Letters to the Editor

Friday, November 20, 2009

People need to hold officials accountable

It was good to see in a recent Opinions section of The News Gazette two articles about how the people of this state need to start taking some responsibility for their actions.

Both the state and federal government seem to be operating in their own little world, doing what they want to do, and "we, the people" let them get away with it. I have talked with both state Rep. Bill Black and state Sen. Mike Frerichs, and they both say that until people demand accountability from our leaders, nothing will change. When I contacted our U.S. Sens. Burris and Durbin, they acted like they have more important things to do than listen to their constituents.

State pension costs must be reduced

After reading Tom Kacich's column in last Sunday's News-Gazette, I better understand and support the need of tax increases.

What I really don't like is the former state legislators' legacy cost to Illinois after they move on to Washington, D.C.

Be considerate of the opposition

I am a true Danville Vikings fan, and I looked forward to the game all week. Our Vikings have earned the reputation as one of the best, if not the best, teams in the conference.

My only disappointment in last week's game was the behavior of some of the fans. I don't understand the reason why anyone would boo another team as they enter the field before the game. Those players have worked hard to get to the playoffs; fans were booing someone's son, brother or grandson. It's hard enough to play at another school knowing that the home team has the advantage of their hometown to support and cheer them on. The last thing they need is for people to display poor sportsmanship.

Olympian Road plan hugely destructive

I write in response to the Champaign County's long-range transportation plan, part of which is to extend Olympian Drive in Urbana.

Most people don't realize that this new road would cut directly through many homes and farms. The goal of this road is to increase new bike paths, increase new MTD routes and to help people become more mobile. I fail to see how destroying family homes and businesses is helping them.

Gitmo prisoners presumed innocent

I am writing in response to the recent article, "Officials to inspect Illinois prison for Gitmo inmates."

There is strong opposition to bringing Guantanamo Bay prisoners to the Thomson Correctional Center in northwestern Illinois because of safety concerns. I believe that there is a large misconception that should be clarified in order for citizens to make a proper decision on this important matter.

Blind tolerance is just blindness

Unfortunately, the tragedy at Fort Hood, Texas, has been accompanied by acrimony concerning how to define the motives of the shooter, Maj. Hasan.

Though the name-calling on TV is about even, it should surprise no one that, given the present social and political climate, tolerance again has trumped truth. Even if the vast majority of people believes that Hasan should be called a terrorist, it makes little difference because new definitions of "terrorist" will emerge from the politically correct media to render all objections moot.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Many questions about shooting

The public should be able to expect the police chief and a 14-year-veteran officer to professionally handle a situation involving two innocent unarmed youths without someone being shot or killed.

In the past, these two officers must have addressed situations where suspects did not follow verbal commands yet no one was killed. Why did the Oct. 9 incident end with the death of an unarmed teen?

Questions on story about court hearing

Regarding the article Nov. 12 on the second youth in the tragic fatal shooting of Kiwane Carrington, I have some questions.

Will the Unit 4 school district be sending representatives to all court hearings for students? Should we assume our district has already judged the situation prior to final official review in what could be perceived as showing their support by attending?

All municipalities taking recession hit

Rex Bradfield dispensing advice on financial management and ethics? His qualifications are more than shaky. Not only has he repeatedly violated state election law by failing to report his campaign finances, he also tried to deceive voters by creating a fake campaign Web site using my name.

He badgered developers doing business with the city to give him campaign contributions. Not ethical.

Administration shows its incompetence

I watched David Letterman interview President Obama on CBS. It reminded me of a TV huckster trying to sell a sleazy product at an exorbitant price with the aid of a shill. It promised everything, but they would not give you the cost. "Trust us," they say; everyone gets coverage but no tax increase. It didn't sell so they plan to do it again. Does the movie title "Dumb and Dumber" mean anything to you? I couldn't tell who was who in the above scene. This may have been funny to some but it spells tragedy for the country.

The inexperience and incompetence of this administration shows. Failing foreign policy, bank bailouts, auto industry takeovers, stimulus package failure, selection of unqualified advisers, failed Olympics bid, uncontrolled spending and enormous national debt increases with more of the same to come. These are the things that need to be changed if this country is to survive and prosper.

Preventive care is well worth the cost

I am writing in response to John Joyce's recent letter entitled "Preventive care drives up costs."

Joyce is misinformed. Preventive care saves money, pain and suffering and lives. I am so very glad that Joyce's tests were negative. But what if they were not?

Why ignore real heroes of Cold War?

We just celebrated the 20th anniversary of the felling of the Berlin Wall. With it fell the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the embodiment of a communist ideology that enslaved much of the world, threatened the planet with nuclear destruction and murdered an incomprehensible 100 million people.

In his commemorative speech President Obama once again focused attention on the significance of his election, and in hers, Secretary of State Clinton touted her role as an anti-communist high schooler. Neither saw fit to honor three Western heroes whose policies and actions thrust the Soviets into the dustbin of history.

Open the finances for all to examine

Amid the economic crisis, we face a state going bankrupt and a university in a state of contraction.

The time has come for a new approach to real transparency: exact dollar figures from the state, donors and other sources and all exact expenses posted to a Web site for all to see. This will solve the freedom of information conflicts and will allow labor to have a level playing field in negotiating wages.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Shooting probe must be honest and open

On Oct. 9, an unarmed 15-year-old boy, Kiwane Carrington, was shot dead by the Champaign police outside a home where he was always welcome. There were at least three other people involved in the fatal incident. Another unarmed 15-year-old boy, Carrington's friend, was arrested for burglary, a charge since dropped; he was then charged with resisting arrest.

Of the two police officers, Daniel Norbits was placed on paid administrative leave. Nothing has happened to the other officer, Chief R.T. Finney.

House health vote will haunt Obama

I am outraged at what I see going on in my country right now. I see Chicago politics playing out on the national stage, and it isn't pretty. When did our representatives start knowing better than the people do? When did the people lose their voice in their own lives?

This health care reform is a slap in the face to Americans everywhere. First of all, one Republican is nowhere near bipartisan support. It is hilarious to even suggest that it is. Second, it's not reform if it doesn't contain the word tort – meaning malpractice litigation reform.

Obama must move faster on economy

Two terms of right wing misrule and, according to many historians, the single most destructive presidency in American history has produced a serious need for government action. Our government must contribute to the well being of its citizens.

Government support for education, public health, environmental protection, national defense and protection against dishonest financial manipulation are examples of what good government must do for us.

Same people won't solve Illinois' woes

It is infuriating, but not surprising, to learn that the Pew Center has included Illinois in their list of states in danger of financial collapse. Also not surprising is that the center only slightly blames the recession, instead asserting the main cause is many years of fiscal mismanagement.

The governor and the legislative leaders, all Democrats, have consciously avoided taking any meaningful action to solve the financial crisis, not wanting to make tough choices that would jeopardize their political positions before the primary election. It has never been more important to change the leadership in our state.

Tasers have proved a valuable tool

I saw the poll in The News-Gazette Web site about whether the Champaign police officers should carry Tasers. The poll was tilted toward allowing them to carry Tasers.

As a 29-year retiree of a local law enforcement agency, I not only was allowed to carry a Taser but also used one on a subject. As part of my training, I was tased, and there was no joy in Mudville that day. I took a five-second jolt, and, as soon as it was completed, I was able to stand and regain my faculties rather quickly.

Jobs, not gambling addiction, is issue

The state's capital spending program passed earlier this year and signed by Gov.Quinn was something that the politicians hadn't been able to do in over eight years.

The construction industry relies on state capital improvements, such as new and remodeled schools for our children, better facilities for higher education and safer roads. Per capita wise, Champaign County will receive more of the money than any other county, partially due to the University of Illinois.

Uninsured can go to Illinois prisons

On Nov 10, the first wave of inmates eligible for early release were let out of prison as part of a cost-cutting move by the state of Illinois.

Gov. Pat Quinn's administration is hoping to save millions of dollars and usher in other alternatives to incarceration.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Government working to take over our lives

I hear a lot of call for government run, well everything, at this point and ask myself when did we get so hung up on the government taking care of us? Government has a track record of doing the opposite when given the chance – just look at Social Security. We were promised it wouldn't be touched, but a few amendments later it could be gone.

Our lawmakers have proven to be unethical, elitist, controlled by special interest groups, self centered and lacking in common sense. Why don't we hear more outrage about this? Instead people are supporting giving them more money and control of our lives.

Graduate students deserve support

As a member of the Campus Faculty Association at the University of Illinois, I support the Graduate Employees Organization (GEO) and its strike for a better contract.

In recent years we've heard a lot from the administration about its goal of creating better jobs for Illinois. Now, in the worst economic downturn since the 1930s, UI leaders seem committed to lowering the wages and working conditions of some of their hardest-working employees. Despite the administration's sketchy figures, most graduate teaching assistants make below the university's own minimal figures for what it costs to live in Champaign or Urbana. Good jobs for Illinois?

