As if we needed proof. Phil Luciano's column in today's JP Star is more insulting and stupid than usual. It doesn't deserve a response, but my boss is out of the office and it's fun to put a sexist ass in his/her place. Luciano headlines his column, "Moms belong at home." Phil believes that military women should be exempt from long deployments because the burden is too hard on their children. He writes, "Their sense of sacrifice is patriotic and commendable. And it's also unnecessary. Moms don't belong on the front lines. They belong at home." Really? This sacrifice is unnecessary? Huh. As women make up 15 percent of the armed forces, what would happen if they didn't shoulder this load? Hey, Phil, can you spell DRAFT?! Why should mothers be forbidden from harsh duty and not fathers? Because, Luciano writes, "whom do kids run and cling and cry to? Mommy."
Yeah, maybe your kids, Phil. Your column certainly illuminates the type of father you probably are... Cold and lazy.
One of the brightest spots of women entering the workforce is that fathers have been allowed (perhaps forced) to be better, more nurturing parents. At one time most fathers didn't feel comfortable giving children affection. Perhaps fearing that their testicles might dry up and fall off, many fathers told injured sons, "Big boys don't cry" and told daughters suffering skinned knees, "Go see your mother." To be considered a good father, one only had to be a good provider.
Today most parents are providers. As children today are likely to have parents who are both employed full time, Dads have had to pick up the household slack. Today good fathering includes the ability to push a stroller, change diapers, and prepare a bottle of formula. Moreover, a good Dad is no longer allowed to lay around scratching himself in the Lazy Boy lounger when childhood mishaps occur. I took an unscientific poll this morning of some kids. I asked, "If you fell down and hurt yourself, who would you go to, Mom or Dad?" All said that they would pick whomever was closer except one. The lone dissenter/cute drama queen chose Dad because, "He would let me wear as many band aids as I wanted and he would give me candy."
Phil also alludes to his belief that the death of a mother would be more damaging to a child than the death of a father. He overlooks the fact that while the roles of fathers have changed considerably, the salaries of women have consistently stayed far lower than those of men. Thus, a child who loses a father is far more likely to live in poverty than a child who loses a mother. But hell, since Mom gives better hugs and makes an awesome meatloaf, when she's not working two jobs that is, lets disqualify her from military service.
Luciano's column is not only sexist against women, but it is insulting to the many loving, nurturing Dads that play a bigger role than ever before in their children's lives. Luciano's belief "that there is no stronger bond than that between a mother and her children" is a slap in the face to every man that has kissed away a child's hot tears, chased away monsters from under the bed, built forts, and played equally well with both G.I. Joe and Barbie in their everyday roles as Dads.
Thursday, June 30
Wednesday, June 29
Please, go ahead, help yourselves
My e-mailbox has been filled with requests to use, publish, and distribute the "Teens, let them eat Prozac" post. If I wish to stay employed, (and with a mortgage, I kind of do) I simply can't let my identity be known. However, please feel free to use the post any way you like - as long as your objectives are pure. I promise I won't sue, and that will have to suffice.
Lie of the week: "We would like to thank you for your past support."
*
Has anyone else received telemarketing calls from charities where the caller states, "We at such and such organization would like to thank you for your past support, and we were wondering if we could once again count on your generosity as we continue our search to find the cure for such and such?"
The problem: You're not sure you've ever heard of the particular charity, let alone remember donating to them.
In the last couple of weeks I have received such calls from Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Fire Fighters Benevolent Fund, The Leukemia Society and the Optimist Club. These may all be good, worthwhile causes. However, I have never given money to any of them.
Don't get me wrong. I have my soft spots and causes. I'm forbidden from watching late night T.V. because we simply can't afford to sponsor yet another child in Indonesia or Africa. Those infomercials always get to me... The orphans, with no clean water, little food, huge emaciated eyes, distended belly, and flies gathering.... Just a second, gotta go call Save The Children.
Okay, Back now.
I'm convinced there is a bit of a scam going on here. These cold calling charities are attempting to make you feel obligated to give money based on past support - that never existed. Essentially they are saying, "You've already proven you are kind and generous, do you want to prove otherwise?" They are counting on both your generosity and your addle brain. It's not only dishonest but insulting. As a rule, I never give money solicited over the phone. I don't know if the person on the other end is in a dank boiler room collecting a commission on each donation, or a real volunteer.
I doubt this type of call/approach is illegal, (although I am on the National Do Not Call List) but it sure is disappointing to see charities employ such a slimy tactic. Why should I trust them with my money to help the less fortunate when they lie so easily?
*
Has anyone else received telemarketing calls from charities where the caller states, "We at such and such organization would like to thank you for your past support, and we were wondering if we could once again count on your generosity as we continue our search to find the cure for such and such?"
The problem: You're not sure you've ever heard of the particular charity, let alone remember donating to them.
In the last couple of weeks I have received such calls from Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Fire Fighters Benevolent Fund, The Leukemia Society and the Optimist Club. These may all be good, worthwhile causes. However, I have never given money to any of them.
Don't get me wrong. I have my soft spots and causes. I'm forbidden from watching late night T.V. because we simply can't afford to sponsor yet another child in Indonesia or Africa. Those infomercials always get to me... The orphans, with no clean water, little food, huge emaciated eyes, distended belly, and flies gathering.... Just a second, gotta go call Save The Children.
Okay, Back now.
I'm convinced there is a bit of a scam going on here. These cold calling charities are attempting to make you feel obligated to give money based on past support - that never existed. Essentially they are saying, "You've already proven you are kind and generous, do you want to prove otherwise?" They are counting on both your generosity and your addle brain. It's not only dishonest but insulting. As a rule, I never give money solicited over the phone. I don't know if the person on the other end is in a dank boiler room collecting a commission on each donation, or a real volunteer.
I doubt this type of call/approach is illegal, (although I am on the National Do Not Call List) but it sure is disappointing to see charities employ such a slimy tactic. Why should I trust them with my money to help the less fortunate when they lie so easily?
*
Sunday, June 26
Teens: Let them eat prozac.
*
I spent the weekend haunted by the death of someone I never knew. The obituary listings last Friday included a story of a young woman, a teenager, who committed suicide. She was stunningly beautiful. Her list of causes and activities would lead one to believe she certainly had a life worth living. The article didn't report why she killed herself. She and her family are entitled to their privacy. I can't help but wonder what horrible pain made her feel that death would be a comfort. No doubt, the devil has a name and it is clinical depression. Depression to a teenager, I know from personal experience, seems like a never ending spiral downward. Society is woeful in addressing teen depression. Most kids will have to endure meaningless and insulting platitudes as, "This will pass, no one has to be a kid forever, it gets better."
What kind of therapist would be able to make a living if s/he told his patients, "Ah, chill out, in four years or so, you'll be happy."
Adults say these things because there are no easy answers. The type of cruelty that kids and teens hurl at each other would never be permitted in adult society. That's why God made lawsuits. Adults don't have to put up with harassment, sexual or otherwise, and there are attorneys anxiously awaiting your call if you want proof. If you don't want to pursue legal action, you have the right to update your resume and seek other employment. Yet, our kids are fodder and defenseless for all types of abuse. It isn't surprising that useless platitudes do little to soothe them. Moreover, given their experience, why should they believe life will get better?
My childhood was abusive and extremely lonely. Based on my life experience, it seemed perfectly reasonable that life would continue to, well, suck. I pinned hope on the moment I was released from the hell known as high school and could leave home. I got as far away as Greyhound could get me. A good decision. What I didn't know is that I had signed on for a life of poverty. Poverty was certainly easier to endure than my childhood, but incredibly stressful. I didn't have any reason to believe the gods were going to suddenly embrace me and make living worthwhile. If fate was willing to let an innocent kid suffer, why would fate be any friendlier to an adult?
I remember talking to my best friend one night long distance, "You know Cathy, I'm gonna give this life thing until I'm 21, and then that's it. I've given it a fair shot." At the time I was 19. I wasn't particularly upset, it seemed like a very logical statement.
Cathy's reply to me, "No Pol, our babies are going to play together!"
Flash forward sixteen long years later... I have everything I ever asked for. Marriage, family, wonderful friends, a comfy income, nice home, a purposeful and interesting life. None of these things seemed remotely possible when I was sixteen and my complexion resembled road kill.
As an adult you possess both the right and power to change your life. Of course, power given too young is a dangerous thing, but being absolutely powerless is a recipe for depression. If I had a teenager, I hope I could give him or her as much control over their lives as they could handle. As long as they are responsible, and their grades are good, does it really matter if they make their bed everyday or dye their hair blue? (Hint to any power seeking teen out there... Try anonymous blogging, it's a great way to relieve angst!)
Heartbreak is especially painful as a teen. Any parent who believes a teen can't fall in love -true, real, and important love- is a fool. Those who toss out, "There are more fish in the sea" or, "You'll get over it" are courting disaster. Anyone who utters anything about hormones or puppy love outta be smacked. I hope I would be able to look my teenager in the eye and say, "I know you really, truly love John/Joan. I can see you are in pain. What I can do?" As a teenager you don't know for a fact that you will ever fall in love again, making the loss even more unbearable. Most adults who divorce fall in love again, but that doesn't make the divorce a less painful or traumatic event.
Society is in the dark ages regarding depression. If you are diabetic, few people think less of you for injecting insulin. Your body doesn't make enough, medication is necessary. During depression the brain fails to produce enough of the right neurotransmitters that make life worth living. Yet, these sufferers are often made to feel inferior if they seek therapy or antidepressants.
In the course of a meaningful life everyone will experience deep, profound sadness and loss. Like back pain, all humans will likely suffer from clinical depression at one time or another. The strong, smart, mature, and powerful will seek out help. True friends, a loving family, and an educated society will gladly give it.
To any suffering teenager out there, it does get better, I promise. A crappy score on the ACTs, flunking a semester of college, an unexpected pregnancy, parents who don't (and never will) "get it", or losing who you thought was the love of your life are all survivable.
At some point your life will become your very own.
Expedite the transition by getting help.
*
I spent the weekend haunted by the death of someone I never knew. The obituary listings last Friday included a story of a young woman, a teenager, who committed suicide. She was stunningly beautiful. Her list of causes and activities would lead one to believe she certainly had a life worth living. The article didn't report why she killed herself. She and her family are entitled to their privacy. I can't help but wonder what horrible pain made her feel that death would be a comfort. No doubt, the devil has a name and it is clinical depression. Depression to a teenager, I know from personal experience, seems like a never ending spiral downward. Society is woeful in addressing teen depression. Most kids will have to endure meaningless and insulting platitudes as, "This will pass, no one has to be a kid forever, it gets better."
What kind of therapist would be able to make a living if s/he told his patients, "Ah, chill out, in four years or so, you'll be happy."
Adults say these things because there are no easy answers. The type of cruelty that kids and teens hurl at each other would never be permitted in adult society. That's why God made lawsuits. Adults don't have to put up with harassment, sexual or otherwise, and there are attorneys anxiously awaiting your call if you want proof. If you don't want to pursue legal action, you have the right to update your resume and seek other employment. Yet, our kids are fodder and defenseless for all types of abuse. It isn't surprising that useless platitudes do little to soothe them. Moreover, given their experience, why should they believe life will get better?
My childhood was abusive and extremely lonely. Based on my life experience, it seemed perfectly reasonable that life would continue to, well, suck. I pinned hope on the moment I was released from the hell known as high school and could leave home. I got as far away as Greyhound could get me. A good decision. What I didn't know is that I had signed on for a life of poverty. Poverty was certainly easier to endure than my childhood, but incredibly stressful. I didn't have any reason to believe the gods were going to suddenly embrace me and make living worthwhile. If fate was willing to let an innocent kid suffer, why would fate be any friendlier to an adult?
