Illinois Channel

U.S.S. Springfield Submarine Crew, Submarine Veterans Organization to Present Items July 5 to Presidential Library and Museum

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:19:32 GMT

From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum

SPRINGFIELD – Crew members from the nuclear fast attack submarine U.S.S. Springfield (SSN-761) and local members of the U.S. Submarine Veterans Inc. will officially present several items to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum during an informal ceremony at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 5 in the Museum Plaza.

Several crew members from the U.S.S. Springfield, a U.S. Navy warship commissioned in 1993, will present Museum officials with a plaque bearing the ship’s insignia and a flag that has flown from the ship’s staff. The ship’s insignia features a portrait of Abraham Lincoln. In addition, members of U.S.S. Springfield Base of the U.S. Submarine Veterans Inc. will present the Presidential Library with a special compendium that lists all civilian and military personnel lost on U.S. submarines during World War II. This compendium will be a valuable research tool for genealogists and military historians.

The U.S.S. Springfield, a Los Angeles-class submarine, is 362 feet long, weighs 6,927 tons fully loaded, and carries a full complement of torpedoes and Tomahawk cruise missiles. The ship’s crew consists of 12 officers and 98 men. It has been deployed overseas seven times, and its home port is Groton, Connecticut. The U.S.S. Springfield was specifically named for Springfield, Illinois and Springfield, Massachusetts and is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name. The previous U.S.S. Springfields included a Civil War Union gunboat, an early 1900s river steamer, and a light cruiser launched in 1944.

Green US House Candidate Blasts Plan for Nuclear Waste Site in Chicago Suburb

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:16:46 GMT

From the Office of the Green Party of the United States

WARRENVILLE: Steve Alesch, Green Party candidate for Congress (IL-13), blasted opponent Rep. Judy Biggert's new Apollo Energy Independence Act, calling it a political stunt that will jeopardize the health and well-being of millions of people in the 13th district. Rep. Biggert's plan calls for more nuclear reactors across the United States, as well as a nuclear waste reprocessing facility in the Chicago suburbs.

"Biggert is promoting the forms of energy that we should be moving away from in the next 10 years," said Alesch. "This is another example of how out-of-touch Biggert is with the reality of our energy crisis."

Alesch and other Green candidates and party leaders will address the dangerous expansion of the nuclear energy industry during the Green National Convention in Chicago, July 10-13 (http://www.greenparty2008.org). While Barack Obama and John McCain have endorsed nuclear power, Greens have opposed it and warned of insurmountable security and environmental risks, especially from nuclear waste (http://www.gp.org/press/pr-national.php?ID=58).

While Biggert has proposed drilling for oil in environmentally sensitive areas, it is her proposed major expansion of nuclear energy in the Chicago suburbs that should be particularly troubling to area residents.

"We've known for decades that nuclear facilities are liabilities and risks," said Alesch. "They produce waste that is dangerous and costly to transport and store, can be targets of terrorist attacks, and they put surrounding communities at risk."

It should be noted that Biggert is calling for a massive expansion of nuclear facilities across the U.S. while at the same time promoting a plan to build a nuclear reprocessing facility in the Chicago suburbs under the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP).

"In simple terms, GNEP is a plan to make suburban Chicago the world's nuclear waste dump," Alesch said. "Nuclear waste from all over the world will be transported and reprocessed right here in our neighborhood, endangering the lives and health of millions. Adding up health care costs and the environmental impact, who knows how much Biggert's plan will cost us. Any jobs this will create will be vastly outweighed by the pain and suffering this facility will cause."

While Alesch did commend Rep. Biggert for recognizing that the nation needs a 'Marshall Plan' to solve the energy problem and the looming catastrophic effects of global climate change, the nation doesn't need to invest in unsafe technologies like nuclear power, he said.

Instead, Alesch called for Congress to raise the fuel-efficiency standards for cars and light trucks, expanding tax incentives for consumers for energy-efficient upgrades to buy solar panels for their homes, hybrid cars, etc. Alesch is opposed to squandering our strategic oil reserves in ANWR.

"We cannot afford to sign our strategic oil reserves over to energy companies like Exxon, who happen to be making record profits during this so-called crisis," said Alesch. "Biggert's plan is beyond foolish. It threatens our national security."

"Let's bring some common sense to the debate. Renewable energy from solar, wind, geothermal -- this is the direction our nation ought to be heading," said Alesch. "But before we get there, we need someone in Washington right now with the courage to act."

State Health and Environmental Agencies Urge Illinoisans to Stay Safe and Healthy Over Holiday Weekend

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:10:33 GMT

From the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency

Springfield – As Illinoisans get out and enjoy Illinois’ great lakes and rivers to celebrate the 4th of July, Illinois’ Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Public Health are advising people to avoid flood waters due to additional concerns about contamination. While participating in recreational water and sporting activities, extra precaution will be needed following the floods that ravaged areas throughout the Midwest in June.

