Decatur Tribune Online
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
United States Has Never Been A Democracy
Dear Editor:
In response to Dick Blankenburg of San Diego's letter that was in last week’s edition, the United States is not and never has been a democracy
It is a republic.
Benjamin Franklin, after the Constitution was finished, wrote "we have given you a republic if you can keep it."
The word "democracy" is misused every day by politicians, teachers, and the media. The last true democracy was probably the Athens city-state, where every male citizen could vote on every issue. It is a very slow, clumsy and inefficient method of government and open to tyranny of the masses.
In a republic, government is by elected representatives of the people and the rights of minorities are protected. Granted, of late, our republic has been less than efficient, but just imagine how inefficient and unwieldy it would be if every issue had to be submitted to the electorate and voted on in a national referendum.
I notice Mr. Blankenburg only opposed right-wing organizations and their sources of income. He fails to mention the enormous amount of' left-wing organizations funded by George Soros.
Glenn Portwood
Decatur
Decatur Is A Great Place To Live
Dear Editor:
I came to Decatur in the Spring of 1957. I liked the city then, and I still do. Main Street was on Route 36 through town at that time.
When entering Decatur from the West on 36, I noticed the multi-storied houses framed by huge elm trees. The people I met were the friendliest and most accepting people I had ever encountered. One of the things I especially enjoyed was hearing the church bells ringing on Sunday morning.
I met my wife in Decatur and we recently celebrated our 55th wedding anniversary. We have witnessed many changes in Decatur over the years, some bad, but many more good.
Decatur is blessed with the finest police force and sheriff department. Our fire department and medical first-responders, our doctors and our two hospitals are the best. I believe our present city council is one of the best.
Decatur is a great place to live. I pray for more progress and much success in the future.
Eldon K. Clements
Decatur
Repeal Income Tax Because It Is Evil
Dear Editor:
The #1 reason to repeal the income tax is to end evil. The income tax is evil
because it puts government before God's directive that we are free and given our liberty by God, not government.
We are free. What we create is ours to do with as we elect.
Man has agreed to exchange some freedom for advantages offered by living in a group. Key to that concept is the principle that man, not government by force, willingly agreed to this pact. Free men can way, "This is mine. You cannot take it without my consent."
The IRS allows no such agreement. The IRS assumes a citizen is guilty without trial. The income tax has morphed into a deadly weapon used to control citizens it was supposed to help by providing revenue for governance. Now, the politically powerful use the IRS to destroy enemies, rewards friends, and grow their personal or political wealth. Men and women are forced into compliance through fear. This is evil.
Ending the income tax, FairTaxHR25 destroys the power of a handful of elite who in the pretense of funding government have for one-hundred years sucked the economic blod of citizens powerless to resist.
Beverly Martin
Fulton, MO
How Many Other Projects Exist That Americans
Know Nothing About?
Dear Editor:
Now employed by MSNBC, Robert Gibbs once served as President Obama's press secretary during 2009-2011.
He tells that when he first went through the process of becoming press secretary, one of the first things they told me was "you're not even to acknowledge the drone program."
Our denial of the existence of the program when it's obviously happening undermines the confidence of the people overall in the decisions that their government makes.
How many other projects have the American taxpayers been denied the knowledge of, and how much of our taxes paid for these things?
Phyllis Chapman
Shelbyville
Were Depression Era Prices Lower Than Today?
Dear Editor:
I saw your offering about the Depression Era Montgomery Ward prices.
Actually the prices were on a level with today’s prices.
The real question is "How long did the average wage earner have to work to pay those ‘low’ prices?”
The vast majority of products then were made in the USA. Today the related products are made by child and slave labor in 3rd world slave/sweat shops.
And, today it takes the same amount of hours worked for the average wage earner to purchase the same related products as it did back then.
Bob Minks
Decatur
Continue To Support Teachers, Dr. Key, In Molding Young People Into Responsible Adults
Dear Editor:
Have you visited a school recently where the students said please, thank you, excuse me, and opened the door for you if needed? If so, chances are you were at MacArthur High School.
Dr. Key, the principal is amazing. She and the teachers enforce the good behavior the students have been taught at home. They are molding the students into young adults to become productive people after they graduate from school.
I have been with the school district as a teaching assistant for a few years. I am so proud of the school that my chilren graduated from. I have never, not even once, been shown disrespect by a student at this school.
Parents please continue supporting the teachers and Dr. Key in molding your young people into responsible adults.
Beverly K. Williams
Decatur
What Is President Saying When He Uses ObamaSpeak?
Dear Editor:
I have spent the last 6 years since my retirement soaking up every bit of political news I can so you might say I have become a political junkie. Therefore I feel I am imminently qualified to write this letter advising all those not so politically inclined exactly what Obama is saying when he engages in Obama Speak. For today's lesson I have chosen 3 of the most frequently used words in his vocabulary; Compromise, Revenue and Fair Share (sorry I know that's 2 words).
First we'll begin with Compromise; what exactly does Obama mean when he uses the term Compromise. Substitute the word Capitulation for Compromise and you have it; there is no compromise in Obama. He is an ideologue and like all ideologues they don't compromise; they engage in subterfuge and obfuscation in order to coerce you into capitulation!
Next the word Revenue; what exactly is Obama saying when he says we need a balanced approach consisting of spending cuts and additional Revenue. Well my friends he's actually referring to increasing taxes; Taxes and Revenues are oxymorons! Individuals or companies earn Revenue by producing some good or service for which others are willing to pay; the government steals the revenue from the producers in the form of taxes; the government produces nothing but only takes from the producers through taxation. Taxes and Revenue are not synonyms and thus cannot be used interchangeably within the same sentence. Call it what you want but a Tax by any other name is still a Tax!
Finally Obama's favorite class warfare expression is Fair Share. Remember he went on and on during the 2012 campaign; the one during which he successfully divided the country, about those fortunate Americans not paying their fair share. Those small business owners who didn't build their business or those lucky at life's lotto just weren't paying their fair share. Well what's he really saying; in order to redistribute the income since his economic policies have been a disaster the only way to equal things out is to eradicate the middle class making everyone poor. Fair share means taking most of everything from those that have worked hard to get ahead in the name of fairness. From each according to their ability to each according to their need; sound familiar?
Joseph P. Quinn
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Advice: ‘Spread The Word And Stand Together’
Dear Editor:
After watching anti-Constitution politicians in Washington try to exploit the Newtown tragedy to trample on Americans' right to keep and bear arms, Gilberton Borough, Pennsylvania Police Chief Mark Kessler decided enough was enough.
Now, he is speaking out, and asking lawmakers in his small borough of around 1,000 residents to pass a nullification measure. He is also promoting the idea nationwide, most recently appearing on the popular Alex Jones radio show heard all across the country.
Chief Kessler detailed his proposed "Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance," which would prevent any federal or state infringements on the right to keep and bear firearms, accessories, or ammunition within the jurisdiction.
If approved, the resolution, citing the U.S. and Pennsylvania constitutions would nullify any unconstitutional acts purporting to restrict gun rights.
The Chief offered the following advice: "Spread the word and stand together!"
Dick Wheeler
Shelbyville
Please Consider Giving, For The Children
Dear Editor
On Saturday April 27, 2013 School Social Workers from IASSW region 17 Decatur-Springfield participated in their 2nd annual food drive in honor of school social work month. They collected donations of cash and food for the Northeast Community Fund and Catholic Charities of Decatur and for the food bank at the Methodist church in Monticello.
According to the organization Do Something, 1 in 6 people in America face hunger and 1 in 5 children are at risk of hunger. In the Latino and African American population 1 in 3 children are at risk of hunger. Over 20 million children receive free and reduced lunch each school day but only 10% have access to programs during the summer months.
People are not hungry because we do not have enough food in America. Rather, families do not have funds to purchase food due to unemployment and poverty. Unemployment is the highest indicator of food insecurity. Decatur has the highest unemployment rate in Illinois and therefore our children are at the highest risk of hunger this summer.
Please consider continuing to give to our local pantries. Have your organization do a food drive. Collect at church or ask for food as entrance to your latest event.
Wouldn’t it be great if those who attended our Decatur Celebration donated food or cash right before students return to school, when the pantries may be struggling?
Have a casual day at work; the privilege can be earned by donating food items or cash. Pantries can often buy food cheaper than every day people. Cash can also buy the perishable items that we don’t donate. Please consider giving, for the children.
Risé Davis
IASSW Co-VP
Red Blooded Americans Should Rid Nation
Of John Birch Society’s Influence
Dear Editor,
In the March 27 issue of the Decatur Tribune, you published the letter of Charles L. Fowler of Toledo in which he expressed his opinion and that of the John Birch Society’s that the USA is not a democracy, never has been, and should not be. However, we Americans have been taught differently in our public schools, since 1789.
Your editorial policy is clearly stated that “Letters to the Editor” are not necessarily the opinion of the Tribune, but, you have never editorially indicated that you disagree with Fowler and the John Birch Society.
Here are some quotes from the John Birch Society Bluebook:
Elimination of democracy: p.124 "And democracy … is merely a deceptive phrase, a weapon of demagoguery, and a perennial fraud." (Footnote 25, p. 136) Our founding fathers … spurned a democracy as probably the worst of all forms of government.”
Organizing front organizations: “…organize fronts—little fronts, big fronts, temporary fronts, permanent fronts, all kinds of fronts… A part of this same operation is the gathering of petitions, dealing with political matters, educational matters, and everything under the sun.” p.68-73
Character assastination: “…we should… start shocking the American People … Let’s make what we are talking about clearer by illustration … the head of one of the great educational institutions … some of us believe to be a Communist. I doubt if we could prove it on him. But… we would run in the magazine an article consisting of questions to this man, which would be devastating in their implications. The question technique … is mean and dirty. But the Communists we are after are meaner and dirtier, and too slippery to put your fingers on them in the ordinary way.” pp. 73-4.
Writing letters to the editor: “institute the organized planning and control to make… effectively coordinated use of the powerful letter writing weapon…Letter writing of the kind that builds opinion exactly the way single grains of sand build a whole barricade. . . we would keep a million men working every day. ” pp. 66-8.
Personally, reading Mr. Fowler and the John Birch Society Bluebook, makes my flesh crawl; why doesn't every red blooded American feel the same way and rid our nation of the John Birch Society influence and the power of their excessive dollars? Yes they are exceedingly wealthy. The Koch brothers, sons of John Birch Society founder Fred Koch, are individually two of the wealthiest 100 people in the world, each worth $22.5 billion according to Forbes.
