From Where I Blog

2006-08-29T05:28:00.000-07:00

GREENIES WILL FIND OUT THURSDAY

Green Party candidates, particularly Carbondale attorney Rich Whitney who is running as third party gubernatorial candidate, will find out Thursday how the state election board rules in their bid to et on the November ballot.

From my perspective if Whitney is on the ballot it would certainly make things more interesting and also give many voters who are not thrilled at the Democratic or Republican candidates, another option. Most so-called political experts feel like Whitney will not make a difference even if he does make the ballot.

Here's the story from the Bloomington Pantagraph.

Also, the Illinois Radio Network says that Whitney will not be allowed to be involved in the debates. Here's that story.

To try and generate some comments, what do you think, should he be on the ballot, will he make a difference and should he be allowed to debate with Blago and Topinka?

IF YOU EVER WONDER WHY THERE IS VOTER APATHY ... READ THIS STORY

I question sometimes why Illinois residents are not up in arms about the fact that we live in a state that is the poster child for political corruption. It makes me downright mad that some folks just don't seem to care and that we continue to send the same bozos back to Springfield hoping somehow that things are going to change ... which of course they never do.

Then I run across a story like this one in the Chicago Sun-Times and I realize why apathy is wide spread in Illinois and why many people have simply turned their head away from the mess and said 'what's the use in trying or caring?'

Read this and expect to get mad.

2006-08-24T06:04:00.000-07:00

TOMPINKA RELEASES FOUR-YEAR BUDGET PLAN TO MIXED REVIEWS

A detailed four-year budget plan was presented Wednesday by Republican gubernatorial hopeful Judy Baar Topinka. The plan, which calls for increased funding for schools and a two-year freeze on property taxes, drew mixed reviews and lukewarm responses from both Democrats and Republicans.

In an effort to present as broad of a view as possible I'm going to post several links.

Here's the press release, posted on The Capital Fax Blog. Here's the Blagojevich response.

Here's the Chicago Tribune story.

And a story in Crain's.

The Arlington Daily Herald weighs in.

The Chicago Sun-Times story.

Mayor Daley likes Topinka's casino idea.

IT'S THURSDAY ...

... and that means it's time to post my weekly column.

Comfort the afflicted ... and afflict the comfortable.

DOES THE PUNISHMENT FIT THE CRIME?

2006-08-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

Since I'm very, very tired of political campaigns, the JonBenet investigation and New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin -- and it seems that is all that is in the news the past few days, I found a single story that will make up my Tuesday blogging effort.

The high school football season in Southern Illinois kicks off Friday night so the story is very timely.

Two young men in Kenton, Ohio, both standout high school football players decided to pull a prank and put a plastic decoy deer in the road to see how motorists would react. After setting the decoy in the road the pair then hid alongside the road and watched as motorists swerved to avoid it.

One motorist swerved too much, his vehicle left the roadway and the end result was serious injuries to the two people in the vehicle, one with a broken neck and the other with brain injuries.

OK, armed with those facts what is the suitable punishment for the two boys who pulled the bonehead stunt? The answer to that question, you'll find out, might depend on how good the high school football team is expected to be this season.

I'm going to post a link to the story and I'd love for you to comment on the following questions:

Here's the story.

* Does the punishment fit the crime?
* Should the two boys be allowed to play football, period?
* Should the high school set standards for such behavior?
* What would your reaction be if the injuries were sustained by your child?
* What would your reaction be if your child pulled the prank that resulted in serious injuries to two people?

OK, kids wade in and let me know what you think.

JonBenet, the Mayor of Chocolate City, Pat Buchanan and the Common Sense Express

2006-08-21T05:08:00.000-07:00

A KOOK OR A KILLER?

The circumstances surrounding John Mark Karr, the man who claimed last week that he was with JonBenet Ramsey when she died, has gone from strange to bizarre.

Karr arrived in the United States from Thailand on Sunday night and apparently lived a slice of the high life on his 15-hour flight. I would hope that this might end the case for all the parties involved but I have my doubts if he is the real killer. Some are saying he's a nut that is obsessed with the unsolved murder and the little girl and has thrown himself into the center of the murder investigation.

Here's some interesting links about the case.

Champagne flight

Roast duck, soy sauce and yellow noodles

Indulging Karr ... a brilliant move

EVEN IF YOU DON'T LIKE HIM ...

Yes, Pat Buchanan gets under my skin sometimes and yes, I find him annoying most of the time. However, Buchanan has released a new book entitled "State of Emergency: Third World Invasion and Conquest of America" that is nothing short of eye-opening.

The Drudge Report offered an early glimpse at the book and it contains some amazing facts and figures. I will definitely have this on my 'must read' list.

I hate to make you mad on a Monday morning but this is some pretty amazing stuff.

Here's the link.

THE CHOCOLATE CITY MAYOR

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin just can't seem to keep his foot out of his mouth and he has it lodged firmly between his jaws again.

This time Nagin is saying that racism and red tape has slowed down the recovery in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina -- this of course despite the fact that tens of billions of dollars have been funneled into his city.

Nagin is also lamenting the fact that the population of New Orleans is still only 250,000 -- down from the 460,000 when the Katrina hit. I would bet and give odds that Houston would gladly give back the hooligans that migrated there when New Orleans went under water. You will remember a story from last week where a report showed that the murder rate and crime rate in Houston has increased by more than 17 percent during the past year.

Here's more on Nagin.

REGARDLESS OF YOUR POLITICS ...

Whether you're a Democrat or a Republican you have to admit that a full-slate of statewide candidates traveling traveling through small communities that have been largely overlooked is refreshing.

The six Republican candidates for statewide office in Illinois -- Judy Barr Topinka, Joe Birkett, Carole Pankau, Christine Rodogno, Dan Rutherford and Stewart Umholtz -- made a swing through Southern Illinois Saturday on a huge bus called "Common Sense Express."

And this is not a one afternoon, two or three city stop, this is a weeklong journey that will travel more than 2,000 miles and with stops in 34 communities -- communities like Nashville, Mt. Vernon, Greenville, Farina, Olney and Fairfield.

I covered the story on Saturday during a swing through Mt. Vernon and Nashville and was invited to ride th bus during the 20-mile ride and you got the sense that these people genuinely like each other.

Once again, regardless of your political persuasion you have to admit that a grass roots approach is refreshing.

Here's the story.

DO AS I SAY ... NOT AS I DO

2006-08-16T05:51:00.000-07:00

As you're aware Sen. Barack Obama made a swing through Southern Illinois this week and held a series of townhall meetings. During those meetings Obama fielded questions on a variety of topics including $3 per gallon gas and our dependency on foreign oil. Obama said global warming is being caused by gas-guzzling vehicles and added that people should switch to hybrids.

"It would save more energy, do more for the environment and create better world security than all the drilling we could do in Alaska. This is a problem we can't drill our way out of."

As reported on The Drudge Report today, as soon as Obama made that declaration he made his way through the crowd where he climbed into the back seat of his SUV and sped away from Southern Illinois.

Here's the story.

RACIAL PROFILING? OR, A DESCRIPTION OF THE SUSPECT?

I'll vote for the latter.

As always after a terrorist attack or even a thwarted terrorist attack the political correctness crowd comes crawling out of the woodwork to say that it is unconstitutional to profile Muslims in airports and train stations.

I'll link to a pair of stories that will give the pros and cons of this argument. Once again, I say it's a description of the suspect.

Racial profiling is un-American.

Reconsidering our position on profiling.

CAN YOU SAY ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

I wrote a story a few years ago about a woman that had been arrested nine times and thought that was bad and an indictment on the judicial system. This story makes that woman look like an angel.

Man arrested for 226th time.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME

I love baseball and look at it as a getaway from the rat race that we know as life. Nothing is more exciting than a summer afternoon or night at Busch Stadium. In the business I'm in, with mostly negative news and cynical people, baseball is an escape, albeit for a few hours, a real escape.

I ran across this column, written by Garrison Keillor, and found it masterful, accurate, heart-tugging and overall simply subperb. I know your day is frantic, so is mine, and I know you have to hurry through this blog, but take a few minutes to read Keillor's words. I did early this morning and it made my day better. Hopefully it will have the same effect on you.

Here's the column.

THINGS ARE ABOUT TO GET INTERESTING ...

2006-08-15T05:26:00.000-07:00

... or at least that's what some people are predicting.

I'm not big on rumors, unless of course they come from very reliable sources. I heard one of those rumors Sunday night and, given the people involved, I decided to share it with you. If nothing else, it will be fun to sit back and watch and see if this really transpires.

A good friend with good connections in Springfield and Chicago reports that a well-respected newsman told him that 'the world is going to fall on the Blagojevich administration' within the next two weeks.'

Once again, if Joe Blow at the convenience store told me that I would disregard it and go on, but when the people involved talk, well ... I listen.

Was the newsperson talking about the ongoing investigation? Was he talking about indictments that might be handed down? When asked, the reporter would only say again that things are going to get real interesting within two weeks.

Coincidentally, two weeks is roughly Labor Day -- or the official start to the 2006 campaign.

If something big happens in the next two weeks you can say you heard it hear first.

TENSIONS MOUNTING?

Maybe it's someting ... and maybe it's not ... but I found a lot of stories in the past few days that make it appear that nerves are starting to get a little frayed and that tensions seem to be mounting. Maybe it ties in with the tidbit of information I tossed out earlier or maybe the dog days and the heat and humidity of August are making nerves a little frazzled.

Read this, this, this, this, this and this.

And here's a column by Rich Miller that ties all this together.

SNOW WHITE VS. THE SUPREME COURT ... IT'S NO CONTEST

This is a sad commentary on the future.

Here's the story ... sad but true.

KATRINA VICTIMS STILL MAKING HEADLINES

Exactly one year ago this month (Aug. 29 to be exact) Hurricane Katrina devastated the gulf coast, particularly Mississippi and Louisiana. We all still remember the devastation in New Orleans where about half the city was under water and people were clinging to rooftops to try and stay alive.

The city of Houston opened its arms and took busload after busload of Katrina victims from New Orleans. Well, it appears that Houston's generosity hasn't paid off for the Texas city. In fact Houston has seen a dramatic increase in murders, crime overall and especially gang-related crimes.

What a great way to say 'thanks' for all your help.

Here's the story.

INTERESTING READING

Travel plans may alienate Muslims

Another example of the 'new' Democratic party.

You deserve a great today at McDonalds

WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING ...

2006-08-10T05:44:00.000-07:00

I imagine I'm like most people when I wake up every morning. My first order of business, actually my second order of business, is to turn on my computer and quickly get caught up with what is taking place locally, in Illinois and around the world. Computers have literally put the world at our fingertips.

Sometimes the news we receive about what has been taking place while we were sleeping is chilling and today is one of those days. During the night British intelligence agents uncovered and then stopped another planned terrorist attack. This one was designed to blow up several planes flying from England to the U.S. The airlines to be attacked were United, American and Contintental. Apparently, from what has been released thus far the plan was simple, blow up as many planes as possible thus killing as many innocent people as possible.

Ina all 21 people, all Muslims (that's a shocker, huh?) have been taken into custody. British officials say the plot has the look of a strong connection to Al-Qaeda (another shocker).

This is just another reminder that there are terrorists working hard on a daily basis to kill innocent people. Yet, there will be those who will still scream 'racial profiling' if Muslims are singled out in airports. Once again and for the umpteenth time, it is not racial profiling ... it is a description of the suspect.

I'm going to load you up on links to the story that will dominate the news today and for several days to come.

Go here , here, here, here, here, here, here, here and here.

ON THE LOCAL FRONT

Republican gubernatorial candidate Judy Barr Topinka weighs in on venue shopping and Illinois' reputation as a judicial hell-hole. Here's the story.

... while Gov. Rod Blagojevich is concerned about the 'morning after.' Here's that story.

BASEBALL ... WITH NO POLITICS ON THE SIDE

I've written briefly about my feelings about the Marion baseball project and the decision by state officials to hand over $4 million to a privately funded project. In today's column I went into much greater detail. Here' that column.

SEN. JONES FILES FOI REQUEST TO OBTAIN PRISON STUDY

2006-08-08T05:08:00.000-07:00

I have a very busy Tuesday morning lined up but I wanted to post before I hit the road, otherwise it will be afternoon. So, it will be short and sweet until I can get a little more time later in the day.

I attended a press conference in Mt. Vernon on Monday concerning the prison understaffing. State Sen. John Jones was the featured speaker and announced that he has filed a request through the Freedom of Information Act to get the results of a study conducted about staffing in Illinois prisons.

Believing that I have a good nose for news I find the story pretty remarkable, especially the fact that a state legislator is forced to filed a FOI request to obtain a public document ... from the state.

Here's the story.

Check back later today, I promise to have more.

MORE ON MEDICAID

2006-08-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

I know I've devoted a lot of time on this blog to the Medicaid issue but I truly believe that aside from the rampant corruption in the state this is the biggest crisis that we are facing.

During the past two weeks I've spoken with at least a dozen individuals -- doctors, hospital administrators, pharmacists, nursing home administrators and even a handful of lawmakers -- about this one issue and everybody agrees that the problem is monumental and that it will get worse before it gets better.

The state's failure (and it is a failure) to pay its bills and reimburse health care providers is causing a chain reaction of events. First, doctors are leaving the state in droves because they simply cannot wait sometimes up to eight months to get paid. Then when doctors leave, particularly in rural areas like Southern Illinois, the first ones to suffer are the patients who are left to find other health care providers, sometimes hundreds of miles away.

Another part of the chain reaction is that health care facilities are being denied credit by vendors who aren't as patient about waiting to get paid. This of course forces these facilities to sometimes lay off employees in order to survive. Some of these facilities have borrowed money just to meet payroll to the point that they cannot borrow any more.

I'm going to post a couple of stories for you to examine. The first one, whichI wrote, talks about the $1 million (on top of the previous $3 million) handed out to the Marion baseball project while the state has billions of dollars in delinquent Medicaid bills.

Consider these comments by George Maroney, administrator at Carbondale Memorial Hospital.

Maroney said he sees a clear-cut and simple solution to the ongoing Medicaid crisis."The way you bring this to a head very quickly to make the legislature take some action is to treat everybody the same, which means state employees, legislators, everybody," Maroney said. "Start paying everybody on the same schedule that health care providers are paid, and I guarantee you things will change."I can promise you that if the workers at SIU didn't get their paychecks when they are supposed to get their paychecks, there would be a huge stink. We're not getting our checks but the rest of state government is still paying part of their bills. If they can't pay all of us they shouldn't pay anybody."

Here's the entire story.

A SOLUTION FOR MEDICAID CRISIS?

State Sen. Carol Pankau, a Republican candidate for comptroller, says she has a plan to eliminate the current problems facing the Medicaid issue.

I'm all ears, Senator.

After reading Pankau's proposal it seems simple -- like why didn't somebody think of this a long time ago -- but it also seems like a viable solution to me. Keep in mind the comments from the Governor's office about the different funds and why Blago can hand out another cool million for a baseball project while billions in Medicaid payments go unpaid.

As the Republican candidate for state comptroller, State Sen. Carole Pankau didn't sugarcoat her views on why the state Medicaid program faces a nearly $3 billion backlog, or why Illinois pharmacies, nursing homes and physicians can wait up to eight months for state reimbursement.
"Illinois is a deadbeat state when it comes to paying Medicaid providers," said Pankau, of DuPage County.

Here's the story on Pankau's proposal to fix Medicaid crisis.

Obviously, writing,yelling, whining, complaining, moaning, bickering and bitching is not getting this problem solved. What do you think, will Pankau's proposal work? What I like about it is that at least she has tossed out a solution and I've yet to see anybody else offer a remedy for the problem that must be fixed. Finally, I say shame on any lawmaker who voted for the current budget that pushes aside these Medicaid bills and leaves this dark cloud hanging over the entire state.

As always, I'd like for you to jump in on this issue and toss out your opinion.

I KNOW IT'S LATE ...

2006-08-03T13:26:00.000-07:00

I know it's late ... I know you're weary ... I know your plans don't include me ... still here we are ... both of us blogging -- boy, that would make a great song wouldn't it?

Seriously, I am normally a morning blogger but got tied up today and here I am trying to rush in a post before rushing off to St. Louis to try and help the Cardinals snap a six game losing streak.

Two brief stories I want to hit on and both should merit some comments.

First, Gov. Blagojevich doles out another cool $1 million (on top of the other $3 million he gave previously) to the Marion baseball project on Wednesday and his action didn't miss the attention of area health care providers who are struggling (that's an understatement) to even meet payroll because of millions of dollars in backlogged Medicaid payments.

What's your take on the Guv's 'gift and should the state be involved in handing out millions to a privately owned project when health care providers are in a crisis situation?

Here's the story.

HERE COME THOSE PESKY GREENIES AGAIN

Nicole Sack of the Southern Illinoisan did a great job trying to pin Blagojevich down on the issue concerning the debate. Here's the lede to the story.

The Green Party gubernatorial hopeful Rich Whitney said he "can practically guarantee" his place on the November ballot - claiming the Greens have upheld 1,000 more signatures than legally required for ballot access.

It seems Blago is resistant to Whitney being a part of the debates. Here's the question once again. If Whitney gets on the ballot should he be a part of the debates? I say a resounding YES ... what are your thoughts?

Wade in on this one.

Here's the story.

DOG DAYS ARE HERE ... AND I'M A DOG

2006-08-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

Did you ever get in one of those moods where everything in the news seems bad?

I just spoke with a co-worker and we both agreed that time is right now. The weather is too hot, Illinois has too much corruption ... the war in Iraq ... Israelis fighting Hizbollah ... billions owed in Medicaid payments ... doctors leaving the state because they can't get paid ... clinics laying off employees ... gas prices at $3 per gallon ... medical providers borrowing money to pay bills ... Chris may become the first hurricane of 2006 ... and on and on and on.

But, we must trudge on.

A COMMENT WORTH POSTING

Since I go out of my way to encourage people to visit the comments section I should probably highlight it when a blogger makes a post that, as the saying goes, 'hits the nail on the head.'

I blogged yesterday about campaign financing and the Illinois gubernatorial race. The question centered on the fact that Blagojevich has a campaign warchest with more than $12 million -- far more than challenger Judy Barr Topinka -- and did that provide an advantage to the Guv that is insurmountable.

Here's what an anonymous poster had to say:

I am not sure that any amount of money could buy credibility for Blagojevich. I think that we have seen that by the 20 million he has already spent on his campaign. His approval rating is still hovering in the mid 40 percentile. That is big trouble for any incumbent governer.

There is no way that Topinka can raise the kind of cash that he has. But, she doesn't need to.

Four years ago, Jim Ryan came within 4 percentage points of beating Rod. And, four years ago, at the same time, Jim Ryan reported 680,000 dollars on hand at the time of reporting. He got beaten for two reasons.

First, he was tagged with the dastardly last name of RYAN. You would be amazed at the number of people who thought that he was GEORGE, or they thought he was somehow related.

Secondly, Rod's entire platform was that of rooting out corruption. And, no more "business as usual"I think that he has failed on that promise miserably. And, I am certain that Topinka can, and will, successfully highlight those aforementioned shortcomings.

All I can add to that is -- well said ... very well said.

ALSO ...

A daily read of mine is the Illinoize Blog which covers a wide variety of topics mostly about politics. I occasionally post and cross post on the site but always give it a glance everyday.

I read with interest the comments of Charlie Johnson, a frequent poster.

Go there and read his take on the gubernatorial race as we roll into August. Scroll down to 'NOT TIME TO PLAY TAPS FOR TOPINKA.'

ANOTHER DOSE OF BAD NEWS ... BUT IT'S INTERESTING

Check out this story in the Belleville News-Democrat about Blago's legal fees. Is it any wonder that Illinois is considered the poster child for political corruption when our top elected official is running up legal fees like this?

Here's the story.

FINALLY ...

Nationally syndicated columnist Kathleen Parker does a great job in this column explaining about the recent alleged (and I stress alleged) Israeli bombing that killed 34 children. She has a unique and I believe dead-on accurate take on what took place.

Here's her column.

THE WINDY CITY AND BIG BUCKS FOR BLAGO

2006-08-01T06:33:00.000-07:00

CHICAGO ... MY KIND OF TOWN ... TO VISIT

After two days in Chicago, a weekend of trying to catch up from being off those two days and a Manic Monday, I'm happy to be back.

I love Chicago ... but I wouldn't want to live there.

My wife and I, along with two other couples, hopped the Amtrak last Thursday morning and headed for the Windy City to take in the first of the four game series between the Cardinals and Cubs. I think we crammed as much into two days as we possibly could. Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's, a stroll through Navy Pier and a two-hour stint at the Billy Goat Tavern certainly made the trip worthwhile.

Overall, it was a great trip except that the Cards lost Thursday night -- which set the tone for the weekend disaster that followed.

Cubs' fans had a lot to crow about during the weekend but, hey, when you're battling with Pittsburg for last place and your team has an overall record of 41-62 ... I say crow away ... because that's about all that the Cubbies have to gloat about this year.

Now that I've made all the Cubs' fans mad, let's change the subject.

BIG BUCKS FOR THE GUV

The latest filings show that Gov. Rod Blagojevich has an enormous lead -- money-wise -- over challenger Judy Barr Topinka.

Check out these stories below that detail the gap in funding for the two candidates.

The Chicago Tribune story.

The Chicago Sun-Times story.

And another Tribune story.

Here's a question that will hopefully raise a comment or two. Does Blago's big advantage in campaign funds automatically translate into a victory in November?

THE DEFINITION OF NEPOTISM

2006-07-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

JOHN A. LOGAN COLLEGE'S NEW NEPOTISM POLICY IS LIKE CLOSING THE BARN DOOR AFTER ALL THE ANIMALS ARE LOOSE

Southern Illinoisan reporter Becky Malkovich has done an outstanding job cutting through the bureaucratic red tape to reveal that John A. Logan College is this region's version of "Family Ties."

A story filed today highlights a new anti-nepotism policy at JAL however some of the comments of board members are disturbing at least. One board member noted that be excluding family members it might cut down on the number of quality applicants.

Huh?

"The only thing I question is the extensiveness of the exclusions in there, do you think you will still get quality people," asked board chairman Don Brewer. "Will it hurt the caliber of candidates you draw?'

Is he kidding?

Sadly, he's not. A prior story that Malkovich wrote detailed the blatant nepotism that exists at JAL. Really, adopting a policy now is akin to closing the barn door after all the animals are loose.

But, what is taking place at JAL is exactly the type of mentality that exists these days on elected boards from water districts to the General Assembly. It's an entitlement mentality that says if a person serves on a board that person is entitled to hire family member after family member. And furthermore, not a question should be asked.

Here's a question for you to ponder and hopefully comment about. Where it the same outrage about the JAL nepotism that we witnessed when it was revealed that members of the Williamson County Housing Authority board were doing the same thing? Where's the television cameras, where's our elected officials. Right now Malkovich appears to be the lone voice in the wilderness on this troubling issue.

Nepotism is nepotism, period. And I don't care if it's Democrats or Republicans it is all the same.

Here's the story.

CYBER DEMONS 1, MUIR 0

2006-07-25T05:30:00.000-07:00

I had 'Blogger' technical troubles on Monday morning and never did get things up an running. I tried several times to post during the morning hours but was met each time with some type of glitch -- the kind that makes you say ugly words. Then by last night I was too tired to fool with it. So, in the event that you might have wondered where I was on Monday -- I was at the mercy of the Cyber Demons ... and they won.

But, I'm back this morning so let's get the week rolling.

MIKE DEAN

First and foremost let me offer my condolences to the family of Mike Dean, who died Saturday from injuries sustained in a two-vehicle accident near Carbondale. Mike was one of those type of people that did everything the right way. The 25-year-old Dean was a gifted teacher, an excellent broadcaster, a good friend and just a good person. I went to the visitation on Monday night and the crowd was huge within minutes of the doors opening. Knowing the Dean family I'm certain it stayed that way all night.

Once again, my sympathy to the family.

I wrote about Dean in my column today.

ILLINOIS DEFICIT LARGEST IN U.S.

And yet another proud moment in Illinois history!

While most other states enjoyed a little extra cash, Illinois suffered a $3 billion deficit in fiscal 2005, the largest shortfall in the nation.
Illinois also brought up the rear in another category. Its total debt — such as pension obligations and unpaid medical bills — outweighed total assets by a staggering $17.5 billion, the Rockford Register Star reported Monday.

Here's the full story.

ILLINOIS LAWMAKERS FILE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST ON BUDGET

When lawmakers have to file a FOI request it speaks volumes about state government.

Two lawmakers said Monday the new state budget is too vague about more than $500 million worth of spending, and they aim to get details from Gov. Rod Blagojevich through the Freedom of Information Act.
Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Greenville, and Sen. Christine Radogno, R-Lemont, filed the FOI request with the governor's office on Monday. The Blagojevich administration has seven working days to respond.
"We passed a budget - the General Assembly passed a budget - of 59 billion of the taxpayers' dollars, the taxpayers' money," Stephens said at a state Capitol news conference with Radogno. "We believe they have a right to know the intentions of every dollar that they have contributed to that end.

Here's the story.

Topinka Calls For Gov. To 'Come Clean' On Hiring

Judy Barr Topinka came out swinging on Monday and challenged Gov. Rod Blagojevich on his administrations hiring practices. I would expect as we prepare to roll into August that the attacks and the effort to keep this story alive will escalate.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich should "come clean" about how his administration hires people for state jobs, state Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka said Monday.The Republican candidate for governor chastised Blagojevich for "yet another different answer" on his employment practices after an Associated Press report that raised new questions about the administration's procedures.

Here's the story.

BEYOND POLITICS

2006-07-21T05:07:00.000-07:00

POLITICS ASIDE -- PEOPLE ARE HURTING

During the middle of a hotly-contested gubernatorial campaign everything, and I mean everything, involves politics and the November election. Every appointed official, regardless of what topic is being discussed is touting Gov. Blagojevich. Every statement, regardless of the topic, reads like a press release for the Governor's office, citing all his accomplishments while trying to make you believe that we live in the Land of Milk and Honey. Every check that's passed out, and there are many of them these days, is made to look like it comes directly from the Governor's personal bank account.

And on the flip side, every ill that the state is suffering, to hear the Topinka camp talk, is all Blago's fault.

There are days, and Thursday was one of them, when you get to see firsthand what can happen to real people with real problems because of politics. I stumbled onto a story about four-year-old Riana McGlinn, a Marion girl that is paying the price for 'politics as usual and the public be damned.'

As we are all aware the state is months behind in paying its bills and little Riana is paying the price for that. What a travesty! It's also clear, that somebody involved in state government is not telling the truth about the turn around time it takes the state to pay its bills.

I'm going to post the story and I would really like your comments on this. Think if it was your daughter, granddaughter, niece, etc. How would you feel? Also please note that the McGlinns are employed full-time, so this is not a family trying to beat the system. I would hope you wade in on this story and this topic.

Here's the story on little Riana.

DEBATE ... SOUTHERN ILLINOIS STYLE

It appears like Gov. Blagojevich and Judy Barr Topinka will square off in a series of debates around the state and from a story in today's Southern Illinoisan one of those debates will be held in Marion.

Here's a question for faithful readers of this blog: If you could submit a question for this debate what would you ask either or both candidates? Keep it clean, but here's your chance to hit 'em with your best shot. And also, wade in on the issue of the Green Party and the debates. Should Rich Whitney be a part of the statewide debates?

Here's the story.

10,000 POSTS -- IT SHOULD HAPPEN TODAY

At the beginning of business on From Where I Blog on Friday I have had 9,903 posts on this site since I installed the counter on March 25, 2006. Roughly, that adds up to about 2,500 posts per month. Certainly, I would like to have more traffic but considering I have never advertised this site I don't think that's bad. I recall having second thoughts the day I installed the counter because I asked myself several times, 'what are you going to do if nobody shows up.'

I likened my apprehension to sending out a large number of invitations to a birthday party and nobody showing up. So, I've been pleasantly surprised during the past four months with the results and if I ever get the time (plus find somebody that knows what they are doing) I still plan to make some improvements in the way of links and such to this site.

In any event, during week days I usually average 100-plus posts each day which means that somebody will be the 10,000th post here today.

To that lucky person I will grant free posting privileges for the next year ... oh, wait a minute ... it's already free, isn't it? All right then, I will give the 10,000 poster free reign to post comments every single day. Oh, yeah, that's already free too, right?

OK, if we reach 10,000 today I will have a 'From Where I Blog' T-shirt made up especially for that person. And in the event that the 10,000 poster is one of the lurkers who despise what I write I will still award the T-shirt and that person can use it for target practice or to wash the car.

HAVE A GOOD FRIDAY ... and POST AWAY

A CASE OF PUTTING THE CART BEFORE THE HORSE

2006-07-20T06:39:00.000-07:00

FIRST IT'S APPROVED ... THEN YOU HIRE A CONSULTANT

After a quick look at newspapers from around the state today it appears to be a slow news day. However I did find one interesting story in the Springfield State-Journal Register that caught my attention. After reading the story I was immediately reminded of one of my late mother's sayings (she had one for every occasion and I call them Geraldine-isms).

I believe she would have said this is a clear case o 'putting the cart before the horse.'

I think the first two paragraphs says it all.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich's office is hiring a consultant to prepare for the sale or lease of the Illinois State Lottery, even though the General Assembly has not signed off on the plan.

Blagojevich's budget office sent out requests July 12 asking for proposals from financial advisers who can guide the state through the sale of the lottery. The state expects to award one or more contracts on Aug. 7.

Here's the lottery story.