Don't blame Muslims for terror attacks

I can't let Curtis Dickinson's Nov. 12 Islamophobic letter go without comment

It reminded me of an old Jewish saying about the way an anti-Semite thinks: "A gentile thief is a thief, but a Jewish thief is a Jew."

Olympian Road plan would be a disaster

I write in response concerning the long-range transportation plans for Champaign-Urbana, in particular the extension of Olympian Drive.

Most residents of Urbana are not familiar with the affected area. At least two centennial farms would be divided by this road and Prairie Fruits Farm would be drastically affected. Several forested areas teeming with wildlife would be devastated. The argument for this road is that Urbana needs to develop economically.

Make something good out of a tragedy

I send my condolences to the family and friends of the late Kiwane Carrington.

After viewing a recent Champaign City Council meeting on television, I wanted to see for myself if what was being said was true. At the last council meeting and in the face of grieving family and friends, I witnessed stoic and even smug expressions from the mayor and some city staff members. It was very frustrating to see elected officials – or public servants – sworn to serve their community show no sign of sympathy for the loss of human life. That was an opportunity to defuse a lot of emotions.

UI not playing straight in talks

In recent days, University of Illinois administrators and spokespeople have made statements suggesting that graduate students are threatening to go on strike because they are not being given the raise they have requested at a time when "other employees of the university did not receive any raises at all this year."

It is important for the university community and greater public to be aware of a very different perspective. In fact, some top university administrators, including Chet Gardner – who ran the now defunct Global Campus, which will never recoup the millions of dollars the university invested in it – have received extremely generous raises. It is also worth noting that even though university administrators argue that they cannot afford to pay graduate student employees a living wage, the university paid attorneys $400,000 to represent it at the panel investigating the use of clout for university admissions.

Monday, November 16, 2009

Mankind must resolve differences

I too have a dream:

I would like to see the time when all people (black, brown, red and white) actually talk and listen to each other. I would like to see the time when all people are treated equally. I would like to see the time when the NAACP becomes the NAAP. We should openly embrace one another and strive to achieve that which was intended for us by our Creator – a unified and caring world, with mankind striving to help one another.

Government can't take place of God

Capitalism in the hands of God fearing people is the best answer for economic success. But when men fail to take care of their own families, they come to expect other taxpayers to shoulder their load instead of themselves. This is how unethical leaders have taken advantage of our society, like cancer.

They have won the hearts and minds of many citizens who expect government to act as God in their lives. They are eager to milk the last vestiges of wealth from our great land by killing the goose that laid the golden egg. If the government can control all of its citizens' health care, the rest of the capitalist system will fall and its citizens will be enslaved. Look at the helplessness of many who are living from handout to handout now. They are mere voting slaves. Surely, we want to end slavery in all of its forms!

More rural stop signs would improve safety

I read in the paper recently about another bad accident in northern Champaign County.

The intersection was not marked. Would it be too unreasonable to have every other mile marked with a stop sign? I don't think so – not all corn fields are planted back from the intersections.

Inflammatory words make matters worse

The Rev. Jerome Chambers says that "adolescence is a time of turbulence" where "rebellion against authority is to be expected." Community activist Terry Townsend takes issue with pastors who urged the congregation to submit to authority and to not be angry. He says "In this case, the kids aren't resisting arrest; they're resisting injustice. They're thinking, 'I'm not doing anything wrong and they don't have the right to tell me to get on the ground.'"

It's disturbing that a pastor espouses that adolescent rebellion against authority is to be expected. What a slap in the face to thousands of Champaign teenagers who would never consider resisting arrest under any circumstances. Second, how unbelievably irresponsible for an adult to even suggest that a teenager should resist arrest if they aren't doing anything wrong. Want to get another teenager killed? That kind of statement will do it.

Contact senators to stop health care bill

As most know, the House of Representatives passed health care reform legislation that adds a public option. Speaker Nancy Pelosi promised an online posting of the bill 72 hours before a vote. She failed to keep her promise because given that time, the American people would have rejected her proposal. Why?

First, subsection (h)(2) page 25 refers to a "high-risk pool" of individuals and says that if the secretary estimates for any fiscal year that there's not money in the funds to meet the expenses of this pool, the secretary is to make adjustments including reducing benefits, increasing premiums, or establishing waiting lists.

Attacks rude, show lack of tolerance

Regarding the attacks on Mark Thompson and The News-Gazette, why do people attack Thompson for his opinion and your paper for printing it?

Why do some expect tolerance but deny giving it?

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Recycling far better for the environment

My garbage collector just picked up my three cans of garbage. It used to be one can, but my community discontinued recycling, Now all my recyclables go in the garbage.

The garbage collector has to drive 100 miles to the next state because the landfill in our area is full. At the end of the month, I open the bill from the disposal company and, after I recover, I call for an explanation.

Transportation poses a major challenge

An article published Nov. 9 informs us that the Long Range Transportation Plan includes "increased use of bike lanes; reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased use of mass transit, including buses and trains." We also learn from transportation planner Eric Halvorsen, "What we want to focus on, first and foremost, is reducing vehicle miles traveled and reducing greenhouse gases."

These are indeed urgent priorities given the climate and energy crises we are facing. However, information provided in the plan on page 123 shows that in 2005 the total vehicle miles traveled in the area was 1.99 million miles. The prediction for 2035 is 3.29 million miles without any transportation improvements and 3.66 million with all planned improvements. This latter prediction is an 83 percent increase in area vehicle miles traveled over the next 25 years, a period during which we will need to decrease carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

Parental discipline remains important

There has been a lot of talk about the Oct. 9 fatal shooting of 15-year-old Kiwane Carrington. But I have not heard anyone ask why Kiwane Carrington tried to flee when the police told the two boys to lie down. If he had done what he was ordered to do, he would still be alive today.

I don't care if you're white, black, red or green, if a police officer says to lie down, lie down until he says to move – but not the kids today. They seem to think they can do just as they feel. We need to put rearing our kids back in the hands of the parents, like it was when I was growing up.

Prussing hid news of city budget woes

Urbana's city code creates the position of chief administrative officer – CAO – whose duties include serving as budget director, "... and providing for the development and dissemination of sufficient information relating to the business of the city." After firing the CAO two years ago, Mayor Prussing decided to also serve as CAO.

Thus, city comptroller Ron Eldridge, serving at the whim of Prussing, can only release budget information forecasts approved by self-appointed CAO Prussing.

Obama's policies are cause to worry

When are my fellow citizens going to realize that Obama and his socialists Democrats are dribbling the bad news out to them in little bits and pieces?

They don't think people can handle the full extent of the bad news all at once. This is also why there has been no in-depth analysis of the actual economic impact of Obama's policies.

Let's take the time to thank caregiver

The role of caregivers in the lives of people affected by muscle-weakening diseases cannot be underestimated. Beyond basic care, caregivers are the hands, arms, legs and sometimes even the voice of loved ones who cannot move on their own but who still have much to give to the world.

Throughout National Family Caregivers Month this November – and always – MDA salutes the spouses, parents, siblings and friends who provide long-term and loving care, and who do it with humor and grace.

Much misinformation in shooting aftermath

In the aftermath of the shooting last month, I have been astounded at the amount of misinformation that has been a part of this community. Three days after the shooting, I was at Parkland when I overheard a young man telling others that he had read the officer's confession. I found that to be rather amusing, since, as reported in the media, the officer was not interviewed until some 24 hours after this person made his statement.

I was less amused, however, by two subsequent conversations, the first of which was in a local school. The teacher at the end of class tells that class that he is sorry, that he made a mistake when he informed his class that a specific Champaign officer was responsible for the shooting. It turns out that officer was not even working that day, but the damage was done.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Radio show advertisement poorly placed on Web site

I am a former C-U resident, and I now read The News-Gazette online.

I am concerned about a random advertisement that showed up near a news story Nov. 9.

Many pitched in to help corral lost dog in Urbana

I want to express my gratitude to everyone who helped me find my lost dog, a Great Pyrenees named Lucy.

Two animal patrol officers in two vehicles were tireless in their pursuit of an exhausted, scared animal that wouldn't let anyone near her. They made every effort to keep her away from the busy roads and highways and finally cornered her with the help of four young women in an apartment complex.

Get involved in health care reform

I am thrilled that the House has passed HR 3962. I encourage everyone to research and think extensively about what they would like to see happen in the Senate. I hope that at the end of this year, President Obama can sign an affordable health care act. I urge everyone to get involved. Health care reform hasn't come this far in over a century and getting involved in it right now is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It will affect our children and grandchildren. I am not going to tell others what to think about the health care reform, but I will tell all to research.

Figure out what you believe, and most importantly, act.

Offers of sympathy much appreciated

I would like to give special thanks to the Champaign Police Department for its support following the recent passing of my father, retired Det. Gary Michael Wright.

I would like to thank Champaign Mayor Jerry Schweighart as well as Circuit Judge Jeffrey Ford for attending the services and Heath & Vaughn Funeral Home and the First United Methodist Church for their help with the visitation and funeral.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Leaf vandal has a distinctive air

I must have upset someone.