The Koch Brothers finance the Tea Party, ALEC, and Gov. Walker’s election in Wisconsin, among other like groups. These enemies of American democracy are more dangerous in my mind that foreign terrorists.
Opposing the John Birch Society’s and Mr. Fowler’s ideology, just might adversely affect the Tribune’s advertising, so I can understand your reluctance to defend American democracy, Mr. Editor; but I am interested in your editorial opinion about “American democracy” if you have one.
Dick Blankenburg,
a Decatur native
living in San Diego
Mother’s Day Is Reminder Of Abraham Lincoln’s
Tribute To His Mother
Dear Editor:
Every year when we celebrate Mother's Day, with its new birth of environment, my heart turns to Lincoln's tribute. "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother."
In our troubled world today, mothers need that special blessing - especially mothers separated from their loved ones by our military service - or part-time mothers who suffer from broken marriages - or mothers who have to work to help overcome the high cost of living, and are too tired to enjoy their children - or mothers who find it difficult rearing a family with all the negative pressures present in our society today.
Yes, mothers have a difficult job and are deserving of the various ways their children show their gratitude and love.
Rose F. Cunningham
Decatur
Digital Privacy Is Freedom Of The Past
Dear Editor:
Following the resignation of CIA Director David Petraeus, a former high-ranking member of the National Security Agency (NSA) claimed the FBI's probe into Petraeus indicates that digital privacy had become a freedom of the past.
"Basically the FBI has access to the data collected through the emails of virtually everybody in the country" says NSA whistleblower William Binney.
He affirmed this in a December 4 interview with the Kremlin-funded news outlet Russia Today (RT). "And the FBI has access to it."
Edward Barrett
Westervelt
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Posted 5/7/13
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Earlier Posts Start Here
‘Medical’ Marijuana Is Not What It Pretends To Be
Dear Editor:
When I was a teenager growing up in Decatur, I argued with everyone that marijuana should be legal. After spending 30 years as an addiction psychiatrist treating drug abusers in prisons, homeless clinics and treatment programs, I’ve learned the games they play. They’re really good scam artists, and “medical” marijuana is a scam on a national scale. `
The Illinois Senate will vote on medical marijuana soon, and while supporters insist it’s only for serious illnesses, a look at states with similar laws tells us otherwise.
In Colorado, only 5 percent of the medical marijuana patients had cancer, glaucoma or AIDS--the serious illnesses the law was meant for. Meanwhile, 94 percent claimed pain. In Oregon, 96 percent got their pot for pain, and that pain can be anything. In California, one woman got marijuana because her high heels hurt. Pain is easily faked and impossible to disprove.
Doctors are supposed to screen out drug abusers, but in California, Colorado and Arizona, a handful of doctors decided to get rich off marijuana, and almost all the marijuana prescriptions come from that tiny handful. In Montana, eight doctors wrote three-fourths of the marijuana recommendations. They see patients one time only, for as little as 5 minutes, handing out marijuana cards to anyone with $150. That should be illegal, but medical marijuana laws protect them.
The result: Any drug abuser can lie or exaggerate, and, for a fee, an unscrupulous doctor will give him a card to smoke pot legally. That’s where almost all the marijuana goes. They’re just using people with cancer to play on our sympathy. It’s really a bait and switch that effectively legalizes marijuana.
It doesn’t have to be. New Mexico’s law requires second opinions for easy to fake diagnoses like pain, and insists patients get marijuana from specialists familiar with their illness. The proposed Illinois law includes neither of these protections.
That’s hardly surprising. The Marijuana Policy Project, a group that wants marijuana legalized, is lobbying for this law. Of course, they didn’t fix the loopholes.
None of this would matter if marijuana were harmless, but marijuana causes DUIs and fatal car wrecks. Research from New Zealand found regular pot-smokers 9.5 times more likely to be in serious or fatal car wrecks. That’s why fatal car crashes involving marijuana skyrocketed in California, Colorado and Montana when their laws went into effect.
These laws hit teenagers the hardest. Teenage marijuana use is 30 percent higher in “medical” marijuana states. If it passes in Illinois, more teenagers will smoke pot, they’ll smoke it more often, and they’ll start at a younger age. Researchers have shown that teens who smoke pot regularly have trouble learning, get worse grades, are less likely to finish high school or college, and as adults, are unhappier and earn less money. No one wants that for their children.
State senators should think twice before believing what the pro-marijuana lobbyists have told them.
Ed Gogek, MD
Prescott, Ariz
After Bankruptcy You Can Again Be Good Credit Risk
Dear Editor:
Bankruptcy can save your family.
If you are under financial stress, then you should not hesitate to file for bankruptcy. The vast majority of working people file bankruptcy for these very good reasons: 1. medical bills because of illness or injury 2. loss of a job. 3. divorce and 4. mortgage foreclosure.
The big corporations file for bankruptcy protection whenever they need it. For example, Donald Trump's companies are not shy about filing for bankruptcy protection. Your taxes bailed-out Wells Fargo, AIG and Chase. The bail-out saved them from bankruptcy.
Within about three years of discharge your credit will return to a good level.
After bankruptcy you become a good credit risk again. So banks and credit card companies want your business.
Here are the names of good lawyers in our community who handle bankruptcy cases: Joseph Basola (423-3411); Jay Barr (875-5311) and Andrew Bourey (422-2400). Please give this information to your family and friends.
Thank you.
William C. Faber, Jr.
Decatur
‘Fair Tax’ Is Simple, But Effective Way
To Make Taxes Fair For Everybody
Dear Editor,
Everyday on the news we hear politicians talking about budget cuts to end the federal deficit.
What we don't hear politicians talking about are ways to raise revenue in a non partisan fashion to end the federal deficit.
With the fair tax 100% of the people in America will pay taxes instead of the current 53%. The fair tax is a national sales tax based on an individuals consumption of new goods and services. The more you spend the more you pay and the less you spend the less you pay.
It is a very simple yet extremely effective way to make things fair for all who reside in the United States whether they are here legally or illegally. It captures tax revenue from people who earn an honest living as well as those who earn a dishonest living.
The fair tax is the only tax reform that will create jobs and end the deficit without battering the middle class and
driving us further apart. America needs tax reform now and the fair tax is our only true non partisan solution.
Whitney Watson
Parrish, FL
Federal Taxation Is Issue All Americans Deal With Daily
Dear Editor:
It's not a Democratic or Republican, liberal or conservative type issue.
Federal taxation is an issue all Americans deal with daily. There is a Bill in Congress, HR 25, the FairTax Bill, that eliminates all federal taxes on income and replaces it with a tax on consumption on new goods and services.
Who wins? First, the economy wins, as millions of new jobs are created due to our new found worldwide competitiveness.
Second, all Americans win as their
gross pay becomes their take home pay (states will most likely replace their income tax with a consumption tax).
Who loses? Special interest groups as politicians can no longer grant favors to supporters by creating tax loopholes.
Learn more at fairtax.org. Call your Congressman today and demand he become a co-sponsor.
Anthony Gasbarro
Fairhope Alabama
Farmers Aren’t The Only Ones Opposing RICL
Dear Editor:
Block Rock Island Clean Line is not a group of selfish farmers wanting to stop progress by opposing clean energy solutions that would help society.
Block RICL IS a group of citizens concerned with unnecessary power lines and the billions of dollars in expenses they impose on the tax payers and consumers.
Block RICL is made-up of concerned citizens who want to educate the public and ask the Illinois Commerce Commission, ICC, to study all proposed power line projects and stop unnecessary transmission lines. The group initially was begun by landowners directly impacted by Rock Island Clean Line’s project to cross Illinois farm land with huge towers carrying DC electricity from Iowa to the PJM power grid which supplies the east coast. But as more information was available to the public, the group quickly grew to include many other citizens who question a system where a private group of wealthy out-of- state investors can attempt to get public utility status and seize private land using eminent domain -Then make the public pay for their investment through electricity bills.
Also opposing the RICL power line project are citizens following the National trend to scrutinize the abuse of Federal subsidy money for supposedly “clean energy”.
These people realize that wind energy produced in the Midwest and transmitted half-way across the country is not the answer to a future of clean energy. They also feel there are better clean energy solutions close to where the energy is needed and wind subsidies abuse our Federal tax payer’s money which was intended to create future independence from fossil fuels. Wind energy is very costly to produce and requires back up production of electricity from coal, natural gas, or nuclear energy. Only a third of the electricity transmitted over the proposed “clean lines” would likely be produced by wind. Clean electricity generated by off-shore Atlantic Ocean wind farms or under water turbines located near the demand area make a lot more sense.
To learn more about the subject please go to www.BlockRICL.com. This is an issue that concerns all Americans.
Susan Sack
Mendota
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Above Letters Were Posted 4/30/13
Earlier Postings Follow:
Mayor, City Council Hurt The People
Again On Water Rate Increase
Dear Editor:
Good letter Frank Ciastke.
Not only have city leaders hurt the people again on the water rate increase, think back to the ski lift, gambling boat, prison and etc. Not only did people vote in favor of leaf burning two times, but were told, “Sorry, we know what's best for you, no burning.”
Then, of course, all the money on the mall we lost out on. Do you realize the thousands of dollars the councilmen make a year, and the superintendent of the schools? She even receives $10,000 a year for her clothing, as I hear it.
Shouldn't all this be illegal since our city hurts so bad. So many of us wear our clothing until all they are any good for is to wash down the walls. Don't they realize our city is dying? We have almost 14% unemployment, the highest in the state. We can't afford food on the table or medicine. Let all of them live monthly on the income we do, take their raises and clothing expense and let them pay for all the changes.
Why do the people just sit and complain, doing nothing?
Really, what can we do? They know what's best for us.
If the people decided to picket at the front of the entrance to the civic center blocking the entrance, are they going to throw us in jail?
Don't think so, I hear the jail is over crowded now. Oh yeah, they could put us in the gym.
We should be able to vote on everything, before they pass it. They like for us to vote for them.
I say let's tar and feather them, sending them down the tracks out of town. Oh yeah, let's not forget the mayor too. He is right beside them, deciding what's best for us.
Like I said years ago - last one to leave Decatur, turn out the lights. Then you “know-it-alls”, will have to pay the bill, if you want water.