WHAT WAS HE THINKING???

In the era of instant information where everybody's work is posted everywhere you have to wonder what people are thinking (or perhaps they weren't thinking) when something like this happens. Since this is the second accusation in the past few months it appears like this is an issue SIU administration might want to pursue with personnel.

Here's the story about the alleged plagiarism.

A SPADE IS A SPADE IS A SPADE IS A SPADE

Here's my Thursday column that deals with corruption, apathy and my rising blood pressure.

IT'S WEDNESDAY

2006-07-19T09:43:00.000-07:00

WACKY WEDNESDAY
Those two simple words: 'It's Wedneday' means only one thing around my house. It means that anyway I add things up it will be a 16-hour work day.

On my agenda is a column to write for Thursday, a trip to Creal Springs to attend a press conference scheduled by Judy Barr Topinka, a trip back home and then begin final preparation for my radio show tonight.

So, I'm going to keep things short and sweet today.

This one story should merit enough attention and hopefully responses to keep you busy.

It seems that Jack Lavin, director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, made a swing through Southern Illinois on Tuesday to announce that the state is ponying up $2 million for the 1,000 Maytag employees who will lose their jobs this year.

Let's see, $2 million divided by 1,000 employees equals $2,000 per person for counseling, job search and employment assistance and education and training programs.

I'm sorry ... but that's crumbs because it's an election year and I am not impressed.

Here's the story.

ILLINOIS OWES HEALTH FACILITIES MILLIONS

A story in today's Southern Illinoisan detailed how the state owes millions to local health care facilities. Multiply that by the entire state and the amount is more than $3 billion.

Here's today's question: How can the state take on new programs like All Kids when we can't pay our bills now?

Here's the story.

HOLY SHIT!! THE PREZ SAID ... WHAT?

2006-07-18T06:17:00.000-07:00

Certainly you've heard all the fuss about the conversation between President Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair where apparently the two were talking into an open microphone and a few expletives slipped out.

Apparently some folks forget that these men put their pants on like everybody else (one leg at a time in case you don't know what I mean) and therefore also can be expected to talk and use expressions like the rest of us.

First, I say 'big deal' and secondly, what Bush said about Hezbollah was the flat out truth. I've been amused at headlines reading 'Bush curses Hezbollah' and 'Bush uses profanity in attack on Hezbollah.' If Bush saying Hezbollah needs to stop that 'shit' is considered profanity then I'd hate for the headline writers to meet a few of the people I know who can turn the air blue for 50 feet in every direction with their use of four letter words -- and I mean graphic four-letter words.

In my reasoning Bush's comments that made headlines worldwide amounts to much ado about nothing.

Here's the transcript of the conversation between Bush and Blair that was picked up by Russian television from an open microphone:

Bush: No. I'm just going to make it up. I'm not going to talk too damn long like the rest of them. Some of these guys talk too long.

Bush: Got something to do tonight?

Blair: Go to the airport. Get on a plane and go home.

Bush: Where you going, home? This is your neighborhood. Won't take you long to get home.You get home in eight hours? Me too! Russia's a big country and you're a big country.Yeah. No, not Coke, Diet Coke.It takes him eight hours to fly home, eight hours. Russia's big and so's China.Yeah,

Blair, what are you doing? You leaving?

Blair: No, no, not yet. On this trade thing ... (inaudible)

Bush: Yeah, I told that to the man ...

Blair: (inaudible)

Bush: If you want me to.

Blair: I just want to see it moving. Yesterday I didn't see much movement, no no ... maybe there's no ... it may be that it's impossible.

Bush: I'll be glad to say it.

Blair: But I just think we need to be is in possession.

Bush: Who's introducing the (inaudible)?

Blair: Angela.

Bush: Tell her to call on me. Tell her to put me on the spot. Thanks for the sweater, awfully thoughtful of you. I know you picked it out yourself.(Laughing)

Bush: What about Kofi? That seems odd. (Background noise.) Well, I don't like the sequence of it. His attitude, basically, cease fire and everything else. But you know what I'm saying.

Blair: I think, think the (inaudible) you need that done quickly.

Bush: Yeah I think Condi's going to go pretty soon.

Blair: But at least it gives process too.

Bush: Yeah, it's a process, too. ... I told her your offer too.

Blair: Well it's only ... if she needs the ground prepared as it ... if she goes out obviously if she goes out she's got to succeed us, I can't.

Bush: The irony is what they need to do is get Syria to get Hezbollah to stop doing this shit and it's over.

Blair: Who, Syria?

Bush: Right.

Blair: 'Cause I think this is all part of the same deal.

Bush: Yeah.

Blair: What does he think? He thinks that if Lebanon turns out fine if you get a solution in (inaudible) that Iraq ends in the right way.

Bush: He's through.

Blair: He's (inaudible). That's what this whole thing is about. It's the same as Iraq.

Bush: I felt like telling Kofi to get on the phone with Assad, make something happen.

Blair: Yeah. (garbled)

Bush: Blame Israel, we're not blaming the Lebanese government.

Here's another story about Bush saying the 's' word.

ISRAEL IS IN THE RIGHT ... PERIOD

Let me say it again and make no mistake about it, Israel is right.

First, Israel has every right to defend itself against terrorists like Hezbollah and Hamas.

Secondly, last year Israel withdrew 7,000 people from Gaza as a way to compromise with Palestinians and that attempt at peace was met with stepped up violence against Israel. Then on June 25 Hamas terrorists tunnelled across the border into Israel and killed Israeli soldiers and then kidnapped Cpl. Gilad Shalit. Then last week Hezbollah kidnapped two Israeli soldiers near the Lebanese border.

Israeli met these attacks the way any sovereign, and let me add, sane nation would by defending itself.

I've mentioned it on this site before and I will say it again, the only thing that will satisfy Hezbollah and Hamas is to see the total destruction of Israel. And on the flip side the only thing that will bring peace in that region if for Israel to totally wipe out the terrorist regimes -- a process that appears to be well under way.

Every once in a great while an e-mail comes in that is worth sharing and today is that day. I received this and got a few chuckles out of it so hopefully you will too. As you read it keep in mind a favorite saying of an old coal miner friend, 'much truth is spoken in jest.'

Headlines from the year 2029:

Ozone created by electric cars now killing millions in the seventh largest country in the world, Mexifornia, formerly known as California.

White minorities still trying to have English recognized as Mexifornia's third language.

Spotted Owl plague threatens northwestern United States crops and livestock.

Baby conceived naturally. Scientists stumped.

Couple petitions court to reinstate heterosexual marriage.

Last remaining Fundamentalist Muslim dies in the American Territory of the Middle East (formerly known as Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and Lebanon).

Iran still closed off; physicists estimate it will take at least 10 more years before radioactivity decreases to safe levels.

France pleads for global help after being taken over by Jamaica.

Castro finally dies at age 112; Cuban cigars can now be imported legally, but President Chelsea Clinton has banned all smoking.

George Z. Bush says he will run for President in 2036.

Postal Service raises price of first class stamp to $17.89 and reduces mail delivery to Wednesdays only.

85-years, $75.8 billion study: Diet and Exercise is the key to weight loss.

Average weight of Americans drops to 250 lbs.

Japanese scientists have created a camera with such a fast shutter speed, they now can photograph a woman with her mouth shut. (Hummmmmmmmm)

Massachusetts executes last remaining conservative.

Supreme Court rules punishment of criminals violates their civil rights.

Average height of NBA players now nine feet, seven inches.

New federal law requires that all nail clippers, screwdrivers, fly swatters and rolled-up newspapers must be registered by January 2036.

Congress authorizes direct deposit of formerly illegal political contributions to campaign accounts.I

RS sets lowest tax rate at 75 percent.

Florida voters still having trouble with voting machines.

A BETTER LATE THAN NOT AT ALL MONDAY

2006-07-17T10:43:00.000-07:00

BIRDS OF THE SAME FEATHER

It seems the general consensus from those that visit this site and the people I talk with on a regular basis is that the planned inauguration at SIU is something that 'regular' folks around Southern Illinois do not favor.

I had a flash when reading Sunday's newspaper of what this event might turn into.

It seems that the Southern & Central Illinois Laborers' District Council and Laborers' Local 773 held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new headquarters in Marion on Saturday afternoon and during the event a Democratic Party political rally broke out.

I found it interesting (not surprising) that Gov. Rod Blagojevich used the opportunity to tout all he has done for union members in Southern Illinois and stump for votes. I wondered as I read the story how Blago's comments would sit with AFSCME members who have been at odds with the Guv over allegations that he broke many promises to them.

Do you remember the Guv's battle cry of 2003: I'll never balance the budget on the backs of working class people.' And then as soon as he was elected he held the city of Vandalia hostage for 60 days threatening to shut down Vandalia Correctional Center.

I also found it interesting (once again not surprising) that seated at the head table with Blagojevich was Edward Smith, a top union officials with Laborers International and Congressman Jerry Costello. Much like the group I railed about in Sparta two weeks ago, Smith had his name mentioned prominently as a sponsor on the 'clout' list and of course Costello's son-in-law landed a $79,000 a year gig flying planes for the state, ahead of veterans who were supposed to be given preference for the job. It should be pointed out that Smith's 21-year-old daughterJordan also landed a job with IDOT at a salary of nearly $50,000 per year.

The one thing that did surprise me was to see SIU President Glenn Poshard also seated at the head table. After the incident a few months ago when Poshard was taken to task for sending out a letter to precinct committeemen around the state I was shocked that he would end up in that type of setting ... especially when a hotly contested gubernatorial race is only three months away. While Poshard has promised not to politicize the SIU job, he just can't seem to stay away when his fellow Democrats get together.

As my late mother was fond of saying -- 'birds of the same feather always flock together.'

Here's the story and pay close attention to the second paragraph.

A WASTE OF TAXPAYERS MONEY?

Some revelations that have been highlighted about the Democratic Party objections filed in an attempt to keep Green Party gubernatorial candidate Rich Whitney off the November ballot are ridiculous at best and flagrant misuse of taxpayers dollars at worst.

Apparently the Blago camp really, really doesn't want the Greenies on the ballot. As a reader of many newspaper statewide every day I can say without reservation that my co-worker Nicole Sack has led the charge on this story.

I've said it before and I will continue to say it ... the Green Party deserves a spot on the November ballot, period.

Here's the story.

INAUGURATION, APATHY AND SATURDAY BLOGGING

2006-07-15T05:33:00.000-07:00

WHY AM I OPPOSED TO THE INAUGURATION ? LET ME GIVE YOU 40,000 REASONS

I promised to delve into the announcement about the $40,000 SIU will spend for a presidential inauguration for Glenn Poshard.

Simply stated, I think it shows just how far out of touch and synch that some of the folks at SIU are with what is really happening in Southern Illinois, period.

I don't understand the comments being tossed out about this event allowing us to 'embrace our roots' and honestly can see no legitimate reason to spend $40 grand on a party. The fact that there has not been an inauguration at SIU since 1949 prompts me to ask the question: 'why do we need one now?'

Apparently some of the folks who are acting like $40K is chump change have not read some of the poverty reports that show Illinois (and particularly Southern Illinois) ranked dead in 15 different poverty indicators among Midwest states.

I also wonder if the $40 grand price tag covers the price of labor involved in security, parking etc. Somebody should explain if that is part of the price tag or will those things be paid for by Joe and Jane Taxpayer.

In short I have 40 thousand reasons why I'm opposed.

WHO CARES? APPARENTLY VERY FEW

Are Illinois residents so used to corruption and business as usual with our elected officials that nobody really cares anymore? I'm starting to believe that that might be the case.

I wrote a column last week that talked about the Sparta shooting complex and the elected officials that showed up for the grand opening. I spoke of the nepotism, allegations of illegal hiring and sweetheart pension deals that this group had racked up in the past year. Here's the column, one more time, in case you missed it earlier.

Do you know what the main reaction was to that column?

Well, I received more hateful comments from people who blasted me for simply telling the truth. I was called a 'hayseed' an 'ignorant redneck', a @#$%^^$@@#* and a @!%&**^%^.

Of course there were also the usual comments about my heritage and my late mother.

But, wouldn't you think it would be the other way around? Wouldn't it seem like a column pointing out how taxpayers are being ripped off would draw more positive responses than negative?

It seems like anymore the good guys have just blocked out the almost daily shenanigans of our elected officials which gives those who think it's all right to hire every family member and crony more ammunition to blast the messenger.

Simply stated, things are so bad in Illinois these days that if a writer reports the corruption they are labeled as the bad guy.

After reading the hateful comments I was once again reminded of the words of Cindy Canary, the director of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform who said that corruption in Illinois is "unparalelled" in the nation.

Despite the mean-spirited comments from the detractors who seem to like the way things are, I plan to keep on pointing out the corruption. End of story.

JBT, a $40K PARTY, JOBS AND OTHER MUSINGS

2006-07-13T05:01:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned earlier this week I had Judy Barr Topinka on my radio show last night and came away pleased with the interview that lasted approximately 30 minutes.

Being my own biggest critic, I felt like I hit every topic that would be important to voters. Topinka fielded questions on jobs, coal, balance between industry and environment, abortion, gay marriage, corruption, George Ryan, school spending reform, gun control and her plan to create jobs. And of course she blasted Blagojevich at every opportunity.

Overall, I felt like she handled herself well and gave good answers.

SIU INAUGURATION -- IS IT GOOD OR BAD?

OK, here's a topic where you can wade in and voice an opinion.

Here's the question:

Given the state of the economy in Southern Illinois do you agree with spending $40,000 for an inauguration for new SIU President Glenn Poshard?

While I certainly have my views on this, I want to know what you think. I will devote some space on Friday sharing my opinion of the inauguration that will be held Sept. 28 at the SIU Arena. But first, I want to know what you think. I would love to see the comment counter spin today.

Here's the story about the Sept. 28 inauguration

Here's an editorial about the inauguration that appeared in today's Southern Illinoisan.

WE NEED JOBS ... NOT MORE 'TALK' ABOUT JOBS

Gov. Rod Blagojevich and challenger Judy Barr Topinka both had jobs on their minds on Wednesay. Here's a pair of stories that highlight their views.

Blagojevich makes power, money available to new regional authority

The same day Republican gubernatorial challenger Judy Baar Topinka unveiled a plan for job and economic growth, Gov. Rod Blagojevich offered his solution for Southern Illinois counties.Blagojevich signed into law Wednesday the Southern Illinois Economic Development Authority (SIEDA), which authorizes issuing of up to $250 million in bonds to encourage economic development projects in the 14 southernmost Illinois counties.

Here's the story.

Topinka calls for more creative approaches for luring business, jobs

Illinois' failed effort to lure a Honda auto plant to a site near Danville was slow-footed and an example of why the state needs a new economic development plan, state Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka said Wednesday.Topinka, the Republican candidate for governor, said the state entered the Honda sweepstakes at the "last minute" and watched from the sidelines as Indiana snapped up the $400 million factory and its 1,500 jobs.

Here's the story.

I JUST CAN'T SEEM TO GET THOSE SMILING FACES AT SPARTA OFF MY MIND

Here's my weekly column where I revisit the thought that a picture truly is worth a thousand words.

... AND ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST

Consultant in Ryan case gets 2 months for laundering cash

A Republican consultant was sentenced to two months in prison Wednesday for laundering thousands of dollars in fees that were secretly paid to one of former Gov. George Ryan's top political advisers.Alan Drazek, 65, could have been sentenced to as much as 16 months for his guilty plea to charges of scheming to defraud the Internal Revenue Service but got a break as a reward for cooperating with prosecutors.

Here's the story.

GW ... RUDY ... AND ME?

2006-07-12T05:34:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that Republican Judy Barr Topinka will be a guest on my radio program, "Sound Off" tonight. We hit the air at 8 p.m. on 106.3 FM and JBT is scheduled to join us at approximately 8:10.

Thanks much to the posters who took me up on Tuesday's offer and posted questions for Topinka -- questions that I intend to use. The same offer holds true today, if you have a question you'd like me to ask Candidate Topinka, fire away.

PRETTY HEADY COMPANY FOR A SMALL-TOWN RADIO HOST

Last week President Bush was in Chicago stumping for Topinka and only yesterday former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani was in Illinois at a fundraiser for JBT and next week Sen. John McCain is coming to Illinois. Taking that into consideration I consider it somewhat of a coup that I've landed a 30-minute interview with Topinka for tonight.

Tune in if you get the chance.

Here's a story on Giuliani's visit, and another and another.

AS I'VE OFTEN SAID ... FIGURES DON'T LIE ... BUT LIARS FIGURE

I certainly am not opposed to children being covered by healthcare and to take it one step further I can't imagine anybody that would object. However, I am concerned, given the state of the state of Illinois, how programs like All Kids are going to be paid for and if the taxpayers are going to end up holding the bag.

A story in the Belleville News-Democrat caught my attention yesterday. The headline read: 'Illinois officials say health insurance expansion to reach 95,000

The story then detailed how state officials predicted that 95,000 children, nearly double what was predicted, would qualify for healthcare coverage.

Wow! That sounds great, doesn't it?

But, it you read a little deeper into the story (and between the lines a little bit) you'll find that those numbers have been ... let's see ... what's a nice way to say it ... 'manipulated.'

Check out this one small paragraph:

Kathleen Strand (spokesperson for Department of Healthcare and Family Services) said about 45,000 children have signed up so far. About 40,000 of those would have qualified for existing health programs but had never signed up. An additional 5,000 children would not be eligible for any government health care if All Kids didn't exist, she said.

So, in other words 40,000 children would have qualified for healthcare programs that already existed even if the millions had not been spent on the massive All Kids PR campaign. I also find it interesting that the program is referred to as 'Gov. Blagojevich's All Kids Program.'

Is he footing the bill ... or are taxpayers?

Given the information released last week that showed the state has a deficit budget of more than $3 billion and owes more than $3 billion in unpaid bills to hospitals, pharmacies and physicians I still have a hard time adding on multi-million dollar programs.

Here's the story on All Kid's.

WWJD ... WHAT WOULD JUDY DO?

2006-07-11T05:27:00.000-07:00

Republican gubernatorial candidate Judy Barr Topinka will be a guest on my radio show ("Sound Off" 106.3 FM -- 8-10 p.m. Wednesday) and I have been busy during the past week compiling a list of questions.

In yet another effort to lure you into the comment section, I decided to reach out to the faithful readers of this blog to see what question you think I should ask.

Obviously, I would be shirking my responsibility as a broadcaster if I didn't ask her how she plans to counter the negative ads that tie her to former governor and convicted felon George Ryan.

So, here's your chance to contribute to the interview ... and please tune in Wednesday night.

... AND SPEAKING OF JUDY

Perhaps it's last week's announcement that U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald has taken complete control of the investigation into hiring practices in state government or maybe it's the fact that all those negative ads by the Blagojevich camp don't seem to be working, but a long list of high ranking Republicans are heading to Illinois to stump for Topinka. The Governor's press people are playing down the appearances of President Bush last week and the announcement this week that Rudy Gulianni and Sen. John McCain will lend support to Topinka.

But, it seems to me that with the parade of Republicans heading to Illinois there might be some folks smelling blood in the water.

Here's the story.

I'VE NEVER HEARD THE WORD 'BREATHTAKING' USED LIKE THIS ...

Without question or even a close second the best political blog in the state is The Capital Fax Blog, period ... end of discussion.

Rich Miller is the brainpower behind the blog that covers the political spectrum from one end of the state to the other. Miller also writes a weekly syndicated column that is posted regularly on the blog. Last week's columns contained some juicy hints of things to come concerning the federal investigation about state hiring practices.

Look at the way the word 'breathtaking' is used in the column. It's a first for me. I've used the word 'breathtaking' to describe the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition, sunsets and below-zero January nights in Southern Illinois but never a federal investigation.

Considering I've whined and complained and complained and whined about the state of the state the fact that somebody close to the inside used that particular word to describe what lies ahead in the investigation is ... well ... just breathtaking.

Here's the column.

I'M STILL NOT CONVINCED

A three-part series began this morning in the Southern Illinoisan about the Gateway Grizzlies, an independent baseball team located in Sauget. The story was informative and well-written by Todd Hefferman.

In the story Hefferman tied the success of the Grizzlies to the now-under-construction baseball stadium in Marion, that is scheduled for completion next year. The project, with a price tag of $13 to $19 million is a real life 'build it and they will come' project.

I don't like to play the role of fly in the ointment but I'm not convinced that this area will support -- on a day after day basis -- an independent or even a minor league baseball team. I attend sporting events on a regular basis and note attendance at high school and college games in the area, which is not all that great. To consistently put thousands of people in a stadium in Marion throughout the summer months will be a trick.

I hope I have to eat my words but I'm still not convinced about the Marion project.

Here's the first of the three-part series.

ILLINOIS POLITICS STARTING TO RESEMBLE "MAD MAGAZINE"

2006-07-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

WHAT ... ME WORRY?

Do you remember "Mad Magazine" and the impish grin of Alfred E. Neuman?

And do you remember that caption under Alfred's name that asked the question, 'What ... me worry?"

It seems that is the same frame of mind that the Gov. Rod Blagojevich is taking on these days as a federal investigation into illegal hiring moves closer to his administration. If the Guv is worried he certainly isn't showing it. In fact, he's putting on a broad smile and acting like he doesn't have a care in the world.

Illinois politics resembling Mad Magazine? I think I've hit on something there.

Keep on smiling, Guv ... it makes me wonder what you've been up to. Here's the story.

UNFRIENDLY BIZ CLIMATE IN ILLINOIS

Every time I mention something about the unfriendly business climate in Illinois I'm met witht he usual comments from the usual political hacks. Only recently paid mouthpiece Jack Lavin, director of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, wrote a guest editorial blasting me because I said the business climate in Illinois is running manufacturing jobs out of the state. If you listen to these hacks long enought they'll spin the story and convince you that businesses leaving the state or opting to go to Indiana or Missouri just doesn't happen.

God Bless the Decatur Herald Review for a recent Op-Ed piece that hits the nail squarely on the head.

Here's the editorial.

SAD ... BUT TRUE

A story in Sunday's Southern Illinois (written by Becky Malkovich) spells out some facts that folks should remember when heading to the polls in November. The 2006 Illinois Poverty Report was recently released and shows that Illinois is dead last in Midwest states in 15 key indicators that determine poverty. Keep in mind that this report was prepared by a non-partisan group, thus taking politics out of the daily spin we hear about how well things are going.

Keep in mind after you read these sad statistics that Comptroller Dan Hynes released a report a week ago that showed the state's budget deficit is $3.06 billion and that the state owes Medicaid more than $3 billion in unpaid bills. And then add in that the Guv, with the willing help of state legislators, raided pension funds for another $2.5 billion.

As the November election draws closer you'll hear stories how we're living in the Land of Milk and Honey ... but as an old coal miner friend of mine used to say, 'figures don't lie ... but liars figure.'

Here's the sad but hard facts.

Medicaid reimbursements are slow 0r non-existent. Here's that story.

WHO'S AFRAID OF A LITTLE 'GREENIE'?

2006-07-08T05:17:00.000-07:00

Apparently the Illinois Democratic Party, that's who.

The Blagojevich Administration has mounted a furious attack on the petitions of Green Party Candidate Rich Whitney. The Greens secured over 39,000 signatures -- more than 14,000 more than needed to meet state requirements to gain a place on the ballot.

Yet the Dems filed an 8,000 page complaint all in an effort to keep Whitney off the ballot. Apparently the Carbondale attorney and the Green Party have the attention of Blago and Co. who are behind the effort to keep it a two-horse race.

First, I think Illinois laws are far too tough on third-party candidates, clearly an attempt by Dems and the GOP to keep all the spoils for the two-party system. Based on the amount of corruption from both parties maybe a viable third choice would be a plus for voters.

Here's a question for you to ponder and hopefully comment about today. Are you pulling for the Green Party to secure a spot on the November ballot?

Here's a story in the Southern Illinoisan. Be sure to catch the part about state workers challenging the signatures. Does that remind anybody but me of George Ryan and the 1998 gubernatorial election?

LOOK ... UP IN THE SKY ... IT"S A BIRD ... IT"S A PLANE ... NO ... IT'S MARVIN
TEEL

Marvin Teel is nothing short of remarkable. A well-written story by Becky Malkovich in today's Southern Illinoisan highlights the climbing skill of the 83-year-old Teel who is still climbing 100-feet in the air to work on antennas.

I could feel my palms sweating as I read about Teel this morning.

Here's the story.

A FOUL-MOOD FRIDAY

2006-07-07T05:09:00.000-07:00

I woke up in a good mood on Friday. I slept good. I was looking forward to the end of another long work week and the beginning of a weekend. The weather is going to be beautiful throughout the weekend with unseasonably cooler temperatures.

So, what was it that turned my mood sour, pessimistic and cynical within 10 minutes of crawling out of bed? I can trace my change in moods to a specific moment -- my daily walk to the mailbox to get the morning newspaper.

As I sauntered back to the house, like I do every morning, I unrolled the paper and glanced at the front page and there staring back at me was the smiling faces of the politicos that had gathered for the ribbon-cutting at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta.

Let me preface my comments by saying that I'm happy for the folks in Randolph County that the 1,700-acre facility is up and running and I hope the forecast of jobs and economic opportunity prove to be true. It should also be pointed out that Les Winkeler, Southern Illinoisan sports editor, did a nice job of covering the event.

So, why would the story upset me?

Perhaps it's just the job I work in or that I'm growing cynical in my old age but I looked at the picture that accompanied the story and it made me, as my late mother used to say, 'mad all over.'

There in the photo-op, smiling and standing side by side was former Illinois Department of Natural Resources director Joel Brunsvold, current IDNR director Sam Flood, Gov. Rod Blagojevich and state Rep. Dan Reitz.

My, what a happy group it was as they smiled and cut off a piece of the bright red ribbon.

But, as the saying goes, 'a picture is worth a thousand words,' so let me use up at least a part of those thousand words telling you a little more about this smiling, glad-handing group.

First, there is Brunsvold, who spent more than 20 years as a state legislator before taking over the helm of DNR -- a position he held for less than three years before retiring. It should be pointed out that those few short years as DNR director bumped Brunsvold's pension up by approximately $40,000 PER YEAR. It's the old Springfield game where a political buddy appoints you to a high-paying post-retirement job that enables you to pad your pension by tens of thousands of dollars for your second retirement. In most circles it's referred to as 'double-dipping.'

Then there's Flood the current DNR director, whose name showed up umpteen times on the recently released and infamous 'clout list' that detailed state hiring. In fact Flood made headlines again this week as the sponsor of a new hire in the DOC who just happens to be the son of a St. Claire County attorney who just happened to contribute $100,000 to the Democratic Party and $25,000 to Blagojevich. Flood, a high ranking Democratic Party official from Madison County, is a great example of the Illinois version of the Peter Principle where an individual rises to the level of his/her incompetence.

And then there's Gov. Blagojevich, touting the 250 jobs that will be created at the shooting complex ... but failing to mention Maytag, American Coal, MUMS or any of the other 2,000 plus jobs that have been lost in Southern Illinois during the past year. I'm sure it was a pleasant experience for Blago and his staff to head to Southern Illinois and in turn get away from the glare of the federal investigation into illegal job hiring that has been swirling around them for months.

And last, but certainly not least, is Rep. Reitz who turned his job as a state legislator into a one-man employment agency for his family members and friends.

It seems to me that the guy who coined the phrase 'a picture is worth a thousand words' might have attended a few events that featured smiling political hacks.

As a footnote to this story I found it more than a little bit ironic that on the same front page, right beside the picture of the grinning group of politicians was another story that carried the headline, 'Laidlaw workers to lose jobs in September.' The story was about 70 Laidlaw Corp. employees who will be out of job in September when the wire hanger operation will transfer from Metropolis to Monticello, Wisconsin. Huh, another business fleeing Illinois?

I bet if you polled those 70 workers in Metropolis or the 1,100 Maytag employees you'd find that not everybody in Southern Illinois was as happy as that smiling group that assembled in Sparta on Thursday.

Here's the story ... but as a word of caution it could put you in a foul-mood Friday.

THURSDAY THOUGHTS ...

2006-07-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE ...

That is exactly where North Korea seems to have the United States and several other countries right now. North Korea launched seven missiles on Wednesday, basically thumbing its nose at the U.S., Great Britain and Japan.

I found it interesting that the United Nations Security Council met on Wednesday to discuss the North Korean situation and came away with a split about how to handle the situation. It seems that the U.S., Great Britain and Japan, along with several other countries want strong sanctions against North Korea but China and Russia want a weaker response.

The action of North Korea leaves the international community between the proverbial 'rock and a hard place.' Should they do nothing and assume that North Korea is sabre-rattling to get attention or help for its millions of impoverished residents? Or, should then make a pre-emptive strike and destroy the missiles before their launched?

I think the Bush administration has done the right thing in playing down this crisis as a U.S. versus North Korea issue and saying over and over and over again that this issue involves North Korea versus the rest of the international community.

One thing is for certain, there is a high stakes game of brinksmanship going on right now.

Here's the story.

NO MORE BUSINESS AS USUAL ... YEAH, RIGHT

Ho ... Hum ... another day and yet another story about a questionable hire by the Blagojevich administration. The amazing thing about the hiring practices in Springfield is that the people making these decisions must be total nitwits to believe that anybody (especially a person whose name only weeks ago appeared on the infamous 'clout' list) can somehow manage to fly under the radar and latch onto the government teet without being detected.

Here's the story.

