Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Lyons Approves Ordinance to safeguard public in gun sales


Lyons Approves Ordinance to safeguard public in gun sales

(See supporting documents, ordinance, settlement agreement and key points at end of story.)

Lyons, Illinois – Village Mayor Christopher Getty today announced that the village has approved an ordinance that spells out procedures to help crackdown on the sale of guns to “straw purchasers.”

The ordinance responds to a lawsuit filed last July by Chicago activists who alleged three suburban Chicago communities including Lyons are responsible for guns sold legally at a village-based gun shop that later made their way into the hands of criminals.
Lyons Mayor Christopher Getty (2nd from right) is joined by Cook COunty Sheriff's representative Michael Anton, Lyons Deputy Police Chief Matthew Buckley and attorney Burton S. Odelson
Lyons Mayor Christopher Getty (2nd from left) is joined by Cook County Sheriff's representative Michael Anton, Lyons Deputy Police Chief Matthew Buckley and attorney Burton S. Odelson
Getty said he is confident Lyons would have been dismissed from the lawsuit, but said taking action to increase the safety and security of residents is a priority. In response, the plaintiffs have agreed to remove the Village of Lyons from their lawsuit.

“The new ordinance approved today spells out a strategy to help prevent straw buyers from purchasing guns that end up in the hands of criminals,” Getty said.

“Working with the Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, the plaintiffs, the Lyons Police and the gun shop in Lyons, we believe that through this partnership we can significantly reduce the likelihood of legally purchased guns ending up in the hands of people who use them in the commission of a crime.”

The ordinance calls for close cooperation between the Village of Lyons and the gun shop, Midwest Sporting Goods, 8565 Plainfield Rd, which is the only gun retailer in Lyons.

A few components would include the gun shop sharing the same information with the Village of Lyons Police that they provide to the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, random inspections by the local officials as well as providing proper training to gun shop employees to better detect straw purchases.

“Some guns that are sold legally do fall into the hands of the wrong people. But the gun dealer, who cooperated with us, and the Village of Lyons have no control over that, we can only aim to work together to continue to make policies better” Getty said.

“This is about being practical to prevent the sale of guns to the wrong people.”

The ordinance was approved unanimously at a special board meeting held on Tuesday afternoon (October 27, 2015) and becomes law immediately.

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:

KEY POINTS IN ORDINANCE

1.    Information on legal FOID card holders who are denied purchase of a gun will be transmitted within 48 hours of the denial to the Lyons Police Department (potential legal purchasers who appear to be straw buyers).

2.    All “trace” information received from ATF or the Illinois State Police regarding prospective illegal gun purchasers will be transmitted to the Lyons Police Department.

3.    At least two random inspections of the gun shop will be made by Lyons Police and the Sheriff of Cook County, collectively, and will include inspection and approval of an anti-theft safety plan which includes:
a.    exterior lighting;
b.    surveillance video cameras, including point-of-sale;
c.    alarm systems; and
d.    safe storage of weapons and ammunition.
4.    Inspection and approval of internal record keeping procedures and inventory audits.
5.    Employee background checks and training.
6.    Maintain a “DO NOT SELL” list.
7.    Record all persons who purchase multiple guns within a 12-month period.
8.    An Intergovernmental Agreement between Lyons and the Sheriff of Cook County to work collectively in doing inspections and sharing documents.
9.    Enforcement of the Ordinance through the Mayor’s office whereby if there are more than two violations of the business regulations, the Mayor may suspend or revoke the business license of the gun shop.
Click here to view the lawsuit Settlement Agreement (PDF)

Click here to view the Village of Lyons Ordinance (PDF)
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Thursday, October 1, 2015

Fall fun at Children's Museum in Oak Lawn

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Children came out in force for the Fall Fest at the Oak Lawn Children's Museum. Photographer Steve Neuhaus captures a lot of the fun in this photo array

By Steve Neuhaus

Super heroes, a pirate, Cinderella and of course that cape crusader Batman were on hand at Sunday's annual Fall Fun Fest at The Oak Lawn Children's Museum, 5100 Museum Dr. at the Patriot Station.

Families and children of all ages enjoyed many activities including train rides, face painting, children's garage sale and even free pumpkins handed out to the first 500 children.