Sandy Petroski
Decatur
People Should Back Mayor, City Council
On Water Solution Options
Dear Editor:
Concerning the water problem: I believe that one of the solutions is to top wells north of here. If this is true, or whatever solution or proposal the mayor and council have, it is imperative that the people get behind the mayor and the council. My reasoning for this is that I come from a town where I was born and lived till I was 22 and they have a nice, relatively new seven mile long lake.
They obtained it by backing the mayor and council whole-heartedly. They did this only after several years, but yet they still did it. It was only after the people got behind the mayor and council that they did it. I know there are other places who have done the same thing only quicker and have obtained stunning results.
The key I think to the whole problem is the people. They should get behind their city government.
God acts in wonderful ways, but he also wants us to handle our share of the load.
David R. Baker
Decatur
Public Needs Clear View Of Meaning Of
Change For Decatur, District 61
Dear Editor:
My thanks to the community voters who supported me in the school board election by casting their vote for change.
In investigating the purest meaning of change for Decatur and District 61, the people need to have a clear vision of the board's role in the educational process.
The board represents the voters and taxpayers and creates policies to improve or enhance the educational system thus inviting new businesses, improving the economy and raising property values An example of one of these policies would be a safe school environment established by strong disciple policies and support for staff so that instruction takes place in a fear free environment.
In addition, the board hires all staff, including the superintendent, who reports to, and is responsible to, the board. The board hires personnel based upon employment recommendations provided by the administration.
Hence, it is critical that human resources personnel have thoroughly run all back ground checks, confirmed certification requirements and investigated the "good standing" of all applicants before making employment recommendations to the board.
At the end of the year, the board reviews staff evaluations and is responsible for reduction in force, (RIF), for both teachers and administrators.
Another board task is maintaining a balanced budget and being fiscally sound. With state funding as it is, and a real estate tax base as it stands, about all the board can do is govern spending by the administration and plan ahead for personnel/program needs. No "windfall" ever exists.
The board of education is responsible for monitoring the daily running of the district. This includes approval for securing educational materials, maintaining positive staff morale, monitoring teacher-administrator relationships, addressing parents' concerns, complying with government regulations and meeting state/national mandates in a timely manner.
Within the complexity of board responsibilities comes the monitoring of student academic achievement. If annual yearly progress, (AYP), is not met, the board can and should hold the administration accountable. After research for probable cause for the lack of success, the board must make recommendations for instructional or personnel change in order to address the issues.
Based upon staff/teacher recommendations, the board should provide policies which would address and allow for all avenues of academic success.
Finally, the board should demand that all staff are treated with respect and support so that graduation rates and entry-level job applicants reflect a quality education provided by an outstanding academic curriculum.
In conclusion, change usually comes with a price and always starts at the top. It's slow, methodical and takes cooperation to achieve desired end results, but it can be done.
The board of education is, in itself, a complex combination of philosophical goals that should be based on what's best for students without political influence or ramifications.
B.A. Buttz
Decatur
‘Lost Pants’ Viewpoint Brought Back
Memory Of Bad Experience
Dear Editor:
I enjoyed the article about the irate fan who attacked the referee and lost his pants. It reminded me of a bad experience I had back in the 1950's.
In high school it was cool to wear your jeans rather low on your hips, not like today, but low.
Our family was gathered around the dinner table to say grace and my soon to be brother-in-law, John Bright, came up behind me and gave my pants a yank. Needless to say my pants and underpants came off. Quite embarrassing for all.
I heard that the irate fan was arrested for indecency in public, but released for lack of evidence.
Ron Adams
N. Fort Myers, FL
Send Illegal Immigrants Back Home
To Follow Proper Procedure
Dear Editor:
How many "illegals" do we have in our country now? The latest figure I heard on the news was 11 million.
I personally think that estimate is way low. So what do we do with them? One news outlet newscaster suggests that they're here and we can't send them home. We have to do something with them and help them.
Again I disagree.
They came here illegally, they can leave. Illegal is illegal. That's why we have the immigration laws we've had for decades.
Send them home and let them get in line like the rest of the immigrants who follow the proper procedure. Why should people who break the law by entering illegally take precedence over the law-abiding persons?
I know that there is a category in the illegal immigrants called OTM, which means other than Mexican, which tell me that anyone from the Middle East, Africa, any place in Asia or basically anyone can enter and stay with impunity.
Send them back across the border, fix the border, and follow our heretofore established rules. When they follow our rules they're more than welcome.
Charles Fowler
Toledo
Watch For Major Increase In Sewer Use Fees
Dear Editor:
City of Decatur water bills contain several line items, none apparently voluntary. The charge for water usage appears to be somewhere around the 50% mark. The sewer processing charge is about half the water use charge, and based on volume of water consumed. The Sanitary District of Decatur (SDD) is an entity unto itself and not a part of city governance.
The sewer use charge is also based on metered water usage, while the charge for recycling is fixed, whether one opts in or out. At present, only the charge for water consumed is increasing. Reducing that cost may be an option for the homeowner by installing reduced flow devices such as aerators, shower heads, and low capacity flush tanks; the sewer use and SDD charges would be reduced accordingly.
The continuing council members were not discharged by the electorate for exercising the courage to do their job. It is suggested that it would be useful to generate an anticipated percentage of success for each water project line item prior to fund commitment. Casino players know the odds of the games before they lay their money down. That would be a useful exercise for the city before spending our money. Providing such information to Council for decision making should not be all that difficult and would not constitute micro-management but appropriate stewardship of user funding.
The next item to watch for is a major increase in the sewer use fee. The revenue from that charge is slated to repay the major funds being borrowed to repair a primary sewer artery. The question becomes: if that current fee stream is not enough to repair the artery without the use of a loan, how will maintenance be continued when the proceeds are dedicated to loan repayment? Once that financial structure is in place, it seems obvious increasing the user fee will not be optional, yet no information has been forthcoming.
Michael Jontry
Decatur
Workers Memorial Day
Dear Editor:
Working people have come together year after year to call for better working conditions and stronger safety protections on the job. As a result, workplace deaths and injuries have declined significantly, exposure to hazards and toxic chemicals like asbestos and lead have been reduced and far fewer workers are dying from trench cave-ins or from being caught in dangerous machinery.
When working people have the ability to come together and collectively bargain, they have a say in safety and health conditions on the job and can demand employers protect them from harm without fear of retaliation. When working people speak out for better working conditions, this benefits everyone, not just union members.
Every worker should be able to go to work and return home unharmed to their family and loved ones at the end of the day.
So this Workers Memorial Day, let’s remember those who lost their lives by fighting for the rights of the living.
Roger Snively
Macon
More Safety Protections Needed For Workers
Dear Editor:
Every day in America, 13 workers die on the job from job injuries. Many of these deaths could have been prevented if companies identified and promptly fixed job hazards.
In our state alone, in 2011, according to the BLS 177 hardworking men and women never came home to their families. My dad was one of those hard workers who didn't come home one cold January day.
Meanwhile, companies continue to shirk responsibility and cut corners to multiply their ever-increasing profits, all at the expense of workers. I want to know: How much money is a life worth?
Decades ago, we passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) to ensure that workers have a safe work environment. Since then, we have made progress in preventing more deaths— but not enough.
On April 28, Workers Memorial Day, we pause to remember those who have lost their lives or who have become ill on the job.
We can’t afford to be silent any more. Workers and their families shouldn’t have to endure agonizing losses because our elected officials and business leaders refuse to take action. Let’s make sure these workers did not die in vain. We need more safety protections for all workers, and we need them now.
Steve Woosley
Decatur
The Smart Meter Is Coming To Decatur
Dear Editor:
I am going to tell you about the hazards and risks that can happen with the Smart Meter. It is a new type of electrical meter that will measure your energy usage like the old analog meter does now. It will send information back to the utility by wireless signal.(radio frequency microwave Radiation signal instead of having a meter read).
Health issues: It emits dirty electricity and powerful , pulsed RF radiation into the home every 3-6 seconds.
Complaints: headaches, dizziness,nausea, insomnia, earaches, nose bleeding, heart palpitations, brain fog and general feeling of weakness. The RF,also, interferes with medical devices such as pace makers. The Radiation is a Class 2B carcinogen, according to the World Health Organization and the that it alters DNA and bloodcells.There has been no scientific testing on the Smart Meter. .
A risk of hacking: Computerized RF system of control overall electrical power and appliances , including security alarms. Privacy Rights can be at risk.
There is a risk of fires. Many fires have been caused by the Smart Meter.
Rates of electricity can become higher, depending on when the family is home. They can use the time of day to charge more such as at breakfast, dinner, washing clothes.
Smart Meters are surveillance devices that are in violation of Federal and State Wiretapping laws.
Violation of the 10th Amendment---States Rights. Violates the 4th Amendment-Privacy Law .
Invasion of Privacy: knowing where you are in your house, what appliances you are using and when. A future goal is to have all appliances replaced with those containing RF chips for even more regulation and control.
Ameren says they are mandatory but the Energy Policy Act of 2005 does not mandate the Smart Meter. It only offers to install upon customer request.
The U.N. is promoting the Smart Meter and Smart Grid under Agenda 21 or Sustainable Development . Whenever you hear the word “Sustainable,” it is part of Global Redistribution and power.
At the beginning of April, 2013, V. P. Biden suggested that we vote to be a One World Order. This is the preview of what President Obama wants to do by Executive Order in his last 2 years when he can “govern”-- as he puts it. Our Constitution would not be the law of our land; but the U.N. would be our law.
What can you do to help prevent Smart Meters? Spread the word to everyone who will listen to you. Write letters to the editor of the Decatur Tribune newspaper, call your City officials, legislature, even though many voted for the Smart Meter. Call Governor Quinn.
Some of us have the “Pre-cursor” to the Smart Meter. My analog meter was removed, unknowingly to me, in 2007. Didn’t ask me; no permission given.
Americans need to stand up and fight for things that are being pushed on us by our government. We don’t work for the government; the government works for us. We need to fight for our Constitution and the Bill of Rights. The 1st, 2nd, 4th and 10th Amendments are being violated. The President is pushing Socialism which turns into Communism. Dictatorship is not for America. Fight it. We still have property rights, but we won’t much longer if we roll over, play dead and let people talk us out of our rights. Websites: www.decatursmartmeterawarenesswebstart.com; www.napervillesmartmeterawareness.org; “Just Say No Big Brother’s Smart Meter “by Orleen Koehle.
