In response to calls I've received from Lake County residents, as recorder of deeds I would like to emphasize the importance of being cautious when contacted by companies claiming they have a great deal for you. The true purpose of these contacts, whether by phone, mail or the Internet is to get you to spend your hard-earned money for their private interest. Rarely is it a good deal for the customer.
Mary Ellen Vanderventer
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/letters/942228,5_4_WA10_LETTERS_S1.article

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.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/940272,5_4_WA09_DARTS_S1.article

This year's parade, which will feature U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean, will step off from Palombi Middle School on McKinley Avenue at 1 p.m. May 26. The VFW color guard will lead the parade, with some of the 800 post members riding and marching.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com:80/newssun/lifestyles/940368,5_1_WA09_LVVET_S1.article

A key organizer of Obama's morning meeting with conservative Democrats who call themselves "Blue Dogs" was Rep. Melissa Bean (D-Ill.), who was also named Thursday to be one of 14 co-chairs of the Obama 50-state voter registration effort, which is really the framework for Obama's national grass-roots efforts.
http://www.suntimes.com:80/news/sweet/940584,CST-NWS-sweet09.article

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."
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=186912&src=1

State Rep. Fred Crespo, a Hoffman Estates Democrat, said he and other House Democrats do not plan to vote on a construction plan until a state budget is agreed upon -- and only then if there's an iron-clad guarantee on how the projects will be divvied up. "So I know my district is going to be well taken care of," Crespo said. "And I think pretty much all the representatives pretty much are saying the same thing."
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=187106&src=1

“We have to protect the environment and do our part to help the community,” said James C Neel, chair of the Warren Township Democrats. “This is one way to do it; the other way is to vote.” Among the items collected were a used diaper, CD’s, and a fast food bag with food in it. “If people who litter did this [cleanup], I bet they wouldn’t [litter] again,” Bonnie Berger-Neel said. For information on the Warren Township Democrats check out their Web site, www.warrentwpdemocrats.org
http://www.lakecountyjournals.com/articles/2008/05/08/local/news/doc4822846a0c521489086029.txt

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."
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/939398,G3-watersupply-050808-s1.article

The Arc of Illinois has named State Rep. Kathy Ryg, D-59th, as its Legislator of the Year. Ryg's leadership and advocacy on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities resulted in moving over 1,000 children and adults off of the Illinois Waiting List.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/deerfield/news/938045,de-briefs-050808-s1.article

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."
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/highlandpark/news/937768,HP-Briefs-050808-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/wauconda/news/937903,wk-route176-050808-s1.article

I just got off the phone with Rep. Melissa Bean, who is one of Obama's chief super-delegate whip-counters. She said two things of interest: First, she predicted that it was "entirely possible" that Obama could pull even with Hillary in super-delegates by next week -- and predicted that at the end of the process Obama would have more super-del support than Hillary. And second, she insisted that many super-dels who are publicly uncommitted actually are privately backing Obama but won't say so right now. "They're uncommitted, but it doesn't mean they're undecided," said Bean, who speaks to super-dels daily.
http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsmemo.com:80/2008/05/obama_supporter_many_superdels.php

Earlier in the day, Barack Obama caused a stir on Capitol Hill by bringing his campaign directly to the floor of the House of Representatives. Shepherded by two of his supporters, Rep. Melissa Bean of Illinois and Rep. Steve Rothman of New Jersey, Obama walked through the chamber, chatting with House Democrats including a few of the undecided members.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com:80/id/24524627/

A new study by a Roosevelt University professor is once again raising the question of whether townships are a useful and necessary level of government. "I try to be as objective as I can, but all the data seems to point in one direction," said David Hamilton, chairman of Roosevelt's Political Science and Public Administration Department. Hamilton said his findings reinforce the old argument that townships lack the cost-effectiveness of other local governments, like municipalities and counties.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=186325&src=4

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=186201&src=

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=185535&src=

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.
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/05/06/news/local/doc481fe2c22c822634339761.txt

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.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/929513,5_1_WA03_WATER_S1.article

"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.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/929776,5_1_WA03_NORAISE_S1.article

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."
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/925544,5_1_WA01_SALARIES_S1.article

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
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/925560,5_1_WA01_ANTPOLBRFS_S1.article

“Getting traffic flowing through northern Lake County will be an extraordinary improvement in quality of life, just getting from one side of town to the other,” Michael Bond said. “Now that the economy is slowing, there is really a need to invest in infrastructure because it leads to jobs.”
http://www.lakecountyjournals.com/articles/2008/05/01/local/lake_county_news/doc481937cb7b419985927881.txt