"We expect this years crowd to be well over last years attendance of 2000" said Kevin Mathers museum board president.


Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus


Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Oak Lawn Children's Museum opens Sept. 28, 2015. Photos by Stephen Neuhaus
Oak Lawn Children's Museum opens Sept. 28, 2015. Photos by Stephen Neuhaus

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

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Female jogger assaulted by knife wielding attacker in Bridgeview, suspect sought by police

Bridgeview Police seek suspect in knife attack against female jogger

On Sept. 22 at approximately 9 pm, the Bridgeview Police Department responded to an emergency call involving an armed assault of a female jogger at Founders Park, located at 8200 S. 78th Avenue.
Upon arrival, officers learned that a 26-year-old woman and resident of Bridgeview had been jogging on the Park’s walk/run path and was attacked from behind by an unknown male assailant.
The male suspect grabbed the victim, tearing her clothing and slashing at her with a knife, cutting the victim on her legs and upper torso.
Founders Park, Bridgeview, Illinois
Founders Park, Bridgeview, Illinois
The male suspect is described as being about 40 years old, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall with a stocky build, gray beard and hairy arms, and White.
Bridgeview Police immediately responded conducting a search of the area, with assistance from neighboring police agencies, and using a Police K-9 unit and helicopter provided by the Cook County Sheriff’s Police.
Bridgeview officials also immediately issued an alarm notice to nearby residents and homeowners (using the Everbridge System, reverse 911).
Bridgeview Police are continuing the manhunt for the suspect and are urging residents to take caution and be on alert. Anyone with any information about this incident or the suspect is urged to immediately contact the Bridgeview Police by calling 708-458-2131.
“We take this very seriously and we are out in full force looking for the suspect,” said Bridgeview Police Chief Walter Klimek.
“We also urge residents that if they are walking or jogging on the park path and in park areas to always be vigilant and observant of their surroundings for their safety.”
The victim is reportedly recovering from non-life threatening injuries, and is in stable condition at Advocate Christ Medical Center.

The excitement of opening a baseball pack and finding an autographed card

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The excitement of opening a baseball pack and finding an autographed card

By Aaron Hanania

The suspense of waiting to open a box or packet of baseball cards is like being a little kid trying to fall asleep on Christmas Eve. You hope that you get a legendary card and imagine the future when you strike gold.
But, when you don't get the million dollar card, you want to go buy another box. This happens like an endless life cycle. When you are the Baseball Card King, this cycle is your livelihood. Collectors flee to your store and hope to get a big card.
When you buy baseball cards or video games, or almost anything, your brain releases more of a special chemical called Dopamine than it normally would. This causes your brain to have the emotion of being excited or eager for something. In this case you become excited to open your cards. Another thing dopamine can cause is addiction. That is why so many people buy and buy cards and eventually have no money. It is really amazing how much your brain works without you realizing it.
Then I come along and test my luck like so many others! I like to film when I open my baseball cards only because it is fun and if I do get a great card I want to relive the time again. I recommend you try to film when you open your box because if you get a 1/1 card, other people can enjoy it like you did.
Autographed baseball cards from the Bowman and Topps baseball card boxes
Autographed baseball cards from the Bowman and Topps baseball card boxes
All I know is that The Baseball Card King stores in the Chicagoland area have all of the most popular card boxes and staff who can help you decide which ones are best. Whenever I go to one of their many stores, the service is always amazing. I have never pulled a legendary card, but I don't expect to. I collect because I enjoy having to organize and record each card I get. Some people make collecting a living, but I would not want to.
This time when I went to the Oak Lawn store Saturday September 19th, I was not planning to leave the store empty handed. Like always, I buy the box that has the most autographs in it for a reasonable price. Some boxes can run upward of $400.00 each, but I stay away from those.
Today I decided to buy two boxes, the Topps Chrome 2015 jumbo box with 5 autographs in it, and the Bowman Inception 2015 premium baseball cards, also with 5 autographs.
The whole way back to my house I was held in suspense at the possibility of unearthing a rare find, valuable card. It is just like trying to figure out a magic trick someone showed you that you cannot figure out.
I of course filmed the Box Breaks, because when you watch people opening a box of cards you still have the feeling of suspense. The only downside to watching box breaks is when someone gets a really rare card and then I go out and buy the same box and do not get a rare card.
Bowman baseball card box
Bowman baseball card box
When I finally got home, I had to do a few things before I could open the boxes. When I finally started to open them I was hoping that I got a card worth more that $20.00. I did get a few good cards, but not any cards that caused me to go crazy.
I definitely would recommend collecting cards, because it is fun and enjoyable. Don't be devastated when you don't get a million dollar card, because that’s the industry of baseball card companies. Our luck is their entire industry fortune. I think of it as being the little fish eating a worm and then being caught by the fisherman. When the fisherman is the card company, and the worm is like knowing that a thousand dollar card is only one pack away. But it is often not.
I would recommend bringing your kids, or just yourself out to one of the Baseball Card King stores because trust me, you cannot walk out of that place without getting something good. I know I cannot not buy something, because some of the things you can buy there are so cool.
Topps Chrome baseball card box
Topps Chrome baseball card box
Even though I only collect baseball memorabilia, the Baseball Card King sells boxes for all sports. They have literally hundreds of different boxes for each sport. They can get you any card box, even if they don't have it in stock, they will go out of their way to get you what you want.
You can see my box opening video from Saturday September 19th in the links below. You can also see more of my writing and videos on my various websites.
Click here to visit Aaron's Youtube Channel.
Click here to visit Aaron's website at www.AaronHanania.com.
(Make sure to check my Youtube channel for the video report on opening the Bowman and Topps baseball card boxes.)

