From press release

Jeremy Scahill, The Nation: “Blackwater, the private mercenary company owned by Erik Prince, has been thrust back into the spotlight by a series of stunning revelations about its role in covert U.S. programs. Since at least 2002, Blackwater has worked for the CIA in Afghanistan and Pakistan on ‘black’ contracts. On August 19, The New York Times revealed that the company was, in fact, a central part of a secret CIA assassination program that Dick Cheney allegedly ordered concealed from Congress.”
Visit http://www.truthout.org/083009B?n for the full report.

By Jim Hagerty, Staff Writer

Hundreds gathered outside the Rockford Public Safety Building late this morning, in protest of the shooting death of Mark Anthony Barmore, 23, killed by police inside a downtown church and day care center Monday.

Officers discharged their weapons after Barmore allegedly attempted to gain control of an officer’s gun.  The shooting occurred after Barmore fled from police on unrelated charges.

Protestors held signs reading “Stop Paying A Murderer” and “Peace Now.” The crowd then marched from public safety headquarters north on Court Street toward Kingdom Authority International Ministries Church, 518 N. Court St., the site of the shooting.

As the march, which also made a stop through Rockford City Hall, progressed, protesters chanted “We want justice,” “He had his hands up” and “He was surrendering in the house of the Lord.”

Police officials, including Rockford Police Chief Chet Epperson, said Barmore, who has an extensive criminal record of violent crimes, would not surrender when ordered by officers, Oda Poole, 37 and Stanton North, 47.

“Officers Poole and North attempted to get Mr. Barmore out of [a] closet, Epperson said.  “A struggle ensued between Officer Poole and Mr. Barmore. Officer Poole struggled with Mr. Barmore over his service weapon, and officers Poole and North both discharged their weapons.”

At least two witnesses claimed Barmore was shot as he slowly moved toward the officers with his hands up, complying with their orders.

Early reports said Barmore was shot as many as nine times. Winnebago County Coroner Sue Fiduccia would not confirm the number of gunshot wounds she found, however, she said it was less than nine.

As protesters moved up Court Street, some accused Epperson of lying about how the shooting occurred.

“There was no damned struggle,” Karl Jackson said. “[Barmore] was surrendering. When is this going to stop?  Kids are getting killed.”

After gathering in front of the church, protesters moved the march into the sanctuary, where many prayed, while others called for the removal of Poole and North from the police force.

Poole, a five-year veteran, is a decorated officer, having received a Law Enforcement Medal of Honor for his role in the rescue of people trapped inside a burning building.  North has been on the force for more than 20 years.

Both officers have been placed on administrative leave.

Several Rockford Police officers were on the scene directing traffic.  No arrests were reported.

For Photos CLICK HERE.

From press release

The Rev. David Jones, chairman of the Rockford Area CROP Hunger Walk, will present a $7,832.86 check to the Greater Rockford Pantry Coalition Tuesday, Sept. 1, at their board meeting, hosted by the Rock River Valley Pantry, 1080 Short Elm, Rockford.

CROP Hunger Walks across the country raise millions of dollars for Church World Service, which is a consortium of 35 denominations and communions that work together to provide domestic and overseas hunger relief.

Locally, 25 percent of the funds collected by the CROP Hunger Walk are returned to Rockford hunger programs, specifically the Greater Rockford Pantry Coalition. Last year’s Rockford Area CROP Hunger Walk raised $31,331.44, of which $7,832.86 is returned to the community.

Individual sponsors can designate the overseas portion of their funds to any major program such as Catholic Relief Services, the Red Cross, Hope International, Lutheran World Relief or others.

For more information, contact Rockford Urban Ministries, one of the many sponsors of the local walk, at (815) 964-7111.

This year’s CROP Hunger Walk is Sunday, Oct. 18, and will start and end at the Riverfront Museum Park, 711 N. Main St. The goal this year is 350 walkers raising $35,000.

From press release

The office of Winnebago County State’s Attorney Joe Bruscato announced Aug. 27 that Sidney Price, 21, pled guilty Aug. 25 to first-degree murder before Judge John Truitt in connection with the Oct. 5, 2005, shooting death of 27-year-old Bernard Melton Jr.

Melton was shot during an armed robbery. The defendant pled guilty to felony murder. Price received 20 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Co-defendant Scottie Clemons was previously sentenced to serve 35 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

The defendant will serve 100 percent of this sentence.

By Joe McGehee
Staff Writer

Area ministers and supporters are gathering at House of Grace Daycare and Preschool at 10 a.m. today, Friday, Aug. 28, to begin a march to voice concern over Monday’s fatal shooting at 518 N. Court St.

The marchers plan to stop at police headquarters and city hall to show their concern and voice their feelings about the fatal shooting that took place on the premises of House of Grace Monday, Aug. 24.

Check back to rockrivertimes.com for further developments.