June Innis
Decatur
America Is Headed For Destruction
Dear Editor:
America is headed straight towards destruction. And this destruction will come as a judgment from God. This judgment can only be averted if we seek God and turn ourselves and our country around.
Responsibility for the ungodliness which now prevails in our great country belongs to each one of us. But why me, you are probably thinking, to yourself. Because God says so! You see, God is going to hold us responsible for everything. For what we have done and for what we failed to do.
In the Word of God (the Holy Bible) it says, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
We failed our duty in many different ways!
We stood by as our nation was being corrupted and perverted, and we let ungodliness seep into every aspect of our lives. Everything which God considers abomination is now acceptable in America.
Some of our political leaders now brazenly support things which God Almighty called wicked and abominable.
They are either not knowledgeable in God's word, or are defying God. The Holy Bible shows what happened to nations who dared to defy God, or that got so morally depraved that God finally destroyed them.
So we need to admit that America is morally and spiritually corrupt, and that it is time to turn back to God. As a start, turn the TV off, and then close your eyes, sit back, take a few deep breaths, and relax for a a few minutes without thinking.
Then believe the Bible truth that there is a living God, our Creator, who created everything that was created and made, including you, and that He loves you.
On a clear night, go outside where it is dark and look at the moon, stars, and the never-ending universe. Everything you see before you, stands, on God's Word.
God wants us to love him, obey him, and serve him, in return for the life he has given us. To get to know God, read the Word of God, the Holy Bible, from beginning to end.
Manuel Ybarra, Jr.
Coalgate, Okla.
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Posted 4/25/13
“Letters To The Editor” are the opinions of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of the Decatur Tribune editor and publisher, staff, or advertisers.
To submit a letter, send to: Decatur Tribune, P. O. Box 1490, Decatur, IL 62525, or e-mail a letter to decaturtribune@aol.com
Earlier Letter Posts Start Here
Closed Coal Mines Don’t Buy Caterpillar Equipment
Dear Editor:
Attention: low information (Democrat) voters. Recently government environmentalists fined an electric generating company over one million dollars and made it promise to spend millions more to filter fumes it produces when it burns fuel to create electricity.
It also had to promise to shut down a perfectly good electric generating plant and fire the workers at the plant because it uses coal for fuel - as many electric plants have done for over a century. President Obama promised he would see to it coal generating plants would be forced out of business by worse and worse regulations - a promise he is keeping.
Coal comes from coal mines dug by coal miners who use mining machines which Caterpillar makes in Decatur, Illinois. The following formula for how to impoverish your fellow citizens and yourself, low information Democrat voter goes like this:
1) You are convinced to believe human beings can control the natural climate of the earth by burning so-called fossil fuels like wood, coal, oil, gas - and by breathing and omitting carbon gas and the government should stop as much of this as possible as soon as possible.
2) The power to tax is the power to destroy, therefore government taxes by fines people (companies are made up of people) who produce products people want and need from such fossil fuels (like gas for cars and homes and electricity for I-Pods, etc).
3) Companies pay the fines and collect the money from the public by charging more for gas and electricity. Where do you think the electric company gets the million dollar fine it pays? Look in your mirror.
4) Coal mines shut down throwing coal miners' families into poverty.
5. Closed coal mines don't buy mining equipment from CAT which fires 460 people in Decatur, Illinois, where the low information voters can't wait to vote for more Democrats like Obama - Durbin - Scherer, etc.
Now you understand why Decatur's unemployment rate is so high. Dear Democrats, why don't you look into the faces of your neighbors who are losing their jobs because of the way you vote and tell them how glad you are they are no longer destroying our climate with their bad lifestyles?
John E. Fick
Decatur
Attorney General Madigan Didn’t Help
With Scam Calls From ‘Ann’
Dear Editor:
“Hi, this is Ann with card member services.”
Does this "Ann" or some other phony name sound familiar?
If you feel like you are being harassed almost on a daily basis by these jerks, often more than once a day, you are not alone. A person would think that if Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan was notified about this they would do something to stop it. Well, think again.
Since I am on the national do not call list, I called Madigan's office and a very nice lady listened to my complaint and informed me that this is a scam to get personal information from people that are gullible enough to give it to them.
When I asked her if these gullible folks she was talking about was Obama voters, she said she had better not comment on that. I gave her what phone numbers I was able to get from these people, and I thought maybe they might do what they could to prosecute them.
Well, boy was I wrong.
A few weeks later along comes a letter from Lisa Madigan's office which stated that they didn't have a clue what to do to stop this from happening, but if anybody has an idea how to stop it to let them know what it might be!
This gives new meaning to the word incompetence. I have absolutely no doubt that our attorney general's daddy used Democrat campaign money to buy her way into office. Is there zero honesty left in the Illinois Democrat machine? I hope the Dems are happy now that Illinois is headed down the tubes to no return.
Robert Jenkins
Macon
U. S. Government Is Bent On Disarming Citizens
Dear Editor:
There has been a great deal of whoopla recently in the news media, and there probably should be. Our Washington government, at least certain ones, are bent on disarming the American people, even if they have to do it one step at a time.
The limitation of the number of shells any weapon can carry is just a start. Let's not even go that far. The Constitution guarantees Americans the right to keep and bear arms - and that right shall not be infringed!
There are those in Washington, namely California Senator Diane Feinstein, who favors no one having a weapon.
She says, "If somebody tries to take me out, I'm going to take them with me."
She has been a strong advocate of disarming the general public, but apparently it's okay for her to possess firearms. I think that's called hypocrisy!
Dick Wheeler
Shelbyville
A Note of Congratulations and Thanks
Dear Editor:
Congratulations to David Cooprider and Dale Colee. They campaigned with vigor and integrity. These men are pillars of our community, and Richland is in good hands.
While defeated, I am not discouraged. I am grateful for the innumerable acts of kindness and words of encouragement received from friends and neighbors throughout our community.
I am deeply humbled that 8,339 citizens trusted me with their vote. And most of all, I am inspired by how many of our neighbors share the hope of renewing and improving our community. In this process I learned much and made many new friends. I thank you all.
Josh Rohrscheib
Decatur
Congress has NO Right to Make Any Gun Laws
To The Editor:
Senator Kirk, you can’t lawfully make laws concerning guns, so stop it now! You should vote NO on any proposed gun law. Congress doesn’t have the constitutional authority to make laws concerning guns, but you are proposing to do so anyway.
You obviously believe in rule of man (King Kirk), not rule of law; you sir are a despot! You swore an oath to uphold the constitution, but fail to do so on a regular basis, just like Dick Durbin. You do what "you" feel is right, regardless of the supreme law of the land and your lack of authority to do so. You can’t lawfully do any thing you want, read the U.S. Constitution, it’s your rule book. You disagree; then I demand you cite the article, section and clause of the U.S. Constitution that grants you that authority. None of you tyrants who propose gun laws respects that the powers "we the people" granted to Congress via the U.S. Constitution are numbered and very limited. The U.S. Constitution is in place to protect the people from congress' so-called "best" intentions and tyrants.
Article VI, cl. 2 says: “This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, Under The Authority of The United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any thing in the Constitution or Laws of any State to the Contrary notwithstanding.”
“Under the Authority Of The United States; the United States grants congress their limited powers via the Constitution, so when you make laws outside your granted authority, that law is not made under the authority of the United States and is null and void. It is a long standing Principle of Law that a “law” which is contrary to the Constitution is no law at all.
Many people mistakenly believe that our rights come from the first Ten Amendments to the Constitution. They speak of ”Our constitutional rights, our First Amendment right to free speech, our Second Amendment right to keep & bear arms, and so forth. But it’s a mistake to think that our rights come from the Constitution. Those rights are constitutionally secured not constitutionally given.
The Constitution is about the powers which We The People delegated to the federal government. The Constitution is not about Our Rights, which are God-given and pre-exist the Constitution. Which is the very reason you arrogant clowns in Congress have no lawful authority to makes laws concerning the people's rights to keep and bear guns. The following is from the preamble to the Bill of Rights:
“The Conventions of a number of the States, having at the time of their adopting the Constitution, expressed a desire, in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its {congress) powers, that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added: And as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government, will best ensure the beneficent ends of its institution.”
Yet you power abusers ignore your limits. Senator Kirk, I am ashamed to say I voted for you. I thought you were a better American than that.
Roger German
Decatur
Memories Of Little Katie Who Lived Next Door
Dear Editor:
A few weeks ago a young lady came to visit me and said, "Hello, Grandma Rosie. I'm Little Katie who lived next door to you a long time ago! Do you remember me?"
Wow! What a surprise. I said, "You have the same lovely dark eyes and hair." When they moved away from Decatur years ago, they moved to North Dakota. Now, Katie was coming from Bettendorf, Iowa, some 200 miles away, just to see me again!
Little Katie was around a year and a half to two years old when she used to come across the yard to see me every day. When the tulip bed was in bloom, she would always stop to admire the flowers. Her little arms reached out to me when she greeted me with,"Hello, Grandma Rosie!"
Then, she would run to find Thomas, my cat, sleeping in his bed. As soon as he would see Little Katie coming, he would run upstairs. Little Katie crawled up the stairs on all four, and I would be right behind her so she didn't fall. When she found Thomas, he would hide under the bed.
Little Katie had a lovely mother and dad, and a brother. Her dad worked at ADM, and when he came home, he was always greeted by Little Katie's outstretched arms. Her dad even had special license plates on his car, with "DA DA" printed on them. What wonderful memories!
A week after her visit, I received a large box from California, by way of UPS. It contained a large bouquet of tulips, all colors and just half in bloom. What a surprise. In the box was a letter thanking me for the nice visit, and the tulips were in memory of those she loved so well years ago. There was also a beautiful vase for me to put them in, and a box of chocolate candy.
Wow! Surprise, no end!
Rose F. Cunningham
Decatur
* * * *
Above letters posted 4/16/13
* * * *
Earlier Postings Below
Tribune Article Brought Back Old Memories
Dear Editor:
I read where Dale Abbott got you started as editor of the Trib. He also got me started in the printing business.
The article in the Editor's Notebook, entitled "Remembering The Trib From A Long Time Ago", published a couple weeks ago, brought back old memories for me.
