland Elementary District 50 board. Cole, of Grayslake, was elected to her first term two years ago.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168378&src=3
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4 picked to challenge county board Republicans
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April 08, 2008
Daily Herald
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Unlike the Republicans, three sitting Democrats will not face challengers in November: Mary Ross Cunningham, a Waukegan resident who represents the 9th District; Angelo Kyle, a Waukegan resident who represents the 12th District; and Audrey Nixon, a North Chicago resident who serves the 14th District.
Additionally, Democrat Michelle Feldman of Deerfield will run unopposed in the 22nd District. Feldman is set to replace longtime incumbent Carol Spielman, who's retiring.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168351&src=3
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Legislators visit school
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April 07, 2008
Daily Herald
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North Elementary School in Des Plaines is scheduled to get a visit at 9:30 a.m. today from two state legislators who want to witness the impact of the school's Positive Behavior Interventions and Support Program. The program was implemented at the school five years ago. The legislators are Sen. Susan Garrett and Rep. Elaine Nekritz. Principal Carol Gibbs credits the program for reducing problems with disruptive classrooms, rude behavior, noisy buses and chaotic lunchrooms. Students receive training in solving disagreements and new students and their families attend PBIS orientations on how they are to conduct themselves.
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=167748&src=1
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Democrats back governor on health care
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April 04, 2008
Daily Herald
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"We cannot wait for the federal government to keep talking and saying they're going to do something," said state Sen. Terry Link, a Waukegan Democrat who sponsored the health care expansion plan. "This is a pared down, small program, and it's going to help the citizens that need the help."
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http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=166154&src=1
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Understanding what residents want is an important aspect of politics, which is why State Sen. Michael Bond, D-Grayslake, travels around Lake County to talk with residents.
On April 18, Bond stopped by College of Lake County to find out what’s important to students and to share plans to improve the county.
Sipping coffee, Bond greeted the crowd and asked, “What’s on your mind?”