Wednesday, July 29, 2015

No injuries at Orland Home seriously damaged by fire

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No injuries at Orland Home seriously damaged by fire


Lightning suspected, officials said. The family was on vacation


The Orland Fire Protection District responded to a fire reported in a home located on the 108th block of West Scarlet Drive in Orland Park early Wednesday morning.


The fire was reported at about 2:46 am on Wednesday July 29, 2015 and initial arriving fire companies found heavy fire had spread through the attic and roof areas of the 5,000 square foot residential home. Firefighters reported that heat radiating from the blaze was extensive.

OFPD Chief Ken Brucki said that firefighters immediately went into a defensive position to get the fire under control preventing any injuries.

“This fire had a tremendous amount of heat and it concerned us,” Brucki said. “We were concerned about structures around the property and took appropriate precautions to keep nearby properties safe.”

Brucki said the cause of the fire is under investigation.

“Crews were able to conduct a rapid primary search to confirm there were no occupants in the property at the time, and we were able to verify that the family was vacationing,” Brucki said.

The alarm was elevated to a full still to bring in additional companies.  A total of two aerial master streams and five large diameter hand-lines were required to extinguish the fire. 

The structure suffered major fire damage to the entire roof and extensive damage to the interior of the structure from fire, smoke, and water. 

It took approximately an hour to bring the fire under control. 

Brucki said one possible cause of the fire may be lightning noting “there was a tremendous amount of lightning in the area at approximately the same time of the fire.”

Brucki also said that the fire department was able to deploy a drone to assist in quickly identifying the fire location on the home.

“It was a very large home and the drone helped give us an immediate, aerial view of the property and the fire,” Brucki said.  “The aerial view assisted the Battalion Chief to direct suppression efforts to bring the fire under control.”




VIDEO:
 

Drone Video Link



Drone still Pic’s Links

end

Village of Orland Park to Host 12th Annual Taste of Orland Park - July 31 to August 2, 2015

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Village of Orland Park to Host 12th Annual Taste of Orland Park - July 31 to August 2, 2015

A Village of Orland Park summer favorite, the Taste of Orland Park, will return July 31 to August 2, 2015 at the Orland Park Village Center, 14700 South Ravinia Avenue.

Now in its twelfth year, the Taste of Orland Park showcases Orland Park eateries, community organizations, event sponsors, and offers a number of activities, including Kids’ Day, a car show and live entertainment on two stages.

The Taste of Orland Park will be held Friday, July 31 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, August 1 from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday, August 2 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Admission and parking are free with participating restaurants selling tastes of signature dishes at individual food booths.