While last months flood waters have begun to recede and many of Illinois’ waterways seem to be back to pre-flood conditions, Illinoisans are still urged to take precautions this holiday weekend if their travels take them to waterways affected by the flood.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has been working with neighboring states, especially Iowa, and sharing sampling data to identify possible contaminants. Results have shown increased levels of bacteria, fecal coliform and viruses from sewer overflows and animals wastes. These organisms may cause disease. Also of concern are agricultural chemicals and various petroleum substances in the floodwaters.

Any flood water should be considered contaminated. Sewage and chemical contaminants pose a risk to swimmers, water skiers, jet skiers and similar contact water recreation participants using the Mississippi or any other major flooded river.

Swimming or activities such as jet skiing or water skiing can also be dangerous since flood waters often have swift current and floating debris. In addition, shorelines can become unstable and give away and high currents are a danger.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, following these recommendations can help protect the public from illness and injury:

Avoid skin contact with sewer water, especially cuts and sores. Keep them clean and covered.
Do not allow children to play in areas contaminated by sewage backup.
Do not eat or drink anything exposed to sewer water.
Keep contaminated objects, water and hands away from mucous membranes (mouth, eyes and nose).
Wash hands frequently, especially after bathroom use, before eating and immediately following contact with sewer water or contaminated objects or surfaces.

If people come into contact with flood water and sustain an injury, cuts or abrasions, they are advised to immediately clean, apply antiseptic and cover immediately. To prevent the spread of infection, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, or with an alcohol gel.

Recreational fishermen need to take special precautions to ensure they don’t become ill from contaminated fish. Fish caught during flood periods should be rinsed in clean water prior to scaling and filleting. As well, it is advised that any fish caught and prepared as a meal should be cooked thoroughly to avoid cross contamination between raw and cooked fish or other foods.

If camping along waterways contaminated by flood waters, use only bottled or disinfected water for drinking, cooking, tooth brushing and bathing. The current recommendation is to bring water to a rolling boil for five minutes. Discard food exposed to contaminated waters.

For more information, Illinoisans are urged to call your local health department.

IDNR Urges Boaters to be Safe this July 4th Weekend

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:06:46 GMT

From the Illinois Department of Natural Resources

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is reminding boaters, anglers, and swimmers to play it safe this Independence Day Weekend by being prepared and acting responsibly while on and off the water.

“The 4^th of July is always one of the most popular holiday weekends for water recreation and good times are had by most, but the fun quickly stops when someone is injured or even killed,” said IDNR Acting Director Sam Flood. “Act responsibly, wear a lifejacket, and never drink while operating watercraft of any kind.”

“While most public rivers and lakes are open for navigation, people need to be even more vigilant and careful while boating, swimming, or fishing. The waters are still higher than normal in many areas of the state from recent flood events,” said IDNR Boating Law Administrator Joe Morelock.

This past May, Illinois enjoyed a second consecutive Memorial Day holiday weekend without a water-related fatality. Concentrated enforcement efforts on the water and increased public safety awareness were both key factors in a safe but very enjoyable weekend by most.

“I can’t say this enough…people can always be reminded to be careful and prepared,” said Illinois Conservation Police Chief Rafael Gutierrez. “Never drink and operate a boat, always take a boating safety class, and make sure you have the proper number of personal floatation devices on board your vessel.”

This Memorial Day weekend, Illinois Conservation Police (CPOs) issued 566 citations for various violations including 12 instances of Operating Under the Influence (OUI) and 10 instances of Driving Under the Influence (DUI). CPOs also arrested 33 people for various offenses and issued 843 written warnings to the public.

“Our officers will be out in full force this weekend conducting random boat safety checks and pulling over anyone that exhibits signs of impaired or reckless operation,” said Gutierrez.

According to a 2006 study by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, those states that have the longest history of boating education requirements also have the lowest average fatality rates of all the states. Illinois has the fourth longest history of boating education requirements in the U.S. at 29 years. Four other states have had boating education requirements in place for more than 20 years – New York, with 47 years; Michigan, with 40 years; Minnesota with 32 years; and North Dakota with 22 years.

People between 12-18 years of age who operate a motorized watercraft by themselves are required by law to possess a boating safety certificate. State law also requires that anyone under the age of 13 must wear a life jacket while aboard any watercraft under 26 feet in length at all times the boat is underway, unless they are below deck in an enclosed cabin or operating on private property. And all persons, regardless of age, are required to wear a life jacket while operating a personal watercraft or jet ski.

Safety course schedules are available on the IDNR web site at www.dnr.state.il.us/SAFETY/boat.htm. Illinois also offers an online boat safety education course through the IDNR web site. There is a $15 fee charged for the online course.

Gov. Blagojevich Announces Illinois State Cancer Registry Receives Highest Award for Excellence in Cancer Data Collection

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 20:03:47 GMT

From the Office of Governor Rod Blagojevich

SPRINGFIELD – Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today announced the Illinois State Cancer Registry has received gold certification from the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries for 2008. This marks the 10^th consecutive year Illinois has earned this honor. Only those registries meeting the highest standards are awarded gold certification.