Hawthorn Woods Mayor Keith Hunt announced that he will attend the International Council of Shopping Centers conference May 18-21 in Las Vegas despite saying at a March 18 Village Board meeting he would not.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/lakezurich/news/924960,lz-mayortrip-050108-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/mundelein/news/925136,mu-recycling-050108-s1.article

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=181505&src=1

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=181534&src=3

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.).
http://www.politico.com/politicopros/johnmichaelgonzalez.html

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."
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/arlingtonheights/news/921753,pa-newharpt-042908-s1.article

Democratic state Reps. Fred Crespo of Hoffman Estates and Paul Froehlich of Schaumburg will co-sponsor a property tax appeal workshop with Chicago Board of Review Commissioner Joseph Berrios from 7 to 9 p.m. May 5 at the Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Any property taxpayer in Cook County is welcome to attend. Attendees are asked to bring their tax bills. For details or to RSVP, call Crespo at (630) 372-3340 or Froehlich at (847) 985-9210
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=180832&src=1

Given her expertise on township government, Mrs. Janice Schnobrich truly believes and more importantly wants the public to believe that I am the "Grand Poobah" of Shields Township. That is a complete contradiction to what is reality.
Charles Fitzgerald, Supervisor Shield Township
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/letters/918683,5_4_WA28_LETTERS_S1.article

Village Trustee Steve Riess, one of Keith Hunt's biggest critics on the board, said he hopes the trip will bring about new development for the village, but he's not optimistic. Riess said Hunt's claim that past trips to the convention have resulted in new developments is "a complete crock." "Nothing can be further from the truth," Riess said. "There is no evidence of any kind that any trip that he's taking anywhere has brought the village one iota of good will or development."
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=180103&src=3

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."
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/916486,5_1_WA26_ELECTBOARD_S1.article

Prevention First, Motorola and state Rep. Paul Froehlich of Schaumburg will convene a town hall meeting this evening Apr 24 as part of a national effort to raise awareness of current underage drinking issues. The meeting is free, open to the public and will start at 6:30 p.m. in room Schaumburg A of the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive in Schaumburg. Speakers will include representatives of the sponsoring agencies as well as the Schaumburg Police Department, Kenneth Young Center and Elk Grove High School. Educators, law enforcement, prevention specialists, business leaders and parents are invited to attend to learn more about the issues related to underage drinking.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=178643&src=1

A McHenry County Board committee wants permission to someday levy a tax on hotel stays. But the committee members might face an uphill battle, since getting that charge in place would require getting state lawmakers on board. “I’m always worried about allowing government to continue to tax and spend,” state Rep. Jack Franks, D-Woodstock, said Wednesday.
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/24/news/local/doc481058ababc1c319762409.txt

A Harvard couple’s quest to ban ornamental pesticides hit a snag when they found out that there was a state law protecting its application.
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/24/news/local/doc48104b4ec0051726235432.txt

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."
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/914489,pp-objections-042408-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/912215,pp-parkgrants-042408-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/912244,G3-objections-042408-s1.article

Coming off a comparatively low fund-raising effort, Republican challenger Steve Greenberg has lost his campaign manager along with most of his senior staff in the race to unseat U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean in the 8th District. Brad Goodman left the campaign's top staff position last week, and Greenberg said it will be "a few months" before he names an official replacement to lead the general election effort. Goodman's departure follows those of finance director Lori Montana, who was replaced by a contracted accountant after the Feb. 5 primary, and communications director Dan Curry, whose position has been vacant since November.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/912265,g3-8thgoodman-042408-s1.article

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."
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/mundelein/news/911988,mu-straightvote-042408-s1.article

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?”
http://www.lakecountyjournals.com/articles/2008/04/24/local/lake_county_news/doc481144700e75b076137214.txt

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=177547&src=

States that traditionally have not had a say in the presidential nominating process now are critical. And in those states, legions of new Democratic voters are registering. Between new Democrats and Republican crossovers, more than 300,000 more people in Pennsylvania registered as Democrats. “The main reason for that is that Pennsylvania got to vote in a primary that mattered,” Tom Cynor said. “That’s big news.”
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/23/news/local/doc480ee492de070115078455.txt

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=176899&src=3

• 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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=177156&src=3

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.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0408/9752.html

At Monday’s Collier County Democratic Club meeting, Chuck Mohlke received a standing ovation from more than 50 attendees — including Karen Thurman, chairwoman of the Florida Democratic Party, and Nancy Shepherdson, state committeewoman for Illinois’ 8th Congressional District.
http://www.naplesnews.com:80/news/2008/apr/21/colliers-democratic-chief-steps-down/