I remember talking to my best friend one night long distance, "You know Cathy, I'm gonna give this life thing until I'm 21, and then that's it. I've given it a fair shot." At the time I was 19. I wasn't particularly upset, it seemed like a very logical statement.
Cathy's reply to me, "No Pol, our babies are going to play together!"
Flash forward sixteen long years later... I have everything I ever asked for. Marriage, family, wonderful friends, a comfy income, nice home, a purposeful and interesting life. None of these things seemed remotely possible when I was sixteen and my complexion resembled road kill.
As an adult you possess both the right and power to change your life. Of course, power given too young is a dangerous thing, but being absolutely powerless is a recipe for depression. If I had a teenager, I hope I could give him or her as much control over their lives as they could handle. As long as they are responsible, and their grades are good, does it really matter if they make their bed everyday or dye their hair blue? (Hint to any power seeking teen out there... Try anonymous blogging, it's a great way to relieve angst!)
Heartbreak is especially painful as a teen. Any parent who believes a teen can't fall in love -true, real, and important love- is a fool. Those who toss out, "There are more fish in the sea" or, "You'll get over it" are courting disaster. Anyone who utters anything about hormones or puppy love outta be smacked. I hope I would be able to look my teenager in the eye and say, "I know you really, truly love John/Joan. I can see you are in pain. What I can do?" As a teenager you don't know for a fact that you will ever fall in love again, making the loss even more unbearable. Most adults who divorce fall in love again, but that doesn't make the divorce a less painful or traumatic event.
Society is in the dark ages regarding depression. If you are diabetic, few people think less of you for injecting insulin. Your body doesn't make enough, medication is necessary. During depression the brain fails to produce enough of the right neurotransmitters that make life worth living. Yet, these sufferers are often made to feel inferior if they seek therapy or antidepressants.
In the course of a meaningful life everyone will experience deep, profound sadness and loss. Like back pain, all humans will likely suffer from clinical depression at one time or another. The strong, smart, mature, and powerful will seek out help. True friends, a loving family, and an educated society will gladly give it.
To any suffering teenager out there, it does get better, I promise. A crappy score on the ACTs, flunking a semester of college, an unexpected pregnancy, parents who don't (and never will) "get it", or losing who you thought was the love of your life are all survivable.
At some point your life will become your very own.
Expedite the transition by getting help.
*
Thursday, June 23
Wide Lawns, Narrow Minds
*
I returned from Denver Monday. I was shocked as to how Denver differed from the picture I had created in my minds eye. I envisioned a pretty city, complete with crisp mountain air and architecture that complimented the natural habitat. Boy, was I naive. Denver is an ugly, wasteful town. Don't get me wrong, the people were nice enough, but as far as conservation/environmentalism goes, these folks are as behind the times as you can get.
There is a serious air pollution problem in Denver. The local weather reports include a daily "brown cloud" rating. During my stay young children, those who suffer from asthma, and the eldery were told to stay indoors because the pollution was so bad. A program does exist to reduce the amount that people drive in order to reduce harmful emissions. On certain days those with a particular license plate number -say those ending in with an odd digit- are asked to refrain from driving and carpool or lower themselves to using public transportation instead. It is a voluntary program that is largely ignored.
There has been a housing boom in the last few years and the architecture can only be described as regrettable. I admit, I envisioned log cabins. In reality, Denver and the surrounding suburbs have about three or four different houses... Repeated four million times over.
Denver is essentially located in a desert. Therefore it suffers from a perpetual drought. Anything green, other than pine trees, likely survives only because water is pumped in. Residents are asked to water their impractical yet expansive lawns only on certain days. Watering days are determined by house number. One only need to check the newspaper to see whose turn it is to water. In theory the program is mandatory, but it too is largely ignored. Denverites have huge lawns that they water daily, even at high noon, when the water will not to penetrate the soil, but evaporate into the hot, dry, high altitude air. Automatic sprinkler systems are the norm, and aim is far from precise. I've never seen so many sidewalks get a good soak. I asked a resident why they watered this way during a drought and was told, "The homeowner's association will fine me if my grass dies."
I smiled as our airplane approached Peoria. Most of the lawns are a sad shade of light brown. I didn't need to read the front page of the Journal Star to know we are in the midst of a moderate drought. There is no panic, only common sense. Water is precious and expensive. Lawns are ornamental. Midwesterners will not waste. We are frugal. Many of us are only a generation or two off the farm. There is no need for a program to restrict water usage. We already get it. We know the difference between a want and need. (Well, at least those of us who don't live in Weaver Ridge.) My trip from the airport occurred in the early evening. I didn't witness a single sprinkler in use.
It is very, very good to be home.
*
I returned from Denver Monday. I was shocked as to how Denver differed from the picture I had created in my minds eye. I envisioned a pretty city, complete with crisp mountain air and architecture that complimented the natural habitat. Boy, was I naive. Denver is an ugly, wasteful town. Don't get me wrong, the people were nice enough, but as far as conservation/environmentalism goes, these folks are as behind the times as you can get.
There is a serious air pollution problem in Denver. The local weather reports include a daily "brown cloud" rating. During my stay young children, those who suffer from asthma, and the eldery were told to stay indoors because the pollution was so bad. A program does exist to reduce the amount that people drive in order to reduce harmful emissions. On certain days those with a particular license plate number -say those ending in with an odd digit- are asked to refrain from driving and carpool or lower themselves to using public transportation instead. It is a voluntary program that is largely ignored.
There has been a housing boom in the last few years and the architecture can only be described as regrettable. I admit, I envisioned log cabins. In reality, Denver and the surrounding suburbs have about three or four different houses... Repeated four million times over.
Denver is essentially located in a desert. Therefore it suffers from a perpetual drought. Anything green, other than pine trees, likely survives only because water is pumped in. Residents are asked to water their impractical yet expansive lawns only on certain days. Watering days are determined by house number. One only need to check the newspaper to see whose turn it is to water. In theory the program is mandatory, but it too is largely ignored. Denverites have huge lawns that they water daily, even at high noon, when the water will not to penetrate the soil, but evaporate into the hot, dry, high altitude air. Automatic sprinkler systems are the norm, and aim is far from precise. I've never seen so many sidewalks get a good soak. I asked a resident why they watered this way during a drought and was told, "The homeowner's association will fine me if my grass dies."
I smiled as our airplane approached Peoria. Most of the lawns are a sad shade of light brown. I didn't need to read the front page of the Journal Star to know we are in the midst of a moderate drought. There is no panic, only common sense. Water is precious and expensive. Lawns are ornamental. Midwesterners will not waste. We are frugal. Many of us are only a generation or two off the farm. There is no need for a program to restrict water usage. We already get it. We know the difference between a want and need. (Well, at least those of us who don't live in Weaver Ridge.) My trip from the airport occurred in the early evening. I didn't witness a single sprinkler in use.
It is very, very good to be home.
*
Wednesday, June 22
Want diversity? (Wink. Wink. Nudge. Nudge.) Jacob says, "Head North!"
*
I enjoyed watching the repeat of last night's council meeting on Channel 22 this afternoon. Better entertainment than Desperate Housewives, by a long shot. It was the first time in quite awhile I felt cable was worth having.
Baby Boy Aaron Schock gave a well rehearsed and glowing speech about the State Budget. Huh, I thought that the Journal Star reported that he voted against it?
I wish I could have been there in person, I'm sure the heated exchange between Sandberg and Oliver regarding basketball hoops was electrifying. This stupid debate over kids playing basketball in the street and whether yet another ordinance against it is called for sucked up more time than any other issue. Sandberg and Oliver took caddy, verbal swipes at each other until Daddy, I mean Mayor, Ardis reigned them in.
However, my favorite part was the swearing in of Jacob. He looked to have had a few before the meeting. He stumbled through his promise to up hold the constitution, etc. The poor guy actually stuttered through his own name! Maybe he was nervous. Even better was his acceptance speech, which amounted to a sad string of over used cliches. Jacob had the nerve to say that Peoria was a great community because of its diversity. Diversity. Yeah, right. The guy lives as far north in Peoria as one can get. People don't live in literal spitting distance of Dunlap for diversity, George, and we all know it. I felt a bit bad for Jacob, and I'm gonna try to lay off him a bit after this post because he doesn't seem, well, particularly smart. I think this may be - to a large degree - why he was chosen. I suspect he will be Ardis' and Spears' well connected lackey. In the congratulatory speeches Turner said that he had been friends with Jacob for over ten years. Spears actually held Jacob's son on his lap at his seat in the horseshoe in a manner nothing short of odd. Oh, and of course, Sen. Shadid was there, beaming away. So, allow me to recap the Who's Who of Jacob's Good Old Boys Club:
Rep. Leitch
Sen. Shadid
Tim Elder, Board Chairman of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce
Tim Elder, Director of Public Affairs at Caterpillar
Bill Spears, Fourth District Councilman and BROTHER IN LAW (Who didn't abstain from voting for him by the way.)
But I'm sure the Council and Ardis are right. Despite being given his business by Daddy and doing nothing more for the community than writing checks (coaching your own kids hockey team doesn't count), I'm sure Jacob is an outstanding guy and will be a wonderful and effective addition to the council.
He began his first session by abstaining on a liquor vote.
*
I enjoyed watching the repeat of last night's council meeting on Channel 22 this afternoon. Better entertainment than Desperate Housewives, by a long shot. It was the first time in quite awhile I felt cable was worth having.
Baby Boy Aaron Schock gave a well rehearsed and glowing speech about the State Budget. Huh, I thought that the Journal Star reported that he voted against it?
I wish I could have been there in person, I'm sure the heated exchange between Sandberg and Oliver regarding basketball hoops was electrifying. This stupid debate over kids playing basketball in the street and whether yet another ordinance against it is called for sucked up more time than any other issue. Sandberg and Oliver took caddy, verbal swipes at each other until Daddy, I mean Mayor, Ardis reigned them in.
However, my favorite part was the swearing in of Jacob. He looked to have had a few before the meeting. He stumbled through his promise to up hold the constitution, etc. The poor guy actually stuttered through his own name! Maybe he was nervous. Even better was his acceptance speech, which amounted to a sad string of over used cliches. Jacob had the nerve to say that Peoria was a great community because of its diversity. Diversity. Yeah, right. The guy lives as far north in Peoria as one can get. People don't live in literal spitting distance of Dunlap for diversity, George, and we all know it. I felt a bit bad for Jacob, and I'm gonna try to lay off him a bit after this post because he doesn't seem, well, particularly smart. I think this may be - to a large degree - why he was chosen. I suspect he will be Ardis' and Spears' well connected lackey. In the congratulatory speeches Turner said that he had been friends with Jacob for over ten years. Spears actually held Jacob's son on his lap at his seat in the horseshoe in a manner nothing short of odd. Oh, and of course, Sen. Shadid was there, beaming away. So, allow me to recap the Who's Who of Jacob's Good Old Boys Club:
Rep. Leitch
Sen. Shadid
Tim Elder, Board Chairman of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce
Tim Elder, Director of Public Affairs at Caterpillar
Bill Spears, Fourth District Councilman and BROTHER IN LAW (Who didn't abstain from voting for him by the way.)
But I'm sure the Council and Ardis are right. Despite being given his business by Daddy and doing nothing more for the community than writing checks (coaching your own kids hockey team doesn't count), I'm sure Jacob is an outstanding guy and will be a wonderful and effective addition to the council.