I THINK IT'S CALLED A DOUBLE-WHAMMY

Proponents of gay marriage took a double hit on Thursday with the announcement that a pair of court decisions went against them. No matter how 'mainstream' advocates of same-sex marriage try to make it, I'd don't believe it will ever fly. I know that taking that position makes me intolerant, politically incorrect and (the favorite phrase of the same-sex marriage crowd) an ignorant redneck in the eyes of the PC/gay crowd but that's the way I see it.

So, if you don't like my position ... start your own more tolerant and more inclusive blog.

Here one story out of Georgia and another from New York.

DEATH IN MT. VERNON LABELED "SUSPICIOUS'

Jefferson County authorities are releasing scant details about the death of prominent Mt. Vernon businessman/philanthropist Randy Farrar, who was found shot to death Wednesday morning in his rural Mt. Vernon home.

Sheriff Roger Mulch and State's Attorney Gary Duncan both labeled the death 'suspicious' but stopped short of saying Farrar was murdered. State police crime scene technicians were called to the scene that was described by Mulch as "complex."

An autopsy is scheduled for today and those preliminary results will hopefully shed some light on Farrar's death.

TRUTH, JUSTICE ... AND ALL THAT STUFF

2006-07-05T04:48:00.000-07:00

Define 'stuff'

I've not yet seen the new "Superman Returns" movie but from some of the things I've read I don't think I'll plunk down my $8 to see the politically correct version of the Man of Steel.

The boomers in the audience like me will remember that when Superman was created he was "able to leap tall buildings in a single bound" and he was "more powerful than a locomotive." Perhaps the single line that we all remember wasthe weekly reminder that Superman stood for "truth, justice and the American way."

You'll remember that Superman fought Nazis in the 1940s, was the symbol of U.S. patriotism in the 1950s and even rescued the White House flag in "Superman II." In other words, there was no mistaking that Superman symbolized all things good in America.

Well, it seems that in the latest big screen version an evident move was made to downplay Superman's ties to the good ol' USA and the phrase that many of us could recite by memory -- 'truth, justice and the American way' has been altered in the new movie to say 'truth justice and all that stuff.'

All that stuff? I want somebody to define what 'stuff' we're talking about here.

Sadly, it's just another example of political correctness run amok.

... and while we're on the subject of political correctness.

Leaders of the Presbyterian Church (USA) have apparently lost their mind.

That might seem like an outlandish statement but how else do you explain their attempt to rewrite the Bible. Most Christians, when referring to the Holy Trinity, are likely to use the phrase "Father, Son and Holy Spirit."

Well, it seem that Presbyterian leaders are attempting to come up with a less offensive, more inclusive Holy Trinity and have come up with 12 suggested but not mandatory wordings endorsed this month by delegates of the church's policy-making body to describe a "triune God" the Christian doctrine of God in three persons.

Let's look at some of the new PC ways to describe the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

First, there's "Compassionate Mother, Beloved Child and Life-giving Womb," and also "Overflowing Font, Living Water, Flowing River. Then there's "Rock, Cornerstone and Temple" or "Rainbow of Promise, Ark of Salvation and Dove of Peace."

A few others include "Sun, Light and Burning Ray" and "Speaker, Word and Breath," "Fire that Consumes, Sword that Divides and Storm that Melts Mountains," and "Rock, Redeemer and Friend."

I just gave myself a headache writing those.

All I can say is 'Rainbow of Promise' help us.

MY JUNE SWOON IS OFFICIALLY OVER

2006-07-04T05:44:00.000-07:00

First things first ... Happy Fourth of July to all.

OK, my "June Swoon" and the "Summertime Blogging Blues" is over. I'm not going to apologize for not posting and I'm not going to explain why I decided to take some time off. End of story.

To those who missed me I'm very appreciative and I hope I can regain you as a daily visitor. And to those who thought they had heard the last of me ... think again.

With that out of the way ... let's move on.

OLD SOLDIERS NEVER DIE THEY JUST ...

I wrote a story that appeared in today's Southern Illinoisan that is sad at best and troubling at worst. The story is about the plight of Howard Lee, a veteran that holds the unique distinction of serving in three separate branches of the U.S. military. Lee served four years in the Army, four years in the Air Force and three years in the Navy and is now jobless, sick, unemployed, unemployable and virtually homeless. He is living in a small RV (that belongs to friends), with no income. Lee gets $152 per month in food stamps.

I wrote the story and stated the facts which is a trick for a guy like me with an opinion about everything.

So, let me rant a little about this topic.

In past months on this blog I have made a habit of making posts about government waste. A billion dollars spent here and a billion dollars spent there and in the words of former Illinois Sen. Everett Dirksen, "pretty soon you're talking about some real money."

I just find it a total travesty and a real shame that here in 2006 a man who faithfully served his country would be diminshed to the life that Lee is living. Think of the billions being spent on pork projects both on a state and federal level and then think of Lee's situation.

Former Vice President Hubert Humphrey once told the nation that "the moral test of government is how it treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the aged; and those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy and the handicapped."

Based on Humphrey's 'moral test,' in the case of Howard Lee, we failed.

I'd like to know your thoughts on Lee.

Here's the story.

EVERYBODY IS NOT PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN

A story in the Chicago Tribune caught my eye this morning about a recent Gallup Poll that was taken to determine how many people really take pride in being an American. Be sure and read the entire story and also the comments section. Check out some of the numbers on Democrats and the pride issue.

Here's the story.

LET THE GREENIES IN ... NOW

As most of us expected a fierce battle is looming over the petition drive that will allow the Green Party on the November ballot in Illinois. This battle will take on special significance because Carbondale attorney Rich Whitney is on that ballot as a third-party gubernatorial candidate.

The grueling and nearly impossible process that third party hopefuls must go through in Illinois to even get on the ballot is totally ridiculous and show that the Dems and GOP want all the spoils for themselves. Perhaps that's yet another reason why Illinois is looked on as the poster child for politicial corruption.

Here's a story written by Nicole Sack of the Southern Illinoisan about the Democratic Party challenge to the Green Party petitions.

AND SPEAKING OF NICOLE SACK ...

Obviously, Sack is as fed up with the current blah, blah, blah of Illinois politics as I am. She sent me an e-mail a few days ago with what she called "a rant" about the debate over debates and the swirling cesspool better known as Illinois politics.

Here's Sack's 'rant."

Whaaaaah!
What election would be complete without having a debate about debates?
In the latest installment of the saga between Gov. Rod Blagojevich and State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka – there is a clash about how, when and where upcoming debated between the two gubernatorial candidates should be scheduled.
The Blagojevich camp says it’s ready to step in front of the podium – something to the effect of anytime, anyplace.
The Topinka camp says it’s ready to debate – after Labor Day – so that the debates hold some timeliness and validity for Illinois voters.
Granted neither camp has said this to one another. Instead, they are airing their grievances through letters – addressed to newspapers, naturally.
Now, as much as it seems impossible to process, the two campaigns have agreed the problem is that neither side is talking to the other.
This is understandable, to a point.
The governor’s race is slated to be a blood bath of partisan fury. Both camps, it seems, would prefer to kick each other in the teeth rather than have a face-to-face conversation to set a debate schedule.
That’s OK. The first step is admitting you have a communications problem.
Here’s a simple plan to take care of the rest:
First of all – pick a number.
There are already opportunities for conflict here as the Blago Camp has previously suggested 10 debates and Camp Judy is leaning toward 12. So for the sake of compromise and to avoid a potential fistfight, the number will be 11. Period.
Okay – so eleven debates.
Next, each side will grab its stack of invitations and for the love of God, someone will have to bring a calendar – a big one, none of that PDA nonsense.
Brew a pot of coffee and order some food. There must be snacks to avoid hunger induced crankiness. There is no need for any sudden spikes of added “crankiness” during this process.
Now get two representatives from both campaigns into a room – and then quickly lock the door. No one comes in or out until this is settled, which in grown-up time should take an hour and a half, maximum.
To expedite the process and to avoid the hindrance of gibber-gabber about which candidate has better hair or talk about who’s a moron, the room will slowly begin to fill with water - and scorpions.
There will be no moderator.
No one will have the opportunity to tattle and cry about how they are getting kicked under the table or how so-and-so has koodies and is threatening to spread them around the room. This could actually happen as the state’s healthcare program does not cover the koodie shot, despite the simplicity of “Circle, circle; dot, dot.”
(It has been rumored the governor previously ordered some of the koodie vaccine from Canada – however the feds blocked the shipment, something to do with the FDA.)
Anyway, let’s get back to it…
Each side will secretly pick their top ten debate venues.
Then without sudden movements, both sides will compare notes. Any duplicate selections are automatically OK’d.
The “open” spots not filled by consensus will be determined by a back-and-forth of choices – this is called taking turns.
In the event there are an odd number of slots available after the initial wave of “agreed” dates, there will be a coin toss and the winner will get last dibs. (The coin toss may be swapped out for Rock, Paper, and Scissors match, best out of three. Drawing straws is still considered ridiculous.)
Okay, almost done now.
Here’s the important part: write down the final schedule and mail THAT to the newspapers.
In theory, the sooner this gets done, the better.
If neither side is smart enough to come up with a schedule then both candidates will be immediately disqualified from the race. If you’re too petty to agree on the ‘who, what, when and where’ of a debate program, then you are too stupid to be governor.
If the Blagojevich and Topinka campaigns want to act like children, fine. But then they forfeit the right to feel insulted when people start treating them like babies.
The fact is, most people don’t care who stepped on whose toes during the campaign.
No one cares if the candidates are being “mean” to each other or who’s not returning whose phone calls.
And trying to report and follow the junior-high like drama of the dreaded “debate debate” is an exhausting waste of the time, energy and newsprint.
This is a race for governor of a state that is not doing well financially, ethically or economically. And truth be told, it might not matter if either Rod or Judy win this election– that’s something to cry about.

AND FINALLY ...

It's good to be back and it's good to be blogging again. I'll be back tomorrow ... I PROMISE!

CLOSING UP SHOP FOR MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND

2006-05-26T04:28:00.000-07:00

Right on cue Mother Nature showed up in Southern Illinois this weekend -- labeled the first weekend of summer -- with 90-degree temps and plenty of humidity.

Memorial Day weekend is a great time to spend with family and friends, grilling, visiting cemeteries and basically relaxing. And it's not a good time to spend blogging or glued to a computer.

I'll be back on the 'chicken and dumpling beat' on Tuesday and full of vim and vigor ... commonly referred to as a load of BS in some circles. In the meantime let me pretend for just a moment to be your mother and remind you to drive carefully, don't drink and drive and be aware that the Illinois State Police will be conducting roadside safety checks throughout the weekend. So, buckle up and have a great weekend.

Back on Tuesday.

A BOLD NEW PLAN ... OR ... PIE-IN-THE-SKY

2006-05-24T03:33:00.000-07:00

Two things were evident yesterday when Gov. Blagojevich announced his intentions to sell or lease the state lottery to the highest bidder.

First, Sen./Rev. James Meeks is a tease, a shakedown artist and perhaps even a political pimp and secondly the state of Illinois is obviously for sale to anybody with deep pockets.

Obviously, the opportunity to grab the estimated $10 billion to prop up the sorry state of education funding in Illinois is tempting, but it seems to me that those who are already counting the billions are missing the entire picture. That picture, of course, is the way Illinois politics works these days. Let's take care of today and the heck with tomorrow. We'll let somebody else, our kids and grandkids, worry about the future.

Under the somewhat vague terms of the deal (in some circles called a scheme) the state would take $ 4 billion and plug it into the state's school system at a rate of $1 billion per year. And of course it's only a coincidence that the $1 billion per year for four years would coincide with a second term in office for the Guv.

Perhaps the biggest concern I see is what revenue source is going to be used in five years to replace the $1 billion per year? According to Blago the state would then take the remaining $6 billion and invest it in an annuity, a move that we are told would guarantee $650 million per year until 2025. That amount would replace the amount of revenue the lottery already generates each year. But, by 2025 that money would also be used up.

The Chicago Sun-Times did the best job of any newspaper in the state in explaining, both pro and con the Lottery proposal.

Here are some links that will tell you more than you want to know about the latest 'get rich quick, pie-in-the-sky scheme that is brewing in Springfield.

Look here, here, here, here, and here.

Wade in and let me know how you feel about the latest attempt to sell the Illinois one piece at a time.

MORE INSANITY FROM THE NINTH CIRCUIT (CIRCUS) COURT OF APPEALS

2006-05-23T05:00:00.000-07:00

ALLAH -- 1 ... GOD -- 0

As excited as I was about the stand (literally) made by the graduating students at Russell Springs High School -- a story I posted yesterday -- I'm just that disappointed at a story out of Texas concerning a decision to removed the words 'In God We Trust' from a nickel on the front of a high school yearbook.

Here's the link.

And another story with more insanity from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (the same group that rule 'under God' should be removed from the Pledge of Allegiance.

HOW ABOUT THIS NOVEL IDEA ... CREATE SOME JOBS!

I've heard of stories throughout my life where destitute people, without any hope of finding any extra income to beat the wolf away from the door, begin the slow, difficult task of selling off all their worldly possessions. First the boat goes, then a huge garage sale where household items are sold and finally the vehicles are sold. All of this takes place, of course, after the bills are months behind.

While this scenario has played out in the lives of real people it appears that it's the same tactic the state of Illinois is using to make ends meet. Heaven forbid that we try to create some good paying jobs, or better yet, drop some of the hundreds of fees that are forcing businesses to leave the state (case in point -- Maytag).

The state is considering leasing its tollway system and now is looking into leasing out the state lottery system. What's next? Perhaps leasing out the State Capitol for the eight months every year it sets empty.

Or how about this idea, we could lease out the Governor's mansion in Springfield. From what I hear it's never used.

Here's the story about the state's latest pie-in-the-sky, get-rich-quick scheme.

BE PREPARED ... I'VE GOT MY CRYING TOWEL OUT

2006-05-22T17:07:00.000-07:00

Trying (and I want to stress that word 'trying') to maintain a blog is a difficult and an imperfect task. As far as the difficult part, I'm very busy, working on all my jobs a total of 70-80 hours per week.

So, it takes some extra effort on my part to try and contribute here on a regular basis. On most days I feel up to that, but there are stretches when my life seems a blur and things are neglected. Obviously, as some of you know, lately this site has been one of those things.

Let me give you my mindset, and you might call me a whiner and a crybaby, but I'll throw it out anyway.

On many mornings I'd be up at five scouring over news stories, trying to focus on local or state issues as some of you have suggested I should, and then I'd spend an hour updating for that day. Invariably, I would try and find topics that might generate some interest and create some give and take because that'w what I envisioned when I began this labor of love. I would then visit the site a few times during the day to see if there were any comments, perhaps something that would spur me to get a little 'give-and-take' going.

For days on end, I would see 0 comments, 0 comments and 0 comments. Rarely did I get any responses. I visit other blogs and see what I think are totally asenine posts where there are 40 and 50 comments.

Totally amazing, I would think.

In any event, I've been away for a few days having my own little pity party. What's the use in making the effort, I would tell myself as another day would pass without posting, it probably just be another '0 comment day.'

After some soul-searching and some serious consideration of shutting this site down completely I've decided to trudge on ... at least for the immediate time being. I also decided I need to get on the ball and get some help in trying to update this blog with some links that might generate some more response. I need to talk with (and perhaps hire) some experts to help me get this site on other outside links, which in turn would send more readers this way.

Now that I have put my crying towel away let me leave you with an amazing story out of Russell County High School. I have a call in trying to get the principal of the school on my Wednesday night radio show, "Sound Off" (106.3 WQRL -- 8 to 10 p.m.

Here's the link. Consider me back and I promise I will be here tomorrow.

IF A PICTURE REALLY IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS ...

2006-05-12T06:17:00.000-07:00

While national security is on your mind check out these photos from a "Religion of Peace Demonstration" that was recently held in London.

TWO SIDES TO NSA STORY ... BUT WE'RE ONLY HEARING ONE

2006-05-12T05:39:00.000-07:00

OK, listen up students.

Today's lesson is about a truth my mother taught me many years ago. In simple terms the lesson is this: 'there are two sides to every story.'

But, these days here in the good ol' USA many times we only hear one side of a story. So, today I've got some reading assignments. I want you to read both sides of this argument, while keeping an open mind. In order for you to stay focused you must enter into this assignment with a totally open mind and even more important than that you must view this in a completely non-partisan way.

OK, are you ready?

Here's your first story to read and here's a second on the same topic.

Pretty good stuff, huh? And if that is all you read on this subject, you would think that Bush and the Republicans are probably peering into your bedroom windows at night, right?

Well, I want you to read on because there is a completely different side to this story.

Read this. And this. And this and finally this.

OK, students your final exam will be to tell me YOUR opinion. I'm certain most of you know how I feel about this, but I want to hear from you.

With that question on your mind look below for another post that hopefully will factor into your thinking.

IT'S A GLOOMY FORECAST IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS ... AND I'M NOT TALKING ABOUT THE RAIN

2006-05-11T04:16:00.000-07:00

Another devastating economic hit for Southern Illinois

It was yet another economic hit for Southern Illinois on Wednesday with the announcement that the Maytag plant in Herrin will close resulting in the loss of 1,000 jobs.

I watched the news conference held in Herrin and the grim looks on the faces of elected officials, economic developers and employees told the story.

I think it will be very interesting to see how this closing plays out during the summer and fall months as the gubernatorial race heats up. It will be very difficult for Gov. Blagojevich to travel through Southern Illinois touting jobs when we have lost (by my count) as many as 2,000 jobs this year alone.

Anyway you add it up it's a sad day for the entire area and when $35 million in annual payroll disappears. That's something that is not going to be replaced unless another major industry comes to Southern Illinois. I remember distinctly when Franklin County lost five coal mines during a six-year span. The emotional impact will be felt in the coming months but the economic impact will be felt for years.

Here's a look at the Maytag closing from a variety of angles.

Read this, this, this and this about the devastating impact this will have on not only Herrin and Williamson County but all of Southern Illinois.

I also wrote a column about the plant closing.

Kohl resigns -- now it's time for attack mode

Barry Kohl tendered his resignation as superintendent of the Franklin-Williamson Regional Office of Education, thus ending his political career. While there is no question that officials from both counties worked diligently for his ouster now is not the time to celebrate. In fact, it's the right time to move into attack mode.

A replacement will be named in the coming weeks and it's an important decision facing Williamson County Board Chairman Robert Barnett. The very last thing that is needed right now is for a political hack or croney to end up as the interim superintendent for the next 14 months.

My suggestion is to find a team of retired school administrators and give them the reins for the next year to clean up the mess that all knows exists. Partisan politics, handing out jobs based on blood lines and being a member of the good old boy's network is what got the ROE in the mess it's in, so those are the last things needed now.

The selection of an interim superintendent will go a long way in determining just how serious elected officials are in straightening out the mess at Franklin-Williamson ROE.

Here's the Kohl resignation story.

A fling or a father -- here's the story.

Nobody ever said he's not personable

Virtually every time I've criticized Gov. Rod Blagojevich I've prefaced the comments by saying that he is a personable guy -- the kind of guy you could drink a beer with and talk baseball. It's his decisions as governor that sometimes make me scratch my head.

The guv was put in a delicate situation on Wednesday and showed his personality, proved that he could 'take it' and 'give it back' in return.

Here's the "Blagojevich Sucks" story.

I missed this on ABC, CBS and NBC I guess?

Certainly there has been some bad days in Iraq, but as I've reported on this site there have been good things that have not been reported.

As an example here's yet another story that the mainstream, evening talking heads failed to report.

TUESDAY THOUGHTS

2006-05-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

Start the day with a smile

I received an email on Monday from one of my liberal friends and I laughed out loud it was so good. In fact, it was one of those gut laughs that feels good and are all too infrequent in my harried and hurried world.

It's too good not to share so let's start Tuesday off with a smile.

Here it is.

THINKING

It started out innocently enough. I began to think at parties now and then -- just to loosen up.
Inevitably, though, one thought led to another, and soon I was more than just a social thinker.
I began to think alone--"to relax," I told myself--but I knew it wasn't true.

Thinking became more and more important to me, and finally I was thinking all the time.That was when things began to sour at home. One evening, I had turned off the TV and asked my wife about the meaning of life. She spent that night at her mother's.

I began to think on the job. I knew that thinking and employment don't mix, but I couldn't stop myself. I began to avoid friends at lunchtime so I could read Thoreau and Kafka. I would return to the office dizzied and confused, asking, "What is it exactly we are doing here?"

One day the boss called me in. He said, "Listen, I like you, and it hurts me to say this, but your thinking has become a real problem. If you don't stop thinking on the job, you'll have to find another job."

This gave me a lot to think about. I came home early after my conversation with the boss. "Honey," I confess, "I've been thinking..."
"I know you've been thinking," she said, "and I want a divorce!"

"But Honey, surely it's not that serious."
"It is serious," she said, lower lip aquiver. "You think as much as college professors, and college professors don't make any money, so if you keep on thinking, we won't have any money!"

"That's a faulty syllogism," I said impatiently. She exploded in tears of rage and frustration, but I was in no mood to deal with the emotional drama.

"I'm going to the library," I snarled as I stomped out the door.I headed for the library, in the mood for some Nietzsche. I roared into the parking lot with NPR on the radio and ran up to the big glass doors....They didn't open. The library was closed.To this day, I believe that a Higher Power was looking out for me that night.

Leaning on the unfeeling glass, whimpering for Zarathustra, a poster caught my eye, "Friend, is heavy thinking ruining your life?" it asked.

You probably recognize that line. It comes from the standard Thinkers Anonymous poster. Which is why I am what I am today: a recovering thinker.

I never miss a TA meeting. At each meeting we watch a non-educational video; last week it was "Porky's." Then we share experiences about how we avoided thinking since the last meeting.
I still have my job, and things are a lot better at home. Life just seemed...easier, somehow, as soon as I stopped thinking.
I think the road to recovery is nearly complete for me.

Today I made the final step, I registered to vote as a Republican.

I guarantee that you laughed, right?

The Franklin ROE saga continues ... or the beat goes on

The ongoing soap opera known as the Franklin-Williamson Regional Office of Education continues as officials in both counties try to oust embattled superintendent Barry Kohl.

I wrote a column that appeared in today's Southern that asked the question about where these same officials have been for the past three years? Where was the outrage, the concern the outright contempt about the bad audits, indictments, arrests and nepotism that existed in the regional office?

Here's the column.

Here's another story about the ROE.

A nice honor for a good man

Mike Lawrence will be honored by the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform as the 2006 winner of the Paul Simon Public Service Award.

Along with being an outstanding journalist Lawrence is also an outstanding person. Congrats from my little corner of the world.

Here's the story.

Much like beauty ... the good and bad of an increase in school funding is in the eye of the beholder

Simply stated, until the entire funding mechanism is gutted and revised there will never be equity in school funding. Before you read this article keep in mind that some school districts in the Chicago suburbs spend $17,000 per student while school districts in Southern Illinois spend $5,000 per student. Until a way is devised to close that gap is closed a $170 per student increase is comparable to putting a band-aid on a severed artery.

Here's the story.

Will this impact the November election?

Voters may get a chance in November to urge the Legislature for a constitutional amendment to recognize marriage between a man and a woman as the only legal union in Illinois.

Protect Marriage Illinois, a coalition of conservative family groups, submitted 345,199 signatures Monday to the state Board of Elections so a nonbinding, advisory referendum could be placed on the ballot.

What's your thoughts? Will this have a bearing on voter turnout? Will this spur conservatives to hit the polls?

Here's the story.

Here's another look.

How about this spending spree?

I have to admit that I hate the Blagojevich political ads that we are being bombarbed with on a daily basis. And before anybody gets their shorts in a wad, my feelings have nothing to do with Blago or Democrats. It does have everything to do with giving voters a break. It's May, for God's sake, and the election is six months away.

The money that Blago is spending on this daily attacks on JBT is impressive to say the least. What concerns me is that if the ads are this dirty in April and May ... what can we expect in October. Grab your hard hat and get ready.

Here's the story.

Moussaoui wants a new trial

Yet another twist in the trial of Zacharias Moussaoui came on Monday when his attorney's filed a motion for a new trial.

Sorry, Zach, you waived the right when you pleaded guilty.

After reading the story about his desire for a new trial I'm convinced more than ever that life in prison without parole is the proper sentence. Total solitary confinement, no windows, no television, no outside contact, no conversation, no sunshine and no reading material.

Just sit in your cell day after day after day and rot.

Have a good life Zach.

Here's the story.

CATCHING UP

2006-05-04T05:14:00.001-07:00

A black eye on top of a black eye

We can impeach a president ... but not a regional superintendent of schools?

A story that broke on Wednesday concerning yet another twist and turn in the continuing soap opera known as the Franklin-Williamson Regional Office of Education is troublesome at best and criminal at worst.

The story is about the move by the U.S. Department of Education to suspend Barry Kohl, who serves as superintendent of Franklin-Williamson ROE. The suspension will cost the ROE in excess of $700,000 in federal grants next year alone. And since the ROE receives 56 percent of its $5 million budget through federal funds, the suspension could result in a loss of millions and also put as many as 25 people on the unemployment line.

Kohl, as you are probably aware, is facing a 32-count indictment that he turned in bogus travel vouchers, lied to a grand jury and tried to coerce other to also give false info to the grand jury. The court proceedings have dragged on for nearly two years and bogged down to the point that no future court dates are set.

Kohl was defeated in the March primary election but does not leave office until July 2007. According to reports I've received he has been asked to resign and also asked to take a paid leave of absence and has refused both. It seems, that he is going to remain firmly attached to the government teet until the very last day of his term.

In short, what is taking place is a travesty and a slap in the face to taxpayers in both Franklin and Williamson counties. We can impeach a president but there is no mechanism in place to remove a superintendent of schools? What a sad commentary that is on the condition of our political system.

Mark this down as just another sad chapter in Southern Illinois politics.

Here's the story.

The "Hole in the Bucket Doctrine"

The topic of illegal immigration has been cussed and discussed during the past few weeks. I think I have devised a simple three-point plan to solve the problem.

Here's my Thursday column detailing "The Hole in the Bucket Doctrine."

A start ... but not enough

The Williamson CountyHousing Authority took a first step in correcting the ongoing problems that have made board meetings a raucous, finger-pointing event. Two new members were appointed during a Tuesday night meeting but that is still not enough. If the board is really intent on cleaning up the mess at least two other board members need to be replaced.

Here's one story.

And here's another article about the bore's nest -- commonly referred to as the Williamson County Housing Authority.

America, you lost ... no Zacharias, you lost.

A jury deliberated for two weeks before sentencing terrorist Zacharias Moussaoui to life in prison. Even though I am an advocate of the death penalty I believe the jury made the right call here. Why? You might be asking. Let me explain.

You see, everything Moussaoui said during the trial proved that he wanted the death sentence so he could become a martyr. The life sentence will not allow that and instead it will mean that he will spend the rest of his miserable life rotting away in a super max prison where he will be in solitary confinement for 23 hours a day. The other hour he will be allowed to excercise alone.

So, instead of all those virgins he had hoped for with death ... it's a tiny cell and no outside communication for Moussaoui.

Rot in peace.

Here's the story on Moussaoui.

Here's a story about the facility that Moussaoui will call home for the rest of his life and about some of the others at the Colorado super max prison.

A lot of pork ... and little substance

The Illinois House on Wednesday passed a $56 billion budget that falls far short of solving, or even addressing the financial problems in the state. The budget has no provision for stalled school or road projects and also fails to address the immediate needs of understaffed correctional facilities.

In short, it's what we have come to expect -- a feel-good budget loaded with pork in an election year.

Illinois politics ... blah, blah, blah.

Here's the story -- and be sure and check out the pork project that are mostly headed to Chicago.

Here's another story about the pork-laden budget.

Building Saluki Way ... on the backs of students

I recently read a story that adminstrators at Southern Illinois University are concerned about an alarming decrease in enrollment figures. A story that broke on Wednesday shows that SIU students will be facing a 9.4 percent increase in tuition to help fund the proposed $500 million Saluki Way.

Let explain in one sentence why enrollment is down. First, raise tuition by nearly 10 percent and then sprinkle in a heaping portion of the ultra-liberal crap that is dispersed on the Carbondale campus and the end result is fewer students, period.

Here's the story.

Too funny

This from Neil Boortz' website is too funny not to pass along.

Don't insult the cook

A story out of New York is yet another example that it is not wise to insult the cook -- especially if the cook happens to be holding a sharp knife.

CATCHING UP

2006-05-04T05:14:00.000-07:00

2006-05-02T05:36:00.000-07:00

"United 93"

I went to see "United 93" over the weekend and came away impressed with the movie itself but also suprised at my own reaction -- particularly since this is a movie where everybody obviously knows the ending. To my knowledge I have never, ever written about a movie -- no Roger Ebert am I -- but I would encourage everybody to see this movie. And I would love to hear about your reaction afterwards.

Here's a column I wrote about "United 93."

Illegal immigrants

An estimated 1 million illegal immigrants marched on Monday, hitting the streets while waving Mexican flags. After reading countless articles about the May Day event, I have a simple question: exactly what do they want?

Are they asking for blanket amnesty for all?

Are they asking for wide-open borders?

It seems to me that somewhere in the shouting and flag-waving the message, if there ever was a message, was lost.

Here's a couple of links, first to a local march and also some links to other marches.

... and speaking of immigration laws.

I ran across a story that seems to be lost in all the hoopla surrounding the 'rights' of illegal immigrants. Did you know that Mexico annually deports more illegal aliens that the United States? Also, did you know that it is a felony to be an illegal alien in Mexico?