“The Illinois State Cancer Registry has been the cornerstone in our battle against cancer in Illinois. The information that is collected allows us to understand the cancer burden and trend in our state and helps us target our prevention and control efforts,” said Governor Blagojevich. “I am delighted that the sustained excellence of the registry has again been recognized.”

The North American Association of Central Cancer Registries annually reviews all state cancer registries in North America for their performance in collecting complete, accurate and timely cancer data.

The Illinois State Cancer Registry, maintained by the Illinois Department of Public Health, is the only source for population-based cancer incidence for the State. The information collected by the Registry is important for cancer surveillance and research efforts, both statewide and nationally. Identification of cancer cases is dependent upon reporting by hospitals, as mandated by state law.

“Our appreciation goes out to the cancer registrars from hospitals throughout Illinois who report cancer cases to Illinois and to the staff of the Illinois State Cancer Registry who compile the information submitted by hospital reporters for their contributions toward achieving the Gold certification.” said Dr. Damon T. Arnold, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health.

The Registry provides information about population-based cancer incidence studies, cancer by site numbers, morbidity and mortality data, and statistics broken down into cancer type, sex, race, age and geographical area.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of four deaths in the United States is attributable to cancer. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in Illinois and the United States, and the leading cause of death for Illinois citizens aged 45-64. Cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and kills more Illinoisans annually then AIDS, injuries and homicides combined. It is projected more than 61,600 people in Illinois will be diagnosed with cancer this year, and more than 25,300 will die from cancer.

To access information from the Illinois State Cancer Registry, simply log onto http://www.idph.state.il.us/cancer/index.htm.

Madigan Announces Multi-State Settlement with Money-Wiring Service

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:40:17 GMT

From the Office of Attorney General Lisa Madigan

Chicago - Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan today announced a multi-state settlement with MoneyGram Payment Systems, Inc., in response to allegations that fraudulent telemarketers induced consumers to wire money using MoneyGram services. Madigan’s office was one of nine states negotiating the settlement on behalf of 43 states and the District of Columbia.

According to the agreement, Minneapolis-based MoneyGram will pay $1.1 million for a national consumer awareness program coordinated by the AARP Foundation, which is involved in this effort because these scams commonly target seniors. The company also agreed to implement new preventative procedures, including posting prominent consumer warnings on the forms consumers fill out to wire money. The Attorneys General believe those changes will help MoneyGram to identify and deter these scams.

Wire services garnered the attention of the attorneys general because of the role wire transfers play in so many consumer fraud scams. Con artists often use a wide variety of stories to persuade consumers to wire them money with promises of some sort of financial gain, including counterfeit check schemes or international lottery scams in which consumers are told they have won a large sum of money but first have to wire money to pay taxes or other charges before claiming their winnings. In 2003, more than 29 percent of US – Canadian wire transfers of $300 or more were fraud-induced, resulting in consumer losses of approximately $113 million, according to a seven-state survey by another major money transfer company.

“Consumers who receive solicitations from strangers promising big bucks should toss those letters in the trash, delete the e-mail or hang up the phone,” said Attorney General Madigan. “Anytime consumers are asked to wire money to someone they don’t know, that should raise a red flag. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

As part of the agreement, the company agreed to:

Continue to reimburse any transfer to a consumer who requests, prior to pickup, that the transfer be stopped if the consumer reasonably claims that the transfer was fraud-induced,
Send prominent anti-fraud messages to its agents every month or when a proposed transfer exceeds a certain amount,
Revise the company’s anti-fraud training programs and provide special training to agents with higher fraud rates,
Suspend or terminate agent locations that are involved in fraud or that do not take reasonable steps to reduce fraud,
Block wire transfers from specific consumers or to specific recipients when fraud is suspected,
Ensure that money transfers sent from the United States can be picked up only in the country designated by the sender, and
Pay $150,000 to the negotiating states of Arkansas, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Vermont and Washington.

The other states that participated in the settlement were Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming, and the District of Columbia.

Assistant Attorney General Rebecca Pruitt handled the case for Madigan’s Consumer Fraud Bureau.

Governor Calls General Assembly into Special Session to Pass Revenue Bills to Support Budget

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:34:09 GMT

From the Office of Governor Rod Blagojevich

CHICAGO – Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today called on the General Assembly to return to Springfield on July 9 and July 10 to fix the shortfall in the Fiscal Year 2009 budget passed by the General Assembly in May. Last week, the Governor urged the House to return on its own to pass revenue bills already passed by the Senate, but the House leadership has not taken any action.

“Yesterday we started another Fiscal Year without a state budget. Last week I told the General Assembly that I would not sign a budget bill with a $2 billion shortfall – Illinoisans must be able to trust that our checks will not bounce. Since the House Democratic leaders have failed to call the House back to Springfield to pass these revenues, I must do the responsible thing for the state and call them back myself,” Governor Blagojevich said.