“We look forward to the Taste of Orland Park every year,” said Mayor Dan McLaughlin. “It is a summer favorite for everyone and this year will be no exception. This is a great way to learn more about and taste the different dishes from Orland Park restaurants, learn about our wonderful community groups and enjoy a great entertainment-filled weekend,” the mayor said.

Participating Orland Park eateries include 94 West Grille and Tavern, Beggars Pizza, Blissful Banana Café, The Brass Tap, Café Gaston, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, El Famous Burrito, El Pueblito, Granite City Food & Brewery, Mo’s Chinese Kitchen, Oberweis Dairy, Orland Park Bakery, Palermo’s Restaurant & Pizzeria, Papa Joe’s Italian Restaurant, Q Restaurant, Riviera Country Club, RoccoVino’s Italian Restaurant, Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, Square Celt Ale House and Grill, and Wooden Paddle Pizza.

A number of food items food items will be sold including, fried goat cheese and gluten free gelato from Wooden Paddle Pizza and fish and chips and candied beer bacon from Square Celt Ale House and Grill. Select restaurants are alcohol vendors with soft drinks and water being available for purchase from all participating restaurants.

“There are so many great things about the Taste of Orland Park,” said Trustee Patricia Gira, chair of the village’s Recreation and Parks Committee. “The food, the activities, the people and the entertainment, among other things, are what make it such a great weekend for everyone to enjoy.”

A variety of musical talents will perform on two stages throughout the weekend. The main stage will have Nick Lynch of American Idol and Trippin’ Billies perform on Friday, July 31, Dr. Rock, The Chicago Kingsnakes and 7th Heaven perform on Saturday, August 1 and The Lowdown Brass Band, Tumbling Dice and American English perform on Sunday, August 2.

Kid’s Day will be held at the adjacent John Humphrey Sports Complex Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. A number of free games, activities and programs will be held for kids of all ages. The Annual Taste of Orland Park Car Show will be held at the Humphrey Complex on Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. Orland Park’s Got Talent live finals will be held on Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Community Stage.

The Orland Park Lions Club will host Bingo inside the Civic Center on Saturday and the Orland Park Kiwanis Club will do the same on Sunday, with both events starting at 1 p.m.

Taste of Orland Park sponsors include The University of Chicago Medicine, The Orland Park Prairie, Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd., Mercedes Benz of Orland Park, JamesHardie, Brannigan Chiropractic Center, Bear Home Improvements, Inc., ComEd, Illinois Energy Windows & Siding, Inc., Saint Xavier University, Moraine Valley Community College and Xfinity.

For more information, visit the Taste page on the village's website or call the Village of Orland Park Recreation Department at 708/403-7275. 

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Gorman leaves Cook County office at top of her public service

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Gorman leaves Cook County office at top of her public service

Popular Cook County Commissioner Elizabeth “Liz” Doody Gorman shocked the public Wednesday when she resigned her county board seat to take a position with a major Fortune 100 Chicago corporation as director of Government Affairs. The District’s GOP Committeemen will meet to select a successor but the leading candidate is Gorman’s closest political ally, Palos Township Committeeman Sean Morrison. Gorman’s announcement came after announcing she would not criticize but could not support Preckwinkle’s 1 Percent Sales Tax increase, which passed 9 of 17 votes