Consider this:

Mexico has a single, streamlined immigration law that has built-in guarantees that foreign visitors and immigrants are:

* in the country legally;
* have the means to support themselves economically;
* not destined to be a burden on society;
* of economic and social benefit to society;
* of good character and have no criminal record:
* contribute to the general well-being of the nation.

The law also ensures that:

* immigraton authorities have a record of each foreign visitor;
* foreign visitors do not violate visa status;
* foreign visitors are banned from interfering with the country's internal politics;
* foreign visitors who enter under false pretense are imprisoned or deported;
* foreign visitors violating the terms of their entry are imprisoned or deported;
* those who aid in illegal immigration are sent to prison.

What a great immigration law, huh?

Perhaps the answer to the problem of illegal Mexican immigrants is for the United States to implement the same immigration laws that Mexico has?

Sheila Simon is running for mayor ... what a shocker!

In one of the worst kept secrets since Glenn Poshard was named president at SIUC, Carbondale city council member Sheila Simon announce on Monday that she will run for mayor in the 2007 election.

The announcement by Simon sets up what could be an interesting an entertaining mayoral race, that is if current Mayor Brad Cole opts to run. At this point Cole is not talking, however if I was making book on whether he throws his hat in the ring I'd give odds that he seeks re-election.

Trust me, I'll have much more to say about this race as we move through the summer and fall. And let me throw the first salvo out by saying that I wish all news media would make one gigantic announcement that Simon is the daughter of the late Paul Simon and then put that matter to rest. The fact that she is the daughter of a former United State's senator has nothing whatsoever to do with her ability to lead the city of Carbondale.

I'm anxious to hear what Sheila Simon has to say about Sheila Simon and what Sheila Simon has to say about Sheila Simon moving Carbondale forward. Let's get rid of the coat tails early in this campaign because the only name on the ballot will be Sheila Simon.

Here's the story.

The Hatfield and McCoys ... the Israelis and Arabs ... and Benton and West City

Everybody says there is no fued between neighboring Franklin County communities Benton and West City. Everybody says that those days are long gone and that the two communities actually live on opposite sides of Interstate 57 in perfect harmony.

But, as my dear late mother often said, 'actions speak louder than words.

Read this story and then tell me if all is well in Benton and West City.

A bizarre story out of Freeburg

I got hooked on this story over the weekend and have followed it closely. As stories go, this is a strange one. I will keep this one hanging around for awhile. These two stories come from the Belleville News-Democrat, who have done a great job staying on top of this.

Read this and this from Tuesday's edition.

This story will get much better as it moves along.

SEX SELLS

2006-04-27T05:47:00.000-07:00

OK, I hope the heading on today's blog got your attention. It seems that one post about a sex topic has caused quite a stir (or stirring) among the Williamson County faithful who visit this site regularly.

Obviously, with that kind of a reaction it prompted me to dig a little deeper today and try to find yet another story dealing with 'that' word -- SEX.

My thanks to Kevin Costner for loving himself (and his body parts) so much that it made my job quite easy. Here's a question for you to ponder. Go to the link listed below and take a good look at Costner's wife and tell me, 'what is this guy thinking?'

Here's the story.

"United 93" opens this weekend

The first film about that cloudless day in September 2001 will open on Friday. "United 93" is drawing rave reviews and plenty of criticism. On the positive side those that have watched the 90-minute film say that it is meticulous in detail -- even what the passengers were wearing that fateful day -- and spares details like terrorists slashing the throats of flight attendants. On the down side there is a small segment -- and it's the usual 'let's not offend anybdy crowd' -- who are saying it is too soon to show this type of film.

I wrote a column today detailing my thoughts on the timing.

Please read this and this about "United 93" -- both are excellent.

Gas pains ...

How much profit is enough?

Exxon showed a net profit of $8.4 billion (that's with a 'B') for the first quarter of this year. That makes it easier to understand the $400 million retirement package that Exxon chief Lee Raymond received earlier this month.

Once again, how much is enough?

Here's that story.

... and more gas pains

An interesting tidbit that I didn't know concerning gas prices is the amount of taxes tied in to every gallon of gas that Illinois residents use. Illinois is in the top five of states that tack on the highest amount in federal and state taxes. New Yorkers pay the most at 63 cents per gallon while those of us here in the Land of Lincoln pay 55 cents per gallon. Think about that for a minute. I filled my truck up yesterday and it held 21 gallon. The cost was $63 and some change. Of that amount $11.55 went to pay taxes.

It ticks me off more about the amount of taxes added on than it does the profits generated by Exxon. At least through the earnings of Exxon I know that capitalism is alive and well, whereas with taxes I pay for every gallon of gas I can see firsthand the waste, and in Illinois the corruption, that my hard earned dollars go to support.

Corruption ... corruption ... and more corruption

I had Cindy Canary on my radio program Wednesday night and what a great interview. She is articulate, funny and like me fed up with the corruption in Illinois politics.

Canary is the director of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform. I told her at the beginning of the interview that based on what I have witnessed she might have the best job security of anybody in the entire state.

I asked her what the average person could do to fight back against the corruption and she said the first thing is to "not give up." She talked about how the 25 percent voter turnout in the March 21 primary is a direct result of corruption and appearance of corruption that has virtually engulfed the entire state. She pointed to the Ryan trial and conviction, indictments handed out at Chicago City Hall and the federal investigation into the Blagojevich administration.

She also said that everybody, that's you and I, should contact our state senators and representatives and let them know that we need ethics legislation that will slow down the amount of money that can be doled out in campaigns.

So, echoing Canary's words, I'm encouraging you not to give up and to contact your state legislators.

I'll leave you with this quote from Canary which is a very sad commentary on the state of the state of Illinois.

"I think it is important for people to step back and look at Illinois at this moment in history," said Canary. "The breadth and volume of the problem of corruption in this state is beyond compare. And it is nothing to be proud of."

Sad, very sad.

Am I bragging? Probably.

I received word last week that my weekly show "Sound Off" is a finalist for the Illinois Broadcasters Association Silver Dome Award in the category of 'Best Public Affairs Program.'

We will travel to Springfield on June 6 and 7 for the award's dinner.

I like to point out that when I began the show four years ago I said at the time I wasn't sure I would last 15 minutes. Since then I've produced and hosted more than 200 two-hour shows. The segment that I submitted that was chosen as a finalist was perhaps the best and most troubling interview I've conducted. I was talking about a court hearing I had attended where a convicted sex offender, who confessed to abusing dozens of kids during 31 year span, was given a light sentence of only nine years. While I was railing about it one of his victims called in to the show. I was not expecting the phone call and it was gripping to say the least.

She is 14 years old and the abuse started when she was four and lasted four years. She told me that she has been involved with alcohol, drugs and tried to commit suicide at age 12. It was an unbelievable story. In any event, I cut the best five minutes out of the interview and submitted it to the IBA.

Obviously, if I win ... you'll be the first to know.

DESPITE A MANIC MONDAY ... IT'S NOW TERRIFIC TUESDAY

2006-04-25T05:24:00.000-07:00

Cuss, spit, scream, throw things ... or perhaps a little of each

For those who care, and even for those who don't, I did make a lengthy post on Monday. And even though it never appeared on my blog, I promise you that I wrote about gas prices, more corrupt Illinois politics, a new poll that shows Judy Barr Topinka ahead of Gov. Rod Blagojevich and other assorted topics.

However, when I hit the button to 'publish post' I was met with a screen that said 'Blogger Maintenance' and then it listed the time that the maintenance was scheduled -- which just happened to be the exact time that I was trying to publish my post. It's the first time that I encountered this problem and apparently when it happens the post is lost. So, the 45 minutes I spent, after an already long day, was simply wasted.

Obviously, I was livid but I quickly realized I had two choices. First, I could either try to re-write the post and go back and find the different links but knowing that the second time (at least as far as writing is concerned) is never as good, I opted for choice number two which was to cuss, spit, scream and throw things.

My late mother would tell me that I'm wishing my life away, but I was glad to see Monday end.

Now ... on to Tuesday

I have tried to convince myself and others that the spike in gas prices is simply a case of supply and demand. In short, the supply is limited, the demand increases yearly causing prices to invariably go up. However, I see things happening around me that make me scratch my head and question the soundness of that logic.

Let me explain.

The price of gas seems to hinge on the daily roller coaster ride of crude oil. In short, when crude goes up gas goes up and when crude goes down gas prices follow. Well, on Monday I noticed that the price of crude oil actually dropped by more than $2 per barrell ... yet when I drove by the local station where I buy most of my gas I couldn't help but notice that the price of gas had increase six cents per gallon to $2.95.

Go figure, huh?

Here's the story about decreasing oil prices (that in the end translates to higher gas prices.)

President Bush has promised to jump in the fray, perhaps a little too late it seems to me. Here's that story.

A story to appease the 'I want more sex' crowd

Last month when I was on vacation (and Vacation Jim was having a wonderful time) my friend Becky Malkovich filled in for me in this space. One of her comments, surely from the Williamson County crowd she associates with, was that my blog lacked any references about 'sex.'

Well, today that all changes with this story. Let me warn you ... don't get your hopes too high.

And speaking of Becky Malkovich ... Happy Birthday to my friend, co-worker and fellow blogger. Today is the double-digit anniversary of her 29th birthday. From my little corner of the blogosphere -- here's hoping it's a great day!

Once again ... the intolerance of those who preach tolerance shines through

I saw this on Neil Boortz's website and thought it was just too good not to share here. My appreciation and thanks to Mr. Boortz. I think this speaks volumes.

CAIR UPSET ABOUT E-MAIL

Well. what do we have here. Looks like a small case of some people being able to dish it out, but not take it. Let's start at the top. The story begins at Michigan State University with a mechanical engineering professor named Indrek Wichman.

Wichman sent an e-mail to the Muslim Student's Association. The e-mail was in response to the students' protest of the Danish cartoons that portrayed the Prophet Muhammad as a terrorist. The group had complained the cartoons were "hate speech."

Enter Professor Wichman. In his e-mail, he said the following:
"Dear Moslem Association: As a professor of Mechanical Engineering here at MSU I intend to protest your protest.I am offended not by cartoons, but by more mundane things like beheadings of civilians, cowardly attacks on public buildings, suicide murders, murders of Catholic priests (the latest in Turkey!), burnings of Christian churches, the continued persecution of Coptic Christians in Egypt, the imposition of Sharia law on non-Muslims, the rapes of Scandinavain girls and women (called "whores" in your culture), the murder of film directors in Holland, and the rioting and looting in Paris France.

This is what offends me, a soft-spoken person and academic, and many, many, many of my colleagues. I counsel you dissatisfied, aggressive, brutal, and uncivilized slave-trading Moslems to be very aware of this as you proceed with your infantile "protests."

If you do not like the values of the West -- see the 1st Amendment -- you are free to leave. I hope for God's sake that most of you choose that option. Please return to your ancestral homelands and build them up yourselves instead of troubling Americans.Cordially, I. S. Wichman, Professor of Mechanical Engineering"

Well! As you can imagine, the Muslim group at the university didn't like this too well. They're demanding Wichman be reprimanded and mandatory diversity training for faculty and a seminar on hate and discrimination for freshman. How nice.

But now the Michigan chapter of CAIR has jumped into the fray. CAIR , the Council on American-Islamic Relations, apparently doesn't believe that the good professor had the right to express his opinion. For its part, the university is standing its ground. They say the e-mail was private, and they don't intend to publicly condemn his remarks.

That will probably change. Wichman says he never intended the e-mail to be made public, and wouldn't have used the same strong language if he'd known it was going to get out.How's the left going to handle this one? If you're in favor of the freedom of speech, as in the case of Ward Churchill, will the same protections be demanded for Indrek Wichman? I doubt it.

Is that not some good stuff?

Another day ... another politician ... another pay off ... another example of pay to play in Illinois

Yet another story about the stench that is known as Illinois politics and the engrained mentality that make many believe that this sort of behavior is all right. Here's the story, now excuse me while I throw up.

Let's run the table on Southern Illinois news

A smoke-free Carbondale? Here's the story. What's your thoughts?

A strange story takes an even stranger twist in the death of SIU employee Nancy Martin.

Given the financial condition of the state, should Illinois be involved in funding stem cell research?

Even though its an election year ... JBT floats a good idea on a campaign swing through Southern Illinois on Monday.

A column about the one-sided argument involving mercury emissions. Excuse me now while I go and chain myself to a tree.

FINALLY FRIDAY

2006-04-21T04:18:00.000-07:00

SICK AND TIRED ... OF BEING SICK AND TIRED

A story this morning in the Chicago Sun-Times is, in a nutshell, the state of Illinois politics.

And let me say it again ... it is a sorry state.

The story details how former Gov. George Ryan's attorneys have started their appeal process and are in a full-court press to discredit jurors. Has anybody heard Ryan or any of his attorneys say that the former governor is INNOCENT? Or, has anybody heard any mention that Ryan did not do any of the things he has been convicted of doing? Has anybody heard Ryan or his attorneys say that the charges are all bogus? Has anybody heard Ryan take any responsibility at all for his actions?

The answer to those questions are no, no, no and hell no!

Instead, Ryan's high-priced attorneys are now digging through the pasts of the 12 people that gave up six months of their life to do their civic duty by being a juror.

This, my friend, is typical Illinois politics. If you can't tell us what you've done, what you've accomplished or even what you plan to do ... you can always tear your opponent down.

Count me as one that is so sick and tired of this that I could gag.

This is yet another example why 60-70 percent of voters stay home.

Here's the disgusting story.

AND HERE'S MORE OF THE SAME

I started out writing a column a few days ago and the more I wrote the madder I got.

The column was about the sorry state of Illinois politics. As I continued to write and dig out more details of underfunded pensions, pension raids, nearly $2 billion in unpaid bills to doctors, hospitals, etc. and bond debt that has tripled in the past three years I was furious.

I'm speaking to lawmakers on boths sides of the aisle when I say that I think we deserve better. And, I don't care what party you belong to it would be nice to hear some of our legislators say that right is right and wrong is wrong. Instead they all, and yes I mean all, hang on to party loyalty while the will of the people is totally forgotten.

Before my blood pressure soars ... I'll stop and let your read my angry words.

Here's the column.

THE NEWS MEDIA ... DUKE LACROSSE ... AND STRIPPERS

I'm amazed at the amount of time that is being given on cable news programs is dedicating to this story.

First, we will probably never, ever know exactly what happened.

Why?

Because we are relying on the memory and recollection of people who are (A.) not very smart to begin with (B.) very drunk on top of not being very smart, and (C.) looking for a lawsuit or looking to CYA.

Ann Coulter hit the nail on the head in a column this week. Her headline is the best I've seen in some time.

Here's the column.

HE'S CRAZY, THAT'S A GIVEN? BUT, WHAT ABOUT THE WOMEN?

A 76-year-old man in Broward County, Florida was arrested for going door-t0-door offering free breast examinations. The guy was arrested and will obviously end up in a psych ward somewhere. But, the question that begs to be asked concerns the fact that two women invited the would-be doctor into their home and allowed the examination that also included some sort of gynecology exam.

Certainly, this guy is a half a bubble off center, but I have some serious concerns about the two women who allowed a stranger in their home ... and then disrobed for him.

Here's the story.

FINALLY, I WILL ADDRESS THE SLUG ISSUE

OK, I'll admit it ... I've been somewhat of a slug this week as far as blogging is concerned. Proving that I could never be a politician, I own up to it, I'm not going to blame anybody else and I take full responsibility for my SLUG-GISH behavior.

As of Friday morning (and subject to change) I plan on blogging this weekend to try and make up for my lackluster showing this week.

Please stop by and visit.

Fighting fires ...

2006-04-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

Answering a few questions from posters

I appreciate those who missed my brief absence as I was busy fighting a few fires.

Let's get things rolling by answering a few comments made by the good folks who took the time to register their thoughts.

New Busch Stadium

The last time we visited I was heading off to St. Louie for a ball game and a first look at the new digs the Cardinals now call home. Obviously, I loved old Busch because I grew up watching the Cardinals there, but the new stadium made a fan in me quickly.

Simply stated, it's like walking from the 20th Century to the 21st Century. The new stadium is more fan-friendly has many more and different types of concessions and the view is great.

I joined a group this year and purchased season tickets so I have at least six more trips to get accustomed to the new site. Overall, I was pleased.

Now on to other more important issues.

Former Gov. Ryan convicted all counts

Surprised ... yet not surprised sums up my feelings on the conviction of former Gov. George Ryan. I felt strongly all along that Ryan was guilty but given the level of corruption that exists in Illinois I wouldn't have been surprised if he had somehow wiggled out of the charges.

Seeing how Ryan's chief of staff Scott Fawell was sentenced to 6-1/2 years in federal prison Ryan will certainly do that much or more in my opinion. At least I hope so.

A comment or two ... or three ... or maybe more ... for an anonymous poster

I was amused when I read a comment from an anonymous poster asking 'how I felt about my vote for Ryan' after the conviction was handed down.

First things first, I voted for Glenn Poshard and have stated many times since, that in my lifetime we probably missed the best chance we will ever have to elect a Southern Illinois resident as governor.

I think the comment by Anonymous brings up a bigger issue, though.

While I certainly vote for candidates from both parties I have never voted any ballot but Democratic in any primary election. And that goes back to 1972 when I voted for the very first time to the just completed March 21 primary.

I think the misconception about my party affiliation comes from the fact that I have defended President Bush -- who I did vote for -- and have criticized an assortment of Democrats on this site. Let me assure 'Anonymous' that those two things combined do not make me a flaming Republican, instead it simply makes me a guy who votes my conscience and my beliefs.

I will never, ever be one of those political sheep that will follow a Democrat or a Republican off a cliff just because they happen to be a Democrat or a Republican. In fact, I recently read a comment made many years ago by Winston Churchill that sums up my political views. Paraphrasing, Churchill said, 'when a person is 25 and they are not a liberal they have no heart and when a person is 50 and they are not a conservative they have no brains.'

Oh, by the way that whirrrrrring sound you hear right now is the sound of my mother spinning in her grave. She loved to label herself a 'Yellow Dog Democrat' which means that she would vote for a 'yellow dog' before she would vote for a Republican.

Finally, I think Ryan got exactly what he deserved and hopefully, just hopefully, this is the first small step in cleaning up the stench and corruption in Illinois politics.

TomKat

Is anybody as happy as me that the blessed event (the birth of the TomKat's kid) has finally happened and we can hopefully see the last of Tom Cruise for a little while. It seems to me that everything single, solitary thing that Cruise does (wedding, pregnancy, religion, childbirth) is for his acting career.

Let's start a pool on how long it takes young Katie to grow up and then realize that she is married to raving lunatic?

Good Friday -- Light Blogging

2006-04-14T03:57:00.000-07:00

Nothing complicated ...

I'm going to make short work of this today for two reasons.

First, I have the day off and I'm looking forward to a day without ringing phones, annoying emails and anything else work-related. The thought of getting into anything too complicated on here today makes my head (and another specific body part that I'm sitting on right now) hurt.

Secondly, I have tickets to go the St. Louis Cardinals game tonight at brand new Busch Stadium. The Cards play Cincinatti and Cy Young winner Chris Carpenter is pitching. We are heading out early to eat at our favorite downtown restaurant, 'Calico's, and then we are going to try to get to the stadium as soon as they open the doors to look the new digs over.

So, after yet another grueling week, I'm looking forward to hittin' the road and gettin' out of town.

It's Friday ... But Sunday's Coming

Good Friday to all as we enter the most important holidays on the calendar for those of the Christian faith. While some might argue that Christmas -- the birth of Christ -- is the most signifcant of the two holidays I've always argued otherwise.

Certainly, the birth of Jesus is what set the Christian belief in motion but without the crucifixtion and the resurrection there would be no plan of salvation. So, while the birth started things I've always felt like Easter represented the final

I'm always reminded every Good Friday of the greatest Easter sermon I ever heard.

The Rev. B.D. Scroggins was pastor of the West City Church of God some 20-odd years ago and to this day I can still vividly recall the sermon. It was entitled, "It's Friday ... But Sunday's Coming."

During the sermon he talked about how the disciples and Mary must have felt on Friday when Jesus was crucified. He graphicly talked about how their belief system, their feelings, their emotions and everything they had hoped and dreamed of must have been shaken to the very core. He talked about how they must have felt hopeless, helpless and totally defeated. But then he kept repeating throughout the sermon that despite what they felt like on Friday ... Sunday -- the day of the resurrection -- was coming. He then brought that idea to today's time and told those in the audience that whatever type of problems -- or 'Friday' -- existed in their world, he wanted to remind them that 'Sunday's coming.'

Obviously, since I can still recall details and even the title it was an amazing sermon.

In any event, regardless of how you choose to celebrate this religious holiday weekend I hope it's a good one for you and you get to be around the people that are important in your life.

So, Good Friday and Happy Easter.

The state of the state? In a word -- troubling

2006-04-13T03:51:00.000-07:00

A challenge for you

Here's the challenge. I want you to go back and read the headlines from 2003 and 2004 and again in 2005 and now read about the things happening in Springfield these days. What you will find in that reading assignment is that the partisan political bickering and 'business-as-usual, public-be-damned' attitude has escalated.

In fact, it has increased to the point that I'm very troubled about the future of Illinois.

Think about what we are subjected to on a daily basis.

The ongoing trial of former Republican Gov. George Ryan that has made us privy to information that reads like a third-rate gangster movie -- cash kickbacks, back room deals, Jamaican vacations, hookers, blah, blah, blah. You know the rest. This fiasco, including the investigation, has dragged on for eight years. These accusations about license-for bribes began in 1998. Un-freaking-believable. It like a permanent black cloud of corruption has hung over the entire state while this mess drags on and on. In all, more than 70 people from the Ryan administration have either been convicted or pleaded guilty. Think about that, 70 people from one administration.

And now we are faced with yet another session of gridlock where the will of the people is not being served ... but the will of partisan politics has again reared its ugly head.

Once again, I'm troubled about the future of Illinois and I mean that in a sincere way ... I am truly troubled by what I see.

As an example, I wrote a story last week about Kim Stubblefield, a West Frankfort woman suffereing from cancer who literally fell through the cracks and could not get any help. As you might expect, after the story hit the streets money, politicians and resources were coming out of the woodwork.

I had it in my mind as the story unfolded that it was an isolated incident. I found out this week that I was wrong.

I was contacted by Barbara Reardon, a caseworker with the Illinois Department of Human Services and she painted a bleak picture of individuals, many of them, who are literally dying before they can receive help.

Why?

According to Reardon the drastic cutbacks and layoffs that were implemented by the Blagojevich administration in 2003 that cut front line staff has crippled DHS and left caseworkers doing clerical work. I was told that rarely when an individual calls DHS do they speak to a real, live, breathing person. Instead they get voice mail which is sometimes answered and sometimes not.

I found it amazing that Reardon said she sits across her desk from people that she knows are going to die and they know they are going to die before they can get any help. And that is happening right here in the Land of Lincoln. And all the while the beat goes on in Springfield.

Couple that with the continual allegations of kickbacks and pay-to-play politics, yet another ongoing federal investigation, double-dipping political hacks who take on a title and a six-figure salary to pad their pensions by $40,000 to $50,0000 per year -- paid for by taxpayers of course, and it just doesn't give me much hope for optimism about the current state of the state.

I certainly don't mean to sound like Chicken Little today running around saying that the sky is falling here in Illinois. However, I just find it so disheartening when I see what has gone on and what is continuing to go on.

It just seems to me that the good folks in Illinois deserve better than what they are getting from our elected officials. And while our leaders in Springfield are playing the partisan game let me say that my disgustment, discouragement and disenchantment today is totally bi-partisan.

In other words, I think lawmakers on both sides of the aisle -- both Democrats and Republicans -- are guilty of allowing Illinois to become the poster child for political corruption.

Once again, we deserve better than what we are getting.

Here's the story about DHS employee Barbara Reardon.

Here's a story from the Springfield State-Journal Register about another session of bickering and political one-upsmanship.

Chilling

The government completed its case against Zacarias Moussaoui on Wednesday with its single most chilling piece of evidence — the cockpit voice recording from Flight 93 as terrorists overwhelmed the pilots, slashed their throats and praised Allah before crashing the jet far short of their target in the nation's capital.

Here's the complete story.

Here's a transcript of the cockpit voice recorder.

A dog-gone good try

While this story is not funny ... it is sort of funny.

Thomas Carroll couldn't come up with the fines to get his dog out of the pound so he took matters into his own hands. For his trouble, Carroll is behind bars and in one of the funniest lines I've heard this week, a sheriff's deputy reported that the "dog has been extradited back to the pound."

Since I live with an animal rescuer, I understand (at least I think I do) that these people know no bounds when trying to help a critter.

Here's the story.

A story for my friend BB in Orlando

I reported a few weeks ago that my wife Lisa and I had a wonderful vacation traveling to Florida and then returning home via Gulf Shores and Tunica. A big part of the enjoyment of the trip was getting to spend some time with our friends Matt and Brandi, who live in Orlando. And of course, staying with Matt and Brandi also means some serious face time with BB, their adoreable lab. I should also add that BB is smarter than many people I deal with on an everyday basis.

In any event, I read a story in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that I found incredible. I thought of BB (I fed her a half a box of cheddar Triscuits the night before I left).

Here's the story that I predict you will also find quite special.

The key word is 'illegal'

2006-04-10T18:33:00.000-07:00

What part of 'illegal' do they not understand?

The headlines and talking heads are full of news today, tonight and I'm sure the rest of the week about the protests involving illegal immigrants. Once again, the key word is 'illegal.'

Think about how that one word 'illegal' is used when referring to other criminal activity such as trespassing, alcohol, firearms, tobacco, guns, explosives, driving, counterfeiting, restraint, sexual assault, deadly weapon and the list goes on and on and on.

So, what's the difference between the use of 'illegal' when referring to those things and the use of the word 'illegal' when referring to immigrants?

The answer to that question is -- nothing.

Here, here and here are links that detail what took place.

What are your thoughts? Do we need new immigration standards? Do we need to shore up the borders first? Is legislation that includes amnesty the right thing to do?

Share your thoughts.

Coach Kill -- One-on-One

Paul Klee, a sportswriter for the Southern Illinoisan did an outstanding job on two Sunday features about SIU football Coach Jerry Kill. The personable Kill is battling cancer and Klee nailed the successful coach's personality and love for football in the feature story and one-on-one interview.

Here the first story.

Here's the Q & A.

From one-on-one to one-of-a-kind

It's often been said, and rightly so, that they broke the mold after they made Ken Gray.

The flamboyant Gray will be honored at a special event at John A. Logan College on Tuesday night. Here's a story about the event and about Gray's long tenure in Washington, D.C.

And yes, he is one-of-a-kind.

A Thursday tirade

2006-04-06T07:06:00.000-07:00

Can you say -- 'thorn in the side'

Southern Illinoisan reporter Nicole Sack broke a story Thursday morning that Carbondale Mayor Brad Cole is considering a run for a soon-to-be vacant position as a SIU student trustee.

Now wouldn't that be interesting -- a stone-cold Republican in the middle of Gov. Blagojevich's den of hand-picked Democrats.

I like the idea of Cole, who is enrolled in the SIU School of Law, tossing his hat in the ring for two reasons. First, it would keep the Good Old Boy's Club that currently exists on their collective toes and perhaps at least slow down the business-as-usual-public-be-damned attitude that currently exists. (I still haven't forgotten about that bogus, fictitious list of applicants and the $90,000 search for the SIU president's position.)

Secondly, I like Cole. I think he's a smart guy and I certainly don't think he's reached the pinnacle of his career as Carbondale's top-elected official. A stint on the board would be a breath of fresh air ... and God knows we need some fresh air on the Carbondale campus.

So, yeah, I like the idea of Cole being on the board. Count that as an endorsement, which in some circles is the same as the kiss of death.

When you think of Cole as a student trustee does the phrase 'thorn-in-your-side' come to mind?

Here's the story on Cole.

Speaking of Cole and the City of Carbondale ...

Since I've bragged on Cole and handed him a glowing endorsement for the student trustee position I also have a little advice to hand out to the good folks down at Carbondale City Hall.

That advice is to correct the problems, even if it takes a clear-the-air shouting match, with the Daily Egyptian. The edict handed down by City Manager Jeff Doherty that no city employees are allowed to speak to the DE serves no purpose -- especially to a new generation of reporters and journalists.

In fact, to be brutally honest the order handed down by Doherty is childish, immature and a little arrogant.

So, let's get the peace talks started. I'll even volunteer to serve as a mediator, if necessary.

Or, how about Doherty and the Dean of the School of Journalism having a wrestling match to settle the differences that exist? We could even make it one of those 'no-escape' cage matches like on WWE RAW. We could get Glenn Poshard and Walter Wendler to be the referees -- wearing those little black and white striped shirts -- and we could charge admission and maybe even schedule the event for McAndrew Stadium or SIU Arena. I know I would pay big bucks (up to $3) for a ticket to see Doherty & The Dean wearing tights and getting down and dirty. As you can see ... the possibilities are endless.

While a cage match might not appeal to all, you have to admit that it is better than the old fashioned stare-down that is going on right now between City Hall and the DE.

Oh, by the way, my endorsement, along with $2.25, will allow Cole to drink a (1) cold beer at any bar in Carbondale. For those of you who didn't get it ... my endorsement is worth ZERO.

Blah, blah, blah ...

Another month ... another finger-pointing board meeting at the Williamson County Housing Authority. This is an act that is getting old, tiresome and boring. Perhaps it's time for the feds to come in an clean this bore's nest out and start all over again.