My situation started a little over a year ago. When I rake my leaves to the west side of my property, someone comes along after dark and targets my leaves, kicking them back in my yard and out into the road.

Health care bill about more control

When U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi promised to ram the health bill through quickly, she showed her disdain for her countrymen.

The Democrats are going for broke, which means we'll all be broke if this is not stopped. The "Affordable Health Care for America Act" is so broad it even micromanages restaurant menus and vending machines.

Those who need care will get it

I have had many friends who are mentally ill, and they have to work with the doctors available in Champaign County Mental Health.

Many doctors refuse to work with Medicaid patients. County mental health doctors, perhaps because they are therefore overwhelmed with patients, are more into controlling, rather than treating, the patients. Too many of my friends are dead now, medicated into an early grave because they had no private insurance allowing them a greater choice of medical help. If more patients have adequate health care coverage, lives will be saved.

Shooting should be number one priority

I heard the news that the Champaign Police Department is proceeding to seek accreditation from the state.

I heard former police chief Steve Carter say at the city council meeting that this accreditation process was begun before the recent crisis in our community involving the shooting of a youth by a police officer. Sometimes things already planned have to be put on the back burner when something more urgent comes forth.

U.S. is ignoring threat from Muslims

America faces another enemy within. After the Civil War, southern Democrats aided by the rebel general Nathan Forrest created the Ku Klux Klan. This murderous organization terrorized black and white Republicans in the south with lynchings and mass murder for over 140 years.

During the 1930s and 1940s, American traitors – members of the American Communist Party – infiltrated unions, defense plants, the news media, Hollywood and the Democratic Roosevelt administration.

Who's the only District 1 choice?

I want to thank The News-Gazette for keeping the county board District 1 race in the news. But I will again insist there is a real, viable candidate out there already, me.

Equal time, that's all I ask.

Coffee club objects to our politicians

Every morning at a local restaurant, my friends and I gather for coffee and sometimes discuss the virtues of the Democratic and Republican parties.

The two parties have 535 members of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, and there are about six lobbyists for each one. That's roughly 3,210 lobbyists, many of whom are former government employees.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Why don't Muslims condemn violence?

Once again, another act of deadly violence has proven false the repeated claims that Islam is a "religion of peace."

Apologists will say that Major Hasan was just an aberration, that millions around the world practice Islam in peace. They may be correct, but it makes no difference. Silence gives tacit approval to the actions of the few.

We're spending our way to bankruptcy

Federal, state, and local governments will soon follow General Motors and Chrysler down the path to bankruptcy if we don't start holding elected officials accountable.

I recently went to a Piatt County Board meeting to find out why it was raising the county's portion of the property tax.

A Woman's Place great asset to C-U

A Woman's Fund and A Woman's Place needs help from the community. It is one of the oldest nonprofit organizations in Champaign County. It helps women and men who are in domestic violence situations. Its legal department is one of the best in the county. The percentage of orders of protection that they receive is in the high 90 percent range.

The shelter gives families and individuals threatened with violence a place where they can be safe from the abuser.

Indicting Palazzolo is not in good form

The furor and effort expended on indicting ex-Champaign-Urbana Public Health District director Vito Palazzolo seems to be much ado about almost nothing.

As near as I can glean from The News-Gazette story, Palazzolo made some minor personal charges on a district credit card; bought himself lunch and represented it as a business meeting; took some wood cabinets of questionable value; and made a bad administrative decision to reimburse a dentist for student loans "value uncertain."

UI women look good on hardwood

I recently attended an exciting Illinois women's basketball game. Coach Law must be having a great time since she finally has a long bench.

Her first two years were hard with so few players. There are lots of new freshmen, and all the women seemed to be having fun as well as working hard. There was a real spark among them. I hope the newspaper gives them the press they deserve, and fans come out, too.

Caregivers work hard for others

As many people are aware, November is National Family Caregivers month. But my question is how many understand the huge toll it takes on family caregivers to provide that care. Caregivers selflessly give of their time and energy. But the price they pay to do this is very high.

Their health is often affected. They sometimes suffer financially because of job loss or reduced hours. But they do this willingly to provide for the well being of a family member or friend. It is a true labor of love.

Beautiful article on topic of beauty

Syndicated columnist Leonard Pitts' recent article on beauty was just wonderful. He said things that needed to be said, things about appreciating the beauty we have naturally been given. I'm clipping the article. It's an article worth saving. His article was beautiful.

NANCY WILLIAMS

Carle lawsuit will be revealing

As an oncologist and cancer researcher originally at Carle and now in Springfield, I know that this is an extremely serious topic. Not all oncologists – cancer doctors – are allowed to perform research on human subjects.

Cancer doctors must pass rigorous standards to do human research, and failure to do so properly may be a felony. Sour grapes doesn't apply to human patient research trials. A doctor can't just do what he/she wants. Deviation from a national trial's standard or failure to obtain a proper consent from the patient is the reason Carle Clinic was banned from entering new patients onto these important trials.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Suspicion spurred by past injustices

Regardless whether Americans accept it or not, our country has had and still has an ugly history of racism.

Racism hasn't been destroyed, it's only become smarter since the days of freedom marches, sit-ins and boycotts.

Johnson no help on the health bill

While I am thrilled to see the Affordable Health Care for America Act has passed, it was no thanks to U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson.

I called Johnson's office to encourage him to vote for the bill, but I was curtly informed that Johnson would be voting no, regardless of how many constituents called in favor of the bill. My encouragement to pass this landmark bill was met with a rebuke of, "Aren't you concerned about the national debt?"

Trek to Michigan revealed an irony

Thirty-two years ago, my husband and I adopted a baby girl – she was 4 days old. We knew very little about her background.

She has been a tremendous joy – a standout student, athlete, and a really good person. She was never very curious about her background, but after college, marriage, and a child, I felt she had the right to know whatever could be found.

Burning leaves make life tough

As a home owner in the city of Villa Grove, I am concerned with the leaf burning restrictions that were rescinded. Burning that previously only occurred two days a week has now been allowed any time or day of the week.

As a chronic asthma sufferer, I am now forced to either stay holed up in my home doing costly breathing treatments every four hours or leave the home I pay a mortgage and property taxes on.

Sports staff can get needed directions

Your sports coverage of the Danville Vikings excellent football team is pathetic, to say the least. They have had an excellent season and they receive maybe one column on the sports page and some small school 50 miles away, who just lost their game, receives a full-page with pictures.

Perhaps sportswriters need a map of the area or a better expense account fund so they can travel to Danville.

Lower speed limit on Monticello Road

On Nov. 6, the Champaign County Board's Highway Committee, on which I serve, met to discuss the Monticello Road speed limit study that I asked Jeff Blue, the county's chief engineer, to discuss.

The survey was undertaken in response to letters and calls I received expressing concern about safety on Monticello Road. Blue gave us the results and his recommendation.

Reagan's absence a glaring omission

I have recently read several articles from the Associated Press and Parade magazine, to name a few, about the collapse of the Berlin Wall and the fall of communism in the former Soviet Union.

Amazingly, none of these articles from the so-called mainstream media mention the role in the wall's fall played by former President Ronald Reagan.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Procession was emotional event

Nov. 5, 2009, will be a day etched in my memory for an eternity. I witnessed an awe-inspiring event that day, the funeral procession for Maj. David L. Audo in Danville.

I sat in my car with a window rolled down on that beautiful autumn afternoon as I watched the event unfold right before me. It was a moment that seemed to exclaim, "Oh yes. There is without a doubt more to this life."

Questions abound in Carrington case

I suppose now is the right time to write what I have to say about Kiwane Carrington. It is more about the people that Kiwane met and didn't meet.

Everybody is talking, looking for answers, giving out blame and mountains of ideas about what did and didn't happen. None of that matters any more for another child has left this world.

Critics confused about Tate's role

I cannot understand all the letters criticizing sportswriter Loren Tate's column on head football coach Ron Zook and Illini football.

His column is in the nature of an editorial, which means that it is an expression of opinion. If people disagree, that is their right, just as it is Tate's right to express his views.

Vote on health plan reassuring

I applaud Congress for moving forward on health care reform. We have miles to go before we sleep, but a giant step forward has been taken. As a conservative business owner, I am like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

With two heart attacks at 38 and a son who deals with autism and is nonverbal, I cannot afford health insurance. Although there have been many false starts in the last 100 years, the pain of not moving forward finally forced us to do something.

Today's news can be tough to take

What happened to the days when a child could play outside till dusk, when their mothers would call them in for supper around the table with the whole family – mom, dad, brothers and sisters. Children would have chores to do, instead of sitting it front of the TV.

Today reading the newspaper, which my husband and I still enjoy with our coffee and tea, I felt like crying. Maybe it is because my father, a World War II veteran, passed away a month ago at the age of 93. Maybe it is because I have a grandson in the National Guard who we hope won't be deployed to the Middle East. Maybe it's just my age. Who knows.