On July 9, the Governor will convene a special session of the General Assembly to address the revenue bills necessary to balance the budget, including the Hastert-Poshard Illinois Works Capital plan which will put 600,000 Illinoisans to work and to pass fund transfer legislation that would free up $530 million to support spending. If the House does not act on July 9, the Governor will issue a second proclamation for July 10 to take action on any budget balancing steps he must take. The second proclamation will also ask the General Assembly to address the drafting error included in HB5701 to ensure that 39 current Capital Development Board (CDB) projects are not idled and that funding for CDB emergency projects is available.

“If the House fails to act on July 9, I will be forced to take all action necessary to eliminate the $2 billion budget deficit. I will not take those actions lightly, and will only act when it becomes abundantly clear that the House can’t or won’t act responsibly on its own,” said Governor Blagojevich, adding that lawmakers would be acting irresponsibly if they override the vetoes.

To balance the operating budget, which is constitutionally required, the Governor called on the House to pass several key pieces of legislation previously approved by the Senate:

Illinois Works

Passing the State’s first capital plan in nine years will not only create more than 600,000 jobs and fix the State’s aging infrastructure, but it will also generate additional resources, including an estimated $280 million in new tax and fee revenues, and will eliminate operating appropriations that are used to support projects in the capital bill, freeing up $320 million from the operating budget. (HB1496 – Lottery; HB 2651 – Gaming; HB4723 – Bond Authorization; HB6339 – Capital Appropriations; HB5618 – Hospital Capital/Urban Economic Development)

Pass fund transfers

The Senate’s legislation will allow the state to transfer a surplus of $530 million from other state funds into the general fund, as it did from FY03 through FY07. (SB790)

Illinois Announces Emergency Regulations to Stop Spread of Fish Virus

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:29:30 GMT

From the Illinois Department of Natural Resources

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today announced emergency regulations aimed at slowing the spread of fish-killing Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) in Illinois after sampling of fish in the Illinois waters of Lake Michigan detected the presence of VHS in two species of fish sampled.

Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) is a disease of fish caused by an aquatic virus previously unidentified in the Midwest. While it does not affect humans, VHS can kill a substantial number of fish and has been spreading throughout the Great Lakes.

“The new regulations we are implementing are immediate and appropriate steps in trying to slow the spread of this dangerous aquatic virus in Illinois,” said IDNR Acting Director Sam Flood. “Sport fishing and boating are both very popular and important to the Illinois economy. The cooperation of anglers and boaters is essential in combating VHS.”

The new emergency regulations being implemented by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) regarding VHS that affect recreational anglers and boaters include:

Eliminating natural water from all equipment when leaving a body of water.
Emptying and draining all bait buckets, livewells, baitwells, bilges, etc. or any other compartment capable of holding natural waters when leaving a body of water.
Do not remove live VHS-susceptible species (see below) from any waters. Anglers may catch and keep VHS-susceptible species, but may not transport those fish live from the waters where caught.
Use of wild-trapped fishes from within the state as bait will be restricted to the waters where legally captured.

Black crappie

Bluegill

Bluntnose minnow

Brown bullhead

Brown trout

Burbot

Channel catfish

Chinook salmon

Emerald shiner

Freshwater drum

Gizzard shad

Hybrid (Tiger) muskie

Lake whitefish

Largemouth bass

Muskellunge

Shorthead redhorse

Northern Pike

Pumpkinseed

Rainbow trout

Rock bass

Round goby

Silver redhorse

Smallmouth bass

Spottail shiner

Trout-Perch

Walleye

White bass

White perch

Yellow perch

New emergency regulations are also being implemented immediately regarding fish stocking and the transport of fish in Illinois:

All fish imported from affected areas (currently the eight Great Lakes states: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York.) must be certified as free of VHS.
All susceptible species for stocking public waters must be certified VHS free regardless of their point of origin (including both intra- and inter-state shipments). Wild-trapped minnows and other wild-trapped species must be certified VHS-free, or originate from west of the Mississippi River.

On June 5, the IDNR was notified by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources of positive VHS samples from a fish kill involving round gobies in the Milwaukee area – and on June 13 positive samples were discovered from yellow perch in the same location. As a result, IDNR fisheries biologists submitted samples of bluegill, rock bass, round gobies, and pumpkinseed from Winthrop Harbor (Lake Michigan) on June 10-11. Although the fishes sampled showed no clinical signs of disease and were not part of a fish kill, tests confirmed the presence of VHS in the round goby and rock bass samples on June 25.

Fish can be infected with VHS by direct contact with other infected fish, by a fish consuming its infected prey, or from contact with water which contains the virus. The highly contagious virus causes fish to bleed to death, and advanced symptoms include hemorrhages in the eyes, skin and gills. There is no vaccine for the virus and control methods rely entirely on surveillance and eradication efforts.