He began his first session by abstaining on a liquor vote.
*
Monday, June 20
Father, I mean, Manning Knows Best. What will it cost to prove the voters wrong?
*
I want to send a sincere, non sarcastic, "thank you" to councilman Bob Manning who has volunteered to voyage into Illinois American's books to see if we are making a huge mistake by not spending a bunch of more money we don't have to possibly buy the water company voters don't want. Councilman Grayeb thinks we are "allergic to money." Chuck, perhaps 82% of voters have philosophical opposition to buying a private company that you - and the rest of the council - should respect.
For the price of a tank of gas, a cheap hotel, and a food allowance, we will find out once and for all whether or not the Council is foolish to not buy the water company that the voters don't want to own. Hey Bob, there has been a lot controversy involving the travel of politicians these days. My advice: bring a tuna fish sandwich and sleep in your car.
Bill Dennis of the Peoria Pundit points out that Manning's experience as a financial guru/C.P.A. is already paying off. Funny, I thought we employed a professional staff for just this sort of thing. The City of Peoria Finance Department has a yearly budget of $1,357,932.00. $751,234 of that goes to pay personnel. Another $415,659 of that goes to employee benefits. So you would think the city would have a C.P.A. or two qualified to look at Illinois American's books.
Ah... yes, we do! His name is James R. Scroggins, C.P.A., Finance Director and Comtroller extraordinaire for the City of Peoria. Mr. Scroggins prepares the annual budget for the City, which is not a line item budget, despite Council's repeated requests for one. We have at least one more C.P.A. on staff, Mr. Charles R. Oliver, who the citizens of Peoria pay over a hundred grand every year. The whole idea behind having a professional staff is that employed but non voting professionals are more likely to study data and present objective findings to the Council. This also explains why we pay consultants to do common sense thinking for the council as well.
I admire Manning's resolve, but I will question the results. Manning has gone on record as saying that the water company would be a good thing for Peoria, if we can afford it.
"Affordable" in this modern era is subjective, to say the least.
*
I want to send a sincere, non sarcastic, "thank you" to councilman Bob Manning who has volunteered to voyage into Illinois American's books to see if we are making a huge mistake by not spending a bunch of more money we don't have to possibly buy the water company voters don't want. Councilman Grayeb thinks we are "allergic to money." Chuck, perhaps 82% of voters have philosophical opposition to buying a private company that you - and the rest of the council - should respect.
For the price of a tank of gas, a cheap hotel, and a food allowance, we will find out once and for all whether or not the Council is foolish to not buy the water company that the voters don't want to own. Hey Bob, there has been a lot controversy involving the travel of politicians these days. My advice: bring a tuna fish sandwich and sleep in your car.
Bill Dennis of the Peoria Pundit points out that Manning's experience as a financial guru/C.P.A. is already paying off. Funny, I thought we employed a professional staff for just this sort of thing. The City of Peoria Finance Department has a yearly budget of $1,357,932.00. $751,234 of that goes to pay personnel. Another $415,659 of that goes to employee benefits. So you would think the city would have a C.P.A. or two qualified to look at Illinois American's books.
Ah... yes, we do! His name is James R. Scroggins, C.P.A., Finance Director and Comtroller extraordinaire for the City of Peoria. Mr. Scroggins prepares the annual budget for the City, which is not a line item budget, despite Council's repeated requests for one. We have at least one more C.P.A. on staff, Mr. Charles R. Oliver, who the citizens of Peoria pay over a hundred grand every year. The whole idea behind having a professional staff is that employed but non voting professionals are more likely to study data and present objective findings to the Council. This also explains why we pay consultants to do common sense thinking for the council as well.
I admire Manning's resolve, but I will question the results. Manning has gone on record as saying that the water company would be a good thing for Peoria, if we can afford it.
"Affordable" in this modern era is subjective, to say the least.
*
Yoo Hoo... Oh Willy...
It's been 12 days without a post from my favorite blogger, Willy Nilly, and I'm going through withdrawal. If anyone knows this guy (gal?) please tell him/her that detox is painful and I'm getting the shakes.
Sunday, June 19
Hat Tip to C.J. Summers
*
If you haven't already, please check out the Summer's in Peoria blog. His entry regarding White Middle School is priceless. C.J. poetically reveals the lack of logic that dominates the school board - and every local governing body in the City for that matter.
Lets see. District 150, currently $19 million in the hole, wants to tear down White Middle School, build a new school on the same site, and meanwhile close a bunch of other schools to save money.
While we are at it, lets send each student to school in his/her own limo.
Speaking of Dist. 150, it pains me to admit the Peoria Journal Star did a damn fine editorial Sunday on the District's screwed up finances. A cold blast from hell followed as Mike Bailey wrote a great column regarding District 150's financial stupidity. I about fell over when I found out how much 150 pays Terry Knapp, the president of the Teachers Union. Don't worry, our taxes don't pay his union salary. Nah, even better, they pay him NOT to teach.
I really think this town is run by the mob.
*
If you haven't already, please check out the Summer's in Peoria blog. His entry regarding White Middle School is priceless. C.J. poetically reveals the lack of logic that dominates the school board - and every local governing body in the City for that matter.
Lets see. District 150, currently $19 million in the hole, wants to tear down White Middle School, build a new school on the same site, and meanwhile close a bunch of other schools to save money.
While we are at it, lets send each student to school in his/her own limo.
Speaking of Dist. 150, it pains me to admit the Peoria Journal Star did a damn fine editorial Sunday on the District's screwed up finances. A cold blast from hell followed as Mike Bailey wrote a great column regarding District 150's financial stupidity. I about fell over when I found out how much 150 pays Terry Knapp, the president of the Teachers Union. Don't worry, our taxes don't pay his union salary. Nah, even better, they pay him NOT to teach.
I really think this town is run by the mob.
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Silverthorn for City Council
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Why is it that no one cries "Foul!" in this town over conflicts of interest? Okay, the JP Star did, regarding Mayor Ardis' brother being the president of the Fire Fighters Union. However, since the Council doesn't negotiate the firefighters contract, it is done by binding arbitration, the conflict - if it exists at all - is a minor one.
I know I continue to whine about Jacob's numerous conflicts of interest, but other than Sandberg, I'm alone whining in the wind - but having a great time doing it.
I read the JP Star Article today regarding the Civic Center expansion. The City has taken out $63 million in municipal bonds which will be paid for by hotel, restaurant and amusement taxes. This means every time you buy a Big Mac or a movie ticket, grab your ankles, you're about to get spanked. I'm so glad my taxes will be going to fund a new clubhouse and VIP area most of us will never be able to get near. Try to sneak in sometime. You will learn that your tax dollars, not Civic Center revenues, pay for security. Security is handled by the Peoria Police Department.
The Journal Star article simply served to remind us that we are paying to further expand a butt ugly, Nazi inspired, Civic Center complete with a leaking arcade and a cramped theater. The arcade will be repaired at great expense. The theater will continue to suck.
There was one nugget of information that had previously escaped my attention.
Dan Silverthorn is the Chairman of the Civic Center Commission and the Chair of the Redevelopment Committee. Dan Silverthorn is also the paid Executive Director of the West Illinois Builders and Construction Trades Council. This means Silverthorn is the paid spokesman for all AFL-CIO builder and construction members. Surprise! Silverthorn is as giddy as a little girl that Civic Center expansion bids have been doled out to local companies, as well he should be. He is paid to sing their praises. Does anyone else see the obvious conflict of interest of Silverthorn serving on either, let alone both of these committees/commissions? Of course Silverthorn is going to recommend and push expansion. Of course he is going to push for certain union companies, not necessarily the lowest bidders. That is what the man is PAID to do. I assume that Silverthorn was appointed by Ran$burg, but Ardis should be taking a closer look at who is serving on committees and commissions. The Council is under no obligation to vote their recommendations, but they most often do.
It is rumored that Silverthorn will soon be seeking public office. He may try for a County Board seat or he may even make a run against Aaron Schock. Dan, let me be the first to attempt to sway you to make run in '07 for a City Council At-large seat. You would be the perfect addition to the fraternity well underway. Spears, fellow democrat and a plumber will welcome you with open arms and serve as your big brother. Jacob has the keg in the closet. What more could you ask for?
As the Med-Tech "District" struggles to make a move from fictional wet dream to reality, (Hey People! We have a vacant lot AND a check from Blago!!!) Dan Siverthorn would be just the guy to sway the Council to start building with money we don't have, for buildings no one really wants, built by the most expensive labor possible. So pathetic you know it will happen.
SILVERTHORN IN '07!!!
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Why is it that no one cries "Foul!" in this town over conflicts of interest? Okay, the JP Star did, regarding Mayor Ardis' brother being the president of the Fire Fighters Union. However, since the Council doesn't negotiate the firefighters contract, it is done by binding arbitration, the conflict - if it exists at all - is a minor one.
I know I continue to whine about Jacob's numerous conflicts of interest, but other than Sandberg, I'm alone whining in the wind - but having a great time doing it.
I read the JP Star Article today regarding the Civic Center expansion. The City has taken out $63 million in municipal bonds which will be paid for by hotel, restaurant and amusement taxes. This means every time you buy a Big Mac or a movie ticket, grab your ankles, you're about to get spanked. I'm so glad my taxes will be going to fund a new clubhouse and VIP area most of us will never be able to get near. Try to sneak in sometime. You will learn that your tax dollars, not Civic Center revenues, pay for security. Security is handled by the Peoria Police Department.
The Journal Star article simply served to remind us that we are paying to further expand a butt ugly, Nazi inspired, Civic Center complete with a leaking arcade and a cramped theater. The arcade will be repaired at great expense. The theater will continue to suck.
There was one nugget of information that had previously escaped my attention.
Dan Silverthorn is the Chairman of the Civic Center Commission and the Chair of the Redevelopment Committee. Dan Silverthorn is also the paid Executive Director of the West Illinois Builders and Construction Trades Council. This means Silverthorn is the paid spokesman for all AFL-CIO builder and construction members. Surprise! Silverthorn is as giddy as a little girl that Civic Center expansion bids have been doled out to local companies, as well he should be. He is paid to sing their praises. Does anyone else see the obvious conflict of interest of Silverthorn serving on either, let alone both of these committees/commissions? Of course Silverthorn is going to recommend and push expansion. Of course he is going to push for certain union companies, not necessarily the lowest bidders. That is what the man is PAID to do. I assume that Silverthorn was appointed by Ran$burg, but Ardis should be taking a closer look at who is serving on committees and commissions. The Council is under no obligation to vote their recommendations, but they most often do.
It is rumored that Silverthorn will soon be seeking public office. He may try for a County Board seat or he may even make a run against Aaron Schock. Dan, let me be the first to attempt to sway you to make run in '07 for a City Council At-large seat. You would be the perfect addition to the fraternity well underway. Spears, fellow democrat and a plumber will welcome you with open arms and serve as your big brother. Jacob has the keg in the closet. What more could you ask for?
As the Med-Tech "District" struggles to make a move from fictional wet dream to reality, (Hey People! We have a vacant lot AND a check from Blago!!!) Dan Siverthorn would be just the guy to sway the Council to start building with money we don't have, for buildings no one really wants, built by the most expensive labor possible. So pathetic you know it will happen.
SILVERTHORN IN '07!!!