Homeless issue is unrelated to politics

This is in response to Paul Hayes' brief letter, stating that if you want to be homeless vote for a Republican. First, homelessness is much more of a choice than it is due to governmental policy. To prove that point, now that Democrats hold every office from local to state to federal governments, there will still be very many homeless people. My advice to the homeless would be to quit worrying about who is in office and who they are going to depend on for handouts, and get a job.

THOMAS R. SCAGGS

Raking leaves best way to clean up

It's autumn, and the leaves are falling once again, covering lawns and choking storm sewers. It's time to get out the rakes.

Yet far too often, lawn care companies and residents waste gas on small jobs that don't warrant an engine. Not only are leaf blowers incredibly loud, they also stir up dust, mold and allergens. Running one produces polluted emissions equivalent to that of several cars. If you want to make a difference in the wake of dwindling fuels and a warming planet, the increased use of muscle power is a clean and healthy step to take.

Life under Obama raises concerns

President Barack Obama is the 13th president under whom I have lived and, unlike any of the others, he scares me.

He scares me because after months of exposure, I know nothing about him. He scares me because he has never run a company or met a payroll. He scares me because he has no military experience and doesn't understand the military.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Vote for Obama was a big mistake

The biggest mistake I ever made was voting for President Barack Obama.

He has some of the lowest liars and tax cheats and crooks hand-picked as aides and Cabinet members. He bails out his cronies. He hasn't helped Gen. Stanley McChrystal with his request for more troops but has time to stick his nose in police affairs to rescue his professor buddy.

Officer safety is the major concern

This is in response to Ashley Price's letter regarding Tasers. It's apparent that she hasn't watched the video of the elderly woman being tased.

What she calls "immediate and total submission" is what the law calls resisting arrest. She said that the officer wasn't threatened. Who is she to make that kind of judgment? She said the woman couldn't cause any harm. Why? Because she is elderly?

Fee increases go to better the parks

I am writing in response to Richard Kingery's letter about taxes.

The price increase for hunting and fishing licenses was brought on by a recent survey conducted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Survey recipients were asked if they were for the raising of fees if those fees were going to be used for the hunters and fisherman of the state.

Sorry she didn't hear any calls for help

I recall opening the door somewhere between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.. It was such a beautiful moon above the house next door.

The back room light was on in her house. Her car was in her driveway. The air felt crisp and clean. It seemed so peaceful outside.

Help environment by planting trees

I am responding to the recent letter written by Carolyn Knox of Champaign.

The climate has been changing since the beginning of time, and it will continue to do so. People have very little to do with it.

Why won't Obama decide on troops?

What a job President Obama has had lately.

He has been able to take his wife to a Broadway show to keep a promise he made while on the campaign trail. He has also been able to get in his golfing and fly around the country to campaign for fellow Democrats and help their fundraising.

Herman was victim of his bad judgment

The idea being promoted by News-Gazette publisher John Foreman and other self-appointed civic poobahs that former University of Illinois Chancellor Richard Herman was a victim of the admissions scandal is laughable.

Are we supposed to believe that Herman was simply a naive bumpkin who fell off the turnip truck and was unable to cope with the cesspool of Illinois politics? In his tenure at UI, Herman certainly can be credited with some notable accomplishments. However, if his legacy is a shambles, he has no one to blame but himself.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Join fight against pancreatic cancer

November is National Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage readers to visit www.knowitfightitendit.org to learn how to take action against the fourth-leading cause of cancer death in our country.

By the end of this year, this deadly disease will have claimed more than 35,000 loved ones. Among them are notable Americans, including actor Patrick Swayze, NCAA President Myles Brand and NBA Hall of Fame coach Chuck Daly.

Health care plan raises questions

Is it just me or is this health care issue becoming more complicated than needed?

How many times during his campaign did President Obama go on about Americans having the same kind of insurance as Congress does. Now that he is in office, what is the problem?

Incendiary rhetoric more of the same

Have the anti-Chief Illiniwek activists ever noticed how many people wearing Chief Illiniwek apparel around campus and to University of Illinois sporting events are of African, Asian, Middle Eastern, Hispanic, and other non-European descent?

Are they offended by the Chief? Would they agree they're promoting racial stereotypes by wearing Chief logo clothing? It seems not.

Problem exists with complaint process

In her recent letter, Amy Koker incorrectly claims that I misstated the facts about the Urbana Police complaint procedure and that I was attempting to slander police officers.

My letter was not slanderous; it was critical of a complaint procedure that discourages citizens from filing complaints and prevents misconduct from being addressed.

Tate as loathsome as Bruce Pearl

I write regarding sports columnist Loren Tate's Oct. 28 column on Illini football Coach Ron Zook.

Shame on him. His "letter" to Zook was poor reporting. He doesn't speak for 90 percent of the Illini fans I know. Why didn't he cite Zook's quasi-military lifestyle when he was hired or when we went to the Rose Bowl?

Local coat drive was a big success

I am writing to salute the wonderful generosity of our community for the success of the recent annual "Coat the Community" coat drive.

Approximately 1,000 coats were collected by The Bechtel Group at Keller Williams Realty and our sponsor partners: WCIA, County Market, 92.5 The Chief and Herriotts. The Salvation Army distributed the free coats to local needy families.

Serious consequence for an unwise vote

Here's some good advice: Only vote for a Republican if you want to be homeless.

PAUL MASON HAYES

Dangerous behavior leads to problems

Here's a news flash.

When people put themselves in criminal situations there is a chance, whether it be accidental or justified, that they might get shot. And readers can add to that percentage if the individuals involved don't listen to police commands. Members of the black community need to stop pointing fingers at others and start looking at themselves as parents. That's where the blame should start.

Strike threat bad for UI, its students

The strike threat by the Graduate Employees Organization is unnecessary coercion against the University of Illinois that jeopardizes the quality of education for all students and erodes the reputation of this institution.

While unions may be beneficial to an economy in its industrialization infancy to protect laborers, once the economy matures unions outlive their usefulness.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Remember homeless during Christmas

As readers may know, for many years the Catholic Worker Soup Kitchen distributed Christmas bags to its guests on Christmas Eve. This year, the volunteers at the rechristened Daily Bread Soup Kitchen will continue the tradition.

However, instead of paper grocery bags or shopping bags, we plan to fill back packs, a useful item to carry all year long.

Many offered help after car accident

My daughter was injured in a one-car accident on I-74 on Oct. 22.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Champaign firefighters and emergency medical technicians who got her out of the car, treated her at the scene and transported her to the hospital as well as the three unidentified nurses who, independently, stopped at the scene to offer comfort while waiting for help to arrive.

Turning leaves into mulch good solution

Got leaves?

My father lived in Urbana and had lot of fall leaves. He raked them up and hauled them away. It's a big job for everyone.

Bequest to VA wonderful gift

Congratulations to the U.S. Veterans' Administration hospital in Danville on the financial blessing the late John P. Wright provided through a large donation mandated in his will. Wright's vision was simply to enrich the lives of fellow veterans through the recreational therapy department.

Following Wright's personal interests, there will be improved transportation for outings and upgrades in music, bowling and the pool room.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Indicting Illini not in good taste

In a recent column entitled "Dear Coach Zook," News-Gazette sports columnist Loren Tate embarked on a scathing indictment of the Illini football program and Coach Ron Zook. Tate suggested that 90 percent or greater of the members of Illini Nation have turned not only against Zook but also athletic director Ron Guenther.

Among his scathing remarks was a reference that Zook could simply take his millions and head to the next stop on his coaching career. That suggests Zook is a ladder-climber looking only for greener pastures.

Afghan withdrawal a disastrous idea

In reading the Nov. 1 Commentary Section, I found that U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson, my favorite congressman, and liberal extremist, Garrison Keillor, agree on our withdrawal from Afghanistan. Let's analyze this tragic situation.

Neither Johnson nor Keillor are willing to deal with the probable consequences of our early withdrawal.

America's future doesn't look bright

Numerous recent polls reveal most Americans have the uneasy feeling about the direction our country is headed. This has no connection with what party is in power in Washington.

If we have become a dysfunctional society, why?

What's wrong with principled dissent?

I'm glad my letters provide entertainment for people with superior intelligence, including John Moore.

But I wish my critics could keep reality straight for the sake of rational argument.

Vaccine debacle foreshadows disaster

Has anyone noticed the debacle surrounding the government-managed flu vaccine programs? Not only is the supply and distribution of the seasonal flu vaccine delayed, but the H1N1 vaccine has been so mismanaged that a lot of the damage a timely supply would have prevented has already happened.

Witness the closing of so many schools nationwide and the rising number of deaths. The Centers for Disease Control has a lot of excuses as to why this has happened, but the bottom line is that the population is at risk and the federal government dropped the ball. Anybody want to hazard a guess as to how the proposed socialized medicine program will go?