I started working for Dale Abbott in December 1951 and worked through July, 1961. Joe worked for the Decatur Signal Depot. When it closed he transferred to the Electronics Command at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. So we moved to New Jersey.
My work with Dale started when I was having lunch with his sister Eilene. She gave me Dale's phone number and said if you are looking for work call him.
So when I called him, he asked, "What do you know?".
I said, "Nothing". He said you are hired. Start work Monday.
It didn't take long to see how cluttered and unkept his desk was. So when he left for a job one day I decided to clean it.
I thought he would be very happy. WRONG! He looked very sad and disappointed. He said I had almost put him out of business. I told him not to worry. I filed it under “J” for junk. (I didn't get fired.)
Dale was a very good teacher and knew printing inside and out. He taught me a lot about the business. I even became a stripper. (Film stripper that is).
Abbott Litho soon became Abbott & Foran.
Then along came Tom. Young McKenzie was fresh out of school and ready for work. He fit in very well with the company. Tom and I enjoyed many lunches together through the years I remained there.
I'm glad to hear where Tom lives now.
Yes, it was a great experience working for Dale.
When we moved to New Jersey I worked in two different printing shops at different times. The bosses couldn't believe all I knew about the business.
In fact I knew more than they did. Not bragging. Just stating facts -- the results of Dale's teachings.
A faithful reader of THE TRIB
Betty Crowder
Grove City, PA
Help Make Annual Father’s Day Event Successful
Dear Editor:
It is almost time for Decatur Housing Authority's Annual Father's Day Event and we need your help in making this event a success. We are asking for donations from the community as well as volunteers in support of this event. Below is a brief description of what this event entails.
On behalf of Decatur Housing Authority's ROSS program in partnership with many Macon County Agencies, the goal of the Father's Day 2013 Event is to inspire an atmosphere within the Public Housing Authority and Local Community in which fathers can gain child development and sustainable life skills while participating in educational, recreational, and social events that will foster engagement between fathers and their children. This event will take place at Garfield Park on June 13, 2013 from 4:00-7:00 p.m.
We are looking for grade school participants throughout the community who are interested in entering the "What My Daddy Means To Me" essay contest. Criteria are as follows:
• Essay must consist of 100 words or less
• Grade categories are K-3rd grade and 4th-6th grade, one winner from each group to be announced at the event
• Essay must be submitted by May 15, 2013
Both winning essays will be read at the event and the winners will be announced and awarded. All essays are to be submitted to Decatur Housing Authority at 1808 E. Locust St. Decatur, IL 62521. Please direct all quests to Vashida Apholone, ROSS Coordinator, at 217-423-7745 ext. 3026 or Sue Force ext. 3047.
Thank you so much for your help in making this event a success.
Vashida Alpholone
Decatur
Nation Headed For ‘Regulatory Cliff’
Dear Editor:
In recent months we have heard untold warnings and ravings about the financial cliff. I assume we have either gone over or have overcome. There's another cliff that is looming, and that is the "Regulatory Cliff." About what? Anything and everything. The U.S. Government says that in the last 90 days, it instituted nearly 6,000 new rules, with loads more to come. If its plans remain unchecked, we'll face another economic "cliff".
For example - The EPA, which has been regulating farm dust for decades, indicates it may tighten the standards as part of its review of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). This would very likely put the standard below the amount of dust created during normal farming operations, making it impossible to meet. The effect will be to drive many already-struggling family farms into insolvency - and drive up food prices even higher.
The Greenhouse Gas Regulation rules, says the report, "will cost more than $300 to $400 billion a year, and significantly raise the price of gas at the pump and energy in the home. It's not just coal plants that will be affected: under the Clean Air Act (CAA), churches, schools, restaurants, hospitals, and farms will eventually be regulated." Many farms, for example would be slaughtered by the EPA's cost-per-animal outcome known as the "cow tax." According to the report, "EPA itself estimated that in its best case scenario, there will be over 37,000 farms and ranches subjects to greenhouse gas permits at an average cost of $23,000 per permit annually, affecting over 90% of the livestock production in the United States."
Enough regulating, Washington!
Phyllis Chapman
Shelbyville
Disappointed With Senator Kirk’s Endorsement
Of Same-Sex Marriage
Dear Editor:
I am very disappointed with Senator Kirk’s decision to endorse same-sex marriage. I understand his reasoning behind this, and I too do not like discrimination of any person. However, it isn’t what you or I feel that counts – it’s what God says on the subject and He says homosexual behavior is an abomination to Him. Our human reasoning and thinking is what has placed this country in the terrible mess it’s in today.
If our legislators continue to hold to this opinion on same-sex marriage, and vote for it, they will lose me and tens of thousands of voters who have been standing behind them. We cannot tolerate this type of mentality to infiltrate our government any longer, exacerbating the damage that has already been done.
I ask you, senators and representatives, please reconsider your position and do what is right by your supporters and, most importantly, what’s right by your God.
Steve McGuire
Follow Ebert’s Example On Treatment Of Animals
Dear Editor:
The passing of Roger Ebert represents a great loss to the world of movies and those who love them—a group that encompasses practically everyone, including the PETA staff.
In recent years, as Ebert's online work increased, he found a forum to more fully address social issues affecting, among others, animals, the environment, and human health. Writing about the comedy Best in Show, he acknowledged his affection for dogs, adding, "but I cannot understand dog shows, which make dogs miserable while bringing out the worst traits of their owners."
Ebert called Forks Over Knives, a documentary examining the effect of animal-based diets on our health, "a film that could save your life," and offered this assessment: "What every human being should do is eat a vegetarian diet based on whole foods. Period. That's it. Animal protein is bad for you. Dairy is bad for you. Forget the ads: Milk and eggs are bad for you."
Other recent blogs and tweets touched on how factory farming harms the hungry, his own transition to vegan foods, and watching chimpanzees newly freed from a laboratory as they first experience the outside world.
PETA encourages people concerned about injustice toward other beings to follow Roger Ebert's compassionate example by speaking out. The balcony is open. To learn more about helping animals, visit www.PETA.org.
Jeff Mackey
The PETA Foundation
Norfolk, VA
Some Aspects Of FairTax Need Clarification
Dear Editor:
Some clarification of the FairTax is in order. I have read from several forums where people state the poor and middle class will suffer under FairTax.
The poor and middle class are not put into hardship with this transparent tax. In fact, these two groups are better off with FairTax as they will have more spending money and can choose when to pay taxes.
How would these groups make out under FairTax?
First, by having all the money in their paycheck.
Second, the Prebate provides money back up to the poverty level for the person and family. The Prebate is based on the Department of Health and Human Services. For a family of four, the prebate amount is $7,135, or $595 monthly.
Thus, the family has their full paycheck plus $595 monthly for new products and services. This Prebate money is money to offset the tax on basic needs, such as food and new clothes. Remember, used products are not taxed. Everyone would receive the Prebate based on family size and not income.
The FairTax removes all federal income, payroll, self-employment, alternative minimum, capital gains, estate,gift, and corporate taxes. Also, the FairTax rate is roughly equal to the Combined Federal Tax Rate of 14.91%, Old Age Survivors and Disability Insurance, also known as Social Security, rate of 6.31%, and Hospital Insurance, or Medicare, rate of 1.78%.
Therefore, products should cost about the same as they do now. The prices may go down as the companies' realize savings by not paying the 'old' business taxes, mentioned above. In addition, the FairTax would generate revenue from the underground economies while stimulating the overall economy.
Please contact your Representatives telling them you want FairTax. For more information, and to check this information out, go to http://www.fairtax.org, or search for FairTax in your favorite search engine.
Dr. Walter Wesley Snyder V
Pottstown, PA
Looming April 15th Tax Deadline Should Cause Citizens To Consider Another Way To Pay
Dear Editor:
Does the looming April 15 deadline weigh heavy on your mind or have you even been thinking about the IRS?
If you are a businessman, you have to think about the IRS at minimum every payday when you are calculating how much of your employees’ money you have to withhold and send to them.
If the IRS takes a hunk out your pay every payday, now is the time of the year that you have to calculate to find out if you have to send them even more money or get a refund of some of your money.
What if as an employee you only sent the IRS money when you bought a new good or service or if you are a businessman, you only had to look at your cash register receipts to know how much to send the IRS?
Sound too good to be true?
There is a plan already developed called the FairTax. The entire tax bill can be read in about 20 minutes. If you would like to see true tax reform call your representative, Aaron Schock at 202-225-6201, who is on the Ways and Means committee.
Dexter Bland
Piedmont Alabama
* * * *
Above Letters Posted 4/9/13
Earlier Letters Below:
Appalled By 36 Teachers Not Being Rehired Letter
Dear Editor:
I am appalled at the letter I read in the Tribune about thirty-six teachers not being rehired and the administrators not taking on any of their responsibilities.
When I ran for the school board the main problem was teaching the kids how to read. Surely more teachers would help. Also I am sure the administrators have enough education to also fill in teaching. People not doing anything seems to be the norm in this situation and the teachers are not at fault
These kids that are growing up now are our future. They will be the leaders of tomorrow, or will they?
Parents and teachers alike have to combine to educate these kids. They are our future. Don't let them go to waste.
David R. Baker
Decatur
Public Should Be Alarmed By Huge Increase In City’s Water Bills
Dear Editor:
This letter is in response to Mr. Keith Alexander's suggestion or request that the need has arisen for the community to absorb a huge increase in our water bill. I don't think anyone is too upset with an increase; however, when we experience an increase that is more than double, why should we be expected to sit quietly and not be perturbed about it.
Currently, we are experiencing high gas prices, food prices are on the rise and many other consumer products are increasing in price. Just for reality's sake, let's imagine that an automobile was $30,000 today and if you were to go back the very next day and the same car had increased to $60,000, would that be disturbing to anyone? What if a gallon of milk was $3 today, but when you went to purchase it tomorrow, it was $6. Wouldn't that be alarming to anyone that experienced it?
We know that there is a terrible problem with the water situation here in Decatur and it needs to be corrected. There's a difference in trying to correct a problem and remain within reason and being ridiculous, without compassion for anyone that is affected. After all, even with the present water bill prices, there are people without jobs, people retired and on fixed incomes that are having a hard time keeping their water turned on as it is.
We know that this issue has to be resolved, but we're asking the city to keep it real. Just live and let live.
Thank you.