By Ray Hanania

Ray Hanania, City Hall Reporter, (1976-1992)
Ray Hanania, City Hall Reporter, (1976-1992)
Cook County Commissioner Elizabeth “Liz” Doody Gorman announced Wednesday she will resign her county board seat effective next week after declining to support a controversial one percent sales tax increase proposal introduced by County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
The sales tax increase was adopted following six hours of debate and public testimony at a special meeting of the Cook County Board held Wednesday (July 15, 2015), with 9 votes in favor, 7 votes against and 1 vote (Gorman) present.
Gorman, who championed the fight against the sales tax increase proposed by former Board President Todd Stroger, told the board that there is a major difference between Stroger and Preckwinkle. But she could not support the sales tax hike proposal, she said.
On December 1, 2009 Commissioner Gorman successfully led the effort to roll-back Stroger’s proposed Cook County’s sales tax increase, and override Stroger’s veto. The move cut the county sales tax from 1.75 percent to 1.25 percent.
Gorman heaped praise on Preckwinkle arguing the Board President has done everything possible to avoid raising taxes, and has already helped to shore up the county’s finances since Preckwinkle’s election on Feb. 2, 2010, when she unseated Stroger.
“Madame President, you have proactively faced and tried to resolve the county’s pension crisis when predecessors neglected to. You were left no favors. Five years of substantive reform under your leadership has put Cook County on a strong path but the reality of the unfunded pension liabilities have put us in this position today… between a Rock and a Hard Place,” Gorman said, calling comparisons of Preckwinkle to Stroger as “irresponsible.”
“Having wrestled with as to what is the best vote for the District and Cook County government, it has been a very conflicting decision to make. This is a difficult vote no matter which side of this issue you are on – No commissioner should be criticized. With that said – I will vote Present.”
2015 Cook County Board members: Standing: Larry Suffredin, Greg Goslin, Jerry Butler, Robert Steele, President Toni Preckwinkle, John Daley, Jesus Garcia, Peter Silvestri, John Fritchey, Stanley Moore. Seated: Richard Boykin, Jeffrey Tobolski, Joan Patricia Murphy, Deborah Sims, Liz Gorman, Bridget Gainer, Tim Schneider, Luis Arroyo Jr
2015 Cook County Board members: Standing: Larry Suffredin, Greg Goslin, Jerry Butler, Robert Steele, President Toni Preckwinkle, John Daley, Jesus Garcia, Peter Silvestri, John Fritchey, Stanley Moore. Seated: Richard Boykin, Jeffrey Tobolski, Joan Patricia Murphy, Deborah Sims, Liz Gorman, Bridget Gainer, Tim Schneider, Luis Arroyo Jr
The tax vote and her decision to resign were unrelated, Gorman told the county board following the sales tax debate. But Southwest Suburbanites were in shock at learning that Gorman, one of the most popular elected officials in the region, had decided to step down at a time when her popularity has never been higher.
After the sales tax was approved
“On a personal note – I will be resigning this seat that I have been so fortunate to serve effective July 20. An opportunity in the private sector has been offered and I have accepted, as this will require my full attention,” Gorman said after explaining her “present” vote on the Preckwinkle Sales tax increase.
Liz Gorman, Bruce Rauner, Sean Morrison in March 2014
Liz Gorman, Bruce Rauner, Sean Morrison in March 2014
“I would like to thank you Madame President for bringing distinguished leadership to this board, and for your friendship. Cook County has benefitted greatly by your efforts over the last five years and will continue to do so far into the future. To my board colleagues, both past and present, I will miss each and every one of you. And the respect and camaraderie we shared, as well as the disagreements and debates. I have learned so much and respect your insights and opinions.”
Gorman will take a position with a Fortune 100, big ten accounting firm as Director of Government Affairs beginning on July 20. Republican Committeeman in the 17th Cook County District will have to meet to name a successor.
Palos Township Republican Committeeman Sean Morrison, one of Gorman’s closest political allies, is considered the frontrunner to succeed Gorman. Morrison worked closely with Gorman on building support against the Stroger sales tax increase, in introducing reforms to the Cook County Board, and laying the political groundwork to help position businessman Bruce Rauner to win the Republican Party nomination for governor and then to go on to defeat Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn.
Rauner’s biggest mistake was not bringing Gorman into his administration after his election, although Gorman has remained loyal to both Rauner and the Republican Party. She was also viewed as a political centrist and maintained close ties to key Democrats including County Commissioner John Daley, and others.
Gorman leaves office at a high point in a career and will be remembered as a champion of taxpayer rights. She fought hard to defend the rights of residents of suburban Cook County who were often marginalized by the dominance of Chicago municipal politics and needs.
First elected in November 2002, Gorman was re-elected in 2006, 2010, in 2014. In the March 18, 2014 Republican Primary, Gorman fought off a primary challenge and defeated her opponent by nearly 60% of the vote to advance to the General Election on November 7, 2014, where she was re-elected to her fourth term with an overwhelming victory margin.
When the new term began on December 1, 2014, Gorman was chosen as the Committee Chairperson of the Environmental Control Committee and Vice Chairperson of the Roads and Bridges Committee, Rules and Administration Committee and the Technology and Innovation Committee.
Gorman is also the Chairman of the Suburban Caucus of the County board and a member of 10 additional committees: Audit; Criminal Justice; Business and Economic Development; Finance; Health and Hospitals, Homeland Security; Legislation; North Suburban METRA Nominating Committee; Northwest Suburban METRA Nominating Committee; Southwest Suburban METRA Nominating Committee and Zoning and Building.
During her time on the Cook County Board, Gorman has opposed the “Hotel Occupancy Tax” and the “Food and Beverage Tax” in 2003, the 150% cigarette tax increase in 2004 and the additional 100% increase in 2006. She opposed the “Food and Beverage Tax” and the “Hotel Occupancy Tax” again in 2007, and she opposed the “Sanctuary County” resolution for illegal immigrants in 2007 and sponsored a repeal of the ordinance later that year and most recently she voted against Board President Todd Stroger’s 2008 budget and opposed the increase in the Cook County sales tax.