Let's say it all together -- blah, blah, blah. Or, how about this -- we should start calling this group the Williamson County Housing Authority BORED!

Here's the story, written by Southern Illinois reporter Ashley Wiehle, who by the way should be getting additional 'combat pay' because she has to be in the same room with this bunch which consists mainly of political hacks and loonies.

Southern Illinois residents (as always) come through in a big way

I reported yesterday about the plight of Kim Stubblefield, a West Frankfort woman who is unemployed, uninsured and suffering from cancer.

Before I go any further, I should say that while I work in a business that is cynical by nature I still have a strong belief in the overall goodness of my fellow man.

Yes, there are scoundrels, scam artists, crooks, con artists and shysters out there looking for an easy prey. But, there are also people, and Kim Stubblefield is one of them, that have fallen through the cracks and safety nets and need help.

And when faced with that situation Southern Illinois residents did exactly what I knew they would do -- they came to a desperate woman's rescue with a great outpouring of support.

From my little corner of the world ... thank you very much.

Here's a follow up story about the remarkable response.

No options ... little hope

2006-04-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

As usual Wednesday is the craziest day of the week for me and today is not exception.

A story that I wrote that appeared in today's Southern Illinoisan made my day a little bit crazier than normal.

Let me explain.

I was contacted about writing a story about a Kim Stubblefield, a West Frankfort woman who is uninsured, unemployed and battling cancer. I didn't know exactly what I was walking into but found out quickly. What a sad story and also what a glaring example of just how quickly life can change in a downward direction. I've often heard that 80 percent of Americans are two paychecks away from being homeless. This story tells me those numbers are sadly accurate.

Today's blogging effort is a mandatory participation event. In other words, if you get this far and read this then I want to know what your thoughts are on this story. How can a person that has worked all her life, living in the richest country in the world, end up like this?

Here's the story about Kim Stubblefield.

Working Man Jim vs. Vacation Jim -- worlds collide

2006-04-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

File this one under -- 'what was I thinking?'

I made a sort-of promise on Monday that I would be doing double duty and posting twice -- morning and night. Here in the light of day on Tuesday morning I fully see the error in that faulty thinking.

Let me explain.

You see, when I was making that statement I had not yet jumped back into the work routine, so in essence that was still 'Vacation Jim' talking. And you have to understand that Vacation Jim is a fun-loving guy without a care in the world and hours of free time to do as he darn well pleases. Vacation Jim eats and drinks in excess and is amused at people who have deadlines; he laughs at people who get upset about computer and e-mail troubles and he simply rolls his eyes at those who are caught up in the daily rat race.

I really like Vacation Jim, he's a fun guy to hang out with.

On the other hand, 'Working Man Jim' is a ball of tightly wound stress. Deadlines make his neck tight -- 'as tight as a banjo string he says' -- and the slightest computer glitch can send him into orbit. Especially when the deadline-banjo string-thing is taking place. As far as the daily rat race, well, Working Man Jim always gets in the race, but with the full knowledge that the rats are going to win -- they always do.

So, when the braggadocio comment about making double posts was made it was Vacation Jim talking and boasting like he always does. However, shortly afterwards Working Man Jim took the reins and everything changed.

First of all, Working Man Jim drove 110 miles round trip to get a story Monday morning and then still had to write a column when he got back to his desk -- hopefully something worth reading -- for Tuesday.

And then of course the story from Centralia about prison understaffing still had to be written. Along with that Working Man Jim was trying to put together the details and photo arrangements for a story he's working on today, plus try to gather some information about a column for Thursday. On top of that, about the time WMJ finished the prison story the power kicked off and he went into a high-speed-come-apart thinking he'd lost the entire story. Luckily, and after sweating bullets he recovered the lost story only to find that somehow the Computer Demons had invaded his e-mail rendering it useless. WMJ tried at least six different times to send the story to Carbondale only to have the news desk report each time, 'nope ... we did not receive it.'

Finally, the story made it through and WMJ and his wife finally headed out for dinner. They went to the Pasta House in Mt. Vernon and as another example that people-loving Vacation Jim has left town, when the waitress asked if WMJ had a seating preference he told her, 'as far away from people as possible.'

WMJ and the lovely Lisa rushed through the meal and headed home and when he got in the car to begin the drive he looked at the clock on the radio and was stunned to see that it was 8:45 p.m.

'Where the heck did the day go," he thought, fully in Working Man Jim-mode.

So, instead of making a double post on Monday WMJ did what any non-vacationing working man would do -- he went straight to bed.

To borrow a line from George Costanza, it was 'world's colliding' on Monday with Vacation Jim making promises that Working Man Jim could not keep. And once again, as my friend George noted, 'a Jim divided cannot stand.'

At last report WMJ was facing another grueling day on Tuesday while a suntanned and relaxed Vacation Jim had not been seen.

More accusations of pay to play ... surely not in Illinois

I know it's hard to believe, but a story in the Peoria Journal-Star is making yet another allegation about pay to play politics in the Land of Lincoln.

Here's the pay to play story.

Same story ... different day

I mentioned earlier that I traveled to Centralia Correctional Center to attend a press conference about prison understaffing and state pension underfunding. A handful of lawmakers and union members from AFSCME attended the event that was held on Shattuc Road, immediately outside the prison entrance.

First, with winds blowing about 35-mph, I about froze to death, so it was not a pleasant experience. Secondly, if we have heard this story once we've heard it a zillion times.

I made reference in a column that appeared in today's Southern Illinoisan that Illinois politics has turned into a he-said-she-said where dates, times and speakers don't matter anymore. It all sounds the same, blah, blah, blah.

In any event, here's the same old story, this time out of Centralia.

I mentioned on Monday that there were several stories I picked up on after returning from vacation. I hit on a few of them in today's column.

Finally ...

Working Man Jim is back with his shoulder to the grindstone today ... so pay absolutely no attention to anything that Vacation Jim might sneak in here and promise later.

Back at it ...

2006-04-03T04:08:00.000-07:00

Back to work ... back to reality ... back to the old grind.

Anyway I phrase it, vacation is over and it's time to get back into the swing of things.

First things first, let me say a big 'thank you' to my friend Becky Malkovich who did a superb job filling in for me while I was away basking in the Florida sunshine.

Catching up ...

Obviously, I cannot catch up on all I want to write about in one post, so I'll try to do double duty for a few days and make some morning and evening posts. Actually, I've been toying with the idea of making several individual posts during the day rather than one post that contained several topics. Since Spring is a time for renewal maybe this week would be a good time to change things up a little. I'll ponder on that notion today.

A few quick thoughts on a much-needed vacation

I would be remiss if I didn't at least mention my vacation and tell you what a great time we had. In all we were gone for eight days and spent three days in Jupiter, Florida where we got to see the St. Louis Cardinals play exhibition games against the Florida Marlins, LA Dodgers and Washington Nationals. Jupiter is beautiful and Roger Dean Stadium is a wonderful complex. The stadium 'only' holds 7,000 so fans are very close to the action. It's a cozy atmosphere and the entire complex is immaculate. If I said it once I said it 100 times -- 'I could live here.'

The very first day in Jupiter sort of set the tone for the three days there. We spent Friday night with our friends Matt and Brandi in Orlando and then on Saturday morning we drove the 150 miles on to Jupiter. The game started at 1 p.m. so we drove to the stadium before we ever started looking for a hotel.

When we parked the car one of the guys directing traffic told us the only tickets that were available was standing-room-only. We trudged ahead anyway. I went to the ticket office and told the gentleman that I wanted two tickets, 'the best seats available.'

He said, 'how does 11 rows behind home plate sound.'

It sounded awfully good to me and within 15 minutes I was in one of those seats with a cold beverage in hand and the Florida sun on my neck. Yeah, I could live there.

After the three games we left Jupiter, drove back to Orlando and spent another night with Matt and Brandi (and BB) and then drove across the Florida panhandle and on south to Gulf Shores. We spent on afternoon and night there and then drove to Tunica and spent a night at the Hollywood Casino. From there, it was back to Southern Illinois and back to reality.

In all, we traveled through eight states and covered about 2,600 miles. It was a great time and more importantly it was just plain good to get away from the rat race -- a race that the rats were winning just prior to vacation.

There are many things I didn't mention, particularly the state of life in Gulf Shores nearly two years after Hurrican Ivan, but we'll delve into that later.

Sad news

One of the first tidbits of news I heard about when I returned was the death of Marion attorney Bruce Mitchell.

I hesitate to say that Mitchell 'lost' his battle with cancer because he fought one of the most courageous battles I've witnessed. I wrote a story three years ago about Mitchell's remarkable will to live. He was diagnosed more than eight years ago with pancreatic cancer and given six weeks to live. Somehow, Mitchell found the will, strength and just plain old guts to stretch that six weeks into more than eight years. There's no way that words like 'lost' or 'defeat' can be used when describing Bruce Mitchell. He was a warrior with a remarkable will to live.

My condolensces to his family.

Mum is the word

I was sort of taken aback by a post that Becky made concerning the stance that Carbondale city manager Jeff Doherty has taken with the Daily Egyptian concerning what he said was innaccurate reporting.

Instead of trying to straighten up the problem or clear up the miscommunication Doherty has reportedly put a muzzle and on all city employees and handed down orders that nobody is allowed to talk to reporters from the DE staff. Before I fire off a salvo in the direction of Doherty I need to get some more info ... which by the way ... I plan to do today.

And also ...

A few other things I'll be looking at and posting about in the coming days include the current legislative session that is reportedly supposed to end this Friday. However, insiders say that there is no way. Additionally, there is a possible third-party run for Governor by state Sen. James Meeks, who is also a Chicago minister, and pit bulls (the real four-legged kind and not those in Springfield), yet another press conference about prison understaffing, a cancer victim here in Southern Illinois that is virtually homeless and unable to get help, more shenanigans in the Williamson County commissioner race, Mary Winkeler, the Tennessee minister's wife that shot her husband, Georgia Rep. Cynthia McKinney, immigration and amnesty and new laws for sex offenders.

Finally ...

I did come to one realization while I was trekking through the southeast part of the country -- I'm computer-dependent. I started having withdrawals on day two of my trip and then got a quick-fix in Orlando where I caught up on all my favorite websites and blogs before heading out again.

I suppose I could start a 12-step program to try and help my addiction or I could simply try to go cold turkey on my insatiable desire to have my nose stuck in a computer screen but I'm not going to do that.

Instead, I plan to feed the beast and buy me a new laptop.

It's good to be back, I'm revved up, re-charged and ready to go. So, expect to hear a lot from me in the coming days.

A hasty farewell and a hardy hello

2006-03-29T19:33:00.000-08:00

Scant word from our Mr. Muir since he chucked all his responsibilities and fled God's Country for the steamier and seamier side of life served up in sunny Florida.

Oh, I knew he was alive (and presumably laughing it up), since at least once a day I got a phone call from someone who said, "Jim Muir gave me your number and said I should call you about this story because he's on vacation."

And at least once a day, I thought to myself, laugh it up while you still can, man, because one day, the weight of your world returns to your shoulders.

Happily, that day is today.

So welcome back, our tanned and true Mr. Muir. You have been greatly missed.

And a speedy adios to your legion of fans whose patience I have truly tested. I'm outta here.

D, DE and (as my friend Homer Simpson would say) D'oh-erty

2006-03-28T04:39:00.000-08:00

Because it couldn't wait
Just a quick post to point out a delicious letter to DE editor from D. Gorton in this morning's Daily Egyptian:
http://newshound.de.siu.edu/voices06/stories/storyReader$83

Old dogs and all that ...

2006-03-27T17:54:00.000-08:00

Could it possibly be this easy?

Copy and paste a link, highlight it, click on the link button and suddenly, I've got links? If so, it appears I have finally figured out my linking problem — on this blog at least. Linking to society remains a problem.

LaZy days, Bourbon Knights
Do you ever have days where all you really want to do is sit around listening to the Bourbon Knights?
No? Me neither, that is until a Certain Intrepid Girl Reporter, henceforth referred to as CIGR, passed along a copy of said band's latest CD. There's just something about a good pirate swing band. In fact, this is the first CD in a long while that has captured my fancy. Unseemly at my age perhaps, but there it is.

My newfound love for the Carbondale-based buccaneers comes just as I thought I had finally given up on new music, or at least that which is played on corporate radio. Yawn. Maybe it's a generational thing, but I don't remember the bands I grew up listening to being so formulaic.

Oh, well. No one wants to hear someone else blather on about music which is almost as bad as being forced to listen to someone else's dream — in excruciating detail.

But for those who may care, here's a LINK (God, this is so exciting) to the Bourbon Knights' Web page:
http://www.bourbonknights.net/

DE vs. JD, round one
I hope everyone caught Carbondale City Manager Jeff Doherty's dismissal of the Daily Egyptian in today's copy of the student-run SIUC newspaper. Seems Doherty fired the newspaper from any future coverage of city matters after, according to the paper, Doherty disapproved of a couple of stories that appeared on its pages earlier this month.
If you didn't see it, the DE has a great story on its front page and an annihilating editorial on its opinion page. Interestingly, there is no mention of C'dale Mayor Brad Cole in either. Here's the link to the story:
http://newshound.de.siu.edu/spring06/stories/storyReader$226

In the interests of fairness
First Cheney's hotel riders, now John Kerry's. Kerry's are far more interesting to me, if for only what he does not want in his hotel room: No celery and no tomato-based products. Wonder if that includes HeinZ's Ketchup, the stuff that made his wife a rich woman? Teresa HeinZ Kerry, you'll remember, is the widow of one of the HeinZ heirs.
Anyway, here's the link to the Smoking Gun:
http://www.thesmokinggun.com//archive/0327061kerry1.html

Less talk?
Finally, CIGR has long complained that Mr. Muir's blog needs more sex. To titillate things up, she offers this contribution, albeit literary in sexiness:
http://observer.guardian.co.uk/uk_news/story/0,,1739819,00.html

And on a personal note, my capitaliZation of Zs is NOT, I repeat, NOT a teenage girl's affectation. I have a laZy lowercase Z on my keyboard that refuses to work.

Let them eat carp ...

2006-03-26T06:21:00.000-08:00

Good Sunday morning. I have to make this quick because I am going to cover an exciting day of field fire training in the lovely burg of Frisco. For those who don't know, Frisco is due east of Ewing and for those who don't know where Ewing is, more's the pity.

I still haven't figured out how to link to other Web pages. I did find the correct "help" section in blogger, but I have yet to understand what it is trying to tell me. I haven't been this confused by a set of directions since the one time I bought a fake Christmas tree, which, by the way, is still in its box in the basement.
For now, and for the foreseeable future, we'll be a retro blog, employing the old cut and paste method of getting to other Web sites. Sorry.

On to the Sunday papers.

Matt Adrian of the Lee Springfield Bureau wrote a story that some may think sounds a little fishy. Here's a bit of it from today's Southern:

Lawmaker offers carp to feed Illinois prisoners, poor

SPRINGFIELD -Asian carp clogging Illinois rivers could be used to feed inmates and the starving under a proposal being championed by one state lawmaker.

State Sen. Mike Jacobs called on his fellow lawmakers last week to earmark $750,000 in state funds to market the voracious, non-native species that can grow up to 100 pounds and crowd out other fish.

"At the end of the day, I think this is going to be a way for us to turn a really terrible problem into a really positive solution," he said. rrible problem into a really positive solution," he said.

The money, which could be included in the state's next budget plan, would be used to help companies reduce the population of the nuisance fish. Once harvested, the fish could be transformed into plant fertilizer or used to provide a cheap food source for prisoners and the poor worldwide.

Schafer Fisheries located in Thomson, markets about two million pounds of Asian carp a year, said company president Mike Schafer.

Carp's reputation as a dirty fish is unfounded, he said.

For the full story, go to http://www.thesouthern.com/articles/2006/03/26/top/10005930.txt

What makes a woman swoon, at least in the voting booth? Sun-Times columnist Carol Marin writes today about the courting of the female vote in the race for governor:

What do women want -- Rod or Judy?

Gov. Blagojevich has been getting in touch with his feminine side. It wasn't that long ago that the first-term governor stood before a bank of microphones to tout his "testicular virility."

But that's so yesterday. Today, and every day until the November election, it's all about you, girlfriend.

Tuesday night, as a smiling Blagojevich stepped up to the podium to accept victory in the Democratic gubernatorial primary over the anemic campaign of Edwin Eisendrath, Blagojevich was "surrounded" by just one person: wife Patti. Just him and his gal.

Blago's speech that night was peppered with the issues that polls show women care about most. "We became the first state in the nation to cover every single child with health care," said the governor. "We've given more 3- and 4-year-olds the chance to go to preschool. . . . We've expanded breast cancer screenings." And he went on, "We passed a law that says if you are a woman and you do the same work as a man, they better pay you the same as a man or else they are breaking the law."

Get the message? He's taking his case straight to the sisters.

Read Marin's column at:
http://www.suntimes.com/output/marin/cst-edt-carol261.html

I thought this was an intriguing editorial in the Tribune:

Tricked into fatherhood?

Matt Dubay's plight sounds familiar. The 25-year-old from Saginaw, Mich., didn't want to have a child. But that didn't stop him from having sex with his girlfriend. She got pregnant, and when the baby was born, the mother sued him for child support. He doesn't want to pay it. It's an old story, and everyone knows how it will end--and how it should end. Pay up, buddy.

But Dubay is trying to write a different ending.

He says he told his girlfriend beforehand that he wasn't ready to have children, and she assured him that she was infertile--and used birth control. By his account, he was tricked into fatherhood, and he thinks that having tricked him, his ex-girlfriend should not be able to claim a share of his earnings.

He believes that just as she had the right to remain childless by getting an abortion, he has the right to avoid fatherhood.

A lot of people, confronted with that set of facts, would agree with the ex-girlfriend in this case. "Everyone knows where babies come from," says Lauren Wells. If Dubay didn't want to take the risk of being a father, he should have kept his pants on.

Regardless of how badly Dubay was tricked, he should have to pay because the interests of the child should take priority. Legal experts agree that Dubay is not likely to prevail in his federal lawsuit, which argues that the $500-a-month child-support order violates his constitutional rights.

But if his account of the facts is accurate, he raises an interesting point. Our laws don't normally allow people to profit, or cause serious harm, by grossly deceiving others. If you make false statements that persuade someone to enter into a commercial transaction, you may be forced to pay damages or void the deal. The law doesn't protect fraud.

Read more at: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/chi-0603250187mar25,1,64204.story?coll=chi-opinionfront-hed

Well, if I accomplish nothing else today, at least I figured out how to use the "bold" and "italic" functions. And now it's off to Frisco.

Experiencing technical difficulties ...

2006-03-24T18:07:00.000-08:00

But I hope that is no longer the case. With Mr. Muir incommunicado somewhere in between the unseasonably cold Midwest and the sun-kissed sands of Florida, the future of this blog, at least for the next few days, rests on my keyboard.
It’s enough to make me a born-again Luddite.
But I’m going to try, at least this once, to keep "From Where I Blog" blogging on.

I’ve been really busy today, so I am a little out of the loop when it comes to what’s been happening beyond my four walls. However, I started my morning with a brief dose of ABC’s alleged news program, Good Morning America.

I know, I know, the show is produced by the entertainment side of ABC, but still. The show usually devotes the first hour to “real” news before they get down to the fluff they apparently think people want to see in the morning.
The fluff started early Friday morning with this story on the Veep’s inner diva:
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/story?id=1763683

In my own Franklin County backyard and in a story Mr. Muir has been covering, the judge presiding over the order of protection hearing against Franklin County board member Terry Moore granted a continuance Thursday.

Moore, his attorney says, will fight the issuance of a permanent order of protection sought by a woman who says he sexually assaulted her four years ago. The woman said she sought the order when, after making the accusations public, she feared for her safety. Moore denies any such incident took place.
Here’s the Benton Evening News’ take on the events in and out of the courtroom Thursday:
http://www.bentoneveningnews.com/articles/2006/03/24/news/local_news/02.txt

It’s Friday night and I’ve been at this computer all day. I have to figure out this whole link thing, and I tried earlier. I really did. Clearly, this whole system I've got going is far too much trouble.
I’ll try and do better tomorrow (or Sunday). I promise.

Finally, I came across this story and couldn’t help but wonder if the "lewd and lascivious" event referenced our missing blogger, JM, or his lovely wife, Lisa.
http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/2510861.html

Politics first ... and then vacation

2006-03-22T14:06:00.000-08:00

First things first today, I'm going to be going on vacation on Thursday and will be gone for a few days -- perhaps five or six.

Second, I am thinking of you.

Instead of leaving my blog unattended for those days my good friend Becky Malkovich, a wonderful scribe as you're aware, will be substituting in for me. I visit several blogs regularly and I noticed this being done occasionally, so I asked and she accepted and everything is all set.

And since I know some of you might actually be wondering ... my wife Lisa and I are going to Jupiter, Florida for some sunshine, warm weather and baseball. We also plan to visit our friends Matt Malkovich and Brandi Irvin in Orlando, so we are very excited about the trip.

After basketball, a grueling and a mind-boggling election I am totally burned out and ready for a few days of R & R.

So, with that said, let's move quickly ahead.

--0--

There were very few surprises in state races and Gov. Blago and JBT both won their respective primaries and will now face off in the November general election. Not much to say about this right now, but I will make two predictions about what we can expect to see.

First, I will bet and give odds that the November election will be a bloody, bruising battle that might make Karmieir vs. Maag look like a church picnic. Secondly, I will bet and give even better odds that we see the now infamous polka between JBT and George Ryan many times in the coming months.

Despite the outcome I still maintain that state Sen. Bill Brady made the best case as a candidate. And if you're looking at what had to be the biggest disappointment, how do you think Ron Gidwitz feels today. He spent $5.1 million to get only 10 percent of the vote.

Isn't there a saying that says, 'they have more money than sense?"

I think this is a classic example.

--0--

Locally, I was pleasantly surprised that two incumbants -- Chuck Prusacyzk and Terry Moore -- from the Franklin County Board were unseated and also surprised that Rannie Snyder, a longtime political figure in District 1, was unseated by a newcomer, Christy Brower. Linda Clark defeated Prusacysk and David Rea beat Moore.

So, Franklin County voters have a chance to put two women, Clark and Brower, and as many as five new members on the board come November. Perhaps a breath of fresh is what Franklin County needs.

I'll be talking in much more depth about the Franklin County Board races later.

--0--

I was surprised and somewhat disheartened that the Jackson County public safety tax failed. The tax would have increased sales tax within the county by .25 percent, which amounts to 25-cents per $100 purchase. The additional revenue was to be earmarked for use by the sheriff's department only.

Without going into all the gory details there was some dirty politics and a lot of behind-the-scenes maneuvering going on in this referendum vote. And while the politicos were busy playing their dirty games the real loser in this vote are the many, many people who live in rural and unincorporated areas who could be faced with a life and death situation and without adequate law enforcement protection.

--0--

OK, kids, I could keep going on and on and on and on about the election but truthfully I'm totally exhausted with the whole process. So, in that case I'm going on vacation and I promise to return witha suntan and recharged battery.

And please let Becky know how much you appreciate her filling in for me.

An Election Day triple play

2006-03-21T09:56:00.000-08:00

I've voted.

Have you?

If your answer is 'no' ... then get going.

Voter turnout, thus far around Southern Illinois, is comparable with past primary elections, which means that varying counties around the region are reporting numbers ranging from 20 percent to 35 percent.

And when you think about it, those numbers are really pitiful and flip-flopped it means that 65 percent to 80 percent of registered voters are simply staying home. I can't help but believe that many voters have simply given up on changing the system in Illinois -- a system that regardless of the party seems to have a new allegation of corruption every other day.

Call me naive, stubborn, an eternal optimist or maybe just simple-minded but I still believe one voice can make a difference. That's why I do what I do every single day and that's why I trudged off to the polls this morning.

Once again, if you haven't voted you still have plenty of time.

Here's a mid-day summary of voter turnout.

--0--

Three particular Southern Illinois races caught my attention during the past few weeks and include a hotly-contested race in the Democratic primary in Williamson County for commissioner, the race for superintendent in the Franklin-Williamson Regional Office of Education and a referendum on the Jackson County public safety tax issue.

I waded in on the three races in a column today and tried to add an unknown ingredient that does not mix will with politics -- logic.

Here's the column.

--0--

I will be wearing three hats tonight as I do triple duty for the primary election. I will be at the Franklin County Courthouse at approximately 7 p.m. where I will be covering about half of the Franklin County races for the Southern Illinoisan. I will also be giving live updates on WQRL (106.3 FM) beginning at 7 p.m. giving election results. And finally, as I have for several years, I will be calling in numbers to the Associated Press in Chicago as they monitor election coverage for a variety of news sources.

All-in-all it should be a very busy night.

So, if you can't make it out, be sure and tune in and I will do my best to keep you up to speed on what is going on throughout the entire region.

One more time ... GO VOTE ... NOW!

Your vote counts ... so vote early and often

2006-03-20T16:33:00.000-08:00

Republican gubernatorial candidate Judy Barr Topinka made a final campaign swing through Southern Illinois Monday once again reminding voters that she is the only GOP candidate who can beat incumbant Gov. Rod Blagojevich in next November's general election.

If a weekend Chicago Tribune poll is correct we'll get to see if Topinka is right.

The poll shows Blago far ahead of challenger Edwin Eisendrath in the Democratic primary and Topinka with a 15 percentage point lead over Jim Oberweis. Topinka has 36 percent, Oberweis 21 percent, Bill Brady 15 percent and Ron Gidwitz bringing up the rear with only 9 percent.

Despite the fact that Brady is running a distant third I believe he has a bright future in Illinois poltitical circles. During an interview with Brady a few weeks ago I came away impressed.

I found it interesting as I watched the 5 o'clock news this afternoon that immediately after a segment aired touting Topinka's visit to Southern Illinois an Oberweis commercial ran showing Topinka (several years ago) dancing a polka with former Gov. George Ryan. The theme of the commercial was the "Pay to Play Polka." The commercial linked Topinka to Ryan (of course pointing out that he is under indictment) and linked the two as part of 40 years of corruption in Springfield.

Here's a link to the ad.

Here's a story in Real Clear Politics called "Showtime in Illinois" that has different poll results.

I'm not an Oberweis fan but it was a good commercial and speaks volumes. If Topinka and Blago win I'm sure we'll see a lot of Topinka and Ryan doing the two-step.

Despite the polls, the last minute commercials and the predicted bad weather ... get out and vote. Your vote counts.

--0--

Just what we need ... some more pension double-dipping.

A story written by Becky Malkovich that appeared in the Southern Illinoisan is an eye-opener and another example of a system out of whack.

Read this with the warning that your blood pressure might go through the roof.

--0--

An AP story about the imminent resurgence of coal caught my eye but also prompted me to mutter, 'fool me once ... shame on you ... fool me twice ... shame on me.'

I suspect some of my ancestors lived in Missouri because I want somebody to 'show me' a resurgence before I jump on the bandwagon. I still believe the best shot Southern Illinois has in starting the rebuilding process is the Peabody Energy Corp. coal mine/power plant on the drawing board in Washington County. Of course keeping the enviro-wackos from derailing the project will be a full-time job.

Here's the story.

--0--
Welcome to Spring. Apparently not.

A winter storm warning has been issued for central Illinois and could play havoc with Election Day travel.

Here's a brief story from the Springfield State Journal-Register.

Here's the forecast for Tuesday from the National Weather Service.

--0--

Finally, as those who congregrate here regularly know I have at times pleaded for visitors to make comments. Apparently I mistook a lack of comments with a lack of posters on this site.

On Saturday I installed (all by myself) a counter that determines the number of 'hits' to this site. I had no idea what to expect and even considered not doing it because I might be disappointed.

I'm happy to report that I was pleasantly surprised. Between 1 p.m. on Saturday and early Monday afternoon (approximately 48 hours) more than 240 people visited my humble blog.

While I know the numbers are not astronomical and certainly don't compare to some blogs that register thousands of hits each day, I do find them promising. Needless to say, it motivated me.

So, thanks and keep on keeping on.

--0--

Once again, get out and vote. And let me remind you of that old Ronald Reagan line from 1980.
I will paraphrase by saying, 'if you are better off right now than you were four years ago vote for those already in office, but if you are not better vote for change.'

It's a good rule of thumb and one that I plan to gleefully use on Tuesday when I vote, not for a particular candidate, but against another.

Now ... go vote.

"We are reaping the harvest of neglect" ...

2006-03-19T06:23:00.000-08:00

I have followed the story about the death of Siretha White closely this week, in particular the varied responses from ministers, politicians and the residents that make up the drug and gang-infested community of Englewood, located on Chicago's Southside.

Some black leaders are saying that Englewood was shortchanged financially and blamed a lack of resources on the problem. Chicago Mayor Daley and Gov. Blagojevich took part in a march through the community on Saturday only to be denounced by some for their inaction.

Throwing fistfuls of money at the problem is not the answer and the posturing of a couple of politicos is also not a remedy to rid the community of gangs, drugs and automatic weapons. However, I believe the Rev. Robert Purham gets it and understands that the problem is deep-rooted and the result of the 'blame-somebody-else' generation.

"We are burying our tomorrow today," said Rev. Purham, who stood behind Siretha's casket as he addressed the packed church Saturday. "Siretha did not have the chance to grow up and live her dreams."

Back at the First Church of Spirit and Truth, after the lid of Siretha's coffin was closed, Purham told parishioners that violence in Englewood is homegrown.

"Much of what is wrong is due to the neglect [by] those who are responsible for our children," Purham said. "We are reaping the harvest of neglect."