Joe Roundtree
Decatur
Who Should Guard Our Chickens?
Dear Editor:
Before Social Security, most people were not able to support themselves when they were too old to work. People had to work very hard all their lives. They worked all day long and earned a very low wage. When the parents were too old to work, the children had to support them or they would die.
After the great Depression, there was only two classes of people, the super rich and the poor. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was faced with restoring the wealth and helping people get by. His plan was to confiscate all the wealth of the nation by stealing all the gold. At that time most people used gold and silver coins to buy and sell. He told everybody that as the gold coins were passed around that serious amounts of the gold was worn away, and lost.
To prevent this loss, he proposed a plan to print Dollar Bills (Gold Certificates). Everybody was bound by law to turn in all their Gold Coins, in exchange for Gold-Backed “Gold Certificates”.
All this gold would be kept in a Federal Vault, and never used. It was kept as security for all the Gold Certificates that the public was issued. If anybody refused to turn in all their gold coins and gold bars, they would be arrested and put in a federal prison. With few exceptions, only a very small amount of gold jewelry would be allowed to be kept.
(Note – The antichrist will confiscate all the gold and all the silver again.)
After all the gold had been confiscated, there was a shortage for making jewelry, consequently the price of gold tripled fast. This gave the government a fast profit for turning the country around. He then set in motion a plan to put everybody back to work, and to confiscate more of our money. He created the WPA program. The government would hire people to build roads and bridges, to support their families. He then created the Social Security program. Everybody would be required to give the government a certain amount of their wages, which the government would “set aside for them for their old age”.
The more money they set aside, the more money they could draw “with interest” when they retired. Even the people who were nearing 65 at that time would be able to draw Social Security, but they would not draw much, because they had not paid in much.
The people who paid in a lot for a long time would draw a lot more. That was the way it would work. That is the way it still is, but they are trying to change the rules now. The money is already gone, but they won't tell you that.
That is sort of the way the wolf said to the farmer. Let me guard your Chicken Coop. Look into these honest eyes. Have you ever seen any more honest eyes than these? Trust me! I sure won’t let anybody steal any of your chickens. Ever!
Sound familiar? What do you think?
Rev. Dr. Delane John Chapman
Decatur
Hooray For The National Weather Service
Dear Editor:
Who would've thought that we'd have so much snow, so late in the year? The National Weather Service did.
Thanks to them, we all got the warning we needed to make sure we were prepared for this past weekend's storm.
Sadly, "sequestration" budget cuts are going to affect this important organization. Fewer employees will mean less accurate forecasting. That could mean disaster for us when the next storm comes our way.
Too often, federal employees are the scapegoats for our country's budget woes. The National Weather Service is one example of the good work that they do for us here in Illinois.
Ilene McQuality
President, NARFE
National Active & Retired
Federal Employees
Edwards Chapter #399
Glad That Rohrscheib Is Running For RCC Board
Dear Editor:
I’m glad to see that Josh Rohrscheib is running for a seat on the Richland College Board. Josh was my political science professor at Richland. After spending a semester as his student, I am certain Josh Rohrscheib would do an exceptional job on the Richland Board.
I’ve always believed the adage “before anyone will care how much you know, they need to know how much you care.” With Josh, it was evident from day one that our class had a special teacher who cared deeply about his students and their success. He made an extra effort to get to know us, to learn about our ambitions, and to do all he could to help. Anyone who cares that much for his students would be an asset on the Richland Board.
As my teacher, he stressed the importance of thoughtfully thinking about both sides of issues. At the core of his teaching philosophy is the belief that students get the most out of classes they enjoy, and they grow the most when being built up, encouraged, and empowered. He also led us to focus on the practical aspects of education – how we turn our training at Richland into a career.
Josh is incredibly bright and energetic. He taught us to be tenacious problem solvers. I trust that he will find practical and just solutions to problems facing Richland and our community. For all these reasons, I’m excited to vote for Josh Rohrscheib for the Richland Board.
Bruce Ball
Moweaqua
Jackson Has Proven He Is Qualified For School Board
Dear Editor:
We are coming up on a school board election. Normally, there is a very poor local turnout of voters. Ninety-nine percent of politicians begin their careers with local elections and we should all be aware of for whom we are voting and why we are voting for that person. Because we know or like a person is not a good enough reason to vote for them.
What are their intentions? Are they seeking to move up the political ladder? Will they do the job they are running for to the best advantage of the people who live in the community? If running for the school board, will they recognize the changes that have occurred in the past thirty to forty years?
Are they aware that almost fifty-six percent of the students in District #61 are minority? What is the percentage of minority school teachers or school board members in the area? Do they work and live in the city or on the fringe where they don't know the real issues?
What happened when we went to school is not very relevant to today's youth.
So many things should be taken into consideration, especially in the economy we live in. We must start becoming involved in all elections, while we still have the freedom to vote. It is our right today, let's keep it that way.
My vote will be for T.J. Jackson, a man who has proven over the years to have an interest in the future of our children and the city of Decatur. Above this, he has lived a life of honesty and integrity, which are needed qualifications if he is to lead the school district into the future.
Ardena Hunter
Decatur
Comments By Two Former Whitmore Township Trustees
Cannot Be Ignored By Road Commissioner
Dear Editor:
The recent politically motivated letter written by two former trustees of Whitmore Township regarding my integrity as Road Commissioner of Whitmore Township cannot be ignored. First, I would like to thank the people of Whitmore Township for their overwhelming support throughout a very public and stressful situation, for standing with me and defending my good name.
To say that the trustees were handed an “ugly situation” is simply an untrue statement. These dissenting trustees and their seemingly burning desire to find something against me created it. Much time and effort digging through my records and receipts was spent to come up with finally determining that money received for grave digging over the past 35 years was not properly channeled. Steps have since been taken to be transparent going forward.
Falsely claiming “As a result of this felony the road commissioner….” is a serious and libelous statement for which they bear responsibility. No charges were ever filed. There was no theft and there is no felony. At no time were taxpayer or government funds involved. Not one dollar from grave digging went into my pocket.
Further, these trustees have not been subject, as they state, to ongoing contemptuous behavior by the supervisor or me nor have they been constantly harassed. The many attendees supporting me at the Township board meetings would agree. I also question their faithful performance of duties as trustees in light of numerous absences at our board meetings for which, I might add, they received payment.
I defend my record for the past 20 years as Whitmore Township Road Commissioner as one that is fiscally sound with roads efficiently maintained using well-kept equipment, a record that is one of the best in the surrounding area.
I am proud of my loyal crew who worked 24 hours straight during the recent snowstorm to ensure each taxpayer could travel unhampered. There is no situation in need of correction.
I welcome your vote of confidence for me to continue as Whitmore Township Road Commissioner.
Mike Spent
Whitmore Township
Road Commissioner
A Vote For Rohrscheib Is A Vote For Our Future
To the Editor:
Community renewal depends in large part on the willingness of a new generation of talented, dedicated people to step up. New ideas, energy and enthusiasm are vital qualities as we struggle in our area to maintain education, services, and the economy amid a changing environment. In this contest, I have been particularly impressed by Josh Rohrscheib, a candidate for the Richland Board of Trustees as one of the bright hopes for our future.
A Macon County native, Rohrscheib began his education at RCC and knows firsthand the important difference a quality start can mean in a young person’s life. He went on to the University of Illinois where he eventually earned a law degree. Then he returned to Decatur where he continues to practice law.
But he also gives back at a level and with a commitment one does not normally associate with a young person just beginning a career. He is active in a group of young professionals donating to local charities. More than just a member of, he is a participant in a number of local groups. He has also taught at both Richland and Millikin University. He is committed to open, transparent government at all levels. All of this is remarkable enough yet there is more.
In forty-plus years in this community, I have rarely met a young person so gifted, so open to listening to rather than simply deciding for others, as intelligent, well-read, and practical as Josh Rohrscheib. To me, a vote for him is a vote for our future and that of generations yet to come.
I encourage others to learn more about this young man and consider supporting him for Richland trustee.
Bob Sampson
Former Richland Trustee Supports Dr. Cooprider For RCC Board
Dear Editor:
As a former Richland College Trustee I strongly support David Cooprider for election to the position of Trustee of Richland Community College. I have known Dr. Cooprider for many years. David Cooprider has the qualifications and experience to be fully prepared to serve Richland and our community. I encourage the voters in the district to vote for David Cooprider for Trustee of our Richland Community College.
Neil Pistorius
Decatur
Colee Has Earned Your Vote As Richland Trustee
Dear Editor:
Dale Colee is a good man. A successful family man with hs wife Rita, and they have four adult children. The children are busy like dad; one a benefits manager, one a store manager and marketing specialist, one a pharmacist and one currently attending law school.
You already know the admirable job he has done as the trustee and president of the Board of Trustees at Richland Community College from his past actions. He has more than earned your vote. I wanted to remind the voters that even though he is always busy with Richland, the store and his family, he took time last year to raise over $13,000 for what I think is one of America's great charities, The Wounded Warrior Project.
Because of Dale's leadership, soldiers suffering horrible injuries are given a chance to ride again, to read again, to feed themselves, a chance to live as normal a life as they can. It didn't surprise this old soldier that Dale Colee wants to help these men and women who did so much for us again. Dale Colee, pro-family, pro-jobs, pro-education, pro-America! Vote Dale Colee for Richland Trustee!
Ron Stephens
Decatur
Bird Deserves Support As Hickory Point
Township Highway Commissioner
Dear Editor:
Kevin Bird deserves our support for Hickory Point Highway Commissioner. After working for Hickory Point Township Road District for a total of 28 years and serving as Highway Commissioner for the last 18, Kevin obviously knows how to get this job done.
Hickory Point Township has some of the best roads in this area and we get excellent service in snow removal, etc. He also works well with the city, county and other townships, sometimes sharing equipment to save taxpayers money. He provided the place where the city hauled and burned hundreds of loads of brush after the ice storm a few years ago.
Kevin is well known for his work ethic and township road knowledge and was recently elected to serve on the Macon County Board and was appointed to serve on the Transportation Committee and Regional Planning Committee.
Kevin provides "proven leadership".
Please support Kevin Bird for Hickory Point Highway Commissioner.