From press release

Rock performers RED and Framing Hanley will co-headline On the Waterfront’s Oasis Stage Saturday, Sept. 5.

Framing Hanley will take the stage first, with RED will perform directly after them.

From Wikipedia: “RED was officially formed by guitarist Anthony Armstrong, bassist and twin brother, Randy Armstrong and lead vocalist, Michael Barnes. Guitarist Jasen Rauch, according to the End of Silence album booklet, is the band’s primary composer. Enlisting the talents of Grammy-nominated and Dove award-winning rock producer, Rob Graves, RED signed a development contract with Graves’ independent production company. After recording several demo songs, the band was quickly signed by SONY BMG imprint, Essential Records. Hendrix was fired and after an extended search, the band chose Hayden Lamb (twin brother of former Paramore guitarist, Hunter Lamb) as his replacement on drums. As a result of his successful early work with RED, Graves was chosen to produce the band’s debut album End of Silence.”

According to Wikipedia: “Lead singer and songwriter Kenneth Nixon, guitarists Tim and Brandon, bassist Luke and drummer Chris came together to form Framing Hanley and quickly gained a large following in Nashville. First formed in 2005, the band posted some demos of their songs on the bands myspace page. In November 2006, these demos were discovered by Brett Hestla,[citation needed] former Creed bassist and frontman of Dark New Day. Hestla helped the young Nashville-based quintet record a two-song demo in his Florida studio that captured the attention of Jeff Hanson (Creed, Sevendust, Paramore) and his record label Silent Majority Group. In June 2008, Tim left the band because of recurring back problems and to pursue other endeavors in his life. He was immediately replaced by a friend of the band, guitarist Ryan Belcher. This was originally a temporary arrangement but Ryan soon became a permanent member of the band.

“The band recorded their debut album, The Moment, with Hestla in Orlando, Fla. The disc was released in August 2007, and includes the single ‘Hear Me Now.’ In November 2008, Framing Hanley released The Moment Deluxe Edition, which also includes a rock cover of Lil Wayne’s hit ‘Lollipop.’ The band has since toured with Evans Blue, Red (band), and Cavo. Here is a recent live webcast the band did from Jacksonville Beach, Fla. http://app.synclive.com?show/30305 .

“According to an interview with up until the end of 2006, the band was called a different name, Embers Fade. Nixon stated that ‘our drummer’s fiancée Ashley Hanley passed away in October of 2006. She was a best friend of the rest of the band, and we wanted to do something to somewhat honor her. She used to take pictures for our band, hence ‘framing.’ Naming our band Framing Hanley was the least we could do for someone that means so much to us. Alone in This Bed (Capeside) is a song about her.’”

For tickets and more information, visit www.onthewaterfront.com.

From press release

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing an alert cautioning consumers and businesses about an increase in fraudulent cross-border lottery notifications that involve counterfeit checks. Consumers across the country are contacting Better Business Bureaus throughout the U.S. to ask about the legitimacy of notices they received by mail and spam e-mail announcing that they have won substantial sums of money in a foreign lottery.

Consumers may be given a telephone number to call and then instructed to cash certified checks in amounts ranging from $2,000 to $9,000 to collect their “entire award package.” They are then instructed to wire the money or send their own check back to the lottery company to cover fees or taxes.

Judy Redden of Chicago wired $3,870 thru Western Union after receiving a letter that stated she had won 2.8 million dollars from the Australian Lottery. The charges associated with receiving the earnings were for fees for the money to come to the USA.

“I had to pay $250 to deliver the check, then $720 for the insurance, then $2,900 for more insurance, then $3,000 for a certificate,” Redden said. “I told the agent I didn’t have any more money, and I was not going to send him $3,000 and I wanted a refund. I have not heard from the agent and no refund.”

Redden’s agent’s name was Peter Macourt who operates from 104 Victoria Road in London, England, with the phone number of 011-44-799-099-7582.

Dennis Horton, director of the Rockford Regional Office of the BBB serving Chicago and northern Illinois, said: “While most of these lottery notification letters deservedly end up in the trash, there appears to be an increase in the number of people who are taking them seriously. People need to realize the danger in responding to unofficial lottery-related solicitations. If they cash the counterfeit checks, they can end up liable for any funds they spend while waiting for the funds to clear.”

The BBB cautions consumers not to allow enticing dollar signs to obstruct common sense. If you are being directed to wire money, send a check, provide access to your bank account or credit card numbers or forward personal financial information to claim your winnings, contact your BBB. This is an attempt to steal your money or identity, by a person masquerading as a lottery official.

Horton added: “Even if no money is transferred to these organizations, simply providing an ID or bank account details to an unknown party makes consumers vulnerable to identity theft and fraudulent use of their bank account.”

If you have won a legitimate, legal lottery, you do not have to pay taxes, custom fees, shipping or handling or any other fee before receiving your winnings. In addition, it is illegal to participate in a foreign lottery through U.S. mail.