“With the discovery of VHS in the Illinois waters of Lake Michigan, we need to act immediately to try to protect our inland waters from VHS,” said IDNR Chief of Fisheries Steve Pallo. “The urgency is amplified by the fact that a significant amount of Lake Michigan water enters the Illinois River system through the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. These emergency regulations and the cooperation of anglers, boaters, and the aquaculture industry are keys to slowing the spread of VHS into other waters in Illinois.”

In recent years, surveillance for aquatic diseases affecting fish has been increased throughout the state. The IDNR will continue its surveillance program, and fish produced at state hatcheries will be tested before they are stocked into Illinois waters. All fish eggs and imports of fish to state facilities will be disinfected and tested prior to import to ensure that VHS does not jeopardize operation of the state fish hatchery system.

While VHS is not known to be a threat to human health, anglers are still advised to wash their hands after handling fish and to cook thoroughly any fish they plan to eat. If handling dead fish or fish that appear to be diseased, protective gloves should be worn. For more information on VHS and the new Illinois regulations aimed at slowing the spread of the virus in Illinois, check the IDNR web site at http://dnr.state.il.us.

Gov. Blagojevich Urges Drivers to Pledge to Slow Down During Summer Travel, In Return for Safety and Fuel Efficiency

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:23:36 GMT

From the Office of Governor Rod Blagojevich

DOWNERS GROVE – Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich today called on drivers to take the Illinois Tollway and AAA Chicago “Be Safe. Be Wise.” pledge to slow down to save gas and save lives this summer travel season. The transportation groups are teaming up to promote the safety and fuel efficiency benefits of traveling at the posted speed limit in construction work zones, and on roadways in general.

“While drivers can’t do much to affect the price they pay at the pump, they can take steps to optimize fuel efficiency by slowing down on the road and traveling at the posted speed limit,” said Gov. Blagojevich. “More importantly, reducing speed brings added benefit of enhanced roadway safety. A significant number of accidents on Illinois’ highways are directly related to speeding and driving too fast for conditions, whether construction work zones are in place or not. We want drivers in Illinois to slow down when traveling this summer to ensure that they and their passengers get to their vacations, family outings and other activities safely.”

Smart drivers are realizing that work zones provide an opportunity to reduce fuel consumption and save money, by simply following the posted speed limit of 45 miles per hour. Even a 5 mile-per-hour decrease in speed can affect your gas mileage. As a general rule, every 5 mph above 60 mph is like paying 22 cents more per gallon of gas. The cost savings gained by slowing down can add up quickly.

More importantly, reducing speed gives drivers greater control of their vehicles, especially in construction work zones. While the same number of lanes may remain available during construction, the roadway is often changed in the process – lanes are narrowed, shoulder widths are reduced, pavement can be uneven, and construction equipment may be entering and exiting the roadway. All of these factors require drivers to slow down and pay greater attention, to ensure safety for themselves and the workers nearby.

In Illinois, 85 percent of work zone crashes cause injury or death to motorists, not construction workers. Construction zone speed limits on the Illinois Tollway and IDOT’s roads are in place for the safety of both motorists and workers, and are in effect 24/7, regardless if workers are present.

“Safety for drivers and workers is the primary reason we limit speeds in construction zones and pursue those who drive recklessly,” said John Mitola, Chairman of the Illinois Tollway Board of Directors. “But, how fast you’re driving can also have a direct impact on how hard you’re hit at the gas pump. Not only does driving at posted speed limits save money through greater fuel efficiency, but also prevents you from being ticketed or getting into an accident that can cost even more.”

NBC5 is joining the effort by partnering with AAA Chicago to reward drivers who take the “Be Safe. Be Wise.” pledge with free $50 gas cards throughout the summer travel season from July 4th through Labor Day (September 1) as part of the “Be Safe. Be Wise. Save Gas. Save Lives” campaign.

Beginning today, drivers who go to NBC5’s Web site www.nbc5.com to take the “Be Safe. Be Wise.” pledge will be automatically linked to AAA’s Web site to sign up for the chance to win a $50 gas card. AAA Chicago will select one driver a day to receive a gas card, between July 4th and Labor Day, September 1.

“As we head into the summer travel season with unprecedented high gas prices, motorists can ease the effects and make their dollar go further by slowing down,” said Brad Roeber, president of AAA Chicago. “This simple step will translate into savings for both commuters and summer travelers, and will keep our roads safer for all drivers.”

AAA Chicago also recommends that drivers pay closer attention to vehicle maintenance, for additional efficiency benefits. Keeping tires properly inflated can cut fuel economy by a half-percent per pound of pressure, below recommended levels. In addition, a full tune-up as recommended by the manufacturer, including a regular oil and oil filter change, can increase fuel consumption by up to 50 percent or more.

About AAA Chicago

AAA Chicago has represented roadway interests for motorists and pedestrians and serves as a leading advocate for various traffic safety and travel-related issues for more than a century. For more information on any aspect of AAA Chicago’s breadth of service including AAA’s home, auto and life insurance products; travel-related services, AAA’s Show Your Card & Save program; and/or any AAA membership service including emergency roadside assistance, please visit our Web site at www.AAA.com or call us toll-free at 1-866-YOUR-AAA (968-7222).