Safe schools are important issue

I recently attended a public forum sponsored by the East Central Illinois Safe Schools Initiative – CISSA – entitled, "Making Our Schools Safe for LGBT Students" which focused on the threats to safety directed at our students who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered – LGBT.

The nine forum panelists included four youths who are currently enrolled, or recently graduated, from area high schools, a university researcher, a middle school social worker, a high school teacher and principal, and a school district attorney.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Politicians are taxing us to death

I would like to know why Gov. Pat Quinn thinks the only way to get a balanced budget and get out of the red is to raise taxes and fees on everything the average citizen uses.

Our state government wants to raise license fees, registration fees and tax this and that. Now they want to raise fishing and hunting fees. Don't they ever think about cutting spending, the way ordinary people have to in order to stay out of the red?

Health insurance woes are solvable

Thanks for providing a good summary of the newest House and Senate versions of health care reform bills.

The provisions that concern me include:

Pain of Duke's loss easily understandable

I really sympathize with all the employees at the Champaign County Courthouse and Duke's handler and his family in regard to losing Duke, the bomb-sniffing dog.

He was really beautiful and sounded like such a loyal friend.

Illini's comeback raises big question

After seven and a half games of uninspired, unfocused football characterized by excessive turnovers and penalties and an almost passive, hesitant response to every challenge presented, the Fighting Illini came alive in the second half of the Michigan game.

Suddenly, the team demonstrated what all suspected – that it was a very talented, capable group. What does that say about the team's coaching?

Delaying decision helps on health care

There is a lot of speculation about why President Obama does not send the requested reinforcements to his appointed commander in Afghanistan, Gen. Stanley McChrystal.

The general, in his new strategy submitted Aug. 30, wrote of a "criticality of time," stating "failure to gain the initiative" now "risks an outcome where defeating the insurgency is no longer possible."

Through with Illini for football season

A recent issue of the Chicago Tribune carried an article which bore the following headline – "There is no 'D' in Illini." I would add nor is there any "O." This season, for most intents and purposes, is done. So am I. I will not attend another game – using that term loosely.

What do we have to look forward to next season? A coach who cannot coach, a quarterback who cannot throw and an "All-American" wide receiver who would have trouble becoming an all-star in the St. Joseph Pee-Wee Football League.

Sweetheart deals don't make sense

I am writing in response to Jason Toenjes' letter regarding the cushy reassignments of University of Illinois President B. Joseph White and former Chancellor Richard Herman.

I don't pretend to know the intricate details surrounding the scandal. While I'm sure White and Herman have worked hard in many ways, those in positions of authority have seen fit to bring sweeping change to the UI's policies and practices, and it is my understanding that there was a broad sense of wrongdoing.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Parkland offers aid to struggling students

Community colleges have been in the news a lot lately – record enrollments and stimulus job training.

But along with all the accolades, students face many personal and academic obstacles. Luckily for the community college students in our area, Parkland College has ways to help alleviate these obstacles. Students who need help in a course – whether with writing papers, honing study skills, or figuring out math and science problems – can find it in the College's Center for Academic Success. The center also pays needed attention to remedial or developmental students whose math, writing, or reading skills are not at college level.

Health care deceit lies with Democrats

The deceit in the health care debate is coming from the usual suspects, U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and her group of lapdog cronies.

In response to Mike Hopkins' letter, I would say the hidden agenda does not lie within the ranks of the Republican Party or with radio talk-show hosts. It comes from our elected officials in Washington, D,C., who are pushing socialized medicine while the people are worrying about the terrible economy.

Government plan will become the monopoly

Chris Johnston of Champaign wrote that if the government health care mandate was not passed Republicans would be responsible for an insurance company monopoly. That is wrong.

If the government takes over health care it will become a monopoly owned and controlled by the government. If the government owns and controls health care, people will not be allowed to opt out, as we can with a privately owned insurance company that displeases us.

Urbana needs new swim pool

I write in response to Dr. Laura Payne's letter regarding Crystal Lake Pool.

Surveys show that very few Urbana residents would use the spray park Payne proposes, but the majority do support an outdoor pool. Why spend money on a spray park people do not want?

People are losing sense of initiative

The strength of the United States of America depends on the strength of every individual person.

I worry about many of the recent political policies, as they serve to weaken the individuals mostly through government entitlement programs.

Running for board from District 6

I am announcing my candidacy for the Democratic nomination to the vacant District 6 seat on the Champaign County Board. I look forward to the campaign between now and the Feb. 2 primary.

Julie and I own a house on Fair Street and enjoy the neighborhood. It is from this that I take my campaign slogan, "Our Neighborhood, Our Future."

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Independent group should draw map

Legislative gerrymandering seldom generates front page headlines. That is unfortunate, because it goes to the heart of democracy.

"Gerrymandering" is the drawing of legislative district boundaries in ways that predetermine election results. Sophisticated computer programs are used to create "safe" districts for the majority party. It leaves voters without real choices in elections.

Why is Tate allowed to shoot mouth off?

In my opinion, sports columnist Loren Tate was totally out of line in taking advantage of his position to foster public opinion via the local media regarding Illini football Coach Ron Zook's choices. It's very obvious that he is suggesting Zook resign.

If I, or anyone else, would choose to support Coach Zook, would I/we, be given the same amount of space?

Volk has stimulated rise in property tax

When William Volk, managing director of the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District, announced that he would be using federal "stimulus" money to slash the price of a yearly MTD pass to $65 and asserted that he was sorry it couldn't be free, didn't we all know that he would be coming to us for a property tax increase?

Please call and write Volk and the members of the MTD board to tell them what you think of paying higher property taxes to cover their generosity.

Unity did not run up the grid score

I am writing in response to Dave Robinson's letter about Tolono Unity high school football team running up the score on Shelbyville.

Did he leave the game early? Unity did not score in the second half. Unity took the 40-point lead to get the mercy-clock going. Did he complain when Maroa, Moweaqua or Monticello scored more than 40? Unity went for the two-point conversion to get the mercy clock running and never scored again. Good luck to Shelbyville in the years to come, and all Okaw teams entering the high school playoffs.

Johnson should back election funding bill

U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson's aid to a constituent with cruise arrangements was nice and appropriate, as are his many notes of congratulation on anniversaries, your kid's making the honor roll. etc.

But those little chores do not justify the very adequate salary, staff and health care we provide him with. I expect my congressman to help find a solution to our health care situation; Johnson says that our health care system is "the best in the world" and he opposed reform in the House, in spite of the fact that American health statistics are near the bottom of all developed nations.

'Stop, drop, roll' all-purpose command

Firemen have had great success teaching youngsters to stop, drop and roll should their clothes catch on fire. Maybe the police should adopt a similar tactic by going into the schools and teaching kids that, should they ever hear the command "Police. Stop and drop," they should do just that – stop and drop.

This already familiar refrain, ingrained in their heads repeatedly over the years and used especially on juvenile suspects, might have saved a young man's life and possibly an officer's career.

Sweetheart deals patently offensive

How is it that former University of Illinois Chancellor Richard Herman, who has betrayed the public trust, was given a faculty position at the very institution he betrayed and will be paid twice what an average professor makes complete with first-year sabbatical?

The News-Gazette, which along with the Chicago Tribune brought these practices to light, now has glorified the man with a full-page article and large adoring photo.

If you buy a gingko, make sure it's male

I am writing in response to the recent article about gingko trees. They are not true fruits, the foul smelling balls found on the female of the species. These are gymnosperms, like conifers that do not enclose seeds in an ovary but are naked seeds. The fleshy, foul smelling seed coat is from an outer seed.

Ginko biloba is the sole surviving species of the Order Gingkoales. They have survived from being in cultivation from the ancient Chinese. They will tolerate urban soil and air pollution conditions quite well.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Obama backer is missing the boat

In a recent letter, Stewart Dickson characterized conservatives as "mean-spirited."

I would point out that Winston Churchill said that "any man who is under 30, and is not a liberal, has no heart; and any man who is over 30, and is not a conservative, has no brains."

Only the players can win the game

I am tired of reading about the University of Illinois football team. The Illini stink, and it is as simple as that.

The coach can only go so far. The players need to put the effort forward. Readers who watch teams from the SEC or other major conferences know they put it all on the line each and every play.

N-G should have sidelined ornery Tate

I write in response to sports columnist Loran Tate's Oct. 28 column about Ron Zook and Illini football.

It is one thing for Loren to write a mean-spirited column, but The News-Gazette did not have to print it. Why? What good came out of that printing?

Law enforcement raises questions

With all that is happening in the Champaign community, I really have to start questioning the priorities of every level of the law enforcement process.

Here are a couple of examples.

Finney's ad critic should disappear

First of all, Dennis Toeppen needs to take a long walk on a short pier and makes sure that he takes his "Fire Finney" ads with him. I'm glad we have a working chief of police in Champaign.

The shooting of Kiwane Carrington is a very sad situation, but placing blame before the investigation is complete doesn't remedy anything. Kiwane was roaming around because his school was out that day. Why wasn't the other boy where he should have been – in school?