To learn more about foreign lottery scams and check scams, go to www.bbb.org.

From press release

Deadline for businesses to register for a booth at the Sept. 10 Regional Business Expo is Sept. 1.

The expo, held at the Indoor Sports Center in Loves Park, will feature members of the Belvidere, Byron, DeKalb, Freeport, Greater Beloit, Oregon, Loves Park/Machesney Park, Rockford and Winnebago chambers of commerce. More than 3,000 people are expected to attend. Booth registrations can be made online at www.rockfordchamber.com or by calling the Rockford Chamber of Commerce at (815) 963-8123.

The expo will be open 1-7 p.m. Admission is free to the public.

In addition to more than 250 business booths, the expo will feature an afternoon of networking and educational opportunities for attendees and exhibitors, including a keynote luncheon with Craig Culver, co-founder and CEO of Culver’s; four business workshops; a speed networking session; and business after hours. Registration is required for the luncheon, workshops and speed networking. Contact the Rockford Chamber to sign up.

From press release

CHICAGO—The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) is highlighting recent changes to Illinois’ Equal Pay Act that expands protections for workers from gender-based wage discrimination.

Gov. Pat Quinn (D) signed House Bill 3634 (H.B. 3634) Aug. 14 to enhance protections under the act, giving complainants more time to file a complaint with the department, more time to file a claim in civil court, and clarifying language in the statute regarding when a violation of the act has occurred. H.B. 3634 is effective immediately.

The extended filing periods will help complainants maintain their right to sue for back pay in court when employers delay paying backwages or refuse to cooperate with the department’s investigation and enforcement actions. IDOL is stepping up its outreach efforts to educate workers and employers about the amended Equal Pay Act through a series of training sessions and seminars, as well as e-mail blasts.

Catherine Shannon, director of the Illinois Department of Labor, said: “I am proud of the department’s work and its enforcement successes under the Illinois Equal Pay Act. Last year, the state achieved historical significance with its first court victory for equal pay. With this strengthened act, we will continue to protect individuals from gender-based pay discrimination in Illinois.”

H.B. 3634 extends the time period for filing a complaint with the department from within 180 days from the date the employee learned of the violation to within one year from the date of the underpayment. The amendment also extends the statute of limitations for filing actions in state court from within three years of the date the employee learned of the underpayment to within five years of the date of the underpayment. H.B. 3634 defines “date of the underpayment” as each time wages are underpaid, consistent with the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009. The law also requires employers to preserve specified records for five years rather than three years.

The Illinois Equal Pay Act, implemented in 2004, affords protections to hundreds of thousands of additional Illinois workers not covered under the federal Equal Pay Act of 1963. It also provides for additional enforcement mechanisms and greater public awareness regarding the law.

IDOL’s enforcement of the act has been successful in recovering more than $236,000 in backwages for women who were paid less than their male co-workers for doing the same work. The department won its first court victory last year when a Cook County Circuit Court judge ordered an employer to pay $12,000 in backwages and penalties to an employee. Earlier this year, the lower court’s judgment was upheld by the Illinois Appellate Court.

The act prohibits employers with four or more employees from paying unequal wages to men and women doing the same or substantially similar work, requiring equal skill, effort, responsibility and under similar working conditions.

There are exceptions, such as: wage differences based upon a seniority system, merit system, a system measuring earnings by quantity or quality of production or factors other than gender. The law protects both men and women from pay disparity, and any individual who files an equal pay complaint is protected from harassment or retaliation under the act. If an employer is found guilty of pay discrimination, they will be required to make up the wage difference to the employee, and may be subject to pay legal costs and civil fines of up to $2,500 per violation.

For more information about Illinois’ Equal Pay Act or to file a complaint, call the Illinois Department of Labor’s Equal Pay hotline at 1-866-EPA-IDOL. Complaint forms are also available on the department’s Web site, www.state.il.us/agency/idol.

From press release

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The United States and the state of Illinois have filed a civil complaint against Midwest Generation LLC, alleging the company violated, and continues to violate, the Clean Air Act, announced the Justice Department, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Illinois Attorney General’s office.

The complaint alleges Midwest Generation made major modifications to its coal-fired power plants in Illinois without also installing and operating required pollution control equipment. As a result, Midwest Generation’s six Illinois power plants, which have a combined capacity of more than 6,000 megawatts, are illegally emitting massive amounts of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter. The complaint also alleges emissions from Midwest Generation violated opacity and particulate matter limits.

The lawsuit, filed by the Justice Department on behalf of the EPA and the state of Illinois Attorney General’s Office, asks the court to order Midwest Generation to install and operate state-of-the-art air pollution control technology to substantially reduce emissions from the Midwest Generation power plants. The United States and the state of Illinois also seek civil penalties up to the maximum amount authorized by law, as well as actions by Midwest Generation to mitigate the adverse public health and environmental effects caused by the violations.