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That Burp You Smell is Just the Swearing In Ceremony
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I've been told that CAT controls everything in Peoria, so I had to chuckle upon reading the PJ Star editorials yesterday. A letter to the editor to voice support and congratulations to City Council's soon to be newest member, George Jacob, was written by Tim Elder, Board Chairman of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce. Elder neglected to mention that he is also Director of Corporate Public Affairs for Caterpillar.
Several candidates were not chosen probably because the Chamber recommended them. Remember, the Chamber of Commerce gave its support to Ran$burg and tons of money to both Teplitz and Thetford in the last election. The Chamber is largely viewed as supporting BIG business and developers first, not your average small business owner. It is the Peoria AREA Chamber of Commerce after all, meaning many of its most powerful can't even vote here, yet they continue to manipulate politicians to their liking. Guess who the driving force behind the $63 million dollar Civic Center expansion and especially the water company buyout? Yup. Peoria AREA Chamber of Commerce.
There is no mystery here. The Peoria AREA Chamber of Commerce is simply slapping its sleazy hand on the back of one of its own. It is perplexing as to why the City Council embraced Jacob after the Chamber turned its back on Manning, Van Auken, and Ardis in the last election. My guess is that CAT made its preference known and came up with a pick that the new council could swallow. I wonder if Elder made any calls to Leitch or Shadid on CAT's/Jacob's behalf.
All that is needed now is a strong link between Jacob and Firefighters Local 50 and every last piece of the puzzle will fall into place.
Jacob will be sworn in at the Council Meeting this Tuesday. Rather, it's pledge night at the only frat house in town suffering from a mid-life crisis: City Hall.
Golly, who will supply the keg?
*
I've been told that CAT controls everything in Peoria, so I had to chuckle upon reading the PJ Star editorials yesterday. A letter to the editor to voice support and congratulations to City Council's soon to be newest member, George Jacob, was written by Tim Elder, Board Chairman of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce. Elder neglected to mention that he is also Director of Corporate Public Affairs for Caterpillar.
Several candidates were not chosen probably because the Chamber recommended them. Remember, the Chamber of Commerce gave its support to Ran$burg and tons of money to both Teplitz and Thetford in the last election. The Chamber is largely viewed as supporting BIG business and developers first, not your average small business owner. It is the Peoria AREA Chamber of Commerce after all, meaning many of its most powerful can't even vote here, yet they continue to manipulate politicians to their liking. Guess who the driving force behind the $63 million dollar Civic Center expansion and especially the water company buyout? Yup. Peoria AREA Chamber of Commerce.
There is no mystery here. The Peoria AREA Chamber of Commerce is simply slapping its sleazy hand on the back of one of its own. It is perplexing as to why the City Council embraced Jacob after the Chamber turned its back on Manning, Van Auken, and Ardis in the last election. My guess is that CAT made its preference known and came up with a pick that the new council could swallow. I wonder if Elder made any calls to Leitch or Shadid on CAT's/Jacob's behalf.
All that is needed now is a strong link between Jacob and Firefighters Local 50 and every last piece of the puzzle will fall into place.
Jacob will be sworn in at the Council Meeting this Tuesday. Rather, it's pledge night at the only frat house in town suffering from a mid-life crisis: City Hall.
Golly, who will supply the keg?
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Thursday, June 16
Things that make you hmmm....
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Certain council members want to see Illinois American's books. They want to know the company's profit margin. Hmm... If there was only some way that a person could get a record of a corporation's profits, losses, expenses, expected future revenues... hmm... If Council could only get the information readily available to say, INVESTORS, what a wonderful world it would be.
Isn't Bob Manning a V.P. at Smith Barney? You would think that he would have heard of a certain document, known as a PROSPECTUS, available to all investors and wanna be investors. Check the lobby Bob, there is probably a copy awaiting your review.
Cause for concern: Grayeb wants to buy the water company, as he is certain that Illinois American is making serious money from it. His certainty is based on the fact that Illinois American has voiced its strong opposition to a city buyout. (This logic alone is reason enough to boot him out of office in 2007.) Hmm... Why would a company not want to be bought, even if it isn't particularly profitable? Hint: DOES ANYONE ELSE'S WATER STILL SMELL AND TASTE LIKE CRAP?!
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Certain council members want to see Illinois American's books. They want to know the company's profit margin. Hmm... If there was only some way that a person could get a record of a corporation's profits, losses, expenses, expected future revenues... hmm... If Council could only get the information readily available to say, INVESTORS, what a wonderful world it would be.
Isn't Bob Manning a V.P. at Smith Barney? You would think that he would have heard of a certain document, known as a PROSPECTUS, available to all investors and wanna be investors. Check the lobby Bob, there is probably a copy awaiting your review.
Cause for concern: Grayeb wants to buy the water company, as he is certain that Illinois American is making serious money from it. His certainty is based on the fact that Illinois American has voiced its strong opposition to a city buyout. (This logic alone is reason enough to boot him out of office in 2007.) Hmm... Why would a company not want to be bought, even if it isn't particularly profitable? Hint: DOES ANYONE ELSE'S WATER STILL SMELL AND TASTE LIKE CRAP?!
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Baaaaah, Meet Your New City Council
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Our new City Council is more complex than the last. In Ran$burg's regime Council could be counted on to side with developers and the interests of business over the interests of voters. This Council seems to have a bit of an identity problem. The "essential services" crowd hasn't quite defined what qualifies as an essential/basic service. Look at the possible buy out of the water company. Advisory referendum aside, is there a more basic service than water? With two new members who ran on a "basic services" theme, one would have expected more deliberation and at least one more vote in favor of a continued buyout study.
The identity crisis is understandable as this Council is very young. As Ardis becomes more commanding in his leadership, count on Council to follow. As always, the exception will be Sandberg. This is a good thing, as every voice should be heard even if the voice is, at times, a bit loopy.
What is the attraction to the Mayor's job? On the face it doesn't seem like he wields that much power. Ardis is just another vote on the Council, but he will be the target of every unhappy citizen. However, if one wants proof that Ardis reigns one only needs to look at the recent appointment of George Jacobs to the council.
Jacob, a beer distributor, used connections to overturn laws and had an amendment added so that he (and some bloke in Lake Bluff) could immediately hold public office. After submitting his name for consideration and even after being chosen for the job, Jacob still has yet to attend a council meeting. Jacob is also related by marriage to Fourth District Councilman Jim Spears. Moreover, Jacob will not be able to vote on any alcohol related issues. Alcohol issues come to a vote at nearly every meeting. To say the least, Jacob has at much going against him as for him.
Most politicians would avoid this sort of controversy especially as it became apparent that Jacob faced notable criticism early on - even before being sworn in. The sole voice howling in the wind against Jacob was Sandberg. "Too many conflicts of interest, too many opportunities for abuse." Other council members were silent on the issue. The real vote was taken in executive session. The lack of debate is proof that the Council felt the open seat was Ardis' seat to fill, and they would rubber stamp his pick. Which is exactly what happened. Regardless of the vote, no one on the Council seems to be a staunch supporter of nor strongly opposed to Jacob- which is troubling. It was an important decision and should have merited strong feelings one way or the other.
It appears that this Council craves a strong leader and given one, they will happily follow. Ardis is not just Mayor but Shepard, and with one notable exception, his sheep are thus far obedient.
*
Our new City Council is more complex than the last. In Ran$burg's regime Council could be counted on to side with developers and the interests of business over the interests of voters. This Council seems to have a bit of an identity problem. The "essential services" crowd hasn't quite defined what qualifies as an essential/basic service. Look at the possible buy out of the water company. Advisory referendum aside, is there a more basic service than water? With two new members who ran on a "basic services" theme, one would have expected more deliberation and at least one more vote in favor of a continued buyout study.
The identity crisis is understandable as this Council is very young. As Ardis becomes more commanding in his leadership, count on Council to follow. As always, the exception will be Sandberg. This is a good thing, as every voice should be heard even if the voice is, at times, a bit loopy.
What is the attraction to the Mayor's job? On the face it doesn't seem like he wields that much power. Ardis is just another vote on the Council, but he will be the target of every unhappy citizen. However, if one wants proof that Ardis reigns one only needs to look at the recent appointment of George Jacobs to the council.
Jacob, a beer distributor, used connections to overturn laws and had an amendment added so that he (and some bloke in Lake Bluff) could immediately hold public office. After submitting his name for consideration and even after being chosen for the job, Jacob still has yet to attend a council meeting. Jacob is also related by marriage to Fourth District Councilman Jim Spears. Moreover, Jacob will not be able to vote on any alcohol related issues. Alcohol issues come to a vote at nearly every meeting. To say the least, Jacob has at much going against him as for him.
Most politicians would avoid this sort of controversy especially as it became apparent that Jacob faced notable criticism early on - even before being sworn in. The sole voice howling in the wind against Jacob was Sandberg. "Too many conflicts of interest, too many opportunities for abuse." Other council members were silent on the issue. The real vote was taken in executive session. The lack of debate is proof that the Council felt the open seat was Ardis' seat to fill, and they would rubber stamp his pick. Which is exactly what happened. Regardless of the vote, no one on the Council seems to be a staunch supporter of nor strongly opposed to Jacob- which is troubling. It was an important decision and should have merited strong feelings one way or the other.
It appears that this Council craves a strong leader and given one, they will happily follow. Ardis is not just Mayor but Shepard, and with one notable exception, his sheep are thus far obedient.
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Friday, June 10
Leitch's Biggest Campaign Contribuitor
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And the winner is....
Associated Beer Distributors of Illinois (A.B.D. I. PAC)
P. O. Box 396
Springfield, IL 62705
Transfer In
$2,000.00 on 3/5/2004
Source: Illinois Campaign Disclosure
Chump change Bill Dennis? I don't think so.
And the winner is....
Associated Beer Distributors of Illinois (A.B.D. I. PAC)
P. O. Box 396
Springfield, IL 62705
Transfer In
$2,000.00 on 3/5/2004
Source: Illinois Campaign Disclosure
Chump change Bill Dennis? I don't think so.
And another thing...
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Written by Stormin Norman, who commented on the Peoria Pundit site:
Since the end of Prohibition, Illinois law has required wineries and distillers to sell their products to distributors who then sell to retailers, i.e., wineries and distillers are barred by law from selling directly to retailers. With the recent Supreme Court decision to strike down state laws prohibiting interstate wine sales, we should take the next step and tell our lawmakers to fight for consumers by eliminating the middleman (Jacob) when it comes to the sale of alcoholic beverages. Quit lining the pockets of the alcoholic beverage distributors and pass those savings back to the consumer. The day when a Walmart semi trailer is parked at an Anheuser-Busch brewery loading dock will be a welcome sight for imbibers and free market advocates. So how difficult does it now become to change these archaic laws, when the people who would be affected by them hold government positions? Once again, government 'for the people' loses out...
*sigh* My hero!
Written by Stormin Norman, who commented on the Peoria Pundit site:
Since the end of Prohibition, Illinois law has required wineries and distillers to sell their products to distributors who then sell to retailers, i.e., wineries and distillers are barred by law from selling directly to retailers. With the recent Supreme Court decision to strike down state laws prohibiting interstate wine sales, we should take the next step and tell our lawmakers to fight for consumers by eliminating the middleman (Jacob) when it comes to the sale of alcoholic beverages. Quit lining the pockets of the alcoholic beverage distributors and pass those savings back to the consumer. The day when a Walmart semi trailer is parked at an Anheuser-Busch brewery loading dock will be a welcome sight for imbibers and free market advocates. So how difficult does it now become to change these archaic laws, when the people who would be affected by them hold government positions? Once again, government 'for the people' loses out...