We need honesty in health care debate

The time is long overdue for an honest debate on health care policy rather than the lies so popular on inaccurate radio and television programs.

Deceit, whether from the right or left, must be faced and discussed openly for honest debate. Obamacare does not exist. President Obama made his opinions on health care known to Congress, and he asked for a bill to reform the health care system.

At least the Chief doesn't see losses

As a lifelong University of Illinois fan who was born and raised in Illinois, I took my enthusiasm for the school and state all over the world in my travels.

But I am befuddled by how the UI can expect me to take the athletic program seriously. Virtually every shred of clothing I've ever owned is orange and blue. Recently, out of embarrassment, I bought a whole new wardrobe.

Sunday, November 1, 2009

What's explanation for contradiction?

Surely the advertising department of The News-Gazette has made a grievous typographical error.

On page B-3 of the Oct. 28 edition, a large black-bordered ad indicates that the city of Urbana intends to increase its property tax levy. On the same page, just 3 columns over, the mayor of Urbana states unequivocally, "We're going to hold our property tax levy the same. We're not going to raise taxes on people because I don't think it's right."

Stimulate drainage with federal funds

I am writing regarding the drainage issues that are being faced in Champaign. Has it occurred to anyone to use some federal stimulus funds to fix these problems?

I don't think anyone in their right mind would expect 1,300 homeowners to be responsible for paying millions of dollars in order to get their drainage issues resolved. It seems to me that multiple properties are at this point fairly unmarketable with these issues existing.

Carle experience really was blessing

I read with interest the New York Times article on Oct. 23 concerning Carle Clinic.

My family has had a long and rewarding relationship with Carle. During the spring of 1992 my father, William Fox, was diagnosed with lung cancer. After visiting medical centers around the United States, Dad elected to be treated jointly by Carle and Mayo.

Swine flu is first glimpse of state care

The recent story – "Schools may get vaccine Friday" – floored me. The schools were chosen because they had the highest numbers of children from low-income families, and those families would be less able to take time from work to obtain the vaccine?

I don't care how you look at it, it's rationing according to some bureaucrat's notion of fairness.

Obama's best horse is national health care

President Obama, you have to pull the "trigger" out of the health reform bill or else it will shoot true reform in the foot. Stand with true reform. Let Roy Rogers stand with his Trigger. It just makes good horse sense to go for what is best for the American people.

DURANGO MENDOZA

Stories about coping both hit and missed

As I was recently channel-surfing, I landed, as I often do, on our local PBS station and found myself watching a "Frontline" documentary on how the middle class is coping with economic uncertainty.

But there is no uncertainty. It's a fact the economy went south a long time ago. Members of the middle class do not need a documentary on how we are coping. We are living it.

Government plan will eliminate monopoly

We are now closer than ever before to effectively eliminating the monopoly that exists on health insurance. I find it ironic that Republicans are now against competition that will cause the insurance industry to regulate itself.

Usually it is Republicans calling for less governmental control and free enterprise competition. Now we see them fighting against free enterprise. It is no mystery that people are shrinking away from the Republican party at an alarming rate.

Afghan situation growing ever worse

Things are getting worse in Afghanistan. Can we do something to save our young men? It has been a real bad week.

EDWARD J. MULLIGAN

True liberation is spiritual event

On behalf of CU's Communion and Liberation group, I write to reflect on a recent campus lecture.

On Oct. 26, St. John's Catholic Newman Center invited authorized Catholic exorcist Father Vince Lampert to speak at Foellinger Auditorium. Approximately 1,600 people filled the seats to hear him speak of his experiences.

Young drinkers have no valid complaint

I respectfully respond to Andrew Kraus' gripe that Champaign-Urbana police bar-checks represent a "misuse of power," and that "the current system is taking advantage of underage students monetarily, and it is not really deterring anyone from under-aged drinking." Kraus further asserts that "the cities of C-U should do us all a favor and save the raids for serious problems."

Kraus doesn't give us his age, so I have to assume that he is under the legal drinking age.

Meet with council members each month

Citizen participation in local government improves the process and moves us toward a better understanding of how we can serve the public.

To that end, we, as the three at-large members of the Champaign City Council, are announcing regularly scheduled opportunities for the public to discuss issues of concern.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Good effort made to solve a problem

Kudos to John and Sylvia Ronsvalle for brokering a solution to the Safe Haven tent community.

On Oct. 21, The News-Gazette reported that they "proposed in August that volunteers and tradesmen make repairs so Restoration Urban Ministries could take in Safe Haven members."

So many helped make program a success

Recently, a local 4-H club, the 4-Leafers, whose members are spread out from Champaign through Savoy to St. Joseph, sponsored a sew-a-thon in support of Operation Santa, which sends Christmas stockings stuffed with personal-care items and a few small luxuries to our soldiers overseas.

With the help of the community, the club was able to make 650 stockings, write 377 personal notes, and collect over $1,000 in donations as well as $400 in cash to help with mailing the stockings overseas.

Thank the police for their efforts

On Sept. 13, I was in the car running an errand to my grandson's house.

That's when I realized I was lost, even though I had been there before.

Soup kitchen needs community's help

I want to express my gratitude to everyone who attended the fundraiser on Oct. 25 to help raise money for the Daily Bread Soup Kitchen.

It was a beautiful afternoon of music provided by Dan Perrino and his talented performers: Caitlin Caruso Dobbs, Annie Rong, Rick Murphy and Carl Johnson. Perrino chimed in on his sax much to everyone's delight.

Return of purse truly a blessing

I accidentally left my purse in a cart at Wal-Mart in Savoy around noon on Oct. 22. A Good Samaritan found my purse and arranged for its return with nothing missing. The individual who found it is a hero in my book, and I consider myself so fortunate.

My faith in humanity is restored thanks to this kind person. May God bless him all the days of his life.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Fill in swim pool for a water park

I write as an authority on aquatic facility management and recreation and park administration due to my 12 years in aquatic facility operations and management and role as a professor of recreation and park administration.

The Urbana Park District has been studying Crystal Lake Pool's future since I moved here in 2001. The West Urbana neighborhood and other stakeholders – swim team families – advocate the renovation and reconstruction of the pool.

One award still left for President Obama

Congratulations to President Barack Obama for his nomination for the Heisman Trophy and the Cy Young Award.

He certainly has done just as much to deserve them as he did to win the Noble Peace Prize, which he was nominated for just 280 hours after he was sworn in to his current office.

What do we expect from police officers?

You have to wonder why anyone would want to become a police officer.

It seems to me if they can't find a criminal or solve a crime, they are accused of not doing enough. If they do prevent a crime and force has to be used, they are accused of abuse of power. Just what does the community expect of them?

It's always sad when a young person dies

As a mother, I am always saddened to hear of the untimely death of a young person like Kiwane Carrington. My thoughts and prayers are certainly with the family and friends of everyone involved with this unfortunate situation.

However, with all of the finger pointing and blame being cast about with regard to Mr. Carrington' death, I cannot help but wonder why no one has mentioned the neighbor who first called the police. If these two young men were welcome in the home in question and known in the neighborhood, why were the police even called?

We need to wake up to what's happening

When is a conspiracy acknowledged to be true? McCarthyism is a word derived from the late U.S. Sen. Joe McCarthy exposing the communists who had infiltrated our government. He was branded a crazy conspiracist.

Today we know dedicated radicals infiltrated our educational system and have established the Socialist mind-set (brainwashing) for today's government reformation. Add to this a powerful, blatantly leftist media wing and the equally powerful Hollywood propaganda wing that has attacked America's moral base continuously, and we have a subversive conspiracy.

Cruise busted without Johnson's assistance

I decided to take my mother on a cruise for her 86th birthday. She has never been on a cruise, and I thought this would be a wonderful gift.

Now I wish to take readers on a cruise through my nightmare. In June, I began attempting to get a birth certificate for mother because a passport was needed to visit the Bahamas. Unfortunately, she was born in South Carolina by a mid-wife who did not record her and many others' births. This cost me $30.

Exercising joggers must exercise caution

I'd like to apologize to the group of joggers on Old Church Road at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday for startling them when I had to slam on my brakes.

It's dark at 6:30 a.m., especially so on cloudy days, and they were jogging or walking as a group down Old Church Road, a country road with several jogs and rises, in the dark. They were all wearing dark-colored shirts.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

To Fox News critics: Thanks for watching

I am writing to the bashers of Fox News.

The Fox reporters say "We Report, You Decide."

Not everyone has submitted resignation

Sunday's headline indicated that with Chancellor Richard Herman's resignation all "ambiguity" had been removed from the politicized admissions scandal. Not so.

All the original players in this sorry little drama at the University of Illinois have resigned except two trustees from Chicago, James Montgomery and Frances Carroll. How come? Is there something about them that gives them immunity? If so, why?

Obama made costly trip for Olympics

It's all over but the shouting; Brazil is the venue for the next Olympics and they are celebrating big time in Rio.