“The excess illegal emissions resulting from the violations alleged in the complaint are sufficient to cause serious harm to human health and the environment. Today’s federal court filing is the first step in this litigation, and it demonstrates our commitment to ensuring compliance with environmental laws in the energy sector,” said John C. Cruden, acting assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.

EPA Region 5 Acting Administrator Bharat Mathur said: “EPA’s first priority is to protect the health of the people who live near these six plants and are most exposed to their pollution. Today’s filing is a significant step toward improving the air quality not only of the communities in the shadow of these plants, but for those downwind of their emissions as well.”

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan said: “I am very concerned about the negative health effects that these aging plants have on the people who live in the communities where the Midwest Gen facilities are located. All Midwest Generation power plants must comply with the Clear Air Act and the Illinois Environmental Protection Act to safeguard public health and the environment.”

Coal-fired power plants collectively produce more pollution than any other source in the United States. Emissions from coal-fired power plants cause detrimental health effects, including heart attacks, respiratory disease and premature mortality.

To combat these adverse effects, the EPA and the Justice Department are pursuing a national initiative, targeting electric utilities whose coal-fired power plants violate the law. The suit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

From press release

A campaign finance bill that drew opposition from virtually every major reform organization in Illinois was vetoed by Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn (D) Aug. 27.

Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno (R-Lemont) applauded Quinn’s decision, saying the flaws in House Bill 7 were too great to overcome. Leader Radogno commended Quinn’s veto in the face of tremendous pressure by some to enact a bill that would “maintain the status quo.”

She is encouraged by the total veto—which was pushed by the Senate Republican Caucus and most major reform groups—saying it is a welcome opportunity to get campaign finance reform done right in Illinois. House Bill 7 was panned by the media, good government groups and many lawmakers, who felt it was appropriate to move forward and work on a better bill.

“This is a strong step in the right direction,” Radogno said. “The people of Illinois want reform that will restore their faith in state government. They want lawmakers to show them that we are serious about limiting the influence of money on our political process. House Bill 7 fell seriously short of accomplishing that.”

Quinn emphasized his desire to make 2009 the “year of reform in the Land of Lincoln.” He explained he thought it was best to go back to the drawing board to work on a law that will govern campaigns for generations, when it comes to campaign finances and conduct.

House Bill 7 had been pushed through the process by majority Democrats, despite the objections of the Illinois Reform Commission, the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform and Change Illinois. Senate Republicans joined the public watchdog groups in opposing the loophole-laden measure, saying the high contribution limits and broad definitions in the bill would blunt its effectiveness.

“Now, we have an opportunity to do this right,” Radogno said. “The previous bill wasn’t negotiated with all parties; good government is inclusive and takes into account everyone’s point of view. I am looking forward to bringing all the parties together to develop what I hope is a comprehensive proposal that will limit political contributions and open the process up to the public. We need to make sure we don’t waste this opportunity.”

From press release

In February 2009, Congress and the president committed unprecedented funding for the development of high-speed rail systems throughout the country.

The federal government’s investment in high-speed rail is good for the environment, good for the economy, and good for job creation throughout our region. This can create a fundamental structural reform for our nation’s transportation infrastructure.

Monday, Aug. 24, this federal funding cycle began in earnest when states were required to submit their bids for the first round of funding. The states involved in the Midwest high-speed rail network are coordinating their bids for federal funding as a result of an agreement reached in late July by each of the states’ governors and Chicago Mayor Richard Daley (D).

Join the Environmental Law Policy Center (ELPC) at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Sept. 1, for a special Webinar briefing featuring ELPC Executive Director Howard Learner and Deputy Director Kevin Brubaker to hear a summary of the Midwest projects, what’s at stake in this round of funding, and what to expect as we move closer to realizing our goal of high-speed rail in the Midwest.

Register for the briefing by clicking https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/schedule/display.do?udc=7wit6ifj920p.
For more information about ELPC’s efforts to promote high-speed rail in the Midwest, visit ELPC.org.

From press release

Kishwaukee Street project

Construction is progressing on Kishwaukee Street between Harrison Avenue and 15th Avenue. 18th Avenue eastbound will be closed from Seminary through the Fourth Street intersection for a few more weeks. For the entire project, absolutely no wide loads will be allowed, and extreme caution should be used in the area.

Kishwaukee Street bridge project

Kishwaukee Street was closed April 28 for construction of a new bridge and other items. The pedestrian bridge through the park and Kishwaukee Street bridge are being constructed and the new channel is being dug. Kishwaukee Street north of Buckbee and south of Pope will remain closed through the 2009 construction season. Traffic is encouraged to follow the appropriate detours.