*sigh* My hero!
Did I forget to mention....
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Jacob is Fourth District Bill Spears' in-law. I know. Could this appointment get any sleazier?!
Jacob is Fourth District Bill Spears' in-law. I know. Could this appointment get any sleazier?!
Thursday, June 9
Jacob: Playing Dumb, or Really Dumb?
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Bill Dennis interviewed new city council pick Jacob today, in an effort to clear the cloud that is already hovering over him. He denies that strings were pulled to get him on the council, despite Ardis' and Leitch's statements to the contrary.
Basically, we are to believe that the only wheel greasing here was expediting the elimination of a stupid, archaic law. Lets say that this is true. I know, it's hard, but try.
Boys and girls, next time you are trying to get rid of a stupid, archaic law.. Lets say trying to allow your backyard fence to be five three quarters feet high instead of six, call your state rep. Tell him, "Dan, the wife and I are installing the fence this weekend. The dog keeps running away. We are afraid Rover is going to get creamed by a car. Springfield is already working to get rid of the dumb fence law, can't you make it go away sooner?" Cover your ears as your state representative cackles in your ear. (Frankly, you would be lucky to get this far. You would probably be speaking to an intern at best, because your Representative is likely to be on a lobbyist sponsored trip to France with the more beloved of his staff.)
Boys and girls, now try the same experiment after you land a job at your father's big, profitable company as president and organizations you head make sizable donations to your representative's campaign war chest... You get the picture.
We are told that the only greasing done here was getting rid of a bad law sooner. It is debatable as to if the original law was bad, but nonetheless, THIS WOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPENED FOR AN ORDINARY CITIZEN.
This is just the type of crap we dumped Ran$burg for, and it is the very same crap Ardi$ promised would not be part of his "New Generation of Leadership."
The new council cried "foul!" when City Manager Randy Oliver promoted Pat Landes to Assistant City Manager without first discussing it with the Council or posting the job. Ardi$ posts a job with absolutely no intent of hiring anyone other than Jacob, as evidenced by the timing of his pick (while Blago's signature was still wet).
We voted for a new, open local government where the average, ordinary citizen was to have a platform equal to the big guys. If Ardis wanted Jacob so badly, he should have just said so. "Yes, I have someone in mind. Someone who I feel has top notch business and civic experience, but I'm waiting for legislation currently under way in Springfield to be enacted before announcing my choice."
Kudos to the Peoria Pundit for interviewing Jacob and hearing the man out. Jacob knows strings were pulled. If he doesn't, he doesn't have the brains to be on the Council. I'm also concerned by Jacob stating, "Back in February the Council wasn't even a twinkle in my eye." Ardis had numerous candidates who had been active in local government and civic affairs for years. Yet, if we are to believe Jacob, he wasn't tuning in a mere four months ago.
Bill Dennis interviewed new city council pick Jacob today, in an effort to clear the cloud that is already hovering over him. He denies that strings were pulled to get him on the council, despite Ardis' and Leitch's statements to the contrary.
Basically, we are to believe that the only wheel greasing here was expediting the elimination of a stupid, archaic law. Lets say that this is true. I know, it's hard, but try.
Boys and girls, next time you are trying to get rid of a stupid, archaic law.. Lets say trying to allow your backyard fence to be five three quarters feet high instead of six, call your state rep. Tell him, "Dan, the wife and I are installing the fence this weekend. The dog keeps running away. We are afraid Rover is going to get creamed by a car. Springfield is already working to get rid of the dumb fence law, can't you make it go away sooner?" Cover your ears as your state representative cackles in your ear. (Frankly, you would be lucky to get this far. You would probably be speaking to an intern at best, because your Representative is likely to be on a lobbyist sponsored trip to France with the more beloved of his staff.)
Boys and girls, now try the same experiment after you land a job at your father's big, profitable company as president and organizations you head make sizable donations to your representative's campaign war chest... You get the picture.
We are told that the only greasing done here was getting rid of a bad law sooner. It is debatable as to if the original law was bad, but nonetheless, THIS WOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPENED FOR AN ORDINARY CITIZEN.
This is just the type of crap we dumped Ran$burg for, and it is the very same crap Ardi$ promised would not be part of his "New Generation of Leadership."
The new council cried "foul!" when City Manager Randy Oliver promoted Pat Landes to Assistant City Manager without first discussing it with the Council or posting the job. Ardi$ posts a job with absolutely no intent of hiring anyone other than Jacob, as evidenced by the timing of his pick (while Blago's signature was still wet).
We voted for a new, open local government where the average, ordinary citizen was to have a platform equal to the big guys. If Ardis wanted Jacob so badly, he should have just said so. "Yes, I have someone in mind. Someone who I feel has top notch business and civic experience, but I'm waiting for legislation currently under way in Springfield to be enacted before announcing my choice."
Kudos to the Peoria Pundit for interviewing Jacob and hearing the man out. Jacob knows strings were pulled. If he doesn't, he doesn't have the brains to be on the Council. I'm also concerned by Jacob stating, "Back in February the Council wasn't even a twinkle in my eye." Ardis had numerous candidates who had been active in local government and civic affairs for years. Yet, if we are to believe Jacob, he wasn't tuning in a mere four months ago.
Jacobs and Ardis: Lie Early, Lie Often
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Didn't know whether to laugh or cry at this morning's Journal Star. The front page headline "Council taps 'silent leader' for open seat" merits a good laugh. What is a "silent leader" you may ask? A silent leader sits on boards of various charities but does no real work. A silent leader taps buddies in Springfield to overturn laws aimed at preventing abuse. A silent leaders lies to the Journal Star regarding campaign contributions. Jacob admits to making contributions to Sheriff Mike McCoy, The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, Glenn Poshard, Lee Daniels and the House Republican Campaign Committee.
What does Jacob omit? BREWERS DISTRIBUTING (his company) HAS MADE CONTRIBUTIONS TO LEITCH, WHO WAS KEY IN OVERTURNING THE LAW PREVENTING JACOB'S APPOINTMENT.Ardi$, is apparently the same type of "independent Republican" Jacob considers himself to be (as does Ran$burg). The lies continued to flow yesterday as Ardi$ told the Journal Star, "he would like to put the issue to bed" that he lobbied for the virgin legislation to allow liquor license holders to hold council seats. Ardi$ apparently thinks voters suffer from the same short term memory loss he does, as we already know that Leitch pursued the law at Ardis' request, specifically "so that he could consider a beer distributer for the seat." Ardi$ states that Terry Link sponsored the bill. Ardi$ neglects to mention the co-sponsor (guess) as well as who authored the amendment to have it become law upon the governor's signature (guess again).
I'm sure Ardi$ would like to put the issue to bed. Most of us would prefer to have our lies quickly forgotten. However, it was stupid of the council to not check the campaign contribution disclosures easily obtained on the internet. Had they made the effort, they would know this pick would likely put a stain on the new administration. (Someone tell Molly Park of the JPStar to get off her ass.)
Equally as incredible, disgusting, and yet laughable, is Jacob's assertion that he has no conflict of interest serving on the Council as the sole beer distributor for five surrounding counties (including Peoria). This is further proof that the new administration believes voters are idiots. While Jacob will not be allowed to vote for anyone to obtain a liquor license, anyone seeking a permit (or TIF) to build a restaurant, gas station, grocery store, ball park, etc., will certainly fall under his domain. Moreover, just because he can't directly vote on liquor licenses, it is obvious that Jacob has a huge "in" with the new Council. The conflicts of interest are simply too many to name.
Ardi$ isn't stupid. He knows this smells. He is banking that the public will forget in four years. As Jacob lives on farthest northern edge of Peoria, he would have had to faced Nichting in the last election. (Ask Dan Gillette how that turned out.) Fortunately, Jacob was gifted his company by his Daddy, much the same way he was gifted his City Council seat, and doesn't have much on his resume that privilege didn't buy. Look for him to be a mediocre councilmember at best. He will have a hard time retaining his seat in '07. The only person who has announced that she will run for at-large in '07 is Angela Anderson, who though not qualified for Council, will make mince meat of Jacob at forums. Anyone who missed Anderson at debates this last election missed some fine entertainment. (Manning and Thetford still have scars.) I look forward to her exposing this good ole boys club/fraternity for what it is in 2007.
Didn't know whether to laugh or cry at this morning's Journal Star. The front page headline "Council taps 'silent leader' for open seat" merits a good laugh. What is a "silent leader" you may ask? A silent leader sits on boards of various charities but does no real work. A silent leader taps buddies in Springfield to overturn laws aimed at preventing abuse. A silent leaders lies to the Journal Star regarding campaign contributions. Jacob admits to making contributions to Sheriff Mike McCoy, The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, Glenn Poshard, Lee Daniels and the House Republican Campaign Committee.
What does Jacob omit? BREWERS DISTRIBUTING (his company) HAS MADE CONTRIBUTIONS TO LEITCH, WHO WAS KEY IN OVERTURNING THE LAW PREVENTING JACOB'S APPOINTMENT.Ardi$, is apparently the same type of "independent Republican" Jacob considers himself to be (as does Ran$burg). The lies continued to flow yesterday as Ardi$ told the Journal Star, "he would like to put the issue to bed" that he lobbied for the virgin legislation to allow liquor license holders to hold council seats. Ardi$ apparently thinks voters suffer from the same short term memory loss he does, as we already know that Leitch pursued the law at Ardis' request, specifically "so that he could consider a beer distributer for the seat." Ardi$ states that Terry Link sponsored the bill. Ardi$ neglects to mention the co-sponsor (guess) as well as who authored the amendment to have it become law upon the governor's signature (guess again).
I'm sure Ardi$ would like to put the issue to bed. Most of us would prefer to have our lies quickly forgotten. However, it was stupid of the council to not check the campaign contribution disclosures easily obtained on the internet. Had they made the effort, they would know this pick would likely put a stain on the new administration. (Someone tell Molly Park of the JPStar to get off her ass.)
Equally as incredible, disgusting, and yet laughable, is Jacob's assertion that he has no conflict of interest serving on the Council as the sole beer distributor for five surrounding counties (including Peoria). This is further proof that the new administration believes voters are idiots. While Jacob will not be allowed to vote for anyone to obtain a liquor license, anyone seeking a permit (or TIF) to build a restaurant, gas station, grocery store, ball park, etc., will certainly fall under his domain. Moreover, just because he can't directly vote on liquor licenses, it is obvious that Jacob has a huge "in" with the new Council. The conflicts of interest are simply too many to name.
Ardi$ isn't stupid. He knows this smells. He is banking that the public will forget in four years. As Jacob lives on farthest northern edge of Peoria, he would have had to faced Nichting in the last election. (Ask Dan Gillette how that turned out.) Fortunately, Jacob was gifted his company by his Daddy, much the same way he was gifted his City Council seat, and doesn't have much on his resume that privilege didn't buy. Look for him to be a mediocre councilmember at best. He will have a hard time retaining his seat in '07. The only person who has announced that she will run for at-large in '07 is Angela Anderson, who though not qualified for Council, will make mince meat of Jacob at forums. Anyone who missed Anderson at debates this last election missed some fine entertainment. (Manning and Thetford still have scars.) I look forward to her exposing this good ole boys club/fraternity for what it is in 2007.
Wednesday, June 8
New Generation of Leadership = New Generation of Lies
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I was no fan of Ran$burg, but even he didn't piss me off this early in the game. Already I'm feeling a bit duped by Ardi$. (First hint: The guy is entirely too tan.) How has the man lied? Let me count the ways...