Here are Gorman’s prepared remarks that she presented to the Cook County Board this morning:

Gorman on Sales Tax:
This is a very difficult vote we’re considering today and I respect both sides of the sales tax debate. I know the President and her administration did not come to this sales tax proposal lightly.
Madame President, you have proactively faced and tried to resolve the county’s pension crisis when predecessors neglected to. You were left no favors.
Five years of substantive reform under your leadership has put Cook County on a strong path but the reality of the unfunded pension liabilities have put us in this position today… between a Rock and a Hard Place.
Much effort, energy and resolve was put forth to rescind the previous administration’s Sales Tax. I know that as well as anyone on this board; and the reasons for doing so still stand today.
The blanket comparison of this proposal to the Stroger Sales Tax and the maligning of the President and her administration that has been made by some people are nothing short of irresponsible.
It’s unfortunate that some people have chosen to overlook and completely ignore the accomplishments over the past five years of this President and this board.
We have made significant strides in the areas of reform, accountability, transparency, payroll and head count reduction, cutting bloat and wasteful spending, incorporating quantifiable measures, integrating new technology, streamlining county government from top to bottom. And contrary to a few reports in the media, we continue to do so each and every month.
Others have said, “Let’s wait for Springfield…” We’ve been waiting on Springfield for well over a year as our Pension Reform bill languishes down there. Waiting for pension reform in Springfield comes with a $30 million dollar a month “Wait & See” price tag. Can we afford that?
After having led the repeal of the previous sales tax; I am very aware of the loss of our border tax revenues and the impact tax increases can have on local businesses and residents. I’ve been steadfast in my opposition during my time in office.
So as we weigh this important decision on the long-term financial health and solvency of Cook County government, and regardless of today’s outcome, I’m confident this administration and this board will continue to move Cook County government forward in an efficient and effective manner.
Having wrestled with as to what is the best vote for the District and Cook County government, it has been a very conflicting decision to make. This is a difficult vote no matter which side of this issue you are on – No commissioner should be criticized. With that said – I will vote Present.
Gorman on Resignation:
On a personal note – I will be resigning this seat that I have been so fortunate to serve effective July 20. An opportunity in the private sector has been offered and I have accepted, as this will require my full attention.
I would like to thank you Madame President for bringing distinguished leadership to this board, and for your friendship. Cook County has benefitted greatly by your efforts over the last five years and will continue to do so far into the future.
To my board colleagues, both past and present, I will miss each and every one of you. And the respect and camaraderie we shared, as well as the disagreements and debates. I have learned so much and respect your insights and opinions.
It’s been an honor and privilege to serve alongside all of you in this distinguished body. My nearly 13 years on this board have been some of the most rewarding of my life.
Thank you and god bless you all.

Sunday, July 12, 2015

Support the Orland Park Library

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Support the Orland Park Library

They have been targeted by out-of-town extremists who want to impose their views on the library and the Orland Park community. 

The critics exaggerated claims about pornography cost the taxpayers a lot of wasted money. If they want to change this country's and state's laws regarding censorship and free speech, they should take their fight to the State and the Federal Government and change the laws. But they can't, so the critics bully people. 

Keep up the GREAT WORK Orland Park Library. The MAJORITY of Orland residents support what you are doing and recognize the extremists for what they really are. 

LIKE the Orland Park Library today https://www.facebook.com/orlandparklibrary