Asked if public objection played a role in switching the site, Doug Arnot, Chicago 2016's director of sport and operations, said, "not really, no.''
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/gurnee/news/905530,gu-equestrian-042008-s1.article

Township cronyism is widespread. The perfect example can be found in Algonquin Township. David Miller, brother of Algonquin Road Commissioner Bob Miller, was charged with a felony charge of obstructing justice and traffic violations. Allegedly, on June 16, 2007, Miller fled Cary police with what appeared to be an overloaded truck and then dumped the load before police could weigh it. Miller avoided spending the weekend in jail by supposedly having his brother contact his friend, Judge Michael Chmiel. Chmiel then held a special bond hearing to keep David Miller out of jail over the weekend.
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/19/opinion/letters/doc480ab81d96c5b582066280.txt

A fourth judge is expected to be assigned to hear the child pornography case involving former Green Oaks Mayor Thomas Adams.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/901730,5_1_WA18_ADAMS_S1.article

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.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/901922,5_1_WA18_62NDDIST_S1.article

"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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/902721,gu-INTbond-041808-s1.article

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=174178&src=3

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=174165&src=3

For the record, I and others in my tax protest group will never quit the battle until we have achieved fairness and consistency in a system that can be understood. This issue is never going away. Thankfully, Senators Michael Bond and Terry Link have both picked up the gauntlet in Springfield.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/letters/899176,5_4_WA17_LETTERS_S1.article

Melissa Bean said in a statement that she appreciated the broad support that she had received, calling it recognition of her work in Congress.
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/17/news/local/doc480712ab5efaf214561021.txt

In a statement released Monday, Melissa Bean acknowledged her recent fundraising success. "I appreciate the broad support and recognition of my work in Congress for the 8th district families, businesses, and communities I represent," she said.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/898921,mu-8thfec-041408-s1.article

"Mike was not my first choice, but I wish him the best of luck," Cheryl Axley said, declining to name who she wanted to lead the organization.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/elkgrove/news/898890,eg-sweeney-041708-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/gurnee/news/899001,gr-thall-041708-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/grayslake/news/898977,gr-whatsnew-041708-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/libertyville/news/898989,li-adamstrial-041708-s1.article

"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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/libertyville/news/900443,G3-maybill-041708-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/wauconda/news/898689,wk-lightbulbs-041708-s1.article

But Ryan Rudominer, the Midwest spokesman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, called the Steve Greenberg campaign "a huge flop."
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=174822&src=4

U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean's campaign fundraising efforts have once again dwarfed those of her political challengers, federal documents released Tuesday show.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=173575&src=4

Northwest suburban Republican congressional candidate Steve Greenberg's campaign fund is down to its last $5,000 after he said Tuesday that he essentially took the month of March off to focus on his business instead of challenging Democratic Rep. Melissa Bean.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/chi-illinois-congress-reports-16apr16,1,6159597.story

Round Lake Village President Bill Gentes is feeling what most Lake County residents seem to be feeling after the Illinois Health Facilities Planning Board denied two hospital proposals for the area – frustrated.
http://www.lakecountyjournals.com/articles/2008/04/14/local/news/doc48036e96bdabb693666764.txt

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
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/opinions/892773,5_4_WA14_EDIT1_S1.article

The Democratic Party of McHenry County will have its April 16 meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Farm Bureau Building, 1102 McConnell Road, Woodstock. Topics of discussion include a Jefferson Dinner recap, a training program report, volunteers, election judges, candidate reports, and parade season.
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/14/news/local/doc4804308a3e182421382146.txt

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com:80/schaumburg/news/893885,sc-8thfec-041408-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/wheeling/news/894458,wh-sances-041408-s1.article

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=171262&src=

Robert Sabonjian Jr. of Waukegan said this policy could lead to "Saturday night massacres" in which a county administrator pressured by board members fires department head for political reasons.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/891295,5_1_WA12_LCHIRING_S1.article

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.”
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/12/news/local/doc4800889085ec1038389310.txt

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=170712&src=1

Cook County Assessor Jim Houlihan is pushing a reduction in property assessment levels across the board to make it easier for homeowners to determine if they are being overtaxed. The current assessment levels are now set at 16 percent of a property's estimated value and 38 percent to 36 percent of a commercial property's estimated value. Under Houlihan's plan described in a news release Wednesday, the levels would drop to 10 percent for residential property and 25 percent for commercial property. "It will give taxpayers the ability to review their assessments and determine if it clearly reflects the correct market value for their properties," the assessor said in the prepared statement Wednesday.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169935&src=1