Larry Tish
Decatur
Colee Is Right Person To Serve As RCC Trustee
Dear Editor:
Dale Colee is exactly the type of individual to serve as a Richland Community College trustee - a lifelong resident, committed to public education and a successful business owner, dedicated to our community. I have always admired his energy and work ethic, his family's involvement in innumerable events and the community spirit of Dale's Southlake Pharmacy.
Please join me in electing Dale Colee as an RCC trustee.
N. Duane Noland
Blue Mound
Candidate Well Qualified For Richland Board
Dear Editor:
When I graduated from high school, like many young people, I thought I knew everything. But the reality was I knew very little, especially about what it took to be a good student. If I would have attended a four year university straight out of high school, I would have failed miserably. Things were supposed to come easy, right? I was going to go out there and conquer the world, and it wouldn’t even take much effort or energy.
I don’t exactly remember how I ended up at Richland. Frankly, my high school grades were poor, and Richland was likely my only option. Today, I thank God I had that option.
At some point near the end of my first semester, I got it. I was not performing well at all in my classes. But, it hit me that even though I was going to a community college, it wasn’t going to come easy. I was going to have to work for it. It was going to take some energy, some effort. The humanity!
But thankfully, because of some committed instructors and patient tutors, I put in the effort and energy required and would eventually go on to graduate with a strong GPA and then transfer and enjoy academic success at ISU. Richland Community College literally changed my life.
And that is why I feel so strongly about the upcoming election in which we get to choose trustees to serve on Richland’s board.
I am enthusiastically supporting Josh Rohrscheib for one of those seats. He is a young professional who like me, attended Richland and is committed to seeing our community succeed. And unlike me, he actually went on to become a professor at Richland. No stranger to a classroom, he has also taught at Millikin and the University of Illinois.
Josh also is an accomplished attorney, small businessman, and local media developer. That’s not bad for someone who is nearly two decades younger than the next youngest board member.
I believe Josh to be a vigorous, new voice for a new generation that desperately needs Richland to remain a viable avenue to a better life.
Make no mistake; Josh’s opponents are well qualified and skillful political candidates. But when it comes to the future of a treasure like Richland, I am going with someone who is enthusiastic and dynamic. I am choosing energy and effort, vigor and vision. I will vote for Josh Rohrscheib.
Robert Brice
Mt Zion
All Is Not Well In Decatur School District
Dear Editor:
I am pondering the upcoming school board election and its potential impact on the community. All election results on April 9th will be important, but none more so than the school board results.
Decatur's perceived image radiates from the quality and safety of our schools, and students' post high school success rate in the private sector and world of higher education.
Publicly, city leaders and school administrators claim all is well within our schools, but realistically, the academic facts speak otherwise as do disciplinary/classroom management issues.
What needs to be done? Change! We need to create a new Decatur image predicated upon truth, and establish a new perception of our community and schools. If our community wants change, election results will reflect that desire.
The core of this election is truth and trust, and how facts are transferred to the public when the reported truth is not predicated upon trust.
Two additional keys to this election are administrative/board responsibility and accountability.
If election results indicate the public demands change, politicians and political powers within the community should listen to the voters and acknowledge their concerns as truth in order to hold the school administration/board accountable for academic, financial and behavioral issues. We all want Decatur's schools to be the best, and safest, but until we admit, address and resolve the real issues, nothing will change, and Decatur's current perception will continue to be reality.
B.A. Buttz
Decatur
What Happens In Our Schools Affects All Of Decatur’s Citizens
Dear Editor:
As a retired Decatur Public School teacher, I meet with other retired teachers to share remembrances and swap stories. Many of them are still involved, substituting or volunteering. Recent stories I heard were so appalling that I had to speak out. It appears that Decatur teachers are fighting battles every single day with attacks coming from all sides.
There were reports of the superintendent and principals degrading entire staffs. Some volunteers witnessed students being allowed to disrupt classes with little restraint because their parents had complained to Keil building officials; consequently, teachers were instructed to treat these students differently.
If it seems difficult to understand why teacher would work under such uncomfortable conditions, one must understand that devoted teachers care deeply about their students and their profession. The impending budget cuts will only make accomplishing their mission more difficult.
What happens in our schools affects all of Decatur's citizens. In order to improve the economic climate and the quality of the community, we must have an effective school system. A correlation exists between teacher morale and continued innovation in the classroom. Improved morale and conditions within our schools will reverse the trend of low test scores and poor graduation rates. The best hope for the teachers and students of our schools is to elect new School Board members who understand Decatur schools and have intelligent ideas for improvement.
I have attended forums where School Board candidates displayed their understanding of Decatur school issues by presenting their ideas and answering questions. Three candidates demonstrated intimate knowledge of the issues and had sound strategies for addressing problems: B. A. Buttz, Alida Graham, and Billy Roberts. These three candidates are our best hope for improving our schools and also our immunity
Marsha Spaulding
Decatur
Rohrscheib Brings Youth, Energy And New Ideas To Richland
Dear Editor:
As a former Richland Community College Trustee, I am very excited by one of the candidates for the Richland Board. Josh Rohrscheib is an energetic young leader in our community. He has vision, integrity, a true heart forpublic service, and shares my deep love of Richland.
Josh has experience in higher education policy from serving as Student Body President at the University of Illinois where he created an innovative
scholarship program that now provides hundreds of students with $2,500 annual scholarships incentivizing community service.
Josh understands education and he generates big ideas.
Josh Rohrscheib would bring much needed youth, energy, and a fresh perspective to the Richland Board. At 32, he is almost 20 years younger than the next youngest board member. He understands the needs and perspectives of our most valuable asset.....Richland students.
Josh will be a student advocate focused on improving student outcomes, increasing retention rates, and developing partnerships to put Richland graduates to work in our community.
Please join me in supporting Josh Rohrscheib for Richland Trustee on Tuesday, April 9th.
Tim Dudley
Decatur
Attributes Describe Decatur School Board
Candidate B. A. Buttz
Dear Editor:
Desirable qualities for a school board member.
B - broadminded - sees the whole picture
O - outstanding at completing tasks
A - attention to detail
R - responsible to the people for the students
D - discipline understood and enforced - with common sense
M - manager - one who can lead and also collaborate well with others
E - educator - former DPS student, teacher, principal and central office administrator
M - mentor willing to share and encourage
B - bridge builder of all people - a true believer of the value of diversity
E - evaluating each situation in a reasonable way
R - respectful of all with a willingness to listen
The above attributes describe B.A. Buttz. Please vote for B.A. Buttz for Decatur Public School Board. Make your vote really count!
You will notice that I live in Mt. Zion, so you may question my involvement. During my 34 years in education, I had the privilege of attending numerous workshops and classes taught by B.A. His knowledge and genuine love for educating the children made those opportunities of learning very important to me in my career.
I believe Decatur has many great families, students, teachers and administrators.
With B.A. leading the way, they will be empowered to succeed and reach their highest potentials.
Give Decatur a chance - vote for B.A. Buttz.
Barbara Janes
Mt. Zion
Duane Potter Is A Proven Candidate For
Decatur Township Supervisor
Dear Editor:
“There is one proven choice for township supervisor, and that person is Duane Potter”.
This is a statement we made in a letter to the editor in March of 2009. Duane Potter was our choice at that time and we believe he should be reelected on April 9th, 2013.
We have known Duane Potter for over 20 years through neighborhood organizations and civic groups. We worked together, as volunteers, for the Heritage and Holly Home Tours sponsored by NWRAPS and for the City of Decatur’s Old Towne Tif.
Last year we volunteered to help Duane organize the “Voices of the Past’, a very successful tour of Greenwood Cemetery.
We have always found Duane Potter to be efficient, well-organized and resourceful.
Duane Potter has developed programs that have helped the Township to carry out its duties without raising taxes.
Duane Potter needs your support and vote on April 9th.
Jim and Claudia Williams
Decatur
Vicki Sheets Will Be A Decatur Township Assessor
With Plenty Of Experience
Dear Editor:
As the owner of a business located in Decatur Township, I am extremely upset over the property assessment situation in this township. I have to pay my taxes, regardless of how unfairly those taxes may have been assessed. I don’t mind paying my fair share, but I want to know it’s fair.
I’m tired of the excuses and the inaction. It’s clear that Decatur Township needs an Assessor who not only has experience with property assessment, but is also experienced in office administration.
Vicki Sheets has both – experience with assessments and over 20 years administration, budget and management experience. She also has a Bachelor of Science degree in Management and Organizational Leadership, earned Summa cum laude from Millikin University in 2005. In addition, she is certified in Mediation and Conflict Resolution and is a 2007 graduate of the University of Illinois Government Leadership Academy.
Vicki is a hard worker who has proven she knows how to create and implement programs that get results. She has experience in township government and is very knowledgeable on government budgets. She is the person Decatur Township taxpayers can depend on to ensure all property assessments are fair, accurate and equitable.
Regardless of when you vote – you can early vote at the County Clerk’s office, 141 S Main Street (across from KFC), from now until April 6; or at your polling place on April 9 – Decatur Township has the opportunity to elect an Assessor who can put this township back on track.
I may be a Republican, but I encourage everyone in Decatur Township to put politics aside and vote for the most qualified candidate. Vote for Vicki Sheets for Decatur Township Assessor. She’ll work hard for all of us!
Jennifer Leach
Decatur
Potter Has Guided Decatur Township Through Its Fiscal Crisis
Dear Editor:
For the last four years, Duane Potter has guided Decatur Township through its fiscal crisis. We all appreciate the sound financial position that the Township is in right now. He has managed to do a wonderful job despite all the obstacles that were placed in his way. So much of the success of the Township is due to Duane’s foresight and perseverance.
I have served on several boards with Potter and know him to be intelligent, trustworthy and hard working. He can get things done and is committed to improving the lives of all the people in our community.
There is no one better qualified to lead our Township than Duane. We have an opportunity to reelect him so he can continue to serve. Please vote for Duane Potter.
M. Anne Pondelick
Decatur
Supports Rohrscheib For RCC Board Of Trustees
Dear Editor:
One of the candidates running for Richland Community College Board of Trustees has first-hand knowledge about the positive difference it has made and can continue to make in individual lives. Not only is Josh Rohrscheib a former student there but members of his family have also used its program to prepare for new careers.
Rohrscheib began his college career at RCC and went on to earn his law degree at the University of Illinois. He has a self-described “passion for higher education” based not only on his and his family’s experiences but because of the tremendous power for good RCC has in our community.