Independence Street bridge reconstruction

Independence Street bridge just south of Preston Street has been closed since July 6 for replacement of the bridge deck. Removal of the bridge deck is complete and the new deck is being constructed. The bridge will be completely closed throughout the entire project. All through traffic must follow posted detour. The bridge is scheduled to re-open around Oct. 1

From press release

CHICAGO—For the 26th consecutive month, unemployment rates in all 12 Illinois metropolitan areas were above previous year’s levels in July, according to data released by the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).

Metro areas that reported the largest unemployment rate increases were: Peoria (plus 6.4 points, to 12.3 percent); Rockford (plus 6.1 points, to 15.1 percent); Decatur (plus 5.9 points, to 13.7 percent); and, Chicago-Naperville-Joliet (plus 3.8 points, to 10.7 percent).

Eleven of the 12 metro areas recorded their highest unemployment rate for July since the 1980s, two of which (Champaign and Lake-Kenosha) set all-time record highs for July.

Over the year, the total number of payroll jobs decreased in 11 of the 12 metropolitan areas. The largest percentage decreases in jobs were reported in Chicago-Naperville-Joliet (minus 4.7 percent, minus 184,500 jobs), Lake-Kenosha (minus 4.3 percent, minus 17,400 jobs) and Decatur (minus 4.0 percent, minus 2,200 job).

The unemployment rate for Illinois in July was 10.5 percent. The national figure was 9.7 percent.

July 2009 vs. July 2008 unemployment rates by metropolitan area:

Bloomington-Normal—7.2 percent vs. 5.5 percent in July 2008

Champaign-Urbana—8.3 percent vs. 6.3 percent in July 2008

Chicago-Naperville-Joliet—10.7 percent vs. 6.9 percent in July 2008

Danville—11.4 percent vs. 8.5 percent in July 2008

Davenport-Moline-Rock Island—7.7 percent vs. 5 percent in July 2008

Decatur—13.7 percent vs. 7.8 percent in July 2008

Kankakee-Bradley—11.7 percent vs. 8.6 percent in July 2008

Lake-Kenosha, Illinois-Wisconsin—9.5 percent vs. 6.4 percent in July 2008

Peoria—12.3 percent vs. 5.9 percent in July 2008

Rockford—15.1 percent vs. 9 percent in July 2008

Springfield—7.4 percent vs. 6.3 percent in July 2008

St. Louis (Illinois-section)—9.4 percent vs. 7.9 percent in July 2008

“These rates reflect ongoing challenges in the state and national economy,” IDES Director Maureen O’Donnell said. “Illinois’ experience is that it traditionally lags behind the national economy. The country felt the pain of this recession many months before it was felt in Illinois, and it is likely that the same pattern will hold true as the economy recovers.”

July 2009 vs. July 2008 total non-farm jobs by metropolitan area and total jobs lost:

Bloomington-Normal—89,500 vs. 89,900 in July 2008, a loss of 400 jobs

Champaign-Urbana—110,200 vs. 110,000 in July 2008, a gain of 200 jobs

Chicago-Naperville-Joliet Metro Division—3,697,500 vs. 3,881,000 in July 2008, a loss of 183,500 jobs

Danville—30,100 vs. 30,800 in July 2008, a loss of 700 jobs

Davenport-Moline-Rock Island—188,500 vs. 191,200 in July 2008, a loss of 2,700 jobs

Decatur—53,000 vs. 55,200 in July 2008, a loss of 2,200

Kankakee-Bradley—42,800 vs. 44,400 in July 2008, a loss of 1,600 jobs

Lake County-Kenosha County Metro Division—390,700 vs. 408,100 in July 2008, a loss of 17,400 jobs

Peoria—184,400 vs. 190,000 in July 2008, a loss of 5,600 jobs

Rockford—153,600 vs. 158,700 in July 2008, a loss of 5,100 jobs

Springfield—109,800 vs. 112,900 in July 2008, a loss of 3,100 jobs

Illinois Section of St. Louis—239,700 vs. 243,300 in July 2008, a loss of 3,600 jobs.

From press release

CHICAGO—Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn (D) appointed two new trustees to the University of Illinois Board of Trustees Aug. 26.

Quinn named Christopher G. Kennedy, president of Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc., and Lawrence Oliver II, chief counsel in charge of internal investigations for Chicago-based Boeing Co., to the board of trustees.

“With the appointment of these two strong and accomplished public servants, the rebuilding of the University of Illinois Board of Trustees begins,” said Quinn. “Each will work tirelessly to restore the university’s integrity and reputation for being one of the world’s foremost institutions of higher learning.”

Recently, the University of Illinois Board of Trustees came under fire after it was revealed that a special “clout list,” with hundreds of applicants, had existed for years, and that many on that list were granted favorable treatment and admission to the university.

Quinn issued an executive order forming the independent Admissions Review Commission, headed by former federal judge Abner Mikva, which investigated the “clout list” claims and ultimately recommended all nine appointed board trustees voluntarily resign.