Election night Ardi$ said, "I have no one in mind for the open at large seat."
What he really meant: "I have my buddies Shadid (who endorsed Manning)and Rep. Leitch working hard to overturn the law in order to get Jacob appointed to the council."
Ardi$ told the JPStar, "Anyone interested in the seat should submit a resume and letter to the mayors' office."
What he really meant: "Poor suckers. I have my buddies Shadid and Leitch working to overturn the law and get an amendment so that I can appoint Jacob to the council."
Upon learning that 18 candidates had applied for the position, Ardi$ told the WEEK T.V., "I think that the cream will rise to the top."
What he really meant: "I know the foam will rise to the top."
Ardi$ said, "I will be speaking with all the candidates this week."
What he really meant: "Poor, stupid Bastards. They actually think they have a chance."
Ardi$ said: "I wanted the new law so that the council would have the opportunity to consider all 18 candidates."
What he really meant: "Bow to me. I am all powerful. I greased the wheels of Springfield so that I could appoint Jacob to the council."
Look for more lies as the decision becomes official. Watch. It will be something to the effect of, "The Council was most comfortable with Jacob because of his strong business experience and his devotion (i.e., checks written) to the community."
What he really means: "Hee. Hee. I don't have to fund raise in four years!!! My campaign is paid for!!! My contacts in Springfield are secure! I am the master and commander of Peoria!!!"
Polly predicts the vote on Jacob will be 9 to 1 with Sandberg the only dissenter. (The more the things change the more they stay the same.)
It is possible, because Council Wanna-Be Angela Anderson endorsed Manning in the last election, that the vote will be 8 to 2, but highly unlikely. George Shadid also supported overturning the liquor license law and Shadid endorsed Manning. Being the heavyweight, there is no way that Manning is going to snub Shadid. Someone stick a fork in Anderson. By now she's gotta be done. Although vastly unqualified for office, you gotta feel a bit bad for her.
To re-cap: Ardis said one thing to the public, "Everyone will be considered." But was actually pulling strings with big wigs in secret. Hmmm.... who does THAT sound like?
I was no fan of Ran$burg, but even he didn't piss me off this early in the game. Already I'm feeling a bit duped by Ardi$. (First hint: The guy is entirely too tan.) How has the man lied? Let me count the ways...
Election night Ardi$ said, "I have no one in mind for the open at large seat."
What he really meant: "I have my buddies Shadid (who endorsed Manning)and Rep. Leitch working hard to overturn the law in order to get Jacob appointed to the council."
Ardi$ told the JPStar, "Anyone interested in the seat should submit a resume and letter to the mayors' office."
What he really meant: "Poor suckers. I have my buddies Shadid and Leitch working to overturn the law and get an amendment so that I can appoint Jacob to the council."
Upon learning that 18 candidates had applied for the position, Ardi$ told the WEEK T.V., "I think that the cream will rise to the top."
What he really meant: "I know the foam will rise to the top."
Ardi$ said, "I will be speaking with all the candidates this week."
What he really meant: "Poor, stupid Bastards. They actually think they have a chance."
Ardi$ said: "I wanted the new law so that the council would have the opportunity to consider all 18 candidates."
What he really meant: "Bow to me. I am all powerful. I greased the wheels of Springfield so that I could appoint Jacob to the council."
Look for more lies as the decision becomes official. Watch. It will be something to the effect of, "The Council was most comfortable with Jacob because of his strong business experience and his devotion (i.e., checks written) to the community."
What he really means: "Hee. Hee. I don't have to fund raise in four years!!! My campaign is paid for!!! My contacts in Springfield are secure! I am the master and commander of Peoria!!!"
Polly predicts the vote on Jacob will be 9 to 1 with Sandberg the only dissenter. (The more the things change the more they stay the same.)
It is possible, because Council Wanna-Be Angela Anderson endorsed Manning in the last election, that the vote will be 8 to 2, but highly unlikely. George Shadid also supported overturning the liquor license law and Shadid endorsed Manning. Being the heavyweight, there is no way that Manning is going to snub Shadid. Someone stick a fork in Anderson. By now she's gotta be done. Although vastly unqualified for office, you gotta feel a bit bad for her.
To re-cap: Ardis said one thing to the public, "Everyone will be considered." But was actually pulling strings with big wigs in secret. Hmmm.... who does THAT sound like?
Meet Your New At Large Councilman... George Jacob
I sat up in bed in the middle of the night and realized I had broken the first rule of Peoria politics: Follow the money.
Clearly the new law allowing liquor license holders to sit on the City Council was done for Peoria. The timing is WAY too obvious. No one tried to hide this fact, in fact, Leitch was happy to own up to it. (When the time comes, remind me to vote Shadid and Leitch out of office.)
Pat Sullivan would have been a good at-large council person, he has done a lot for riverfront development and was even willing to divest from his popular bar. I thought for sure that long time friend Ardis would gift him his seat.
But since when has doing good, being good, and wanting to do more good counted for crap in Peoria?
Follow the money.
Of course they are going to choose the guy who was given his business by Daddy. Of course they're going to choose someone who hasn't done anything for the community except write checks. The biggest hint was Leitch. Follow the money. Follow the campaign money.
So, welcome Mr. Jacob, we look forward to you furthering your beer distribution business at the expense of ordinary citizens.
Suckers.
Clearly the new law allowing liquor license holders to sit on the City Council was done for Peoria. The timing is WAY too obvious. No one tried to hide this fact, in fact, Leitch was happy to own up to it. (When the time comes, remind me to vote Shadid and Leitch out of office.)
Pat Sullivan would have been a good at-large council person, he has done a lot for riverfront development and was even willing to divest from his popular bar. I thought for sure that long time friend Ardis would gift him his seat.
But since when has doing good, being good, and wanting to do more good counted for crap in Peoria?
Follow the money.
Of course they are going to choose the guy who was given his business by Daddy. Of course they're going to choose someone who hasn't done anything for the community except write checks. The biggest hint was Leitch. Follow the money. Follow the campaign money.
So, welcome Mr. Jacob, we look forward to you furthering your beer distribution business at the expense of ordinary citizens.
Suckers.
Sunday, June 5
Thigh High Stockings - It's never too early to start!
When I heard about the politician in Alabama who wanted to pass legislation banning cheerleading routines that were deemed too sexy, I scoffed. Old fart. Probably gets a glimpse of a girls ankle and goes googly eyed. But after today I think he might have a point. I'm not prude. I like nookie when I can get it. I enjoy seeing beautiful women too. I don't like government playing parent, that's what parents are for. But after today I'm wondering where all the parents have gone.
I attended my niece's ballet recital today. In the first routine the girls in the number were ages nine through high school. The music/dance was jazz. What were these girls wearing? The costume consisted of pink sequin tube top (strapless), very tight black mini shorts, and to top it off, black thigh high fish net stockings with a seam up the back.
There are only two legitimate places women wear thigh high fish nets: The bedroom or on stage at Big Al's. If full grown women want to sexualize themselves, dandy. Go for it sister - your body, your right. Hell, if my chest was a bit bigger and my ass a whole lot smaller, I might join you. But on nine year old girls? Why are these parents allowing their daughters to be sexualized at such a young age? I was having flashbacks of Jon Benet Ramsey.
I'm not Sandra Fritz mind you. I've been to Big Al's. I felt weird and uncomfortable, but I didn't find it gross or nasty. Frankly the women on stage looked pretty damn bored.
The men at today's show, many of them fathers, looked very uncomfortable. I would be too, if my daughter was strutting around that way in lingerie - regardless of how old she was. There are somethings a parent (or child) should never have to see.
Black, thigh high stockings on elementary students? Are these parents nuts, completely asleep at the wheel, or what?! Maybe this country has been so overexposed to sexuality we don't really take notice anymore even when children are involved. If a little girl is strutting in front of several hundred people in next to nothing, can we really expect that she won't have sex by junior high? Aren't we essentially saying that sex isn't a big deal?
In all honesty, the girls were all incredibly talented and each likely has a future in dance. The dance was sexy, but I was too blown away by the costume to really take notes on how much undulating was occurring. Maybe this is what these women will choose to do on stage or in rock videos later, but at nine it shouldn't be an option.
I think the Alabama politician wanting to abolish sexy cheerleading overstepped the reasonable bounds of government. But Buddy, I sure do see your point. And I definitely feel your pain.
I attended my niece's ballet recital today. In the first routine the girls in the number were ages nine through high school. The music/dance was jazz. What were these girls wearing? The costume consisted of pink sequin tube top (strapless), very tight black mini shorts, and to top it off, black thigh high fish net stockings with a seam up the back.
There are only two legitimate places women wear thigh high fish nets: The bedroom or on stage at Big Al's. If full grown women want to sexualize themselves, dandy. Go for it sister - your body, your right. Hell, if my chest was a bit bigger and my ass a whole lot smaller, I might join you. But on nine year old girls? Why are these parents allowing their daughters to be sexualized at such a young age? I was having flashbacks of Jon Benet Ramsey.
I'm not Sandra Fritz mind you. I've been to Big Al's. I felt weird and uncomfortable, but I didn't find it gross or nasty. Frankly the women on stage looked pretty damn bored.
The men at today's show, many of them fathers, looked very uncomfortable. I would be too, if my daughter was strutting around that way in lingerie - regardless of how old she was. There are somethings a parent (or child) should never have to see.
Black, thigh high stockings on elementary students? Are these parents nuts, completely asleep at the wheel, or what?! Maybe this country has been so overexposed to sexuality we don't really take notice anymore even when children are involved. If a little girl is strutting in front of several hundred people in next to nothing, can we really expect that she won't have sex by junior high? Aren't we essentially saying that sex isn't a big deal?
In all honesty, the girls were all incredibly talented and each likely has a future in dance. The dance was sexy, but I was too blown away by the costume to really take notes on how much undulating was occurring. Maybe this is what these women will choose to do on stage or in rock videos later, but at nine it shouldn't be an option.
I think the Alabama politician wanting to abolish sexy cheerleading overstepped the reasonable bounds of government. But Buddy, I sure do see your point. And I definitely feel your pain.
Saturday, June 4
New Generation of Leadership My Ass!
*
I especially love this part: "Leitch said Friday that he proposed the amendment at the urging of Peoria attorney and lobbyist Matt Jones on Ardis' behalf, so the mayor and other council members could enjoy the flexibility of considering all 18 candidates."
Seems to me that having an old law (designed to prevent abuse) overturned so that a friend can vote with you on the council is a rather Ran$burg type thing to do.
From Today's Journal Star:
Holding your liquor (license), public office too Governor signs exemption that opens door to some Peoria council candidates
Saturday, June 4, 2005
BY MATT BUEDEL
OF THE JOURNAL STAR
PEORIA - Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed legislation Friday allowing some public officials to hold liquor licenses, which would give some Peoria City Council candidates the right to retain their licenses if chosen to fill a vacant at-large seat.
Senate Bill 945 changed existing law to permit people with a "direct interest" in the manufacture, sale or distribution of alcohol to become members of city councils or county boards, though mayors, board presidents and law enforcing public officials still can't hold liquor licenses.
Officials who do hold licenses will be banned from voting on liquor-related matters under the new law.
Three of the 18 candidates for the City Council seat vacated by Mayor Jim Ardis after he won election in April have liquor licenses and under the old law would have had to give them up if chosen to fill the seat.
Those candidates are Mary Ardapple Dierker, owner of Apple's Bakery Northside Market, George Jacob, president of Brewer's Distributing Co., and Patrick Sullivan, a Peoria developer and owner of Kelleher's Irish Pub.