About the Tollway

The Illinois Tollway maintains and operates 286 miles of interstate tollways in 12 counties in Northern Illinois, including the Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88), the Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355), the Jane Addams Tollway (I-90) and the Tri-State Tollway (I-94, I-294, I-80/I-294). In 2005 the Tollway kicked off its Congestion-Relief Program, Open Roads for a Faster Future, which will reduce travel times by rebuilding/restoring nearly all of the system, adding lanes to many miles of existing roads, converting 20 mainline toll plazas to barrier-free Open Road Tolling, and extending I-355 south to I-80 in Will County.

IDOT Plans DUI Crackdown Over the 4th Weekend

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 17:12:19 GMT

from the governor's office, July 1, 2008

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich today announced that the Illinois State Police (ISP) and Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) are teaming up with local law enforcement across the state to conduct a $1.4 million enforcement and education campaign to save lives during the July 4^th holiday period.

ISP and 200 local police partners plan to carry out more than 100 Roadside Safety Checks and officers will also conduct hundreds of Saturation Patrols through July 6. The law enforcement crackdown is backed by funding from IDOT’s Division of Traffic Safety and is coupled with a media campaign that will remind motorists: “You Drink & Drive. You Lose.”

“We are letting everyone know that during the July 4^th holiday period, police will be out in force, looking to arrest anyone who is driving impaired,” said Gov. Blagojevich. “This effort is about saving lives and preventing the kinds of tragedies that we see all too often on our roadways. If you drink and drive in Illinois, you will lose. If you plan on drinking, make sure you designate a sober driver before the party begins. Otherwise, police officers will give you a ride – straight to jail.”

According to IDOT data, four people lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes last July 4^th. Two of those deaths involved a drinking driver.

“During this year’s Independence Day weekend, troopers around the state will be assigned to special emphasis patrols, in an effort to keep Illinois roads safe,” said ISP Director Larry G. Trent. “As part of the Combined Accident Reduction Effort (CARE), which places an emphasis on drivers who are speeding, driving while impaired and not wearing seat belts; officers will be assigned to roadside safety checks, DUI patrols and seat belt enforcement zones.”

“IDOT is sending a very strong message to anyone who would consider drinking and driving in Illinois,” said IDOT Secretary Milton R. Sees. “Impaired driving is a matter of life and death, and we will not tolerate drunk drivers on our roads. Police officers will be out in force to keep the roads safe for families and everyone who is celebrating the holiday responsibly.”

The July 4^th crackdown comes on the heels of a town hall meeting in Springfield, where State officials previewed a new high-tech tool that will be deployed against drunk drivers in Illinois, starting in 2009. Beginning in January, Illinois will require first-time DUI offenders to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) in their car, in order to retain driving privileges. Illinois will become the second state in the nation to require a BAIID for first-time DUI offenders.

Designating a sober driver and making sure to prevent friends from taking the wheel if they are impaired are just two simple steps to help avoid a fatal crash or DUI. Other important tips include:

If you are hosting a July 4^th party:

· Remember, you can be held liable and prosecuted if someone you served ends up in an impaired driving crash.

· Make sure all of your guests designate sober drivers in advance, or carpool with other sober drivers.

· Serve plenty of food and include non-alcoholic beverages at the party.

· Keep the numbers for local cab companies nearby, and take the keys away from anyone who is thinking of driving impaired.

If you are attending a July 4^th party:

· Designate your sober driver before the party begins and give that person your car keys.

· If you don’t have a designated driver, ask a sober friend for a ride home, call a cab, sober friend or family member to pick you up, or just stay where you are and sleep it off until you are sober.

· Never let a friend leave your sight if you think they are about to drive while impaired.

· Always buckle up – it’s still your best defense against an impaired driver.

For more information about impaired driving and safety campaigns, visit www.drivesoberillinois.org.

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IL Minimum Wage Now $7.75/hour

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 17:08:52 GMT

CHICAGO -- Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today reminded Illinois workers that the state’s minimum wage will increase to $7.75 an hour starting Tuesday, July 1. The increase will help nearly 650,000 workers cope with the rising cost of living and pay for basic necessities like groceries, gas, rent, childcare and medicine.

Gov. Blagojevich signed legislation in December 2006 boosting Illinois’ minimum wage to $7.50 an hour with an additional 25 cents in each of the following three years to $7.75 on July 1, 2008; $8.00 on July 1, 2009; and $8.25 on July 1, 2010.

The Governor also reminded Illinois workers that if they are not receiving at least the minimum wage, they should call the Illinois Department of Labor’s (IDOL) hotline at 1-800-478-3998 so the State can help them get the wages they’re owed.

“Thousands of workers struggle every day at work to provide for their families. During a time of national economic crisis, increasing Illinois’ minimum wage will help workers put food on the table, pay for gas, and provide healthcare and education for their families. Starting July 1, the increased minimum wage will make it easier for working families to afford their basic necessities,” said Gov. Blagojevich.