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."
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169933&src=1

In preparation for the upcoming presidential election, the Cook County clerk and township clerks are offering training sessions on becoming a deputy registrar and registering others to vote. Deputy registrars must be registered voters, be 18 years old by Nov. 4, obtain training and be sponsored by a registered school, corporation or state, civic or labor organization. For details, go to www.voterinfonet.com, then click on "Register" and then "Deputy Registrar," or contact Jonathan Williams, manager of community service in the elections, division, at (312) 603-0987 or jowilli@cookcountygov.com. For information on which sponsoring agencies are able to submit your name to be a deputy registrar, call the county clerk's office at (312) 603-0906. In Palatine Township, deputy registrar training sessions start this month and run through August.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169992&src=1

The discriminatory words of Steve Greenberg assault one of the strongest pillars of the United States -- cultural diversity. It is what makes our nation unique.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169663&src=

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/barrington/news/886982,ba-briefs-041008-s1.article

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169225&src=1

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168891&src=3

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168891&src=3

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
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168886&src=

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."
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=169040

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.
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/884567,5_1_WA09_POLBRFS_S1.article

Cook County Assessor James Houlihan called for a recalibration of assessment ratios Wednesday to bring greater transparency to the confusing system used to determine each taxpayer's share of the tax burden. Houlihan is proposing that the assessment ratio for residential properties be lowered from 16 percent -- the level set by Cook County ordinance -- to 10 percent, a figure that corresponds closely to actual practice. "There is a certain disconnect with a property's market value in relationship to property taxes, and this change will bring transparency and allow for even more accountability and fairness in the property tax system," Houlihan said.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/arlingtonheights/news/886010,pp-assessor-040908-s1.article

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.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/lakeforest/news/885555,lf-republicans-040908-s1.article

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168378&src=3

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.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168351&src=3

Mark Kirk's been the cabana boy for an administration that includes several key participants who won't be able to leave the country within 10 months without their own private security guards. They're liable to get nabbed for war crime charges and be hustled off to the Hague.
http://blogs.suburbanchicagonews.com/swami/2008/04/captain-kirk-and-the-constitut.html

Domestic issues were a concern for students, too. One asked whether the government should help small businesses compete against super-sized retail chains such as Wal-Mart. Small business owners need to "suck it up," Steve Greenberg said, and create niches for themselves in the market.
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=168153&src=3

"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."
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=166154&src=1

I am a longtime advocate for change in Cook County government. These efforts are just a jumping-off point. A great deal more can be done through technology to improve services and fiscal accountability.
David Orr, Cook County Clerk
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=166255&src=

U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean will host a fund-raiser/reception for Round Lake Mayor Bill Gentes, Democratic candidate for state Senate in the 26th District, from 4 to 6 p.m. April 19 at the Barn of Barrington, 1415 S. Barrington Road, Barrington. The host committee includes state Sens. Terry Link of Waukegan, Susan Garrett of Lake Forest and Michael Bond of Grayslake. Cost is $75 per person, $300 for sponsors and $500 for hosts. RSVP at Secure.ACTblue.com or www.billgentes.com
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/news/876996,5_1_WA04_POLBRFS_S1.article

State Rep. Jack Franks, D-Woodstock, who drafted the bill, said he did not anticipate a problem passing it in the Senate. “The drug issues for the disabled and for senior citizens is one of the most serious issues they face,” Franks said. “For them, it’s often a decision of, are they going to buy groceries or are they going to buy medication?”
http://www.nwherald.com/articles/2008/04/04/news/local/doc47f5f94d45089819732010.txt

Resident Diana Camp of Antioch, a democrat, said she had been to two other town hall meetings but found this one particularly negative towards democrats.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/antioch/news/874600,lv-townhall-040308-s1.article

"I can't speak for other (lawmakers), but Senate Bill 1007 is a reasonable public safety measure. The bill is bipartisan, and it protects individual liberties while limiting the lethality of weapons," said Dan Kotowski. Approved last year 31-26 in the Senate, his bill could see a vote this year in the Illinois House. Specifically, the law would allow not more than 10 rounds per ammunition gun. "We need to acknowledge the reality of some lethal weapons. They have become more dangerous than ever," Kotowski said.
http://www.pioneerlocal.com/buffalogrove/news/874703,bg-guns-040308-s1.article