Sullivan on Friday dismissed the notion that the three received any special treatment and called the original law outdated. He said the exclusion of people who have liquor licenses from public office makes them "second-class citizens."
"I do what I'm supposed to do," he said. "Anyone in the world can run for office. . . . Why am I being punished?"
Asked if he would have given up his license if he was chosen for the vacated council seat, Sullivan said, "Yes."
"I feel that strongly about this city," he added.
Jacob and Ardapple Dierker could not be reached Friday afternoon.
Dan Gillette, who unsuccessfully ran for the 5th District Council seat in April and is vying for the open at-large seat, said the change to state law doesn't impact the selection process for a new council person.
"I don't want to say it's right and I don't want to say it's wrong," he said. "I think the best man will win the job."
Several other candidates could not be reached for comment Friday.
State Sen. Terry Link, D-Lake Bluff, proposed the Senate bill May 19. State Rep. David Leitch, R-Peoria, sponsored the bill in the House and proposed an amendment that made the bill effective as soon as the governor signed it.
Leitch said Friday that he proposed the amendment at the urging of Peoria attorney and lobbyist Matt Jones on Ardis' behalf, so the mayor and other council members could enjoy the flexibility of considering all 18 candidates.
Ardis, who didn't return phone calls Friday afternoon, has said he and the council should fill the position by early July.
So... Ardis pulled Leitch's strings so he and the council could consider all 18 candidates.
I don't think so.
Try one candidate.
Good buddy Pat Sullivan.
I especially love this part: "Leitch said Friday that he proposed the amendment at the urging of Peoria attorney and lobbyist Matt Jones on Ardis' behalf, so the mayor and other council members could enjoy the flexibility of considering all 18 candidates."
Seems to me that having an old law (designed to prevent abuse) overturned so that a friend can vote with you on the council is a rather Ran$burg type thing to do.
From Today's Journal Star:
Holding your liquor (license), public office too Governor signs exemption that opens door to some Peoria council candidates
Saturday, June 4, 2005
BY MATT BUEDEL
OF THE JOURNAL STAR
PEORIA - Gov. Rod Blagojevich signed legislation Friday allowing some public officials to hold liquor licenses, which would give some Peoria City Council candidates the right to retain their licenses if chosen to fill a vacant at-large seat.
Senate Bill 945 changed existing law to permit people with a "direct interest" in the manufacture, sale or distribution of alcohol to become members of city councils or county boards, though mayors, board presidents and law enforcing public officials still can't hold liquor licenses.
Officials who do hold licenses will be banned from voting on liquor-related matters under the new law.
Three of the 18 candidates for the City Council seat vacated by Mayor Jim Ardis after he won election in April have liquor licenses and under the old law would have had to give them up if chosen to fill the seat.
Those candidates are Mary Ardapple Dierker, owner of Apple's Bakery Northside Market, George Jacob, president of Brewer's Distributing Co., and Patrick Sullivan, a Peoria developer and owner of Kelleher's Irish Pub.
Sullivan on Friday dismissed the notion that the three received any special treatment and called the original law outdated. He said the exclusion of people who have liquor licenses from public office makes them "second-class citizens."
"I do what I'm supposed to do," he said. "Anyone in the world can run for office. . . . Why am I being punished?"
Asked if he would have given up his license if he was chosen for the vacated council seat, Sullivan said, "Yes."
"I feel that strongly about this city," he added.
Jacob and Ardapple Dierker could not be reached Friday afternoon.
Dan Gillette, who unsuccessfully ran for the 5th District Council seat in April and is vying for the open at-large seat, said the change to state law doesn't impact the selection process for a new council person.
"I don't want to say it's right and I don't want to say it's wrong," he said. "I think the best man will win the job."
Several other candidates could not be reached for comment Friday.
State Sen. Terry Link, D-Lake Bluff, proposed the Senate bill May 19. State Rep. David Leitch, R-Peoria, sponsored the bill in the House and proposed an amendment that made the bill effective as soon as the governor signed it.
Leitch said Friday that he proposed the amendment at the urging of Peoria attorney and lobbyist Matt Jones on Ardis' behalf, so the mayor and other council members could enjoy the flexibility of considering all 18 candidates.
Ardis, who didn't return phone calls Friday afternoon, has said he and the council should fill the position by early July.
So... Ardis pulled Leitch's strings so he and the council could consider all 18 candidates.
I don't think so.
Try one candidate.
Good buddy Pat Sullivan.
Friday, June 3
You've Come a Long Way Baby.... Not!
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The statistic of the day, according to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, Census 2000.
The statistic of the day, according to the U.S. Bureau of the Census, Census 2000.
The median earnings of full time, year around Male workers in Peoria:What would native Peorian, Betty Freidan say? Surely not that Corporate Peoria is benefiting from exploiting its' female employees.
$40,879.00
The median earnings of full time, year around Female workers in Peoria:
$25,642.00
Thursday, June 2
Make Your Checks Payable to...
The next time you pay taxes consider the following:
Peoria's current total amount of financed debt: $119,833,038.00No small bills, please.
Your share: $1,061.07
Your family's share
(assumes a household of 2 adults, 2 children): $4,244
If Peoria buys the water company:
Peoria's debt: $371,833,038.00*
(*Assumes purchase price of $220,000,000.00 + financing cost of $32,000,000.00)
Your share: $3,294.42
Your family's share
(assumes a household of 2 adults, 2 children): $13,169.69
(figures based upon 2000 census info)
Who's The Boss? Local 50, Of Course!
*
I thought the firefighters' take over of Peoria was complete upon the recent elections of Ardis, Manning, and Van Auken to City Council. I was naive. Why stop at the City Council when you can take make your boss whine like a little girl? Blago is getting ready to sign a bill that will allow firefighters to run for city elections.
From today's Journal Star:
The article goes on to state that the people wetting themselves at the prospect of this bill becoming law are firefighters themselves, specifically, the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association.
From the same article:
I have two questions:
Why couldn't an elected firefighter just abstain from all votes involving the Fire Department? After all, Blago is getting ready to sign a bill that would allow liquor license holders to be elected to city council as long as they abstain from votes involving liquor. There are A LOT of votes involving liquor. There are not nearly as many as votes before the council regarding the Fire Department.
Secondly, why does Chief Modglin fear the prospect of his subordinates having a seat on the Council? Aren't these guys all brothers? Why would a firefighter vote for anything that could jeopardize the safety, well being, and salaries of his fellow firefighters? Makes one wonder about the relationship between the guys fighting the fires and the guys in the administration. Is it possible firefighters view the Chief as someone more in the City's pocket than on their side?
My concern with having city employees or liquor license holders in public office is the same. What if more than one gets elected? In the case of those with liquor licenses it is a real possibility that more than one could be elected. Alcohol issues come before the council at every session. If more than one member has to abstain, ties and deadlocks become likely.
What if you have a ascme city employee, a police officer, and a firefighter on the council? That would be a lot of abstentions and result in a lot of odd votes and decisions - ones that do not reflect the views or the best interests of average Peorians. If you think this possibility is far fetched, think again.
Remember that Unions are very involved in elections. Ask Ardis, Manning and Van Auken how crucial it is to have the firefighters in your (campaign) corner. It is in the realm of possibility that Unions would have their very own members holding office as well as the support of those on the council whose campaigns they financed.
I like the idea of cops, city employees and firefighters in local government. I prefer the idea of the "Average Joe" in office than another MBA or lawyer. However, the council was specifically designed with eleven members, in part, to keep ties and deadlocks to a minimum. If we want to allow any citizen (regardless of his day job) an opportunity to run for office, great, all the better. But serious thought must be given to the re-structuring of local government. In the current legislation under consideration, I don't see anything that would counter potential new abuses.
I thought the firefighters' take over of Peoria was complete upon the recent elections of Ardis, Manning, and Van Auken to City Council. I was naive. Why stop at the City Council when you can take make your boss whine like a little girl? Blago is getting ready to sign a bill that will allow firefighters to run for city elections.
From today's Journal Star:
If Gov. Rod Blagojevich signs House Bill 1338, Tony Ardis, president of Peoria's firefighters union, could run for a seat on the City Council alongside his brother, Mayor Jim Ardis. But he wouldn't.
"First off, one Ardis on the council is plenty," Tony Ardis says jokingly.
The article goes on to state that the people wetting themselves at the prospect of this bill becoming law are firefighters themselves, specifically, the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association.
From the same article:
"Technically, the city manager is my boss, but the council is his boss," said Peoria Fire Chief Roy Modglin, who opposes the bill.
I have two questions:
Why couldn't an elected firefighter just abstain from all votes involving the Fire Department? After all, Blago is getting ready to sign a bill that would allow liquor license holders to be elected to city council as long as they abstain from votes involving liquor. There are A LOT of votes involving liquor. There are not nearly as many as votes before the council regarding the Fire Department.
Secondly, why does Chief Modglin fear the prospect of his subordinates having a seat on the Council? Aren't these guys all brothers? Why would a firefighter vote for anything that could jeopardize the safety, well being, and salaries of his fellow firefighters? Makes one wonder about the relationship between the guys fighting the fires and the guys in the administration. Is it possible firefighters view the Chief as someone more in the City's pocket than on their side?
My concern with having city employees or liquor license holders in public office is the same. What if more than one gets elected? In the case of those with liquor licenses it is a real possibility that more than one could be elected. Alcohol issues come before the council at every session. If more than one member has to abstain, ties and deadlocks become likely.
What if you have a ascme city employee, a police officer, and a firefighter on the council? That would be a lot of abstentions and result in a lot of odd votes and decisions - ones that do not reflect the views or the best interests of average Peorians. If you think this possibility is far fetched, think again.
Remember that Unions are very involved in elections. Ask Ardis, Manning and Van Auken how crucial it is to have the firefighters in your (campaign) corner. It is in the realm of possibility that Unions would have their very own members holding office as well as the support of those on the council whose campaigns they financed.
I like the idea of cops, city employees and firefighters in local government. I prefer the idea of the "Average Joe" in office than another MBA or lawyer. However, the council was specifically designed with eleven members, in part, to keep ties and deadlocks to a minimum. If we want to allow any citizen (regardless of his day job) an opportunity to run for office, great, all the better. But serious thought must be given to the re-structuring of local government. In the current legislation under consideration, I don't see anything that would counter potential new abuses.
Wednesday, June 1
If Only All Criminals Were This Stupid...
From today's Peoria Journal Star.
Peorian pleads guilty to stealing vehicle
PEORIA - When police returned a stolen Pontiac Grand Prix to a local car dealership, it didn't take them long to figure out who took the vehicle.
That's because Charles T. Fehil, 34, had left documents from his probation officer and the Illinois Department of Corrections inside.
Fehil, whose court record lists addresses in Peoria and Pekin, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle and was sentenced to seven years in prison.
According to Peoria County Circuit Court records, police were contacted by the OnStar satellite navigation system that the 2004 car was missing. Police found it outside a house in the 1500 block of South Western Avenue and returned it to Neil Norton Cadillac-Pontiac, 3815 N. War Memorial Drive. There a service technician found the court papers identifying Fehil.
Police found the car in front of the house Fehil was living in at the time. When questioned by police, he confessed to taking the car, court records indicate.
With credit for 18 months already served in Peoria County Jail and "good-time" credit Fehil could get out of prison in about two years.
Peorian pleads guilty to stealing vehicle
PEORIA - When police returned a stolen Pontiac Grand Prix to a local car dealership, it didn't take them long to figure out who took the vehicle.