He said the deaths of Siretha and Starkesia prove that it is not enough to try to protect the children. People in Englewood cannot give up on or ignore gang members as they have in the past, he said.

"The children are the ones who will reap the legacy that we have established as a people," Purham said. "It's for this reason that we cannot continue to sweep these problems under the rug."

After I read the story I immediately thought of Bill Cosby and how he was ridiculed and lambasted for the comments he made about a generation more concerned with whether or not their children are wearing $150 tennis shoes than if they can speak proper English.

Siretha White was buried on Saturday. Here's the story.
Here's another excellent story in the Chicago Sun-Times about life in Englewood.

--0--

So far, Murphysboro Mayor Ron Williams had made more sense than anybody about the proposed Jackson County public safety tax.

Williams is supporting the tax but also serving notice to the county board (beforehand) that he plans to be dilligent in watching exactly how the county board allocates the revenue. Williams' comments in a story this morning is so much more on line than the 'cut-off-your-nose-to-spite-your-face' attitude that many people have adopted regarding the tax.

It doesn't make sense to me to say (A) I'm for the tax. (B) Yes, I think the tax is needed. (C) Yes, a sales tax is the most fair tax. (D) I believe all residents in the county should be provided with adequate law enforcement. (E) I'm not voting for it because I don't trust the county board.

If residents really believe all those things then they should support the referendum and then hold the county board's collective feet to the fire or vote the scoundrels out of office, period.

Here's the story about Williams' view on the proposed public safety tax.

--0--

In the event that you have not made up your mind about which two candidates you want to see square off in next November's Illinois gubernatorial race the Chicago Sun-Times had an excellent graphic that details the views of all the candidates on virtually every issue.

If the pollsters are correct we're heading for a Blagojevich-Topinka showdown in the fall which should be a spirited race.

But, in the event that you are still undecided ...

Here's some excellent info on the Illinois gubernatorial candidates ... if you haven't already made up your mind. Click on the link in the story.

--o--

Several GOP candidates remembered that there is a southern portion of Illinois and made a campaign swing through this area during the weekend.

GOP hopefuls in Marion.

--0--

Politics, as the saying goes, makes for strange bedfellows. And that statement never proved to be more true than in this year's Illinois gubernatorial race where confirmed moderate Judy Barr Topinka has connected with ultra conservative Joe Birkett and Chicago businessman Ron Gidwitz -- a guy with no political experience -- is running with veteran politician state Sen. Steve Rauschenberger.

Here's the story on political 'marriages.'

I think the story shows that there is a method to the madness.

--0--

When do politicians go too far in endorsing and working for other candidates? And is there a line that can be crossed, especially in a primary election?

I've watched the Williamson County commissioners race closely and if that line has not been crossed it is gettting very close. The race between Bob Bandy and Tracy Reel Glenn in the Democratic primary has been a hard fought contest, basically free of any mud-slinging. It would be nice to see voters make a decision based on the qualifications of the two candidates, period.

But instead the race has taken a decidedly hateful turn with the emergence of State's Attorney Charles Garnati and Commissioner Brent Gentry as Glenn's most vocal campaign supporters.

I'm troubled by the amount of time, money and effort that these two have spent trying to convince voters to elect Glenn. Should we assume that if elected Glenn will cowtow to Garnati and Gentry or will she have a mind and voice of her own.

Like I reported about David Phelps earlier ... I just wonder how much of the time that Garnati and Gentry have spent in recent weeks has been paid for by taxpayers?

What's your views on politicians getting involved -- especially in primary elections?

Thoughts on politics, basketball and weekend blogging

2006-03-18T06:38:00.000-08:00

The SIU Salukis bowed out of the NCAA tournament with a loss to West Virginia on Friday afternoon. Despite the loss it was a stellar season for Coach Chris Lowery and his very young team.

Even though Saluki fans are licking their wounds today, I look forward to seeing this team bounce back with another trip to the Big Dance in 2007.

Let me borrow a line from the Chicago Cubs -- 'wait 'til next year!'

The picture above appeared in the Southern Illinoisan. The guy in the middle sort of sums up how I felt as the Mountaineers kept draining 3's all afternoon.

Salukis bow out of NCAA with loss to West Virginia.

--0--

Ray Meyer lived a wonderful life, a long life and was able to do for 46 years what he loved most -- coach college basketball. Meyer, of Depaul Blue Demons fame died on Friday. How appropriate that while the entire nation is hoop crazy we can pause and remember a man that helped make the college game what it is today, a man that little old ladies loved and strapping young men wanted to play for.

Ray Meyer dies.

Citing his own failing health and his wife’s uncertain mental condition Barry Kohl, the embattled superintendent of the Franklin-Williamson Regional Office of Education, announced on Friday that he is officially withdrawing as a candidate from next Tuesday’s Democratic primary election.

Even though his name will remain on the ballot because of the late date Kohl said in a prepared statement that he plans to concentrate his time on assisting in his defense against charges that he illegally spent ROE funds and then tried to get other employees to lie to a grand jury.

The announcement by the 59-year-old Kohl effectively ends a once bright political career that spans nearly two decades. Pending the outcome of his trial Kohl will remain in his role as superintendent until July 2007 when his current four-year term expires.

I have mixed feelings on the announcement by Kohl.

First, I think his decision to say he is baling out of the race is nothing more than a face-saving effort on his part. After all, if Kohl say on Friday that he is not a candidate and then he gets no votes on Tuesday he can always come back and say that it was because he withdrew ... even though everybody knows otherwise.

Second, there is a twinge of pity in me to see a once bright future totally dismantled. Kohl's problems were ones he created but still there is no joy or pleasure in seeing his fall from the lofty pedistal where he once stood. Hopefully, this latest twist will allow the Franklin-Williamson ROE to move forward and clean up the mess that Kohl has left in his wake.

Here's the story on Kohl pulling out of election.

--0--
The name 'Andy Martin' pops up in news of the Illinois gubernatorial race and if you're like me you probably never took the time to find out exactly who the longshot candidate is. A story in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch gives a detailed look and it ain't a pretty picture.

It's interesting stuff.

St. Louis P-D story on Andy Martin.

--0--

While I will not endorse any candidate in the primary I can say that the best interview I've had with any candidate for governor is Bill Brady. Articulate, to the point and with views that very much go hand-in-hand with the way I believe. According to the latest polls Brady will not win the Repubican nomination but I believe Brady is a guy we will hear a lot about in the future.

Great read on Bill Brady.

--0--

As a final thought, most bloggers take the weekend off and rest up. But, in my continuing attempts to get back in good graces with the readers, posters and lurkers on this site, I am going to blog both Saturday and Sunday.

It's a small price to pay ... but please let me know you've been here and don't make me feel like I'm out here in the blogosphere all alone.

Happy St. Patty's Day and TGIF

2006-03-17T02:48:00.000-08:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day to all.

Actually, I'm of Irish and Scottish ancestry, but I don't feel any special kinship with all the O's and the Mc's that will celebrate today. Don't get me wrong though, there will more than likely be some green beer and corned beef and cabbage in my future at some point today. But, that has nothing at all to do with a trace of Irish blood in my veins. However, it does have everything to do with the fact that I like beer and good food.

In any event, to those that are Irish and to those like me who use March 17 as an excuse to have a party ... be careful, drive safe and certainly have fun.

Here's a interesting story from the Chicago Sun-Times, which by the way has a dozen stories this morning on St. Pat's Day.

--0--

We've all been distraught at times ... but this might be taking things a bit too far. After I read the story that's linked below I was immediately reminded of a comment an old guy I used to work with in the mine always made. "You couldn't drive a darning needle in my ass with a 16-pound sledge right now," he always said.

Read this story and I think you'll quickly understand. I had that 'darning needle, sledge hammer' feeling when I read the headline.

Here's the story.

--0--

The continuing saga of the Franklin-Williamson Regional Office of Education took another twist this week when Judge David Correll granted an continuance so that Janine Kohl could be evaluated by a clinical psychologist to determine if she is mentally competent to stand trial.

This story has dragged on for more than 19 months and doesn't appear now to be even remotely close to going to trial. Sadly, it's just yet another black eye on Franklin County and those 'good' Democrats who keep turning their head the other way while nonsense and shenanigans like this go on. At what point will some elected official from Franklin or Williamson stand up and at least voice a concern over what is taking place.

Here's the latest Kohl update.

--0--

As we get older we sometimes realize the importance of truly special people and special times. I had one of those moments on Thursday.

I was invited to participate in the annual NCAA bracket picks at The Benton Evening News, a paper where I once worked and where I also cut my teeth as a writer.

I stopped by the office on Thursday morning to turn my humble picks in and I was immediately reminded the second I walked in the door of how much I still care about the BEN and the good folks who work there. I really do think of the people who work there as family. So, to Alice, Sheri, Di, Michelle, Danny, Lea, Tera and everybody else at the East Church Street location, thanks for the conversation, the small talk, the smiles and for reminding me how much I appreciate calling you all friends.

Anybody that knows my writing style knows there are times when I have to write about certain things that are on my mind or my head will explode. Well, I just had to write that because my trip to the BEN was the highlight of my day.

--0--

And speaking of the NCAA ...

I started first round action with a 12-16 showing on Thursday -- not great, but not a total wipe out in the first round either. Three of the four games I lost had to be labeled as upsets, so all in all it was not a bad start.

I picked Gonzaga all the way out to the Final Four and I was sweating bullets as they pulled out a come-from-behind victory over Xavier. Illinois didn't look great but they won and moved on and regardless of the score, winning and moving on is the name of the game.

As a final thought, I was thrilled to see Wichita State kick the crap out of Seton Hall (from the Big East). After listening to Billy Packer diss the Missouri Valley Conference I enjoyed the moment and the fact that Packer had to eat crow.

Enough ranting about the NCAA ... GO Salukis and GO MVC!

He said? She said? For my money ... I'm betting on 'he said.'

2006-03-16T19:09:00.000-08:00

The flap over the alleged comments made by IDOT's David Phelps spilled over to Springfield on Wednesday when Senate Republicans tried, but failed, to block his confirmation. Still, they sent a message to Phelps that his comments were not appreciated.

This is a classic case of a politico, in this instance a career politico, sticking his foot in his mouth and then trying to shoot the messenger. Nicole Sack of the Southern Illinoisan wrote an excellent story about the Pope County incident. I particularly liked the part of the story where Sack caught up with Phelps only to lose him on his cell phone. Ironically, she never made contact again.

I wrote a column on the incident and talked with Doug Scofield with the Guv's office and he emphatically denied that Phelps had said anything or that the Blago administration would ever even consider targeting Republicans.

After the dust has settled, here's my take.

Phelps is eyeball deep in three separate campaigns and is doing a good deal of his politicking on state time. I believe he did indeed make the statement that "there will be a mass exodus of Republicans off the state payroll" and then tried to take backwater.

Of course, Scofield is simply doing his job and putting a happy spin on the entire matter. I think it's still called 'taking the high road. In any event, the entire incident has taken the edge off of an otherwise dull week.

Here's the story by Sack.

Here's the column.

What's your thoughts, did Phelps wedge his foot in his mouth and then chew on it ... or was he misquoted?

Me ... disingenuous?

2006-03-15T14:57:00.000-08:00

As you can tell by my previous blogging, I love comments.

Maybe more than comments, I love the give-and-take with readers in the newspaper and listeners in the radio. And as you can also probably tell, I'm trying my best to chide readers of this blog to comment, even if you don't agree.

Rarely do I ever get upset because I believe everybody is entitled to an opinion. And since I so easily toss my opinion out, it would be sort of hypocritical of me to not respect a differing point of view.

A reader posted a comment -- really a question -- on Tuesday about the Jackson County public safety tax that begs to be answered.

Here's the post.

Jim,

As to the public safety tax, you are a presumed anti-tax-and-spender. Doesn't it seem a bit disingenuous to justify the revenue collection from people who won't be benefitting much from it?

Anonymous

Let me respond to that.

First, thanks for noticing that I watch taxes and spending closely. That means you have at least paid a little bit of attention to what I try and get across on here and in my other rants. However, I think it would be more fair to say that I'm anti-tax and spend INCREASES.

I understand that the government at all levels has to have revenue to provide services and therefore I'm not anti-tax and spend.

As far as the Jackson County situation, the sheriff's department is in dire straits and Sheriff Burns (who I believe is a good man) has answered every single question umpteen times to try and explain where, how, how much and when the additional revenue will be spent.

My point is that if a county has to implement a tax because of revenue constraints -- a sales tax is the best way to go. Let me give this example.

If I decided to buy a new television set in Carbondale for $2,000 the new public safety tax would increase the price by all of $5. Obviously, that amount would not keep me or anybody else from buying the television and in fact, I probably wouldn't even know that the tax was in place. How many communities in recent years have voted in a home rule form of government for the sole reason of implementing sales tax increases on gasoline, etc. -- to gain revenue from out-of-towners and remove some of the burden off of local residents. Marion, Sesser, Benton, Johnston City and Christopher are just a few that come to mind.

The bottom line is that if a person does not want to pay the .25 percent sales tax, don't shop in Jackson County. But, I will bet not a single, solitary person will be prompted to go elsewhere to shop if the referendum is approved ... and once again, I hope it is.

To clarify my position, I don't like taxes and I do like smaller government. But, if a tax has to be implemented -- and in this case I think it does in order to provide quality law enforcement for ALL Jackson County residents -- then a sales tax or consumption tax is the most equitable for all and creates the least burden on local taxpayers.

So, while I may be disenchanted, disillusioned, disappointed, disobedient, disemboweled, dismembered, disgusted, disguised, disassociated, disrespected, dishonest, disinterested, dysfunctional, distant and totally dissed ... I do not believe I was disengenuous.

But ... thanks for the comment. It is appreciated.

Double digit comments! Oh happy day!

2006-03-14T16:26:00.000-08:00

The first thing I want you to do is look at the the number beside the 'comment' section. I asked (all right ... I groveled and begged) for double digits and you delivered, you came through, you seized the moment, you are the best ... better than the rest.

I'm humbled ... but I also would love to see that every single day. Think of it as a way of providing motivation for a tired old writer. And in the words of Kosmo Kramer, 'God knows I don't ask you for that much!"

Anyway ... thanks and now I believe we are completely made up from my unexcusable absence.
So, let's move on.

--0--

OK, I have some questions for you.

I know we have readers from all over the area, so I want some imput from you on the upcoming election. First, who will emerge from the Republican gubernatorial race and can that person come close to catching Blago and his millions in November.

Next, will the much-publicized Carbondale public safety tax referendum pass?

And finally, how many voters in Franklin and Williamson counties overlook the 32-count indictment against Regional Superintendent of Schools Barry Kohl and vote for him?

Just so we can have something to disagree about, let me give you my thoughts on those questions.

First, Judy Barr Topinka will win the Republican primary and then she and Blago will lock horns in a dirty, dirty, dirty campaign next fall. Whether she can pull off the win depends on how she can unite the Illinois Republican Party which will emerge from the primary bruised and battered. Of course, the ongoing federal investigation into pay for play in the Blago administration could also have a bearing on the outcome.

I believe the Jackson County public safety tax will pass and I hope it does. If I lived in Jackson County I'd vote for it, for one simple reason -- a good chunk of the revenue that will be generated to support the sheriff's department will come from counties throughout the region. The proposed .25 percent sales tax will not be a burden on taxpayers and on the flip side will be an asset to small communities like Elkville, Dowell, Desoto and Makanda. Once again, I hope it passes with flying colors.

Another story on the proposed Carbondale public safety tax.

Finally, as far as the number of voters in Franklin and Williamson counties that will forget four arrests, two bad audits and a total of 62 indictments?

Let me just say that the number of votes for Kohl will be embarrassingly low.

--0--

The story that I reported Monday about the comments made by former Congressman David Phelps, who is back at the government trough in an administrative position with IDOT, about there being a "mass exodus of Republicans from the state payroll when Blagojevich is re-elected."

I recieved an email from a friend in that neck of the woods. Here is his comments.

"Recently former congressman and now Assistant Secretary of the Illinois Dept. of Transportation was keynote speaker at a Pope County democrat rally in Golconda,Illinois. The event was covered and reported by the weekly Golconda Herald Enterprise in their March 8th edition(see attachment).
IDOT Assistant Secretary Phelps spoke on behalf of the Governor citing Blago's accompolishment-he went on to say " When he(Blagojevich) is reelected there will be mass exodes of Republicans from the State payroll".

This is a bold and maybe stupid comment on the part of Phelps. However I do appreciate his giving us a preview of the future if Blago is reelected. I think Phelp's comments will lay the groundwork for a lawyer's heaven for lawsuit.
Friday morning Assistant Secretary Phelps was in Metropolis campaigning for his nephew Rep. Brandon Phelps....wonder if he remembered to take time off?"

Assuming the role of the misquoted politico, Phelps quickly denied the comment and said he was misquoted.

From what I'm hearing about Phelps' door-to-door campaigning and arm-twisting during the past two months it appears that taxpayers are footing the bill for him to play politics for the governor and his son-in-law Kerry Sutton, who is running for a vacant judicial seat in the Second Judicial Circuit.

I spoke with Sandy Cowsert, the owner and editor of the newspaper and the person that wrote the story with Phelps' comments. Cowsert, a 20-year veteran of the news business, covered the story herself and told me point-blank that the quote is "100 percent accurate."

Let me say, unequivocally, that I believe Cowsert.

--0--

I have stated on this site and will continue to state that real estate taxes are the most unfair tax that exists. I waded in on the issue on Tuesday.

Here's the column.

--0--

A Cook County judge today denied bail for a Chicago man charged in the weekend slaying of a 10-year-old on the city's South Side and ordered a second man held in lieu of $1 million bond.

Moses Phillips, 19, of the 6200 block of South Honore Street, was charged with first-degree murder shortly after 11 a.m. today in connection with the shooting death of Siretha White in the Englewood neighborhood Saturday.Phillips had already been charged late Monday with attempted murder in connection with a shooting earlier Saturday afternoon in an alley on West 66th Street.

Also charged in connection with that shooting was Paree Jones, 25, of the 5600 block of South Wabash Avenue. Cook County Criminal Court Judge Laura Sullivan ordered Jones held in lieu of $1 million bail today.Prosecutors say Phillips was firing at three of the same targets from the earlier shooting when Siretha was killed.

Assistant State's Atty. Maria McCarthy said six men were on the porch of the girl's aunt's home in the 2000 block of West 70th Place when two cars pulled up. McCarthy said Phillips was a passenger in the first car, a white Cadillac.

Here's the story on the death of 10-year-old Siretha White.

--0--

OK, how do we fix the problem of roving gangs of street thugs trying to 'off' each other with automatic weapons.

Hey, I know, let's throw large sums of money at the problem in Englewood and that will surely make the senseless murders stop ... won't it?

Here's the asenine story blaming a lack of funding on the problems of gangs and thugs in the Englewood neighborhood.

--0--

Here's a story about political correctness that is guaranteed to make you either cuss or spit ... or ... if you're like me ... cuss and spit at the same time.

Here's the story that illustrates that PC stupidity is off the charts.

Portrait of a blog slacker

2006-03-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

Pictured at left is Jim Muir, otherwise known as a 'blog slacker.'

Muir once spent hours on this site posting what he thought was meaningful stories, trying to stir debate and stimulate conversation. And, oh yes, occasionally he tried to piss somebody off. Then, without warning, Muir spent 11 days totally ignoring this site. He just vanished, kapoot, no more, gone, out of sight, out of mind. In short, he literally turned his back on those who frequent 'From Where I Blog" -- the good folks who claim to visit this site (even though many refuse to leave even an anonymous post so that he would know he wasn't talking to himself.)

In reality, a 'blog slacker' is one of the lowest life forms known to man ... pond scum ... some might say ... lower than whale crap ... others would add ... a blight on humanity in many people's opinion. Some might even call Muir a blog-tease ... getting readers all revved up and then turning into a no-show.

The big question remains: will Muir ever be able to redeem himself in the eyes of the wonderful people, some who claim they have worn blisters on their keyboard checking this site to see if he surfaced. Others suggested he might even be on some type of jail sentence that won't allow him to post regularly.

And no matter how bad he feels about neglecting his love (this blog) the big question remains can he salvage his reputation and tarnished image.

I would bet that a double-digit number beside the word 'comment' would let him know that you have forgiven him and might even spur him on during the spring and summer to help him regain --- even exceed -- his old form.

With that bit of groveling out of the way ... here's the slacker.

-- 0 --

Greetings and I'm thrilled to be back.

I'm not going to bore you with a lot of stuff about where I've been, how busy my life is and all that stuff. I didn't take care of this site, period. I'm sorry and I hope to become a freaking, blogging fool as I move into my spring and summer routine.

--0--

We have only one week until the March 21 primary election and all I can say is 'Thank God.'

A few observations as we head into the final week:

Edwin Eisendrath will be my guest on Sound Off on Wednesday night on WQRL -- 106.3 FM and I plan to ask him some tough questions, mainly where in the hell is the campaign he promised us three months ago. I do think he will get some protest votes by those who despise Blago, but at this very moment I don't think it will be close.

On the Republican side, what I thought would happen is happening and it's typical of the Illinois Republican Party. The race has turned into a contest between Judy Barr Topinka and Jim Oberweis to see who can throw out the nastiest insult. Meanwhile Ron Gidwitz and Sen. Bill Brady are at least trying to discuss issues.

In all honesty, the best candidate, the most articulate and straightforward candidate I've talked with yet is Brady. I had him on my radio show last Wednesday night (if I had been blogging you might have known that) and I was very impressed. He didn't come off as a politician and that was a big help, because I'm sick of politicians.

-- 0 --

A story that appeared in the Chicago Tribune on Monday will provide me with some column fodder for later in the week. Think about this, when was the last time that the The Herald-Enterprise, in Golconda, made The Trib.

The story details all the dirty comments being made and quotes a story that was in The Herald Enterprise last week where former Congressman David Phelps made some disparaging comments and attributed them to his boss, Blagojevich.

From what I hear, Phelps is doing a lot of politicking these days, stumping for Blago and for his son-in-law, Kerry Sutton, who is a Democratic candidate for a vacant judicial seat in the Second Judicial Circuit. Rumor has it that Phelps is doing more than a little arm-twisting to try and get Sutton elected.

Here's a link to the story.

--0--

I'm a strong believer in the Second Amendment but I'm also a strong believer that a 10-year-old girl should be safe in her own home. A second killing in the impoverished Englewood section of Chicago has left the community reeling.

Here's the story.

Dawn Turner Trice wrote an excellent column about the latest murder.

--0--

Jackson County residents will vote next week on a public safety tax.

The referendum that will go before voters will increase the county’s sales tax by .25 percent and is earmarked solely to budget in the sheriff’s department. In dollars and cents the public safety tax would amount to a 25-cent increase for every $100 spent. Based on 2005 retail sales, the additional tax will generate approximately $1.2 million.

I got involved in the story last week and talked to several of the parties involved. Depending on who was talking, the referendum will either pass by a wide margin or fail miserably.

I met with Sheriff Bob Burns and came away impressed that he is backing the public safety tax for the right reasons -- which by the way does not include politics.

It will be very interesting to me to see how this vote shakes out. One thing that has not been written about or even discussed is the fact that a large chunk of the revenue will come from outside Jackson County. The University Mall generates approximately $100 million annually and more than half of that revenue comes from surrounding counties. Do the math ... that means that a hefty amount of the revenue used to fund the sheriff's department will be funded by outside tax dollars.

The only argument I heard against the proposed tax is that the Jackson County Board cannot be trusted to do what the ordinance says concerning use of the revenue. In other words many believe the board is only using the vote to gain an additional $1 million--plus to use in areas other than law enforcement.

If it comes down to a matter of trust ... then vote the scoundrels out of office.

Here's the story.

Here's another view on the proposed tax.

Here's some of the numbers concerning projected revenue.

--0--

A final thought from a slacker. How about that double digit number I'm pleading for next to comments?

However, I'm back on Tuesday ... even if it's it's a goose egg there.

Get out the wet noodle ... I'm back

2006-03-02T03:47:00.000-08:00

OK ... get out the wet noodle, I'm ready for my 50 lashes.

Yes, I have been a slug about posting, but the past two weeks have been the busiest of the year for me. Work by day, ball games at night, eating on the run ... blah ... blah ... blah.

With sectional tournament play ending this week, next week slows down just a little as we wrap up the 2005-06 high school basketball season. I promise to amaze you in the coming weeks with the amount of time I devote to my blog. Hopefully, I'll finish the week strong and keep it rolling through the weekend.

In any event, let's get rolling.

--0--

A pair of stories out of Franklin County have drawn quite a bit of interest this week.

Nancy Wright, a 46-year-old Benton woman, has made a serious accusation against Franklin County Board member Terry Moore, claiming that he sexually assaulted her more than four year ago. She is seeking an emergency no-contact order and will appear in court again on Thursday.

Let me say up front that Moore is innocent until proven guilty.

Also, this story would carry a little more credibility with me if if was not three weeks prior to the election -- an election where Moore is seeking a fourth term. The question is also being asked why Wright waited more than four years to make the allegations. I talked with Wright earlier this week and she says she did not come forward out of fear. You can be the judge on that logic.

Still, the accusations are serious and alarming but it's up to the court to decide whether an emergency order should be issued. There will be no criminal charges because the statute of limitations has long expired.

Here's the story.

--0--

There's another story surfacing out of my neck of the woods that I'm also going to reserve judgment on ... at least for now.

The Rend Lake Conservancy District Board held a meeting earlier this week and it was like a bad case of deja vu ... all over again. RLCD has been beset with troubles during the past five years with investigations, bad audits, personnel turnovers and rumors of gross mismanagement that will probably never be proven. It appeared that things had leveled off at RLCD, however after a meeting earlier this week it seems that in many ways it's still the same old circus with just a different set of clowns.

Officials for the Franklin County Regional Economic Development Corporation, a fledgling group that has made great strides in the past two years, attended meeting and asked the RLCD board to continue funding for a second consecutive year -- funding to the tune of $25,000.

A small faction of the RLCD board balked at the request, making it sure seem like old times in Whittington again. Count me a one that does not understand the mindset of boards that refuse to see that industry in Franklin County is not only good for Franklin County but also good for Jefferson County, Williamson County, Hamilton County, etc. etc.

Simply stated, some of these guys just don't get it and sadly, I don't believe they ever will. Some of the Jefferson County contingent believe that if something doesn't pertain to their neighborhood then it doesn't matter period. Obviously, that line of thinking is ludicrous.

After attending the meeting at RLCD earlier this week I'm more convinced than ever that the board needs to be elected so that at least a shred of accountability exists. Many people are watching this particular story at RLCD and waiting to see what the board's decision is on the FREDCO funding issue. If the board continues to balk look for a move to take place in Springfield to make the seven-person RLCD board elected positions.

Here's the story on the RLCD meeting.

--0--

The death of Don Knotts, AKA Barney Fife, earlier this week prompted me to take a little trek down memory lane remembering the antics of the good folks from Mayberry.

I wrote a column about my long association with Barney, Andy, Floyd, Otis, Opie and Co.

TGIFF

2006-02-24T07:47:00.000-08:00

If you think I put an extra "F" in the title by mistake, you're wrong. And if you use your imagination you can probably guess pretty quickly what it stands for.

Yeah, it's been that kind of week.

In fact, it's been (in no particular order) a long week, a tiring week, an exasperating week, a frustrating week, a disappointing week and a week I'm looking forward to seeing over.

I don't feel like delving into anything newsworth because I simply have nothing to say today.

Happy Friday to all.

Double duty on Thursday ... more on Mike Lawrence

2006-02-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

This is a follow up to a lengthy post that appeared here on Sunday about the apparent muzzling of Mike Lawrence, the executive director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.

The Springfield Journal-Register has taken the ball and is running with it on the decision by Lawrence to quit writing columns. The SJR wrote and excellent editorial on the issue in today's edition. The editorial comes only four days after Bernie Schoenburg wrote a column that appeared on Sunday detailing what took place prior to Lawrence's decision. Look at Sunday's posts on this blog to find the column.

There's no question that Lawrence was pressured, but we'll never know who applied the pressure.

Here's the link to the SJR editorial.

A sweet 'n sour kind of Thursday

2006-02-23T04:30:00.000-08:00

The picture of Girl Scout cookies really has no signifcance on anything I'm writing about other than the fact that the tasty cookies are sweet and good and I'm sour and bad today.

And also, I love Girl Scout cookies, especially Savanahs and Thin Mints, but I'm currently on a diet which also does nothing to help by mood. But, on any other day, give me a box of Thin Mints and a jug of milk ... and I'm a happy guy.
So, with that said, let's plow ahead with things that are not as sweet, pleasant and tasteful as those wonderful Girl Scout cookies. In fact, my topics today are sour, unpleasant and distasteful.

--0--
Certainly, Franklin County is not the only county in Southern Illinois facing problems with real estate taxes. After all, when dealing with the most unfair, abused, misused and corrputable tax that exists, there's plenty of problems to spread around.

However, after it was discovered last year that there was 128 properties totaling more than $25 million (more than 50 businesses) not on the tax rolls at all, its a fair assumption that Franklin County is the poster child for real estate tax problems.

The Franklin County Board, earlier this week took a big step in correcting the problem by voting to revamp the board of review -- a three-person board that was underworked and overpaid. Yes, in the event that you're wondering, I did write that exactly as I intended.

It should be noted that the three board members who voted against retooling the board of review were Terry Moore, Danny Melvin and Ray Overturf. For the life of me, I cannot understand how anybody could vote against something like this that will be a benefit to ALL county residents. Even though board members are elected from a specific district, it would seem to me that they should still represent the interests of all county residents.