Raising the minimum wage to $7.75 an hour will generate an additional $520 in annual wages for a full-time minimum wage worker – up to $16,120 per year. For a two-person household in which each person works full-time and earns the minimum wage, that means an increase of more than $1040 a year to spend on basic needs. When the final rate of $8.25 per hour takes effect in 2010, Gov. Blagojevich will have helped boost the pay for minimum wage workers in Illinois by $3.10 per hour, or 60 percent in seven years. This makes Illinois a national leader in raising wages for low-income workers.

“On July 1, the Department will enforce a higher minimum wage of $7.75 an hour in Illinois, so both employers and employees should be aware of the law’s requirements. We will continue to ensure that workers receive the wages they’ve earned,” said IDOL Director Catherine Shannon.

Gov. Blagojevich first boosted Illinois’ minimum wage to $5.50 an hour in 2004 and $6.50 an hour in 2005. Prior to the increase, minimum wage earners were suffering a significant loss in purchasing power, as the federal minimum wage of $5.15 remained stagnant for nearly a decade. The minimum wage of $6.50 an hour increased the annual income of a full-time minimum wage worker to $13,520 a year, lifting a two-person family above the 2005 federal poverty level of $12,500 a year. However, in the two years since that increase took effect, the federal poverty level for a two-person household rose to $13,200 a year, reflecting higher costs of living and rising consumer prices for energy, groceries and other staples. Illinois workers earning $6.50 an hour would have continued to earn a wage at or near the poverty level. To address this problem, the Governor signed legislation in 2006 to provide an additional increase in the minimum wage to $7.50 an hour, to increase by 25-cent increments every July to reach $8.25 in 2010, which will be significantly higher than the current federal minimum wage of $5.85 an hour.

IDOT to suspend Lane Closures for July 4th Weekend

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 20:21:20 GMT

from IDOT, June 30, 2008

IDOT officials stress safety as motorists hit the roadways for the Fourth of July weekend

SPRINGFIELD - Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Secretary Milton R. Sees today urged Illinois drivers to buckle up as they get ready to hit the roadways for the Fourth of July weekend. Secretary Sees also announced that IDOT will suspend some construction related lane closures for holiday travel.

“As you set out for an enjoyable holiday weekend with family and friends, take a few seconds to buckle your seatbelt,” said Secretary Milton Sees. “It’s a decision that could mean the difference between life and death.”

IDOT department will suspend construction-related lane closures wherever possible starting at 3 p.m. Thursday, July 3 to midnight, Sunday, July 6. Due to the nature of some projects, some construction zones throughout the state will continue to operate. IDOT is urging motorists to slow down and proceed with caution through these work zones. Holiday travelers are reminded that work zone speed limits are still in effect.

“A common cause of crashes in work zones is driver inattention and excessive speed,” said Illinois State Police Director Larry G. Trent. “As IDOT opens up some of the construction lanes, motorists must be mindful of their speed as well as other traffic around them. We are hoping for voluntary compliance; however, Troopers will remain diligent in enforcing the law in anticipation of a safe holiday weekend.”

More than 34.2 million Americans (almost 85 percent of all holiday travelers) intend to travel by automobile. This is a 1.2 percent decrease from the 34.6 million people who drove to their holiday destinations last year.

Hynes Report: Illinois Debt Nearly $70 Billion

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:38:10 GMT

from the Truth in Accounting Institute, June 30, 2008

Northbrook, IL - On Friday Illinois Comptroller Dan Hynes finally issued the State's financial report for its fiscal year ended June 30, 2007.

"As they saying goes, 'better late than never,'" commented Sheila Weinberg, founder & CEO of the Northbrook-based Institute for Truth in Accounting. "When the legislature and Governor were formulating the State budget, they should have known that we were almost $70 billion in the hole."

The report, which was issued almost a year after the State's fiscal year end, indicated that each Illinois household share of the State's debt is more than $14,000, totaling $69.7 billion. This debt includes $42 billion owed the State employees' pension funds and $24 billion of health care benefits promised to retired State employees.

"Public corporations are required to issue their financial statements two and half months after their year end," said the Institute's chairman, Roger Nelson. "The federal government lives up to this standard, why can't the state of Illinois?"

Even though Governor Blagojevich and the legislature claimed the FY 2007 budget was balanced, the income statement reported a general fund deficit $858 million dollars. Weinberg noted, "For more than twenty years Illinois' governors and legislators have been saying the state's budgets have been balanced." She questioned, "Then how can we be almost $70 billion in the hole?"

The Institute for Truth in Accounting is the sponsor of the Illinois Public Accountability Pledge, which ask elected officials to introduce legislation that would require the State's financial report to be issued on a timely basis. For more information, contact Darlene Porteus at 847-835-5200 or visit www.truthinaccounting.org.