The president ought to be terribly embarrassed about going to Denmark to promote a Chicago site, but he probably isn't. He most likely thought that his charm and charisma would swing the vote in Chicago's favor.

We must protect health care system

At my recent high school reunion, our 60th for the Haverford (Pennsylvania) Township High School, everyone in the room by the life insurance tables prevailing at graduation had lived beyond their expectancy, including 47 of our original class of 120. The women were ahead by four years, and the men by seven years.

This situation arises because such insurance tables were constructed on the experience of our parents. Over our lives, medical care and nutritional practice have advanced substantially.

Education is a key ingredient at Allerton

It is unfortunate that recently, the environmental education (EE) program offerings have been cut entirely from the Allerton Park budget. At this point, no youth and family programs exist, leaving only overpriced events directed toward potential donors.

The Allerton Web site states that the cutbacks have focused Allerton on "preserving the core elements" of the park. I argue that EE is core to Allerton's purpose. One of the five strategic goals defined by park administrators is to "provide a variety of environmental and cultural programs for diverse audiences." Allerton is not striving to fulfill this aspect of its mission.

We can't ignore climate change

On Saturday, about 75 people met behind the University of Illinois student union as part of 350.org to send a message about climate change. Faculty from atmospheric sciences spoke and explained the difference between climate and weather.

It does not appear to be big local news, but it was international news for CNN and The New York Times that around the globe on the same day 4,000 other groups in 170 countries from Mt. Everest to the Great Barrier Reef to the Maldivian Islands threatened with rising ocean levels, have created the largest mass action on climate change the world has ever seen.

Coach's decision was piling it on

I am writing in reference to the recent Unity/Shelbyville football game in which Unity won 40-7.

I thought it was unsportsmanlike for Unity to go for a two-point conversion when it was up by such a wide margin. I don't know why a coach would exhibit that kind of gamesmanship to his players. That's not teaching the players how to be good winners.

Urbana police critic misstated the facts

This is in response to Richard Reynolds' recent letter about citizens being afraid to complain about Urbana police officers.

Reynolds obviously has not bothered to look at the city's Web site in regard to filing a citizen complaint. Under frequently asked questions, it clearly states that complaints can be filed either at the police department or directly to the Civilian Police Review Board through the Urbana Human Relations Office.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Keillor's insults getting tiresome

I am writing in response to a recent column by Garrison Keillor. His characterization of of conservatives as "carpet chewers, ragemeisters, gin-crazed crackers and jerks that are throwing mud just to see if it sticks" is uncalled for.

He indicates unions "used to know how to deal with hecklers" then has the nerve to say conservatives are obnoxious. If I were a union member, I would not be flattered by that comment. As a professional who runs a business, I have been among those speaking out about what has been blatant corruption from a government gone off the deep end.

Form your judgment based on the facts

There has been a lot of outrage and conclusion-forming in the past few weeks concerning the death of 15-year-old Kiwane Carrington.

Losing such a young person, no matter what race, is hard to take. But why are so many people jumping to conclusions before the investigation is complete? I have no idea what the investigation will conclude, but the purpose is to establish the facts.

Let's give thought to war in Afghanistan

Although health care reform matters, let's not forget about the two wars this country is currently engaged in, most importantly, Afghanistan.

There are currently 62,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan and 35,000 from other nations. After eight years, what do they have to show for it?

Reader gets tired of Herman pictures

How many more full-blown photos and articles of University of Illinois Chancellor Richard Herman must we readers endure? It is just another attempt by The News-Gazette of trying to make a martyr out of a mole. Truly, it's time the UI and The News-Gazette press on to greener pastures.

CALEB BUNDY

People awfully quick to judge the police

What would you do if you came upon a hooded figure trying to go through the window of your house or a house in your neighborhood? Would you ignore it? Would you approach them yourself unarmed not knowing if they had a weapon or if they were on drugs and crazy enough to hurt you? Or would you call the police?

What would you do if you forgot your keys and, while attempting to get in the window of your home, you were approached by policemen, guns drawn, and told to show your hands? Would you approach the policemen or would you comply?

Where was coverage of Chief's dance?

Does the University of Illinois own The News-Gazette? One would guess that to be a fair assumption, since for dubious reasons, very little appeared regarding Chief Illiniwek's Oct. 2 appearance at the Assembly Hall.

All I saw in your newspaper the following day were two pictures. One was of the fans standing, cheering, paying homage to, and respecting the Chief. The other was of several people marching in protest.

Cultural issue not easy to understand

There have been quotes in The News-Gazette lately from individuals who ask that people "try to better understand the black culture." As a white person, I wonder what this black culture really is.

In a recent issue, Champaign City Council member Will Kyles talked about learning to deal with youth: "How do you talk to a kid who goes home without food or is involved in different lifestyles?"

Monday, October 26, 2009

News organization unfair to Obama

The controversy over Fox News' right-wing bias didn't just start with its 24-hour-a-day Obama bashing. Back during the eight years of the Bush administration, it was often referred to by its critics as "The Republican Campaign Headquarters" or "The Bush Lover's Network."

If you have to keep telling people over and over again that you are "fair and balanced," then you are probably not fair and balanced.

Thoughts on cuts in health care costs

Following the congressional actions on health care reorganization, I perceive yet another iteration of rearrangement of the deck chairs on the Titanic, albeit on the port (left) side, which presages both direct and indirect increased costs for health care and insurance.

Here are my suggestions to reduce the actual costs of medical and surgical care:

Nonpayments make for lot of problems

My husband and I read a recent article regarding the University of Illinois's financial situation with regard to health care insurance premium payments.

My husband retired from the UI history department in May 2007. Since then, we have had constant problems with the UI's obligation to pay a portion of our medical bills not covered by Medicare. These payments are made to the providers through the agency of Cigna, the claim administrator for the Quality Health Care Plan.

Police victims too afraid to complain

The recent News-Gazette editorial regarding the Urbana police review board incorrectly assumes that since complaints against police are low, Urbana must have very little police misconduct.

Complaints are low, in part, because most victims of police brutality are afraid to complain. The purported number of complaints is also low because Urbana's police chief rejects all written complaints, typed complaints, e-mail complaints, oral complaints and video complaints; he only accepts complaints on official complaint forms.

Critics on White House's hit list

An African-American caller to the "Penny For Your Thoughts" radio program complained of racism associated with talk radio and TV. During conversation Glenn Beck was mentioned. Jim Turpin, host of the program, confessed he doesn't have the stomach to watch Beck anymore. "This guy is a raving maniac."

Just hours before I heard Chicago WLS talk radio hosts Don Wade and Roma introduce Glenn Beck as their special guest. Beck got his shoes licked by the Wades for the fantastic job he is doing every day on Fox News exposing criminal activities of ACORN and its affiliates across the nation.

Public is grateful to Champaign police

I am writing to thank Police Chief R.T. Finney and members of the Champaign Police Department for their professional conduct and dedication to the safety and security of this city.

Through all of my interactions with the department, including ride-alongs with officers, I have seen the highest level of professionalism and fairness. The officers put their lives on the line daily to help this city be as safe as possible, and for that I am grateful.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Life in community has been rewarding

Susan and I are writing a letter to the Champaign-Urbana community to express our gratitude for an extraordinary 11 years.

When we arrived here in 1998, we made a decision not only to work at the University of Illinois but also to use our energy to make Champaign-Urbana a better place to live for everyone. Never has a decision been so rewarding.

Leaving puppy to die inhumane, disgusting

I am writing to express my disgust to the inhumane person who dumped a young malnourished puppy in its crate along the country road my family and I live on to die.

We found it dead, full of fleas and severely malnourished. We buried it on our property, instead of letting it rot alongside the road.

Israel's critics misrepresent facts

The progressive movement gets much more right than it gets wrong, but on Israel/Palestine it often gets more wrong than right. In the case of Rachel Corrie, good-hearted people have grabbed onto a narrative that's compelling but false. So has letter writer David Green.

Most people who rage about Israel having "murdered" Corrie don't know, for example, that the whole incident was caught on audiotape, which makes it clear Corrie's death was accidental. The bulldozer operator can clearly be heard saying that he thinks he might have hit someone. He uses the male word for "someone."

The force of law requires compliance

I am writing to express my concern about the 15-year-old boy who was shot and killed and the martyr status he has acquired.

The parent/guardian should be looking at themselves in the mirror really close. It is common knowledge that out on the streets police officers are the boss. I have had my own squabble, to the point where I just smirk, tell the officer to have a nice day and then start planning my court battle.

Police really do try to serve community

Members of the Champaign community depend on the police to protect and help us in our most vulnerable moments.

Not only should we always question certain procedures carried out by our local police agencies, but we should also make sure they are given every opportunity to protect themselves and citizens.

Why have the pols escaped censure?

Now that both President White and Chancellor Herman have resigned and most trustees have been replaced, the admissions scandal is coming to a close.