Kennedy replaces Niranjan Shah, former chairman of the board, who recently resigned, and Oliver replaces trustee Lawrence Eppley, who also resigned.
Kennedy, 46, is son of former U.S. Sen. and U.S. Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy.

In making the appointments, Quinn said he intends to name five more trustees to the university board.

“We are off to a great start with Chris Kennedy and Lawrence Oliver,” said Quinn. “Within a few days, I intend to name the very best people to the board. Their mission will be to help this great university move forward again.”

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees consists of 13 members, including the governor. Nine are appointed by the governor for terms of six years, and three student trustees (one from each campus) are elected by referenda on their campuses for one-year terms. One of these student trustees is designated by the governor to have an official vote. The next trustee meeting is scheduled for Sept. 10 in Urbana, Ill.

From press release

WASHINGTON, D.C.—A presidential advisory group of the nation’s leading scientists and engineers released a new report Aug. 24 assessing the Obama administration’s preparations for this fall’s expected resurgence of 2009-H1N1 flu and outlining key steps officials can take in the coming weeks and months to minimize the disease’s impact on the nation.

The federal government’s preparations for 2009-H1N1 flu have been well organized and are scientifically grounded, according to the report by the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), which assembled a subcommittee of experts on influenza and public health for the purpose. (PCAST is an independent group of leading scientists from academia and industry administered by the Office of Science and Technology Policy in the Executive Office of the President.) But some aspects of those preparations could and should be improved or accelerated, the group concluded.

“As the nation prepares for what could be a challenging fall, it is crucial that our public health decisions are informed by the very best scientific and technological information,” said John P. Holdren, assistant to the president for Science and Technology and a co-chairman of PCAST.

The report concludes that the 2009-H1N1 flu is unlikely to resemble the deadly flu pandemic of 1918-19. But in contrast to the benign version of swine flu that emerged in 1976, the report says the current strain “poses a serious health threat” to the nation. The issue is not that the virus is more deadly than other flu strains, but rather that it is likely to infect more people than usual because it is a new strain against which few people have immunity. This could mean that doctors’ offices and hospitals may get filled to capacity.

Among the group’s prime recommendations: accelerate the preparation of flu vaccine for distribution to high-risk individuals; clarify guidelines for the use of antiviral medicines; upgrade the current system for tracking the pandemic’s progress and making resource allocation decisions; accelerate the development of communication strategies—including Web-based social networking tools—to broadcast public health messages that can help mitigate the pandemic’s impact; and identify a White House point person with primary authority to coordinate key decisions across the government as the pandemic evolves.

An overarching message of the new report is that through their behavior, individuals can have a potentially big impact on the flu season’s severity. Frequent hand-washing and staying home from school or work when sick will be crucial. The report recommends intensive public education campaigns to reinforce those key behaviors, and also calls for policy adjustments that can reduce economic and other incentives that might encourage people to risk infecting others. For example, workplaces could liberalize rules for absenteeism so employees don’t feel pressured to come to work when sick and school districts could arrange alternative means of distributing lunches to children who are sick but who normally depend on school meals for adequate nourishment.

From press release

URBANA, Ill.—Families can increase their resilience in tough financial times by taking care of themselves, practicing relaxation techniques, and recognizing the symptoms that signal a family member needs extra help, said a University of Illinois Extension family life educator.

“Encourage people to express their feelings, and don’t tell a depressed or anxious family member to snap out of it. Try to be supportive and flexible,” said Rachel Schwarzendruber.

In times of stress, it’s important to eat balanced meals and get enough sleep and exercise, she said. But you can also cope with stress overload by taking a break from the stressful situation.

1. Take a walk.

2. Watch a movie.

3. Spend time on yourself—take a long bath or shower.

4. Listen to music.

5. Work in the yard or garden.

6. Work on your favorite hobby or start a new one.

7. Jog, dance or participate in some other physical activity.

Another approach is to reduce excess muscle tension by using relaxation exercises. Here are some simple techniques that may take practice, so try to do them at least twice a day.

Belly breathing: Sit or lie comfortably in a relaxed position. As you slowly breathe in, let your belly expand. Think of it as a balloon filling with air. As you exhale, let the air out of your “balloon” slowly. Place your hands on your stomach. You should feel it rise and fall as you breathe.

Slower respiration rate: Slow your breathing rate by seeing how few times you can breathe each 60 seconds. When you begin to get tense, take a few minutes and simply slow your breathing to about three to six breaths a minute.

Shoulder exercise: Try to touch your ears with your shoulders. Hold it for a count of four. Then, let your shoulders drop. Now, rotate each shoulder separately toward the rear. Do each shoulder five to 10 times. Then, do both shoulders together.

Massage: Massage the back of your neck, concentrating on the part that feels tense. Cup your thumbs at the front of your neck and massage on both sides of your spinal column, letting your head fall limply back against your rotating fingers. Use your fingers to massage around your hairline and under your jaw and your cheekbones.