That's because Charles T. Fehil, 34, had left documents from his probation officer and the Illinois Department of Corrections inside.
Fehil, whose court record lists addresses in Peoria and Pekin, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle and was sentenced to seven years in prison.
According to Peoria County Circuit Court records, police were contacted by the OnStar satellite navigation system that the 2004 car was missing. Police found it outside a house in the 1500 block of South Western Avenue and returned it to Neil Norton Cadillac-Pontiac, 3815 N. War Memorial Drive. There a service technician found the court papers identifying Fehil.
Police found the car in front of the house Fehil was living in at the time. When questioned by police, he confessed to taking the car, court records indicate.
With credit for 18 months already served in Peoria County Jail and "good-time" credit Fehil could get out of prison in about two years.
Supreme Court: Too Little, WAY too late.
The U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously over turned the conviction of accounting/consulting firm Arthur Andersen. Three years after the original verdict, The Court concedes serious errors were made.
Andersen used to employ 28,000 people. Today they employ about 200 (most of them are involved with litigation). Ironically, Andersen was convicted of obstruction of justice, when the SEC decided to finally do something about Enron. The conviction came after it was revealed Andersen shredded documents from its Enron files. About one ton's worth. One ton. At first, that seems like a whole lot of paper. However, Enron was Andersen's biggest client and Enron was, at the time, the world's seventh largest energy company. One ton is the equivalent to a small two door compact sports car. Moreover, the charges were alleged against a few managers in Andersen's Houston office, not the entire company, which had firms nationwide. Surely prosecutors knew that a conviction would put Andersen as a whole out of business, as so many people were financially devastated when Enron collapsed. Enron resulted in America's biggest bankruptcy, which took down even more than just the company, its 5,000 employees, and investors when it went belly up.
We still anxiously await the convictions of Kenneth Lay and Jeff Skilling.
Personally, I think Andersen was guilty as hell in its relationship with Enron. That isn't the point. The point is that the wheels of justice can turn so slowly in this country that justice doesn't arrive until the defendant no longer exists. I know we are talking about one court, 12 people, deciding a multitude of the nation's most important cases. However, when the financial well being of nearly 28,000 people are involved, you would think it could get bumped up on the court's "To Do" list.
Even more troubling is the fact that there was not one dissenting vote in overturning the conviction, the decision came only one month after finally hearing the case, and Chief Justice William Rehnquist was apparently so appalled with the original verdict that he wrote the eleven page decision himself.
Remember when Bush and Gore were whining about whose turn it was to play president after the 2000 election? The Supreme Court reaction back then was quite swift. In fact, the arguments and decision were carried live, over radio, which before had never been done.
I haven't thought of the 12 top justices in this country as just another pack of glory hound politicians, but now I'm starting wonder.
Andersen used to employ 28,000 people. Today they employ about 200 (most of them are involved with litigation). Ironically, Andersen was convicted of obstruction of justice, when the SEC decided to finally do something about Enron. The conviction came after it was revealed Andersen shredded documents from its Enron files. About one ton's worth. One ton. At first, that seems like a whole lot of paper. However, Enron was Andersen's biggest client and Enron was, at the time, the world's seventh largest energy company. One ton is the equivalent to a small two door compact sports car. Moreover, the charges were alleged against a few managers in Andersen's Houston office, not the entire company, which had firms nationwide. Surely prosecutors knew that a conviction would put Andersen as a whole out of business, as so many people were financially devastated when Enron collapsed. Enron resulted in America's biggest bankruptcy, which took down even more than just the company, its 5,000 employees, and investors when it went belly up.
We still anxiously await the convictions of Kenneth Lay and Jeff Skilling.
Personally, I think Andersen was guilty as hell in its relationship with Enron. That isn't the point. The point is that the wheels of justice can turn so slowly in this country that justice doesn't arrive until the defendant no longer exists. I know we are talking about one court, 12 people, deciding a multitude of the nation's most important cases. However, when the financial well being of nearly 28,000 people are involved, you would think it could get bumped up on the court's "To Do" list.
Even more troubling is the fact that there was not one dissenting vote in overturning the conviction, the decision came only one month after finally hearing the case, and Chief Justice William Rehnquist was apparently so appalled with the original verdict that he wrote the eleven page decision himself.
Remember when Bush and Gore were whining about whose turn it was to play president after the 2000 election? The Supreme Court reaction back then was quite swift. In fact, the arguments and decision were carried live, over radio, which before had never been done.
I haven't thought of the 12 top justices in this country as just another pack of glory hound politicians, but now I'm starting wonder.
Pam Adams Just Doesn't Get It
Journal Star columnist Pam Adams can't decide if she likes Oprah. She can't figure if she is a sellout or an inspiration. She can't decide if, by interviewing celebrities and covering topics such as "The Best Apron, The Best Cookie, The Best Sandwich" Oprah is betraying her background by primarily using her powerful platform to cater to white women.
In the whole race and equality debate there is one event that seems to be overlooked. Victory. Not complete, 100% victory, no. There are still stupid, hateful people on the planet. There are still some who are simply "ignorant" and have not been educated as how to best judge a person's worth. (Hint, it isn't the content of pigment in their skin, Jackass.)
Yet, ugly, overt racism has taken a huge beating. Not just in words, but in deeds. Many (no, not all) white people think nothing unusual in having a black boss, professor, doctor, or Secretary of State. But in this country the real proof is in the pocketbook. White women want to be like Oprah.
They want to wear the same clothes, eat the same food, read the same books and they are ready and more than willing to spend a lot of money in order to do so. In this country, that is power. White women take Oprah's advice, and embrace her wisdom. Mothers flock to the television, baby in one arm, basket of laundry in another, to listen to child rearing and marital advice from someone who has no children and isn't married. They buy cookbooks, diet books, and exercise advice from someone who isn't a size two. There is no white counterpart.
However, Pam Adams remains ambivalent about Oprah. Is a black talk show host that promotes recipes and celebrities really furthering the cause?
Are you kidding me?
It isn't like Oprah hasn't taken on many tough issues, including race, during her reign as America's talk show diva. If her show was comprised only of make overs, movie clips, and fashion shows it would still have a lot of value. The Oprah Show is proof that huge strides have been made.
I am part of a generation and socio-economic class that was raised to not to judge people by their color. It was as inherent in our upbringing as "brush your teeth", "eat your vegetables", and "look both ways before crossing the street." It was further enforced in the media and by Hollywood, watching hit shows like Sesame Street, Different Strokes, and The Cosby Show. Claire Huxtable was the ideal for many preteen girls. She was a successful lawyer, a great mom, beautiful, and yes, wealthy. The fact that she was black and rich didn't seem improbable.
After leaving the nest it has been frustrating, to say the least, to learn that many of my African American contemporaries have been raised to distrust and seemingly isolate themselves whenever possible from whites. It often feels like one side is anxious to embrace the other, while the other side is saying, "Lets keep to ourselves. We've been burned before." I can't say that such feelings are not justified, I know they most certainly are. I question their productivity.
I can already hear the voices of protest. "How do you like it?" Well, "What goes around comes around." And, of course, "You haven't experienced near the hurt and rejection we have." All valid. All true. To some extent, even deserved.
My biggest concern is what the future holds for the children that Generation X is now raising. If one side wants to embrace the other only to be rebuffed with hurt and bitterness, what will the rejected side teach today's children? I don't believe today's thirtysomething white Mothers will be teaching overt racism, but something more along the lines of, "Well, Honey, they just don't like us, and there's not a lot we can do about it."
If this nightmare becomes reality, won't that preclude the possibility of anymore black talk show hosts, secretaries of state, bosses, or newspaper columnists? I believe there are dangers by not claiming and not celebrating hard won victories. By not declaring victory in the war against overt racism, subversive racism will flourish.
Regarding Oprah's immense popularity, Adams asks, "why and why now?" Simple. Oprah Winfrey is honest, funny, strong, charming, entertaining and smart as hell. The fact that she is black does not dampen our admiration and respect for her. Frankly, if Oprah says an apron is good, I believe her. I am more willing to fork over extra money for an apron she recommends than one, say, Peter Jennings might recommend.
Pam, the wealthiest and arguably the most powerful woman in America is black. Rejoice!
In the whole race and equality debate there is one event that seems to be overlooked. Victory. Not complete, 100% victory, no. There are still stupid, hateful people on the planet. There are still some who are simply "ignorant" and have not been educated as how to best judge a person's worth. (Hint, it isn't the content of pigment in their skin, Jackass.)
Yet, ugly, overt racism has taken a huge beating. Not just in words, but in deeds. Many (no, not all) white people think nothing unusual in having a black boss, professor, doctor, or Secretary of State. But in this country the real proof is in the pocketbook. White women want to be like Oprah.
They want to wear the same clothes, eat the same food, read the same books and they are ready and more than willing to spend a lot of money in order to do so. In this country, that is power. White women take Oprah's advice, and embrace her wisdom. Mothers flock to the television, baby in one arm, basket of laundry in another, to listen to child rearing and marital advice from someone who has no children and isn't married. They buy cookbooks, diet books, and exercise advice from someone who isn't a size two. There is no white counterpart.
However, Pam Adams remains ambivalent about Oprah. Is a black talk show host that promotes recipes and celebrities really furthering the cause?
Are you kidding me?
It isn't like Oprah hasn't taken on many tough issues, including race, during her reign as America's talk show diva. If her show was comprised only of make overs, movie clips, and fashion shows it would still have a lot of value. The Oprah Show is proof that huge strides have been made.
I am part of a generation and socio-economic class that was raised to not to judge people by their color. It was as inherent in our upbringing as "brush your teeth", "eat your vegetables", and "look both ways before crossing the street." It was further enforced in the media and by Hollywood, watching hit shows like Sesame Street, Different Strokes, and The Cosby Show. Claire Huxtable was the ideal for many preteen girls. She was a successful lawyer, a great mom, beautiful, and yes, wealthy. The fact that she was black and rich didn't seem improbable.
After leaving the nest it has been frustrating, to say the least, to learn that many of my African American contemporaries have been raised to distrust and seemingly isolate themselves whenever possible from whites. It often feels like one side is anxious to embrace the other, while the other side is saying, "Lets keep to ourselves. We've been burned before." I can't say that such feelings are not justified, I know they most certainly are. I question their productivity.
I can already hear the voices of protest. "How do you like it?" Well, "What goes around comes around." And, of course, "You haven't experienced near the hurt and rejection we have." All valid. All true. To some extent, even deserved.
My biggest concern is what the future holds for the children that Generation X is now raising. If one side wants to embrace the other only to be rebuffed with hurt and bitterness, what will the rejected side teach today's children? I don't believe today's thirtysomething white Mothers will be teaching overt racism, but something more along the lines of, "Well, Honey, they just don't like us, and there's not a lot we can do about it."
If this nightmare becomes reality, won't that preclude the possibility of anymore black talk show hosts, secretaries of state, bosses, or newspaper columnists? I believe there are dangers by not claiming and not celebrating hard won victories. By not declaring victory in the war against overt racism, subversive racism will flourish.
Regarding Oprah's immense popularity, Adams asks, "why and why now?" Simple. Oprah Winfrey is honest, funny, strong, charming, entertaining and smart as hell. The fact that she is black does not dampen our admiration and respect for her. Frankly, if Oprah says an apron is good, I believe her. I am more willing to fork over extra money for an apron she recommends than one, say, Peter Jennings might recommend.
Pam, the wealthiest and arguably the most powerful woman in America is black. Rejoice!
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