Just as the University of Illinois officials have taken responsibility for their wrongful actions, it is time to take a look at the real culprits in this controversy – the state's politicians. There is no question that between the state politicians who applied inappropriate political pressure and the university officials who succumbed to it, the former are much more guilty.

Herman's decision is deep disappointment

Chancellor Richard Herman's resignation saddens me greatly.

Why does the University of Illinois always fold so easily under pressure? First, it was getting rid of Chief Illiniwek so as not to offend an extinct Indian tribe. Now it's forcing out Chancellor Herman and President B. Joseph White for showing favoritism toward certain applicants for admission – a practice that goes on and always has at virtually every college and university.

White, Herman are outstanding people

While there may be politicians and poorly informed bystanders dancing in the streets with the resignation of Richard Herman, Joe White and nearly the entire University of Illinois Board of Trustees, Illinois citizens have lost once again.

As chairman and chief executive officer of Novellus Systems, Inc., I have worked with White and Herman over the last five years as they labored tirelessly to run a world-class university in a nearly bankrupt state.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

School bike day was a big success

This year, for the first time, every elementary school in the Urbana and Champaign school districts participated in International Walk and Bike to School Day.

This means more than 9,000 elementary students learned about the safety rules for walking and biking to school as well as the health and environmental benefits of using active transportation.

Why no increase for senior citizens?

The government says there is no justification for a cost-of-living increase for Social Security recipients because the cost of living has not increased.

So I have a question: Does this also affect members of Congress? Will they get a cost-of-living increase? Will other government employees get a cost-of-living increase? Will the military get a cost-of-living increase?

Local suit drive was big success

There are often numerous barriers to finding a good job. Sometimes, it's as simple as not having the right clothes for a job interview.

The Community Foundation of East Central Illinois and the Champaign Consortium were proud partners with the Men's Wearhouse for this year's National Suit Drive.

Washington school should be preserved

I am writing in support of Alonzo Mitchell's call for maintaining Washington Elementary School – if not as an elementary school, then as a one-stop, community education center dispensing social and educational services to residents of all ages.

I admit to a personal interest in this decision, having attended Washington myself. And my mother, Marguerita Chisholm Johnson, taught there for more than 20 years. As Mitchell points out, our other neighborhood schools, Lawhead and Willard, have been demolished, leaving little institutional history in the community.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Get facts before forming opinion

There was a great deal of outrage expressed at the Champaign City Council about the tragic death of a teenager who was involved in a confrontation with police.

The investigation is not complete, but there are calls for the resignation of Police Chief R.T. Finney.

Police must hold to standard of integrity

I'm disturbed by the letters and blog posts that are quick to justify the use of firearms against a 15-year-old boy who paid with his life. Perhaps I have overlooked something, but I have yet to see any reports that this boy was holding a weapon.

I also have to ask if something like this would have happened if a couple of white kids were suspected of breaking into a house in Cherry Hills.

Real transgressors yet to be punished

Now that the strings have been cut on University of Illinois President B. Joseph White and Chancellor Richard Herman, maybe the prosecutors will go after the real criminals – the politicians – who profited from the clout scandal.

ROBERT CASTELO

Corrie commentary a tiresome argument

According to Carol Mizrahi's recent guest commentary, the late Rachel Corrie equals the International Solidarity Movement equals Marxist-anarchist equals Palestinian terrorist equals anti-Israel equals anti-Semite.

I am all too familiar with this tiresome way of spinning things. What is especially contemptible is her cold-hearted dismissal as terrorism of an idealistic young girl's courageous struggle for justice for an oppressed people.

Lawful orders must be followed

While reading the article about Kiwane Carrington's funeral, I was appalled to read a quote from Terry Townsend. He was quoted as saying, "In this case, the kids aren't resisting arrest, they're resisting injustice."

I hope that Townsend's words fall on deaf ears. This type of rhetoric sends the wrong message to all youth. If you subscribe to Townsend's thinking, kids should never listen to not just police officers, but teachers and other adults in authority positions if they feel they are being treated unfairly.

Race is not issue in police matters

I wish people would stop playing the race card.

Every time a non-white person has a conflict with police, the cops are described as racists. Police do not make arrests based on skin color.

Indiana criticism was way off base

Tom Kacich's recent column ("Hoosiers not really living in an economic paradise") misses the point behind Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels' efforts to make his state a competitive and prosperous place to live and work.

My organization recently hosted a luncheon featuring Daniels, where he likened his mission to "building the best sandbox" in which businesses can begin, grow and create jobs. His policy road map has been to eliminate Indiana's deficit, pay back debt, build a cash reserve and then cut taxes.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Drinking age should be lowered to 18

In 1967, I graduated from high school at the age of 18.

The future for me and other young men had already been decided. Our country was at war in Vietnam, and we all knew that unless we enlisted we would one day receive a letter from Uncle Sam notifying us that we were being drafted.

Adult education is great opportunity

The week of Oct. 18 is National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week by a resolution of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Adult Education and Family Literacy programs throughout Illinois are coordinated and administered by the Illinois Community College Board. It's estimated that 1.8 million of the state's 9.9 million people over 16 lack a high school diploma – more than 18 percent. Approximately 2.33 million Illinois residents speak a language other than English at home – approximately 24 percent.

Preventive care drives up costs

Axel Gehrmann's recent commentary on the World Health Organization's ranking of U. S. health care was probably correct in its statements of fact. However, comparing other countries' systems to ours is comparing apples to oranges.

One should be able to see this non sequitur by doing what Washington avoids, that being to define the problem. Most would agree the system is just too expensive. As to why, my feeling is that, given the gigantic strides in health technology over the past 30 years, and with hospitals and health providers desiring to acquire those technologies, a new philosophy has emerged allowing them to reach those objectives.

Changing board's structure good idea

I want to commend C. Pius Weibel, chairman of the Champaign County Board, for wanting to abolish the board's committee structure. For many years members of the board sat on those committees – some actually working and participating and others not doing much except to offer opinions.

Having a committee of the whole will save the taxpayers a lot of money. Per diem payments will be a thing of the past.

Board will review road speed issue

As a member of the Champaign County Board's highway committee, I am writing in response to another letter urging a lowered speed limit on Monticello Road.

Members of the county board are concerned about a safe driving environment in Champaign County and, specifically, on Monticello Road.

There's no justice in our court system

I wonder what sort of world some letter writers live in. One writer suggested the two boys involved in the Oct. 9 shooting would, if they had obeyed police, have been handcuffed, briefly investigated and then released. That is ludicrous.

The second boy involved was held four days before released to his mother. They would have been dragged through the courts at their own expense or at the taxpayers' expense just to prove their innocence. The public defender's office and state's attorney would have offered them a plea agreement, and they would officially have been in the system.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Obama will cover all and cut costs

Right now, our choice in health care is limited by insurance industry bureaucrats to those least likely to need medical care and to those employed by companies who are either able to pay high premiums or insure a large group of employees.

Small businesses, sole proprietors, self-employed artisans, farmers and many other Americans are struggling to purchase health insurance on the individual market because they can't access the lower rates that big businesses and/or government negotiate. Many are denied coverage for having pre-existing conditions, can't obtain private insurance and can't afford the state plan for uninsurables, which costs $600 to $800 or more per month.

Use of Tasers is not a good idea

Apparently some people believe that Kiwane Carrington's life would have been saved if the Champaign police were equipped with Tasers. This would be a terrible idea.

Anecdote after anecdote from cities that use Tasers show they are overused. There's even a video of an officer repeatedly tasing an elderly woman at a traffic stop because she didn't show immediate and total submission. Was this officer threatened at any moment? No. Was the elderly woman armed? Absolutely not. Could she have in any way caused him harm? No.

Letters on shooting displayed ignorance

I am a mother of three sons who will someday be teenagers. The events that resulted in Kiwane Carrington's death could easily be replayed with my children.

A cold, wet day, no school, locked out of the house, video games inside, prying open windows to get some warmth and entertainment. When police arrived, the kids were confused because in their minds they weren't really doing anything wrong. They don't want to get down on the wet ground with that clean shirt and try to get past the officers – who knows why?

Bring back Chief to restore spirit

The dismal record of the Illini teams in recent times reflects the fact that there is one missing ingredient.

Their spirit is noticeably gone. Without the spirit, there is no fervor. The strong spirit and incentive to win was the component that sparked great past seasons. This loss of inner motivation coincides with the departure of the symbol of a winning vitality. I refer to Chief Illiniwek.

Was a stereotype at play in shooting?

I was upset after reading about the police shooting of Kiwane Carrington.

There are a lot of stereotypes surrounding young African-American men in today's culture. It is often assumed that they are up to no good. This stereotype may have contributed to the Oct. 9 shooting of the 15-year-old Carrington.

Black community does need answers

There was a wave of letters expressing sympathy to the police officer who shot the boy and the voices of the non-white community saying that black people are not the only ones concerned in this tragedy.

The statement in The News-Gazette editorial saying that people in the black community need answers is a true statement. The black community needs answers more than any other community out there because black people are constantly treated differently by white police officers.