Mental vacation: Close your eyes and think of a place where you would like to be. Go there in your mind. You may go alone or you may imagine being with someone. Quietly watch a sunset or take in a mountain, forest, or ocean scene. Or, you may be active in hunting shells or rocks, hiking, playing a sport or game, climbing a mountain, or cycling. Enjoy the experience.

If you are experiencing an extreme level of stress, seek the support of your family doctor, a mental health professional, a member of the clergy or a support group.

Schwarzendruber said these symptoms mean you or a family member may need outside help.

· Feeling depressed (crying for no reason, lack of personal care, feeling as if you don’t want to do anything, fatigue, unreasonable fears, inability to concentrate, change in appetite)

· Changed sleeping patterns (sleeping too much, difficulty falling asleep, waking a lot during the night and too early in the morning)

· Abusing family members

· Thinking about suicide

· Disciplining too harshly

· Hallucinating (hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there)

· Considering separation from your spouse

· Not being able to think of anything good to say

· Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol (drinking in the morning, hiding liquor so no one knows you’re drinking, drinking more than two or three beers every night)

· Feeling guilty, as though you aren’t being a good parent to your kids

· Experiencing isolation (you don’t know anyone to talk to and you have a strong need to talk to someone)

· Making excuses for your situation or lying about your situation

· Having panic attacks (you may have a high pulse rate or difficulty breathing)

· Feeling overwhelmed by life

Schwarzendruber added: “Before your problems become too big to handle, find a trained, skilled counselor to help you handle your fears, adjust to your present situation, and plan for the future. Health insurance may help pay for counseling, while some counselors charge on a sliding scale, depending on your ability to pay. A clergyperson may provide counseling at no cost.”

For other good advice about getting through tough financial times, including how to deal with foreclosure, which bill to pay first, how to talk to your creditors, how to save food dollars, how to talk to your children about your financial situation, and more, visit U of I Extension’s “Getting Through Tough Financial Times” Web site at http://www.ToughTimes.illinois.edu.

From press release

CherryVale Mall will host a Healthcare Expo, Friday, Aug. 28-Sunday, Aug. 30.
The Healthcare Expo will take place throughout all mall hours, throughout the mall.

Among the exhibitors are the following: Blue Cross/Blue Shield; Caraotta Chiropractic Orthopedics; Dental Designers; Greater Beloit Publishing Company; Heit Rehab; Hinckley Springs Water; JD Home Biz; Miller Eye Center; Northwoods Care Center; True Laser; and Weight Watchers.

“The Healthcare Expo will allow shoppers to browse a variety of different vendors, all in one setting,” said Mark Peterson, CherryVale Mall general manager.

Peterson added, “Each vendor will have a booth staffed by at least one on-site person at the Expo, most, if not all, mall hours, to answer questions or provide additional information.”

The health care shows are becoming a big attraction for mall customers. The first, held in January 2009, was well received from both CherryVale Mall shoppers and the participating vendors, and the August Expo is turning out to mirror January’s show.

From press release

Magic Waters Waterpark is ending the season with a splash by offering $10 admission over the next few weekends. The park will be closed weekdays, but each weekend through Labor Day, general admission to the park is just $10 (not valid with other promotions; tickets must be purchased at the gate).

The waterpark will be open Saturdays and Sundays, Aug. 29-30; Sept. 5-6; and Monday, Sept. 7. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

“The weather has been heating up this August, and our $10 admission on weekends and on Labor Day offers families an affordable end-of-summer outing. Summer is not over yet at Magic Waters,” said Magic Waters and Aquatic Director Jessica Steinberg.

Purchase a new 2010 season pass by Sept. 7 and get in FREE for the rest of the 2009 season. Renew your current season pass by Sept. 7 at a discounted rate and get a free gift (while supplies last).

For more information, contact Jessica Steinberg at (815) 289-0748 or visit www.magicwaterswaterpark.com.

Doug Scott

By Jim Hagerty, Staff Writer

Some say former Rockford Mayor and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Director Doug Scott’s days at his current post are numbered. Others, specifically Illinois Comptroller Dan Hynes, say Scott has worn out his welcome and should be removed.

Scott was appointed by former Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D) to head the Illinois EPA after serving four years as Rockford mayor.  He was defeated by Larry Morrissey (I) in 2005 in his bid for a second term.

Hynes, who will reportedly begin a gubernatorial campaign, has criticized current Ill. Gov. Pat Quinn’s (D) leadership ability, most notably his decision to allow Blagojevich appointees to operate on what he calls a continuation of “pay- to-play” politics.

“The Blagojevich culture of politically driven decisions still has a foothold in Pat Quinn’s administration, and Illinois families are the clear victim,” Hynes claimed in a press release. “I am calling on the governor immediately to remove Doug Scott.”