The 'no' vote by these three board members is nothing more than a vote against county taxpayers and a vote to protect the antiquated township government system, which should go the way of the Edsel and the justice of the peace. In other words ... get rid of it, period.

Moore and Overturf are up for re-election in next month's primary. Let's hope voters remember that 'no' vote when they head to the polls on March 21.

Here's the story on revamping the Franklin County Board of Review.

--0--

In the words of Ronald Reagan ... here' we go again.

Every time there is an election and a judicial seat is up for grabs the Illinois Bar Association (one of the original 'Good Ol' Boy's Club) announce the results of a bogus survey -- a survey that is about as scientific as me trying to predict what time it will start raining based on the pain in my right knee.

Some of the questions deal with temperment, health and the ability to deal with other attorneys. I would bet in most cases some of those voting against other candidates ... don't even know that candidate.

These bar association polls are perhaps the worst example I've seen of trying to influence elections by using the media to throw out numbers that are totally useless.

I heard a rumor yesterday that just such a poll will soon surface about the three judicial candidates running for a vacant seat in the Second Judicial Circuit.

Expect me to wade in on this issue when the poll comes out. And in the meantime, trust me on this one, when you see this poll totally ignore it. The numbers are stacked, slanted, titled, bogus and worthless. In short, it's a case of piling on by attorneys who gang up for or against certain candidates and then label them as either "recommended" or "not recommended" for office.

A recent story surfaced in the Metro area on Wednesday, so expect the same type of story here in the coming days. And, just consider my advice as a public service announcement. I'm always glad to help and lend a hand.

Judicial poll story.

--0--

The Illinois House sent a strong message to the state police about FOID cards.

Here's the story.

Remembering a better day ...

2006-02-22T03:36:00.000-08:00

Perhaps it's the baby boomer in me or maybe I'm just turning into an old softie in middle age, but history, heritage and 'the good old days' seem to mean more to me as the years roll along.

Maybe that's why I felt like I'd just received word that an old friend had died when I heard the news that Kohlsdorf's Quality Corner in Zeigler had burned earlier this week.

The store had been a fixture on the Zeigler Circle for 87 years and was nothing short of a landmark in the Franklin County community.

The photo at right, taken by Ceasar Maragni of the The Southern Illinoisan, shows owner Mike Restivo on the morning after the fire. As he always does, Maragni also does a tremendous job catching the entire scene, the smoldering remains of the store, the water tower in the background and the sadness on Restivo's face.

I was in Zeigler on Tuesday morning to write a follow up on the fire and the theme with everybody I spoke with was two-fold. First, everybody was thankful that nobody was injured and that two adjoining buildings were saved. But, an overwhelming feeling of sadness and loss gripped the community. I think everybody was keenly aware that they had lost something very special ... something that they could never get back.

Some days I can't wait to get to my blog to rant about Muslim cartoons, liberal vs. conservative, Dem vs. Republican issues and whatever else happens to be making the news.

There are other days, and today is one of them, when I want to stay as far away from those stories as I can and escape to a day long ago when businesses like Kohlsdorf's was thriving in small coal mining communities like Zeigler.

Instead of troubling my mind with all the hysteria, controversy, angst and anguish in the world, today I want to instead remember the many times that my mom would send me to M & B Market in Sesser to get something she needed so she could have supper 'on the table' when my dad walked in the door from his job at Old Ben Mine 21.

Maybe it's because I grew up in a small town but the mood in Zeigler rubbed off on me because I left town feeling sad also. I left town thinking about M & B Market, Butler's Store, Rozenski's Neighborhood Grocery, Klein's Grocery, Lackey's Market and a better time. Long before the days of cradle to grave shopping at Wal-Mart it seemed that every section of town had a neighborhood grocery or a store like Kohlsdorf's. Sadly, those days and those stores are dwindling fast or already gone.

While I always encourage visitors to this site to comment, I would be especially interested today to know if you also have good memories of those long ago days and the neighborhood grocery.

Thanks for taking a little trek down memory lane with me today.

Here's a story I wrote about the day following the fire.

And ... in every tragedy there's always a light-hearted moment. At the Zeigler Cafe there was no liver and onions on Tuesday, but plenty of smiles.

Smoke 'n Mirrors in Springfield, more 'Censorship in Champaign and a possible 'muzzling' in Carbondale

2006-02-19T05:16:00.000-08:00

Cross-posted on Illinoize

Baby ... it's cold outside. But, after scouring over some news sites this morning I found that it could be a whole lot worse.

I saw this picture of a lighthouse along Lake Erie in Hamburg, New York and it sent a chill down my spine. Winds gusting to 77 mph and sub-zero temps caused power outages and 200,000 homes without power.

It's 10 degrees in my little corner of the world -- sunny and with no wind -- and my house is warm as toast.

What a great morning to blog!

--0--

A rally was held at John A. Logan College on Saturday in support of the proposed $3.2 billion capital spending plan currently being debated by the Illinois General Assembly.

While I applaud the efforts of the good folks that attended and lended a voice -- many are stellar people -- I still disagree with the idea of simply shoving this legislation through without taxpayers being given an accurate, detailed and most importantly fixed way to pay for the many school and road construction projects.

To the good folks in Springfield: put the smoke and mirrors away and explain how this will be funded. Until then, expect me to keep shouting, 'show me the money' (as in revenue stream.)

Here's the story on the rally held at John A. Logan College.

Sesser Mayor Ned Mitchell, a former state senator, wrote an interesting guest column that appeared Sunday (Feb. 19) in the Southern Illinoisan. I found myself applauding as I read his comments. Mitchell's preaching to the choir with me but it's too bad some of his fellow Democrats don't catch a clue about what is taking place in Springfield.

Here's Mitchell's column.

--0--

I hate fluff editorials.

I like an editorial writer that does two things. First, I want them to say what they mean. Second, I want them to mean what they say. I thought this was an excellenet editorial in the Decatur Herald & Review. It also ran on Sunday morning (which tells you how I've spent my morning) and it deals with the same issue Mitchell wrote about, which is how the state is going to continue to operate with borrowing, smoke and mirrors, pension raids, more smoke and mirrors. And of course a little sleight of hand tossed in for good measure.

Here's the editorial in the Decatur Herald & Review.

--0--

There was a blurb in a column in the Southern Illinoisan this week about Mike Lawrence making a decision to quit writing columns -- columns that appear in many major newspapers throughout the state. Lawrence, director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, really gave no reason in his announcement.

"I have decided that it would be in the best interests of the Institute and the university to suspend writing and distributing personal opinion pieces as long as I am director," Lawrence said.

Bernard Schoenburg, one of my favorite writers and a guy that pulls no punches, picked up on the story and ran with it. His Sunday column is an eye-opener and one that certainly prompted me to read between the lines. Here's the column. I would love to hear some comments on this. Do you think Lawrence was quietly told to 'shut up?'

Here's the Schoenburg column.

--0--
There are those that have commented about my views on the Daily Illini censorship and tried desperately to turn the suspension of editors Acton Gorton and Chuck Prochaska into a right vs. left, conservative vs. liberal issue. I have tried to avoid doing that because I see it as a freedom of speech, freedom of expression issue. I also have stated, and will continue to state and believe that the thugs killing, looting, burning and generally raising hell are not doing so because of religious beliefs but because they are terrorists.

Some of those that have left comments on this blog and also at Illinoize are flaming liberals who want to blame 'Censorship in Champaign' on conservatives and right wingers. In fact, I'm sure before the week is over somebody will find a way to blame George Bush for the Daily Illini mess.
On Saturday a friend sent me a link to the World Socialist website and a story that explained their view on the issue at the Daily Illini.

After reading the story and recalling the comments of some posters, for the life of me, I can't see any difference in some of those good libs who commented here and the World Socialist view. And that, my friends, is scary.

Here's the Socialist view on the Daily Illini story.

--0--

Have a good Sunday ... and stay close to the fire.

'Censored in Champaign'

2006-02-18T04:27:00.000-08:00

A religion of peace, huh?

As I've said before, the killings, riots and arson attacks we're witnessing have nothing to do with religion and every thing to do with terrorists. If you notice the sign says to 'behead those that insult Islam.'

An insult could be what I've written in this blog and still have nothing to do with the cartoons -- which by the way is not the issue with these people. These are terrorists, plain and simple.

Here's a story about the latest death count.

--0--

And ... a Pakistani cleric (word used loosely) has offered a $1 million bounty for anybody that kills one of the cartoonists that first published the cartoons about the Prophet Muhammad.

This is just more evidence that these people are terrorists and that this has nothing whatsoever to do with religion.

Here's that story.

--0--

In order to clarify a few points about my last rant concerning the Daily Illini fiasco, known in some circles as 'Censored in Champaign" let me address some of the questions raised in the comments section.

However, first let me say how much I appreciate those that take the time to comment. Much like the point Acton Gorton was attempting to make at the Daily Illini by publishing the Muslim cartoons I also believe that discussion and open dialogue is what breaks down the walls of misunderstanding. With that said, let me try and clear up my position on this issue.

One person asked if I thought the cartoons were inappropriate and the answer is 'yes.'

But, I still think they should be published.

Much like beauty, what's inappropriate lies in the eye of the beholder.

For instance, I think a lot of things, including 'Piss Christ,' the Rev. Fred Phelps, the Rev. Pat Robertson and Al Sharpton are inappropriate. Some of them all the time, and some of them part of the time. But I don't think any of them should be censored ... ever.

To me, what has happened in Champaign is a clear case of censorship, period. And I believe the powers-that-be on the U of I campus are weak-kneed and have caved into the politically correct crowd. Did you know that staff members at the U of I were told this week that they can no longer blog? If that is not censoring and silencing the masses, then I'm confused.

Another point I want to make again and stress is that I strongly believe that once you start appeasing terrorists there will be another demand on another day. And rest assured that the thugs that are killing, burning and shouting 'behead Christians' are terrorists.

As far as the comments made by one poster about me being wrong on certain facts, I would simply say please list the facts that you believe are incorrect. I have followed this story closely, have some good sources that are close to the story in Champaign and have talked personally to both editors (Acton Gorton and Chuck Prochaska) more than once during the past few days.

Let me close by saying that, unlike the cowards at the Daily Illini, I encourage your thoughts and comments on this subject -- even in the event that you disagree.

And for every valid issue and question raised I'll respond. That's a promise.

Cowards! No ... that's too nice, they're two-faced, double-talking cowards

2006-02-16T20:42:00.000-08:00

Cross-posted on Illinoize.

I read with interest some of the comments about the fiasco at the Daily Illini and couldn't believe what I was reading.

This is not a conservative versus liberal, Democrat versus Republican issue. Simply stated, those who cannot and will not see that this is an attack on freedom of speech and freedom of expression have blinders on, period.

I was amazed that some of the posts continually placed blame on the two editors which at best is ridiculous and at worst is absurd. This is a clear-cut attempt by the Daily Illini to be politically correct and "not offend" anybody.

The powers-that-be in Champaign offered up a series of questions and answers on the Daily Illini opinion page and in my mind the only thing they accomplished was grovelers trying to save face.Here's the limp-wristed, double-speak reason given by those in charge at the Daily Illini detailing why Acton Gorton and Chuch Prochaska were suspended.

Q: Why should the editor in chief consult others?

A: It is a time-honored tradition that the editor in chief has the final say on content. However, the position of editor in chief holds great responsibility, and in this instance Gorton did not act responsibly. Something of this magnitude takes careful planning to handle in a sensitive and tactful manner while still getting the point across.

Let's dissect that answer. First, officials say that the editor in chief has "the final say on content." And then in the very next sentence they say that Gorton obviously does not have the final say. The good folks at the Daily Illini are in damage control right now, plain and simple.

This is classic case of talking out of both sides of your mouth.Rest assued that this has everything to do with appeasing Muslims and nothing to do with the actions of the two suspended editors. They are being used as scapegoats.

Rest assured that all the media outlets small and large that caved in on this issue will face another threat and another ultimatum on another day. Once you start caving in to terrorists the demands and the stakes will continue to grow.

I wrote a column on this topic earlier this week.

Here's the link.

Here's the Q & A on the Daily Illini opinion page.

I wonder how some of those that are defending this action will feel when certain groups say that sites like this offend them and they are threatened about offering an opinion. You might think that is far-fetched, but when the most powerful institution in the world that became the most powerful institution because of free speech across the board, drops to its knees like it did on this matter ... we might all be in trouble.

Excuse me now while in an effort to appease my dog, I go outside and scream at the top of my lungs. UN-FREAKING-BELIEVABLE.

Coach Kill ... Saluki Way ... and those pesky Muslims

2006-02-15T10:31:00.000-08:00

I've never met SIU football Coach Jerry Kill ... but I like him.

Now, you might find it hard for me to form an opinion about a person I've never met, but I want to emphasize again that I like him. There's no question about it. From the very first time I heard him speak I knew he would do well at SIU in his efforts to turn a downtrodden football program around. And there was an honesty in his voice that made me know I liked him.

I remember Kill's very first press conference when he was introduced to the media. Somebody asked the question about his recruiting skills. Following the question Kill asked an attractive blonde sitting nearby to stand up. He introduced her as his wife. Kill, who is portly and bald, used his wife as an example of his recruiting talents.

"Look at her ... and now look at me," Kill said. "I think that explains what kind of a recruiter I am."

The announcement was made yesterday that Kill had a tumor removed in January and is battling kidney cancer. From my little corner of the world, my thoughts and prayers go out to Coach Kill and his family and for a speedy and complete recovery.

Go here for Coach Kill story.

Another story out of SIUC that is heating up involves the $$$ZILLION Saluki Way project that will feature the demolition of McAndrew Stadium and construction of a new football stadium and the renovation of the SIU Arena.

And ... oh yeah ... if there's enough money left SIU officials have said that they will add some additional classrooms and some renovation at other administrative offices.

While there was silence for awhile it appears that there is a growing number of people that are concerned about the method of financing this major construction project. Simply stated, the project will be funded through tuition increases -- a point that cannot set well with taxpayers who are already paying hefty tuition rates trying to get their children educated.

I plan to wade in on this later, but until then ...

Here's the story on Saluki Way.

--0--

I blogged last Friday about the violence sparked by the published caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad.

Here's what I wrote only five days ago:

Most major newspapers have opted not to publish the cartoons.In fact, if it was not for the Internet most people would not know what all the uproar is about.Some will argue that the reason the cartoons were not published is because of a desire not to offend those of the Muslim faith.

However, I believe it is closer to the truth that the decision not to publish the cartoons is nothing more than fear and caving in to the demands of terrorists.

Terrorists?

Yes ... I said terrorists.

The roving bands of fanatical thugs that are burning down embassies, killing innocent people, rampaging, pillaging and making demands are, plain and simple terrorists, period. Civilized human being do not act that way, so in my mind editors who choose not to run the cartoons or even address the issues are giving in to the demand of terrorists.

And most of us with at least half a brain know that you cannot negotiate with terrorists.

Kudos to Acton Gorton, the editor of the Daily Illini, the student newspaper at the University of Illinois in Champaign, for possessing the common sense and courage to go against the grain and print the cartoons. Along with the cartoons he eloquently stated why he was tackling the issue and invited debate on the subject.

It now seems that Gorton's action, along with opinion page editor Chuck Prochaska, did not set well with the powers that be at U of I.

Both have been suspended for two weeks and Gorton, in a Chicago Tribune story today said he believes he will be fired. I wrote a column on the controversial cartoons that ran on Feb. 14.

Here's the column.

Here's the story about the two Daily Illini editors being suspended.

Gorton will be a guest on my radio show tonight (Feb. 15). He is scheduled to join me at approximately 8:10. Catch the interview on WQRL (106.3). I will also have an interview with Roberta Lynch, assistant executive director with AFSCME Council 31. She will be discussing Gov. Blagojevich's budget address.

As always ... it should be fun.

A Brighter, Friendlier Blog ... Just for You

2006-02-14T10:30:00.000-08:00

Happy V Day to you and your ___________________ (fill in the blank).

My honey treated me very well today with new clothes (a St. Cardinals slicker and a new pair of khakis), after shave and candy (which I don't need.)

I also did well with the purchase of a charm bracelet and a new ring for her.

All the way around, it's been a good V Day around here.

--0--

Surely you noticed the brighter, friendlier colors on my blog.

I'm working on some other changes in the coming days and even toying with the idea of adding my picture to the profile. I think the darker colors were kind of depressing and drab and these are more reader-friendly

Let me know what you think of the new colors or feel free to make any other suggestions. Please?

Cheney provides comic relief ... so does Carter

2006-02-13T18:51:00.000-08:00

A productive Monday and a good start to a busy week.

--0--

Let the one-liners and the wisecracks begin.

If you are Jay Leno and David Letterman you live for moments like the one that was delivered Sunday night when it was revealed that Vice President Dick Cheney accidentally shot a hunting companion.

The White House was lax in getting the story reported which turned out to actually be a better story than the shooting which was not much more than Cheney 'peppering' his hunting companion, Harry Whittington, with birdshot. All in all, it will provide more fodder for late night television than anything else.

Cheney shot Whittington in the face and chest with birdshot when Whittington left the hunting party for some reason and then he failed to announce his return. Apparently when some quail took flight Cheney raised his shotgun and turned to shoot at the birds. That's where Whittington was standing. He took some 28-gauge pellets in the face and chest and is now in stable condition in a hospital in Corpus Christi.

I would still rather go hunting with Dick Cheney than to take a ride in a car with Ted Kennedy behind the wheel.

Here's the Cheney story.

--0--
Remember last week when I reported on this site about the asenine comments of Jimmy Carter when he spoke at the funeral of Coretta Scott King. Y0u'll remember that Carter tossed out the line about the illegal wiretaps, apparently trying to embarrass President Bush. It seems that Carter's words were nothing more than the pot calling the kettle blackie.

Read this and enjoy. Here's the Carter story.

--0--

Speaking of the Coretta Scott King funeral ...

Star Parker, a black columnist, is one of my favorites and gives some great insight into the comments made by the Rev. Joseph Lowery, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and former President Jimmy Carter.

Here's the column.

A hat tip to Gus ...

2006-02-12T15:32:00.000-08:00

An e-mail friend brightened my Sunday with a great list of one-liners.

Perhaps I'm in a little bit of a mean mood today, but as I read these so many irritating people came to mind.

Some of these are priceless. Thanks and a hat tip to Gus.

Read and enjoy.

"I feel so miserable without you, it's almost like having you here."- Stephen Bishop

"He has all the virtues I dislike and none of the vices I admire."- Winston Churchill

"A modest little person, with much to be modest about."- Winston Churchill

"I have never killed a man, but I have read many obituaries with great pleasure."- Clarence Darrow

"He has never been known to use a word that might send a reader to the dictionary."- William Faulkner (about Ernest Hemingway)

"Poor Faulkner. Does he really think big emotions come from big words?"- Ernest Hemingway (about William Faulkner)

"Thank you for sending me a copy of your book; I'll waste no time reading it."- Moses Hadas

"He is not only dull himself, he is the cause of dullness in others."- Samuel Johnson

"He had delusions of adequacy."- Walter Kerr

"He can compress the most words into the smallest idea of any man I know."- Abraham Lincoln

"I've had a perfectly wonderful evening. But this wasn't it."- Groucho Marx

"They never open their mouths without subtracting from the sum of human knowledge"- Thomas Brackett Reed

"He inherited some good instincts from his Quaker forebearers, but by diligent hard work, he overcame them."- James Reston (about Richard Nixon)

"In order to avoid being called a flirt, she always yielded easily."- Charles, Count Talleyrand

"I didn't attend the funeral, but I sent a nice letter saying I approved of it." - Mark Twain

"His mother should have thrown him away and kept the stork."- Mae West

"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go."- Oscar Wilde

"He has no enemies, but is intensely disliked by his friends."- Oscar Wilde

"I am enclosing two tickets to the first night of my new play, bring a friend... if you have one."- George Bernard Shaw to Winston Churchill

"Cannot possibly attend first night, will attend second... if there is one."- Winston Churchill, in reply

"A sheep in sheep's clothing."- Winston Churchill, on Clement Atlee

"There but for the grace of God, goes God."- Winston Churchill, on Stafford Cripps

"He occasionally stumbled over the truth, but hastily picked himself and hurried on as if nothing had happened."- Winston Churchill, on Stanley Baldwin

I heard one more gem this weekend that I want to pass aong. The definition of 'diplomacy' is "telling somebody to go to hell in such a way that they look forward to making the trip.'

Hope all had a good weekend. See ya Monday.

What time is it? It's nap time!

2006-02-11T12:09:00.000-08:00

Looking around the world this afternoon I could jump back into the Prophet Muhammad cartoon crisis, write about allegations of corruption involving high powered lobbyists, rail on the state of politics both nationally and in Illinois and whine about the same usual cast of characters that blame President Bush for everything from Hurricane Katrina to the Nor'easter blizzard making its way up the East Coast this weekend.

So, what should I choose to write about?

None of the above.

It's Saturday, I've had a hard week.

I'm tired.

I'm taking a nap.

See ya bright and early Sunday morning.

Duh! It's about freedom of speech!

2006-02-10T11:55:00.000-08:00

I've followed closely the violence sparked by the published caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad. Most major newspapers, and all those locally, have opted not to publish the cartoons.

In fact, if it was not for the Internet most people would not know what all the uproar is about.

Some will argue that the reason the cartoons were not published is because of a desire not to offend those of the Muslim faith. However, I believe it is closer to the truth that the decision not to publish the cartoons is nothing more than fear and caving in to the demands of terrorists.

Terrorists?

Yes ... I said terrorists.

The roving bands of fanatical thugs that are burning down embassies, killing innocent people, rampaging, pillaging and making demands are, plain and simple terrorists, period. Civilized human being do not act that way, so in my mind editors who choose not to run the cartoons or even address the issues are giving in to the demand of terrorists.

And most of us with at least half a brain know that you cannot negotiate with terrorists.

Read this post on Neil Boortz's blog and look at this picture and then try and convince me that we are not dealing with terrorists.

Kudos to Acton Gorton, the editor of the Daily Illini, the student newspaper at the University of Illinois in Champaign, for possessing the common sense and courage to go against the grain and print the cartoons. Along with the cartoons he eloquently stated why he was tackling the issue and invited debate on the subject.

After all ... isn't open debate what free speech is all about?

I'm offended by a picture of Jesus submerged in a jar of urine, a statue of the Virgin Mary smeared with cow dung and the Rev. Fred Phelps (not necessarily in that order) but I understand that individuals have a right to free speech and free expression. If you want to see something offensive, watch "South Park" sometime.

The same freedoms enjoyed by Phelps, the maker of 'Piss Christ" and cow dung smearer is the same freedom that that allows me to say that roving bands of Muslim fanatics are terrorists, some so-called artists are lunatics and Fred Phelps is about 75-cents short of getting all his change back.

It can't be both ways. If everybody caves in and says that certain freedoms are excluded then how long before somebody says that sites like this are offensive or that the editorial page of a newspaper is offensive and should be banned.

Acton Gorton gets it ... where many seasoned and veteran journalists don't. Freedom of speech and expression has to work across the board or it can't work at all.

In short, he should be commended for his courage.

I've linked up with several sites and added several reading assignments. If you enjoy the freedom of speech that we practice here daily then take the time to read about this issue and then let me know what you think. And trust me, I'm very thick-skinned so I promise I will not burn down your house if you disagree or if you decide to draw a caricature of me wearing a turban.

Here's the link to the Daily Illini.

Here's the now infamous cartoons.

Here's a page of responses good and bad about the decision to run the cartoons.

Here's the link from the Chicago Tribune.

The biggest protests yet held Friday. Look here.

And as always ... Michelle Malkin is all over the story.

The decision about publishing the cartoons is reviewed at The New Frontier. Go here.

Keep this in mind as you ponder this issue:

"I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it." -- Francois Voltaire

Do you suppose Voltaire meant to exclude cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad from that statement and simply forgot?

Situational ethics and a Sausage & Egg McMuffin

2006-02-07T03:48:00.000-08:00

I apologize for a no-show on Monday but 'Blogger' had everybody shut down for maintenance on Monday night -- the only time that I had to post.

--0--

Sen. John McCain fired off a letter to Sen. Barack Obama on Monday, accusing the junior Senator from Illinois of being "disingenuous." The confrontation centers on an accusation by McCain that Obama backed out of a commitment he made to participate in a bipartisan effort at lobbying reform.

The Chicago Tribune is all over this story. Here's several different links to help you sort things out.

McCain flames Obama

Why McCain flamed

His Letter

The note that started it all

Obama responds

Obama's reply letter

This might have more to do with the 2008 presidential race than ethics reform. More on this later today or on Wednesday.

--0--

I had a lengthy post last week about two wacko federal appeals courts that overturned the ban on partial birth abortion. I don't know why I would have been surprised, but when I read some of the comments from 'anonymous' posters, I have to admit that I had forgotten the lack of argument and the level that some minds can sink to in order to justify their actions.

Some of the comments provided a quick refresher course.

I heard a minister one time talk about 'situational ethics' -- a phrase that I had never heard mentioned before. He described situational ethics as the ability to make any situation ethical. He then cited numerous examples in his ministry of people who could always find a way to justify their actions.

The minister gave one example where a man he was counseling could find nothing wrong with having sex with his 12-year-old step daughter and in fact justified his actions because his wife wouldn't have sex with him. Situational ethics ... remember that phrase because it's the battle cry of the liberal crowd. In fact, read the comments of the anonymous poster and you can see that situational ethics is alive and well.

Here's a part of the comment:

Conservatives don't want to offer women help with
preventing
pregnancies, terminating pregnancies or helping them care for
their children
after they are born. Pick one. And one other thing: How
do
you know the
proceedure is painful? Did an aborted fetus tell you or
was it
some kooked-out
conservative? Just knowing simple anatomy,
wouldn't the
fetus be instantly
killed once the brain stem was
punctured? The answer is
yes. What happens next
with the brain vacuuming
is guesome - but so is
watching sausage being made.

Where would I start to try and counter any type of argument against a comment like that?

When a person can somehow equate a partial birth abortion to watching sausage being made, I have to admit I'm at a loss. And how can I argue against the logic that we really can't know if the baby feels any pain or not "when the brain stem was punctured."

While I hesitate to comment I think I have to ... otherwise my brain stem is going to explode.

First, the poster used the tired old blame game -- a favorite tactic of the liberal crowd. Let's blame society because of an unwanted pregnancy. Let's blame the government because they don't provide enough help in caring for children after they are born. Let's blame ... let's blame ... blah ... blah ... blah.

At what point does the individual have some responsibility in a pregnancy -- or for that matter in all aspects of life?

Why should it be the government's responsibility because two fools have sex and the woman ends up pregnant? We live in a time when it's easier to play the blame game than to take responbility for your own actions.

And before anybody asks ... yes ... I've made many mistakes and I admit to each and every one of them and the only person to blame for those mistakes is ... ME.

The argument about whether or not a baby (I'm not going to use the word 'fetus' like 'Anonymous' did) feels pain is absurd at best and ridiculous at worst. Using that logic, it would be all right to kill anybody as long as it was painless and the person died instantly.

But ... for the sake of argument let's assume the procedure is painless ... does that make it all right? Does that justify taking a life?

Of course it doesn't, but it makes those who justify taking a life feel better.

Once again, we're right back to situational ethics -- the ability to make any situation ethical.

As a final thought, let me speak directly to my liberal anonymous poster:

'Aren't you glad your parents didn't equate your birth to sausage being made? And aren't you glad they didn't decide their life would be easier without you? And aren't you especially glad they didn't opt to have a pair of 8-inch scissors plunged into the base of your skull prior to vacuuming your brains out? But, if they had ... as you so eloquently stated ... it would have been a painless death. I'm sure you won't put much stock in what I have to say ... after all ... I'm just another 'kooked-out conservative.'

I think I'll skip breakfast this morning. For some reason a sausage and egg McMuffin doesn't sound very good.

--0--

After more than 18 months of continuances and delays there was some movement on Monday in the case of four employees of the Franklin-Williamson Regional Office of Education.

And it was quite some movement!

Suzanne Willmore, a secretary for the ROE, pleaded guilty to a lesser charge and agreed to testify against regional superintendent Barry Kohl, his wife Janine Kohl and Mary Ann Adams.

Here's a link to the story that appeared Tuesday morning in the Southern Illinoisan.

Look for this case to speed up in a hurry now that Willmore is working with the prosecution.

--0--

I love the Rolling Stones.

And I was disappointed about some of the reviews I read that labeled their halftime appearance as 'boring.'

I took up that issue in a column that also appeared Tuesday.

Here's the column.

A 'Light 'n Loose' Friday to All

2006-02-03T04:29:00.000-08:00

After Thursday's post about partial birth abortion and having the stuffin' kicked out of me by a few of my liberal friends from Carbondale who took advantage of the comments section I'm going to keep things brief and non-confrontational this morning.

However, before I shift into 'light 'n loose' mode I will say that I plan to dissect one of the lengthy (and hateful) replies to Thursday's blog post and plunge into the mind of a liberal. I know it's scary territory but somebody has to do it. Look for that on Monday.

Now ... back to light 'n loose.

--0--

I've had a tough week ... a good week ... a lot accomplished ... a productive week ... but a tough week. It seems it's work all day and something going on every night. As I say often, when I get old and I'm sitting around the nursing home with that blanket draped over my lap -- I'll catch up on all the sleep I've missed.

But until then ... I'll just keep on plugging along.