About the Institute for Truth in Accounting
The Institute for Truth in Accounting (IFTA) is dedicated to promoting honest, accurate, and transparent accounting at all levels of government. As a non-partisan, non-profit organization, the IFTA works to expose accounting deficiencies while promoting better, more accessible delivery of accurate government financial data-and, in turn, providing a foundation for more informed public policy. The IFTA provides its expertise to develop more effective accounting standards and deliver accurate government financial information to policymakers, opinion leaders, and citizens so that they can work for a more secure financial future. To learn more, please visit our website at www.truthinaccounting.org.

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Durbin Statement on Today's Supreme Court Ruling on Handgun Laws

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:44:09 GMT

From the Office of U.S. Senator Dick Durbin

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – United States Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement today following the Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision in District of Columbia v. Heller:

“This school year alone, over 20 Chicago public school students have been killed by guns. And in April there was a 10-day stretch in Chicago where there were 48 shootings.”

“When the equivalent of an entire classroom full of kids is killed by gun violence, it underscores the need for common-sense, effective gun safety measures that respond to the level of violence in our communities."

“Acknowledging that gun ownership is a basic right does not absolve us from the constitutional and moral responsibility to protect innocent children.”

Gov. Blagojevich Announces Flood Disaster Recovery Centers to Open Friday in Quincy, Monmouth, and Lawrenceville

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:41:04 GMT

From the Office of Governor Rod Blagojevich

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich today announced the state is establishing Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Quincy, Monmouth and Lawrenceville to connect flood victims with state assistance programs that can help them begin the recovery process. The centers, which will open Friday morning, will be staffed initially by state personnel with a representative from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) available to provide information about registering for federal assistance. The centers will expand within a few days to include additional representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), who will help flood victims with questions about federal disaster assistance.

“These Disaster Recovery Centers are an extension of the call center we set up earlier this week that has already helped many people navigate their way through the many types of assistance available through the state,” said Gov. Blagojevich. “People can come in to a center and meet face-to-face with state agency representatives about the programs we have to help them through this difficult time.”

The Governor said flood victims in 14 counties received good news Thursday when the President approved the state’s request for federal disaster assistance for people and businesses who have suffered losses from floods. The federal declaration will allow flood victims to apply for temporary housing and grants or loans to help with flood losses. In addition, businesses will be able to apply for low-interest loans.

Homeowners, renters and business owners who suffered losses or damage should register for federal assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) (1-800-462-7585 TTY) or apply online at www.fema.gov. The phone lines are open 24 hours a day.

Counties approved for federal assistance to people and businesses include: Adams, Clark, Coles, Crawford, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Hancock, Henderson, Jasper, Lake, Lawrence, Mercer and Winnebago.

The DRCs will open Friday in the following locations:

Quincy – Andrew Infirmary – Illinois Veteran’s Home, 1707 N. 12^th Street

Monmouth – Monmouth College – Huff Auditorium, 700 E. Broadway

Lawrenceville – Parkview Junior High School, 1802 Cedar Street

The centers will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Also Thursday, state and federal teams will be in western Illinois to assess damage to homes and businesses caused by flooding along the Mississippi River. The information is being gathered so that the state can determine if other counties should be added to the federal disaster declaration. The damage assessment teams include staff from the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), FEMA and the SBA. Team members began assessments in Whiteside County on Thursday morning, and will continue on through Rock Island, Calhoun and Jersey counties. The assessments are expected to take several days.

Additional assessment teams are meeting with local government officials in flood-impacted counties in several parts of the state to document extraordinary expenses for flood response and recovery efforts that could support a request for federal disaster assistance for governmental bodies.

“The cost of fighting the floods and then dealing with recovery issues, such as debris cleanup and repair or replacement of public property, is a heavy burden for many local governments,” said IEMA Director Andrew Velasquez III. “We want to do everything possible to get a federal disaster declaration so they can get reimbursement for much of this expense.”

The State Flood Recovery Assistance Hotline (1-866-848-2067 or 1-866-848-2067 TTY) continues to provide flood victims with information about available state assistance programs. The hotline opened Tuesday and will operate daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. until further notice.

Sauerberg Applauds Supreme Court Decision on the Second Amendment

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:47:07 GMT

From the Campaign Office of Dr. Steve Sauerberg for U.S. Senate

"As a proud gun owner, I believe in the individual Constitutional right to keep and bear arms," said Republican Nominee for U.S. Senate Steve Sauerberg, M.D. "Today, the Supreme Court affirmed that right."

"If Senator Dick Durbin had his way, the Second Amendment would no longer exist," Sauerberg said. "Senator Durbin approved judges who used their own beliefs to argue that the Second Amendment means basically nothing, and Senator Durbin opposed the judges who affirmed that Constitutional right to bear arms."

Sauerberg believes existing gun laws sufficiently balance the need to protect individual rights with the public's desire to reduce gun violence. Sauerberg argued that aggressive prosecution, rather than further legislation, is the key to combating gun violence.

Sauerberg also reiterated his support of strict constructionist judges. "The next U.S. Senator from Illinois needs to insist that any new Judges have a common-sense approach to jurisprudence."