According to reports, a number of  state environmental wrongdoings have gone unreported by Scott’s office, including cancer-causing pollution and waste leaks in at least two Chicago suburbs.

Scott’s office has allegedly only brushed-over similar occurrences locally, such as the June 19 train derailment that allegedly spilled tens of thousands of gallons of ethanol into the Kishwaukee and Rock rivers, killing more than 70,000 fish.

The attorney general has been given the green light by the IEPA to pursue enforcement against Canadian National/Illinois Central Railroad for the accident, which also killed two people. However, a reported gag order and several conflicting reports have shed little light on the true nature of the environmental damage.

The IEPA is also said to have been too lenient on the city of South Beloit in requiring it to repair its wastewater treatment plant, which, for several months this year, had been leaking more than 700,000 gallons of untreated wastewater per day into the Rock River.

In a late July report, a representative from Atty. Gen. Lisa Madigan’s office told The Rock River Times the office had not yet been contacted by the IEPA regarding the treatment plant problems.

IEPA officials initially gave South Beloit until Aug. 4 to draft a plan to fix leaks and an old pump, and a  year to re-vamp the plant, or have the matter turned over the attorney general.

After the Chicago Tribune alleged the IEPA has been extremely lax in properly sending reports of violations to Madigan’s office, Scott admitted his office did have problems with the attorney general in the past. He did not, however, elaborate on them.

“There were some issues between us and the attorney general,” Scott told the Tribune.

Some assert the issues Scott referred to are connected to Madigan’s investigation of Rod Blagojevich and his alleged acts of making political appointments in exchange for campaign contributions.

Records show the IEPA, under Doug Scott, has not sent a criminal case to the attorney general in two years.

Rod Blagojevich was impeached in January after being charged with several federal crimes including allegedly putting the U.S. Senate seat, vacated by President Barack Obama (D), up for sale.

Before Hynes began calling for Scott’s head, Lisa Madigan’s office uncovered thousands of environmental violations by several coal-fired power plants owned by known Chicago-polluter, Midwest Generation. Those infractions were reportedly disregarded by the IEPA, while Blago’s administration began smooth-over attempts without keeping the attorney general abreast of its actions.

Midwest Generation owns five coal plants and was first cited by the IEPA for environmental infractions in 2007.  Aside from its Chicago site, the company owns plants in Pekin, Waukegan, Joliet and  Romeoville.

A Chicago-area coalition of environmental groups claims plants in Romeoville and Joliet cause more than 90 premature deaths and almost 7,000 asthma attacks each year. The coalition filed a civil suit against the company in July.

A federal investigation of the Midwest Generation case uncovered company ties to Blagojevich through a campaign aide.

By Jim Hagerty, Staff Writer

Since the South Beloit City Council moved to transfer an employee from the Department of Public Property to another division within the city in May, Commissioner Pam Clifton said her ability to perform her duties as an elected official has been disrupted.

South Beloit Commissioner of Public Property, Pam Clifton

Clifton further claims the measure to move her only employee is unfair and against the advice of legal council and state and local law.

“We (South Beloit) are in the middle of collective bargaining,” Clifton explained. “The city’s labor attorney said it was not an good idea to move my only employee.”

As Commissioner of Public Property, Clifton is responsible for supervising the repair and upkeep of all public buildings and city property. This includes mowing lawns, cleaning and maintenance.

Clifton has been on the South Beloit City Council for seven years. For five years, she has run her department with one employee. With the employee now moved, she must run her department’s service requests through the South Beloit Street Department.

Clifton alleges she is the only council member now required to answer to a department supervisor.

“No one commissioner is more important than another,” Clifton said. “All have the exact same rights and responsibilities under state law, despite the fact that we run different departments. I cannot help but feel that with this move, I am being treated differently.”

Since her employee was transferred, Clifton asserts, several regular grounds-keeping duties, such as mowing, have been put off and only completed when she’s pressed other officials and grass has reached unsightly lengths.

“I no longer have control over the work my department is responsible for,” she said. “We are elected officials.”

Rockford attorney Roxanne Sosnowski, in response to Clifton’s request for legal opinion, stated she is unaware of any provision in state or local statute that would require a commissioner of any department to run requests for service through another department supervisor or commissioner.

Sosnowski noted the South Beloit Code of Ordinances (Chapter 2, Article 4) states the Commissioner of Public Property should have complete supervision over all public property and buildings, except those assigned to other city divisions.

Sosnowski also noted the City Council’s decision to transfer Clifton’s employee to another department would, in fact, impede her power as an elected supervisor, as stated in the South Beloit City Code of Ordinances.

“Statutes must be respected,” Clifton said.

Clifton said she hasn’t been given a sensible reason for the council’s measure.

“I think they feel they should spread the work to six other people, when quality work has always been done with just one employee,” she said.  “I also think some employees are being favored and  residents need to know this.”

Attempts to contact South Beloit Mayor Randy Kirichkow were unsuccessful.