I don't even want to talk about news items this morning like a ferry sinking in the Red Sea, Iran trying to build a nuclear bomb, some lunatic shooting up a gay bar in New York, the war in Iraq, the mayoral election in New Orleans ... or Illinois politics ... arrrgh.

Remember ... it is 'light 'n loose' Friday.

So,let's talk about the Super Bowl.

Am I going to a party?

No.

Do I care who wins?

A little bit.

I've not had a good run with pro football teams this year. First, I am a Rams fan which put me out of contention to have a team in the playoffs at about week four of the season. Then I started following the Indianapolis Colts and ... well ... you know how that story ended. I still love Peyton and think his commercial is hilarious. If you don't know the one I'm talking about -- I'm not going to explain because you must not have had the television on during the past six months.

I liked the Bears briefly but that was also a bust.

So, I guess it's time to throw the kiss of death toward Pittsburg -- I hope the Steelers win. And there's three reasons: first Pittsburg coach Bill Cowher has paid his dues and it would be nice to see him win the big one. Second, Jerome Bettis is retiring and it would be nice to see him go out on top after a great NFL career. Last, Seattle is one of the most liberal cities in the US ... and ... well ... you all know I feel about those pesky libs.

I know I said I was going to shy away from 'touchy' subjects today but I just couldn't resist one little slap up side of the head.

--0--

Much like beauty ... boring lies in the eye of the beholder.

In some eyes my weekend might probably seems real-l-l-l-l-l-ly boring.

I travel to Harrisburg tonight to broadcast a basketball game (Benton Rangers vs Harrisburg) and a meal before at some pizza joint that everybody but me knows about. Then I'll host a one-hour sport's show on Saturday morning (Saturday Morning Talking Sports - WQRL 106.3) from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Then at 11 a.m. I will do play by play for five basketball games in succession from the Rich Herrin Classic.

The line up goes like this:

11 a.m. -- Webber Township vs Christopher
12:30 -- Waltonville vs Salem
2 p.m. -- Pinckneyville vs Harrisburg
3:30 -- Benton vs Goreville
5 p.m. -- Marion vs Mt. Carmel

Then after those five games are over it's off to the new Benton-West City Applebee's for some grub and beverages (note that beverages was plural).

As I said, beauty and boring both lie in the eye of the beholder. That schedule might seem like a drudgery to some but I'm revved up and ready to go.

Think about it like this ... I love my wife and she will be with me all day. I love high school basketball and I'm going to broadcast six games and do a one hour show about nothing but high school basketball during a 20-hour span. Next, I love Applebee's boneless buffalo wings and cold Miller Lite -- which will happen immediately after all those games.

What's not to love?

And then Sunday has been designated 'Jammie Day' on Elm Street by me.

That means that after the week I've had ... I will not be taking my jammies off all day. In other words, I don't plan to get dressed. I might brush my teeth ... and I might not. Don't you love those days when you close all the doors and never get dressed? I hope it is cloudy, overcast and cold out Sunday. A little rain or snow would make it that much better. In fact that would make Jammie Day perfect.

What's not to love about my weekend?

--0--

I'll be back on Monday (maybe Sunday) to probe the mind of the liberal bashers ... but until then I promised you a 'light 'n loose' Friday and that's what I've delivered.

Happy 'light 'n loose' Friday to all.

Abortion, Ethics and other Thursday thoughts ...

2006-02-02T05:12:00.000-08:00

A pair of federal appeals courts earlier this week declared the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act unconstitutional. The reason: in the court's estimation the measure lacks an exception for cases in which a mother's health is at stake.

Obviously, it should come as no surprise that the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in California is one of the courts that ruled the ban unconstitutional. This of course, is the same group that ruled the words 'under God' should be removed from the Pledge of Allegiance and also the same group that ruled parents in California have no rights to question a sex survey given to seven-year-old students. Only in the Land of Fruits and Nuts, huh? But that will be for another day.

Read this story and then I want you to read further about how the argument about the mother's health is ... simply stated ... not true. In short, the argument about the health of the mother is a farce and a sham used by silver-tongued politicos -- a maneuver that allows them to stay in bed with the abortion crowd -- which by the way is a very profitable business.

Here's the story on the court decision.

Now, let's move on. There's much more to report on this subject.

--0--

There are some pertinent facts on abortion that might have been missed by the mainstream media.

Let me explain.

Sen. Bill Frist, a medical doctor and certified surgeon, argued in 2003 on the Senate floor in support of the Partial Birth Abortion Act. I didn't just drop the link in, instead I copied Frist's exact words. Take a few minutes out of your day to read this. It is graphic, it is passionate and it cleared up a lot of misconceptions (and lies) that are flying around. Keep in mind, this is not just another Senator ... this is a Senator who is also a doctor and surgeon.

PLease read and then I would hope to see you comment.

"Mr. President, I rise in support of the Partial Birth Abortion Act of 2003. And I do so with a deep passion not only for the protection of life, but also for the ethical practice of medicine.

Before coming to the Senate, I had the opportunity to study and practice medicine for 20 years. And though I am not an obstetrician, I have delivered babies. I’ve seen many times -- as all parents have seen, including myself as the father of three boys -- the undeniable miracle of newborn life. I’ve also mended the hearts and vascular systems of premature babies only days after delivery.

These were human beings in their most defenseless and desperate state. Their natural place was in the womb, yet once in the world they fought to survive. As a surgeon, I have studied and performed thousands of surgical procedures. I know there are ethical bonds to the application of surgical procedures -- bonds that in a moral sense should never, ever be crossed by a surgeon.

Indeed, I took an oath to treat every human life with respect, with dignity, and with compassion. But abortion takes life away. And partial-birth abortion does so in a manner that is brutal and barbaric and morally offensive to the mainstream medical community. Today, I do not wish to debate the politics of partial-birth abortion. Instead, I will discuss the disturbing facts of partial-birth abortion as a surgical procedure -- a surgical procedure --to my mind -- that should and must be banned.

The fact is that partial-birth abortion is a repulsive procedure. It begins by turning the living fetus around, partially pulling it out of the uterus feet first, and then thrusting the base of its skull deeply with 8-inch long scissors. Next the scissors are forcibly opened in the skull of the fetus to create a hole large enough to evacuate the brain and the contents of the head. Once the skull is collapsed, the now dead infant is pulled from the uterus through the birth canal. This procedure is most commonly performed in the second trimester of pregnancy, from 20 to 27 weeks.

How developed is a fetus during this period? The survival rate for premature babies born at 23 weeks is 30 to 50 percent. For those born at 24 to 25 weeks the survival rate is between 60 percent and 90 percent. Experts also believe that an infant begins to feel pain at this stage and, in fact, does feel horrific pain during the forcible manipulations and the stabbing of the skull during partial-birth abortion. It is hard to imagine a more grotesque or tortuous treatment of what -- if delivered fully without first being killed -- would have a fighting chance to become a healthy human being. Yet partial-birth abortion exists. The procedure is performed in America -- every day.

The reason I describe this procedure in detail is not to shock, but to inform. As a medical doctor, board-certified in surgery, that is my responsibility. It’s critical we debate this issue within a framework of reality -- no matter how disturbing that reality is. That includes dispelling the myths some opposed to this bill present as facts. First, some say partial-birth abortion may be necessary to preserve the health of the mother. That’s just not true. Never has partial-birth abortion been the only procedure or the best procedure available in case of a medical emergency. It is time consuming; it takes three days. And it is dangerous. The only advantage of partial-birth abortion -- which is a disturbing advantage -- is the guarantee of a dead infant. Still, in the remote chance a partial-birth abortion would be required to save the life of a mother, the ban would not apply.

Second, some say partial-birth abortion is the best option to preserve the health of the mother. That’s just not true. Let me paraphrase an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association published on August 26, 1998: There are “no credible studies” on partial-birth abortion “that evaluate or attest to its safety” for the mother. Partial-birth abortion is more dangerous to the health of the mother than alternative procedures.

There is a greater danger of over-extending the cervix and causing cervical incompetence; a greater danger of slashing or puncturing the uterus because of the blind insertion of scissors; and a greater danger of infection because of the increased use of surgical instruments in the birth canal. Third, some say the medical community opposes this bill because it infringes on the doctor-patient relationship and specific medical procedures should not be banned by Congress. That’s just not true.

As a doctor, I, too, am concerned about government intruding excessively in the practice of medicine. There is nothing more precious to me -- other than protecting and improving lives -- than preserving the doctor-patient relationship. But, in this case, the bill would ban a rogue procedure that is never medically necessary and is condemned by the medical community. It has absolutely no place in the doctor-patient relationship. The doctor-patient relationship is built on trust and moral behavior. This procedure is not moral. And let me set the record straight about the American Medical Association: statements that the AMA does not oppose the partial-birth abortion procedure are inaccurate.

The AMA has supported a ban in the past. They oppose this specific bill because of its criminal provisions. Fourth, some say making the specific technique of partial-birth abortion a crime would make performing all late-term abortions almost impossible and discourage doctors from performing legal abortions in all circumstances. That’s just not true. This bill is tightly worded to prohibit only the very specifically defined partial-birth abortion procedure. Though I also find the alternative abortion procedures morally offensive, they will still be legal. And those alternative methods are safer. Fifth, some say that partial-birth abortion is accepted as mainstream medicine.

That’s just not true. Partial-birth abortion is a fringe procedure. It is not found in common medical text books. It is not taught in medical schools or surgical residency programs. Only 7% of obstetric and gynecologic residency programs provide routine training for even the mainstream second trimester abortion procedures. Today’s doctors are not trained in the partial-birth abortion procedure because it is dangerous, because it is a rogue procedure, and because it is outside the mainstream of generally accepted medical and surgical practice. In fact, the most prominent performers of partial-birth abortions are not trained obstetricians, but general practitioners.

Partial-birth abortion is an affront to the safe and reputable practice of medicine. The question often arises: how often are partial-birth abortions performed in the United States? Surveys indicate it’s not as uncommon a practice as one might think. In 1996, the research arm of Planned Parenthood asked doctors for the first time a partial-birth abortion question. The results produced an estimate that 650 such abortions were performed annually in the United States. The same survey recently found that 2,200 partial birth abortions were performed in the United States in 2000. It is also worth noting that in Kansas -- the only state that requires separate reporting of partial-birth abortions -- 182 procedures were performed on viable fetuses in 1999.

And all 182 procedures were performed for mental health reasons. None were performed for physical health reasons, such as the life of the mother. A vast majority of Americans support a ban on partial-birth abortion. And their will was reflected in the 104th and 105th Congresses. In both Congresses, the House of Representatives and the Senate approved bans on this procedure. Sadly, both efforts were vetoed by then President Bill Clinton. Today, partial-birth abortion remains the law of the land. And we will change that. The time has come to ban this morally offensive procedure.

We as a society respect human life far too much to let it be ravaged in such an inhumane way -- a living infant, partially-delivered, stabbed with 8-inch scissors, emptied of the contents of its skull, and then pulled from its mother ... dead. Never has this procedure been the only one or the best one available to protect the health of a mother. In fact, partial-birth abortion carries with it a greater danger of doing harm. That is why partial-birth abortion is morally offensive to doctors not only as individuals, but as professionals. So I ask my colleagues, as we debate this bill, to do so with the brutal and barbaric reality of this heinous procedure in mind. And to not be sidetracked by the myths of partial-birth abortion, especially those that would imply this is an accepted, mainstream medical procedure.

It simply is not. Instead, let us simply ask the question: does partial-birth abortion carry the danger of doing unnecessary harm -- to a mother, to an infant, and to our conscience as a nation that values the sanctity of human life? The answer is yes. That is how I will vote. And I urge my colleagues to vote the same."

As you can see, any politician that says they voted against the ban on partial birth abortion based on the health of the mother is simply not telling the truth. Remember Frist's words? Read this brief segment again.

"It’s critical we debate this issue within a framework of reality -- no matter how disturbing that reality is. That includes dispelling the myths some opposed to this bill present as facts. First, some say partial-birth abortion may be necessary to preserve the health of the mother. That’s just not true. Never has partial-birth abortion been the only procedure or the best procedure available in case of a medical emergency. It is time consuming; it takes three days. And it is dangerous. The only advantage of partial-birth abortion -- which is a disturbing advantage -- is the guarantee of a dead infant."

Poignant words, huh? But, there's more ... read on.

--0--

During the recent Senate Judiciary hearings on the nomination of Samuel Alito it seemed that the only issue that mattered was abortion. From every boring speaker (Ted Kennedy headed that list) it seemed that abortion and Roe v Wade ... and Roe v Wade and abortion was the only topic of concern.

I happened across a column written by Jack Kinsella, who is editor of the "Omega Letter" -- a Christian-based journal. Kinsella took a unique and informative approach in explaining the true numbers behind abortion. I believe his explanation also clarifies why the Democratic Party beat Alito over the head with the issue of abortion for a solid week. In short, abortion is a big and profitable industry in the U.S.

Here's a link to the story. Pay very careful attention to the way Kinsella illustrates the 'million vs. billion' angle.

The bottom line is that abortion is big, big business and a good number of Democratic lawmakers are in the pocket of the abortion lobbyists. Period.

And if you want to argue the issue ... jump in ... but be prepared for a fight because I've already taken the gloves off on this issue.

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Ethics in Illinois politics ... well ... maybe not?

I was heartened yesterday when I received a press release from Carol Knowles, a spokesperson for Illinois Comptroller Dan Hynes.

On Wednesday in Springfield Hynes led a bipartisan group of legislators and activists in calling for sweeping eithic reforms aimed at ending the appearance of pay-to-play practices in Illinois and restoring integrity and public confidence in government.

The press release contained a lengthy list of proposals to try and clean up Illinois government. Many of those proposals dealt with campaign contributions and lobbyists. On my Wednesday night radio show, "Sound Off," I had as a guest, Cindi Canary, the executive director of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform.

Canary, during the 20-minute interview, noted that she had attended the press conference in Springfield on Wednesday and, admitting that it is an uphill battle, said that she was motivated by the attendance and the bipartisan tone of the event.

After reading the press release and talking with Canary I was even a little optimistic. And of course that's saying something because when it comes to politics I'm cynical by nature and from experience.

Then ... I jumped out of bed Thursday morning ready to tackle the day and shortly after 5 a.m. as I was reading my morning papers on-line, I ran across these two stories back-to-back.

Here's the first story.

Now, here's the second story.

Oh, well so much for ethics ... and so much for optimism.

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This from the Neil Boortz blog ... one of my favorites. Here's a link to the site. Be aware, Boortz labels himself as the High Priest of the Church of the Painful Truth. So, if you're squeamish or thin-skinned, enter with caution. Consider yourself warned.

This is also a story that you WILL NOT see talked about on ABC, NBC or CBS.

"WHATEVER YOU DO, DON'T SAY WE'RE WINNING
In case you don't already know it, insurgent attacks on our troops and security forces in Iraq are on the decline. In the 1st week of October of last year there were 700 such attacks. By mid-December that figure had dropped to 500. Just last week the number had dropped to 400. That's a 43% drop in about three months. At the same time our forces in Iraq are turning over more and more of the Iraqi territory to the Iraqi defense forces to handle. Just last week military control of two large provinces in Iraq were turned over to Iraqi security forces.
Yeah ... this all sounds a lot like we're losing over there, doesn't it?"

I doubt that you will see that discussed on "Nightline" or on CNN, either.

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Finally, I want to hear from YOU!

I want to see a double digit number on the comments today. That's not asking for much, and to borrow a line from Kosmo Kramer, 'God knows I don't ask much of you,' so please make my day and let me know you've visited my humble blog.

Even if you don't have an opinion, it would warm an old man's (that of course is me) heart to know that some of you lurkers stopped long enough to at least say 'hi.'

Good, day and see ya Friday.

Speechless in Springfield

2006-02-01T21:43:00.000-08:00

Apparently there will be no debates between Gov. Rod Blagojevich and challenger Edwin Eisendrath. The planned debate was canceled after Blagojevich failed to respond to a request submitted by the League of Women Voters in Chicago.

Here's a few questons for the faithful followers of this blog.

Should an incumbent debate a challenger or is it a situation of 'nothing to gain and everything to lose?

Also, does your approval rating go down for a candidate, even an incumbent, who refuses to debate the issues?

To stir the pot, let me give you two quick answers.

First, it would seem that an incumbent who has done a good job and wants to tout his record of successes would certainly want to debate, even initiate debates. Secondly, in my estimation the approval rating for an incumbent who ducks and runs rather than debate, goes into free-fall mode. It gives the perception of "why are you hiding?" or "what are you running from?"

Once again, what do you think?

Here's the link.

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Oh ... Teddy ... where are you? Oh, Mr. Durbin ... come here a second? Hey Mr. Biden, take a look at this.

After weeks of hand-wringing, teeth-gnashing and wailing by Democrats on the Senate Judiciary Committee about the conservative views of Justice Samuel Alito, how do you think the new Supreme Court justice voted on the first case he heard?

He voted against the conservatives on the bench proving that, yes, he is his own man and secondly, that he will vote according to the way he interprets the Constituion.

What more could you expect from a Supreme Court justice?

I know this will not set well with some of my Democratic Party friends who might still be smarting from the 2004 presidential election, but can you imagine what kind of left leaning nominees we would have gotten had Kerry been elected?

I shudder to think!

Here's the story.

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More tomorrow on abortion, enviro-kooks and Wal-Mart ... not particularly in that order.

Political puffery ... and Birds of the Same Feather

2006-01-30T19:04:00.000-08:00

Just when I thought I had heard it all ...

A story in the Chicago Tribune details a federal appellate decision that gives all politicians a way to wiggle out of a promise -- as if they needed any more help.

Several prison officials who were fired by Gov. Rod Blagojevich filed a lawsuit claiming that the Guv broke his promise to keep good employees on the payroll. The lawyers representing Blagojevich used a surprise defense saying that the promises were nothing more than "classic political puffery."

Webster's New World Dictionary defines 'puffery' as "exaggerated praise."

So, from now on when campaign promises are made and then not kept, all a politician has to say is that it was a classic case of political puffery.

I don't know about you but I've been 'puffer-ed' about all I can stand by some of these guys. Or, to put a new spin on an old saying, 'puffery me once shame on you ... puffery me twice, shame on me.'

Here's the Chicago Tribune story.

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As my dear late mother used to say -- 'birds of the same feather always flock together.'

Sen. Barack Obama proved that today.

After announcing on Sunday that he would not vote in favor of a filibuster of Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito. On Monday, Obama was one of only 25 Senators who voted in favor of the veto, leaving the fringe of the Democratic Party far short of the 41 votes needed.

It's good to know that the two Senators representing the interests of Illinois residents are buddied up with the likes of Ted Kennedy, John Kerry, Diane Feinstein, etc., etc.

Here's the story in the Trib on Obama's duck and run maneuvering.

Also, check out these comments by Ted Kennedy as reported on Michelle Malkin's blog.

This is priceless stuff and yet another example that I didn't move an inch while the national Democratic Party was turning hard left and making way for the lunatic fringe. Here's the link. Be sure to scroll down through the post about the Muslim cartoons creating such a furor in Denmark.

Also, read these comments about Alito from Jan LaRue, chief counsel of Concerned Women for America.

"The idea of filibustering a fine nominee like Judge Alito is beyond ridiculous. It's an abuse of the advice-and-consent process and defies the will of the American people."

Here's the story.

Here's another story that says the confirmation is a done-deal.

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The power of the blog?

From a story in the Washington Post today showed that left leaning bloggers are trying to keep Dems from broadening its base to attract a more middle-of-the-road foll0wing.

Here's a sampling:

These activists -- spearheaded by battle-ready bloggers and making their influence felt through relentless e-mail campaigns -- have denounced what they regard as a flaccid Democratic response to the Supreme Court fight, President Bush's upcoming State of the Union address and the Iraq war. In every case, they have portrayed party leaders as gutless sellouts.

Here's the story.

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I had one of those senior moments this morning when I ran across this story. Surely it can't be 19 years since an entire nation hoped and prayed together for the little girl that became known as 'Baby Jessica.'

Now, Jessica is heading off to get married.

She is living proof that miracles still happen.

Here's the story.

Sunday Blogging ... Comin' Down

2006-01-29T07:39:00.000-08:00

Sunday Blogging Comin' Down ...

I love the song 'Sunday Morning Coming Down'? Maybe a person actually had to be in that condition on Sunday morning a few times to understand, but there is a bunch of truth in that Kris Kristopherson song.

"On a Sunday morning sidewalk, wishing Lord that I was stoned, cause there's something in a Sunday that makes a body feel alone."

"And there's nothing short of dying that's half as lonesome as the sound, as a sleeping city sidewalk and Sunday morning coming down."

And of course, being the old redneck I am, I like the Johnny Cash version better than any other.

OK, I'll get off the nostalgia kick and toss my melancholy mood aside and get down to business, which of course is updating this blog with something you will find worth reading.

But, I do like that song ... and there really is 'something in a Sunday that does make a body feel alone.'

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To filibuster ... or not to filibuster? That is the question facing Democrats as the full Senate confirmation vote on Supreme Court nominee Samuel Alito is scheduled for Tuesday.

I've just got one question for the left wing radicals who are railing that the Dems should filibuster -- are you people fricking nuts?

Perhaps one the first things that should be required yearly of all members of Congress is a simple math test.

Let me explain.

There are 100 senators and all that is needed for the confirmation is a simple majority. For those in the Senate like John Kerry who can't translate that to real numbers, it will take 51 votes to confirm Alito. There are 55 Republican senators who are solidly on board for confirmation. Add in another four Democrats that have said publicly that they will endorse Alito and that makes 59 votes.

To put that in simple terms for Kerry and his ilk ... you lose ... AGAIN!

I happened on to the Daily Kos blog by accident and was amazed at the rantings of the left. It should be called Daily Venom ... or maybe Daily Ignorance. Be sure to read some of the posts.

In any event, it is the same cast of characters -- John Kerry, Ted Kennedy, Hillary Clinton that are leading the charge against Alito.

To me, these confirmation hearings on Alito come down to two things -- abortion and sour grapes. First, the only issue that I have heard, and continue to hear, debated why Alito should not be confirmed is his presumed position on Roe v Wade. Let me ask a question here. What kind of a candidate do you think we would be looking at right now if John Kerry had won the 2004 presidential election? I can assure you it would be somebody that would have been left of Berkeley.

During 15 years as a federal judge Alito has a sterling record and more importantly has said that he will make his decision based on the Constitution. Well, that's good enough for me.

And of course, this leads to the issue of sour grapes.

Along with the abortion issue there are many Dems who are still smarting and licking their wounds about the Bush victory over Kerry. Threats to filibuster are about partisan politics at its worst. And of course that memory Bush beating Kerry is also playing into this.

I've said it before and I will continue to say it. The Democratic Party, on the national level, have moved so far left that they have lost sight of the mainstream. The saddest aspect is that while this has happened many people have stayed in the center and refused to march off a cliff with 'Chappaquiddick Ted,' Shrillary Hillary, Dick Durbin, Harry Reid and the gang.

Alito will be confirmed this week and if Dems filibuster it will be a grave mistake.

Here's another like to the Daily Kos blog that aptly shows the bitterness, defeatist attitude and partial, no scratch the word partial, the full-blown insanity that exists among some of these people on the left.

Here's yet another link to the same blog that shows Kerry's statement about the filibuster.

And since I've directed you to a stroll down 'loony lane' by visiting Daily Kos, let me direct you now to an excellent piece that details exactly what is taking place about this nomination. The headline really says it all -- 'On Alito -- Republicans win, Democrats talk'.

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As I mentioned in a previous post, I was asked to speak last week at a 'Conservative Coming Out Day' at Southern Illinois University. One of the points I attempted to make involved the label that is tossed out so freely these days about 'right-wing etremists' and right-wing ideologues

Here's the point I made and one that I want you to consider and give some thought.

One of the favorite lines of many of our liberal U.S. Senators is to label anybody with an opposing view as a ‘right-wing extremist.’
Sen. Hillary Clinton, Sen. Dick Durbin, Sen. John Kerry, Sen. Charles Schumer and Sen. Diane Feinstein are only a few that have all tossed that label out; pardon my chose of words, ‘quite liberally.’

If you read the earlier links you saw that Kerry labeled anybody who supported Alito as a 'right-wing ideologue.'

But, I’ve never heard any of those people, or any other liberal for that matter, define exactly what a right-wing extremist is. And to take it one step further, I’ve never heard one person from the mainstream media try to pin any of those people down to find out exactly what the definition is of a right-wing extremist. The question I want to raise to you is, exactly what views must a person have to be considered a right-wing extremist?

Here's a test for you with views associated with those being labeled as right wing extremist.

For instance:
· If you're opposed to abortion, are you a right-wing extremist?
· If you oppose a hate-filled atheist filing a worthless court petition to have the words ‘under God’ removed from the Pledge of Allegiance, are you a right-wing extremist?
· If you believe we should close our borders and that it’s laughable that an illegal alien should be allowed to get a driver’s license or free health care, does that make you a right-wing extremist?
· If you believe that partial birth abortion is barbaric and nothing more than infanticide, are you a right-wing extremist?
· If you challenge someone to show you in the Constitution where it says the words ‘separation of church and state’ are you a right-wing extremist.
· If you believe we should joyously celebrate Christmas because it’s the day that the Christian community celebrates the birth of Jesus, are you a right-wing extremist?
· If you say that you're sick and tired of rogue federal judges trying to rewrite the Constitution to fit his or her own ideology, are you a right-wing extremist?
· If you oppose same-sex marriage and favor a constitutional amendment banning it, are you a right-wing extremist?
· If you're tired of your hard-earned tax dollars going to support unlimited welfare for people who refuse to work, are you a right-wing extremist?

I challenge you to answer those questions honestly and you might be surprised to find that you are a little more conservative than you imagined. Or, based on those questions you might find like I did that you're a flaming right-wing extremist.

Let me know how you faired on the questions.

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Brangelina ... Brangelina ... Brangelina and more, much more Brangelina.

I have great news for all you Brangelina fans. There is now a blog where you can (insert wretching sound like the dry heaves here) get a daily fix of news about your favorite (insert previous sound again) couple. The site gives daily (insert sound) updates and information (insert sound). Now that I have found this (insert sound) wonderful blog I will be able to give those who love this (insert sound) amazing couple regular updates (more sounds).

We can now know all the knews on a minute-by-minute update and track every single movement this incredible (more puking sounds) makes.

And I believe you have to agree tha I have proven in this single post that I will go to great lengths to take care of the faithful readers of this site, and yes, that does include wading through the (insert lots of wretching sounds) associated with Brangelina.

For those of you who have your vomit bag handy ... here's the link to Brangelina.

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And ... once again ... I would love to hear from you (even if it's about Brangelina.)

Coming out (conservative that is) ... Wal-Mart ... and the fastest hands in basketball

2006-01-26T03:39:00.000-08:00

I've been away (not from the area) from my blog for a couple of day. No excuses, simply no time.

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I was asked by Professor Jonathan Bean a few weeks ago to speak at the first-ever Conservative Coming Out Day, that was held earlier this week at Southern Illinois University. The event went off without a hitch and I'm happy to report that approximately 100 people attended the event.

I met some wonderful (and conservative) college students and after my speech listened intently to a panel discussion about the liberal wilderness that exists on the SIU campus. Albeit small, I do believe Bean has a movement started on the Carbondale campus. I expect to see that movement grow.

Kudos to Professor Bean, he is to be commended for his work and for the nonsense he endures to promote a conservate agenda.

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Love 'em ... or hate 'em ... Wal-Mart is here to stay.

The city of Chicago found out when you buck the retail giant they simply take their ball and start a new game one block outside the city limits. This is an interesting tale and shows exactly why Wal-Mart has succeeded in such a grand way.

Along those same lines ...

I recently read a column written by the Washington Post's Sebastian Mallaby. I went back and dug through the archives to find this. Even if you don't like Wal-Mart, keep an open mind and read a different view. Like me, you might change your mind a little about Ol' Sam and Crew.

Here's the column by Mallaby.

Here's the Wal-Mart story in the Chicago Sun-Times.

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Looking for some help from readers for a project about Orient 2 mine explosion ...

I am working on a story (probably will run this weekend in the Southern Illinoisan) about a bid by Benton businessman and historian Bob Rea to get the site of the 1951 Orient No. 2 Mine disaster made into a national historic site. The portal (at least three buildings still exist) is still standing just southwest of Benton and is the actual location where legendary UMWA president John L. Lewis went underground the day following the disaster.

Maybe it's because as we get older history means more to us, but I had the idea that somebody (and I've elected myself) needs to document some of the stories about that awful day 54 years ago. This has nothing to do with my work at the Southern Illinoisan and everything to do with preserving history. Many of these people are in their late 70s, 80s and some are in their 90s. If their thoughts and memories are not saved then in another generation they will be lost forever.

If you have any information about anybody that was involved, at the mine site, helped with the rescue or lost a family member or friend ... please contact me. My home email is writeon1@shawneelink.net

I plan to start a list, then begin systematically calling on these people to record and then write their memories. Will I put those in a book form? That's a possibility.

I hope to hear from you.

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Isiah Thomas was always known for his fast hands and agressive play when he played at Indiana University and then later as a star in the NBA for the Detroit Pistons.

Apparently his style has not changed since he moved to the front office of the New York Knicks.

Check out this story.

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Politics ... Illinois style.

Are you as sick of it as I am. It's the same old, tired banter and bickering over and over and over again.

Read my column that appears in today's Southern Illinoisan and see if you can relate.

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And once again, please feel free to comment.