He is equally concerned about non-traditional students, technical program students, and traditional college students because he knows all of these add up to a better community that is poised to meet the challenges of the 21 st century.
Rohrscheib brings experience in state government, in charitable work, in community programs along with his energy and enthusiasm for making RCC all that it can be.
Richland, he says, should be about helping its student succeed. When they succeed, our communities succeed. That’s why I’m voting for Josh Rohrscheib.
Jessica Scow
Decatur
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Above "Letters To The Editor" Posted 4/2/13
EARLIER LETTER POSTINGS BELOW...
Buttz Will Be Excellent Addition To School Board
Dear Editor:
As a product of Decatur Public Schools, I know that this system can be one of the best.
Barry A. Buttz is also a product of Decatur School District 61. He has spent his life helping the students and teachers here to achieve their personal best.
As principal of Washington School, Mr. Buttz brought organization and a sense of purpose to the school and its students.
As an administrator at the Keil Building, he presented informative, helpful workshops to teachers, and proved invaluable as a mentor to new teachers.
During the public panel discussion held by the NAACP a few weeks ago, it was evident that Barry Buttz has a perspective about education as a whole, an overview of how schools should operate and what their goals should be in order to give students the best education possible and to bring out the best in them.
There are many things in schools that don't necessarily come with more money: an understanding of the most important goals for achievement, standards of discipline that all students are expected to maintain, consistency in doing what is best for the learning of all students, and how to go about it.
Barry A. Buttz will be an excellent addition to the School Board of Decatur School District #61. He cares about the education of all our students and will help to see that they get it by restoring Decatur's standing as one of excellence and innovation.
Now, for all those who want improved schools and test scores, an improved reputation as a leader in real achievement, it is our obligation to go out and vote on April 9 for those who will truly help to bring those results. Vote for Barry A. Buttz.
Margaret Kirby Rothe
Decatur
Vote Colee For Richland Community College Board
Dear Editor:
I am writing to ask you to vote for Dale Colee for a position on the Richland Community College Board. I have known Dale for more than three decades.
Our paths first crossed when he was a medical executive and when his children participated in summer sporting events we attended. Dale is an entrepreneur who works daily in his own business. He is a registered pharmacist . This reflects his climb up the education ladder.
He has served on the Board of Trustees of Richland Community College and, as I write this, he is the President of the Board. He not only attends board meetings, but shows his devotion to Richland by attending out of town classes and seminars to aid Richland and to better educate himself. He obviously could not do all he does and still run his business without the help of his daughters, Lauren and Erica. Along the path to their college degrees they were students at Richland .
His efforts extend beyond his work and Richland. He is involved with many charities. He was recently recognized for his humanitarian work when he was given the Pride and Progress Award in Forsyth.
As a veteran, I appreciate his support of the Wounded Warrior Project.
For all he does, I recommend Dale Colee!
Joseph Schrodt, M.D.
Forsyth
Karl Meurlot Would Bring Experience To School
Board In Critical Times
Dear Editor:
Decatur Public Schools is Big Business.
Since DPS is one of Decatur's top employers receiving 43% of Decatur's property taxes, voters in the April school board election should choose candidates wisely. They should have the background and expertise necessary to be responsible to taxpayers for overseeing a multiple-million dollar entity and be willing to share their knowledge with a newly elected board.
There are 7 board members required with 10 candidates running to fill 4 vacant seats making it possible for a quorum to be elected, who may share a goal, that may or may not be in the best interest of the district and taxpayers.
Since the district has a record of spending far greater than revenue, it would be prudent for the voters to elect at least one who comes with a background in accounting, business management, and as an attorney with expertise in Illinois school codes and be willing to donate this knowledge to the district's fiscal problems, especially considering the state's goal of cutting off funds to schools thus leaving it up to local property taxes to fill this shortfall.
Decatur is fortunate to have Karl Meurlot, who has the experience and is willing to run for the DPS school board in these critical times. He would immediately bring to the board years of experience without a lengthy orientation period as opposed to inexperienced lay people. He would understand the budgeting process and strive for a balanced budget and bring fresh thinking to a board who may believe their job is to approve every item on an agenda without question or comment as observed in the televised board meetings.
Harry Kemper
Decatur
Don’t Let Illinois Lose Good Teachers Due
To Government Mismanagement
Dear Editor:
When I came to Illinois a teacher was today, tomorrow, and yesterday…a life shared, a story told, a lesson taught, a hope for the future, a smile from the past.
A teacher is the wind in a student's face, a challenging wind, the warmth of the sun for a job well done.
The touch of a hand that says you are special. A teacher is a coach imploring the team to strive, to seek, and not to yield.
A counselor knowing the need of a gentle word or an emotional nudge and to many the first smile of the day and the last at night. Yes, teachers are these and more.
They are shapers, makers, caretakers of futures.
But above all else, they were you and I, recalling the successes of yesterday, caring for a good today, and providing for a most-positive tomorrow for our school students.
Now after 30 years in education teachers are the sin-eaters of the legislature and four previous governors who failed to provide oversight of the state's monies.
Computers can't do it all…we still need good teachers.
Don't let Illinois lose good teachers due to the mismanagement of the government.
Larry Janes
Mt. Zion
Rohrscheib Would Be Valued Addition To Richland Board
Dear Editor:
Over the past year, it has been my good fortune to get to know Josh Rohrscheib, a young lawyer who is seeking a seat on the Richland Community College Board.
There are several reasons Josh would be a valued addition to the board. At 32, his own college days are recent enough that he can offer insights into the problems faced not only by Richland students, but also by students of the four-year campuses many RCC grads will go on to.
Josh has more personal ties to the college as well. He credits Richland with his career and with turning his father’s life around. Since returning to Decatur to start his law practice, he has taught both at Richland and at Millikin University and made friends among the students, faculty and staff at both institutions.
Josh is a cum laude graduate of the U of I Law School, was student body president at the U of I, and created a scholarship fund providing hundreds of thousands of dollars in aid to students in return for community service. In the past year, he founded a local on-line magazine, Re:Decatur.com, offering the community a new venue for news and communication.
His experience working with various Democratic political organizations, at the local, state and national level, should prove helpful to Richland’s administration in this era of shrinking resources.
His integrity, energy and enthusiasm all recommend him for the job.
Gary Minich
Decatur
The Fair Tax Will Generate More Revenue
Than The Federal Income Tax
Dear Editor:
With the passing of the 16th amendment in 1909, the way was paved for our Congressional leaders to play Robin Hood to their hearts content. Through it they can manipulate favors, tax breaks and shenanigans favoring all of their Special Interests and agendas. Tax credits, special deductions, and write-offs are but a few.
Today, conditions are worse than ever, with more being demanded from our Corporations and our 'rich', with middle Americans suffering like never before. Our corporations are the highest taxed in all industrialized countries and go through new hoops to do business every time a Congress is re-elected or another Czar appointed.
We may never agree on a 'fix' but most will agree that something needs to be done or the nonsense continues. Those of us who favor tax reform seem to have identified three basic options: revising the 74,000 page existing IRS code ( it was 400 pages in 1913); leveling a Flat tax; or the favorite of Dr. Ben Carson and me, the 'Fair' tax.
I totally object to the first because it retains IRS. Whereas the second is an improvement it still embraces the income tax in part with a flat tax added. Again it leaves an open door for Congress to continue their tomfoolery and special interest tweaking. So let's get serious about implementing a 'Fair' tax and give it a KISS (keep it simple stupid). We are a consumption based economy so why not simply tax consumption (sales)? Everyone consumes so everyone pays and pays the same percent. that's why it's Fair. The wealthy will pay more because they will make more and subsequently spend more and pay more taxes.
The Fair Tax Act originally proposed in 2003, calls for: repealing the 16th amendment thereby eliminating the IRS and saving the Feds over 150 billion dollars in 10 years; and discontinuance of the Federal individual and business income taxes, gift, estate, capital gains, Social Security, AMT, Medicare and self-employment taxes.
This could save 6.3 billion hours of tax preparation annually which would equate to billions of dollars more being placed back into the economy for 'consumption'. All states will collect the national sales tax and remit to the Feds through individual state collection systems already in place. Eliminate Income Tax filing totally for individuals and businesses.
Just think...no more Form 1040. All of this will be replaced by a single 23% National sales tax on consumption. Since the poor could be affected disproportionately, a prebate of 23% will be granted monthly to those at the poverty level to offset their new tax responsibility.
Since workers will have 100% of their paycheck to spend, proponents claim that the increase in consumer spending will expand the economy and create jobs, productivity and wages. Our overall taxable base will increase by all of those within our underground economy who currently avoid taxes.
It is estimated that the Fair tax will generate $500 million more in federal tax revenue than the income tax it would replace. there could be 1.7% increase in disposable income across the board. Dr. Ben Carson also observed that with all of us paying taxes and at the same rate, we will all have some 'skin' in the game and become move vigilant observers of government spending.
Some 'good' unintended consequences might surface. Class warfare could end since the elimination of the IRS will deny our politicians one vehicle to reward their special interests' favorites and penalize their opponents. (Some special interests may dry up.) Government spending may be more closely scrutinized since every consumer including illegals will be paying Federal sales taxes and more interested in how their money is being spent, even the low-informed.
Perhaps the best good consequence is the impact that having no IRS will have on our national Affordable Care Act (Obama Care). Without the IRS making our personal and private financial -data available to the Feds, a significant portion of Obama Care would be unenforceable.
Why the Fair Tax? Because its fair to all!
Bob Kimmons
Warrensburg
School Board Candidate Will Not Get Her Vote
Dear Editor:
Politicians many times tell you what they think you want to hear. At a recent forum at the Decatur Public Library, I heard a candidate speak some things I don't believe to be true.
Alida Graham, candidate for school board, stated her motivation is to serve the public and to advocate for parents and students of district #61.
She does not and has not done this. She has proven this to be untrue by her mistreatment of children and families at Old King's Orchard Community Center. She does not respond to parents, board members or residents in general when there are problems. She ignores and dismisses people.
There are five families that have had to take unresolved issues outside of OKO and still not gotten answers or resolution.
I am a founding memeber of ICCP and OKO and have chosen to resign due to her disregard for mistreatment of individuals. She has her own agenda and it is not for the betterment of OKO.
At present time Old King's Orchard Community Center is a 501(C)3. As called for in the by-laws; the majority of the board must be residents of the area. This is not the case.
Open meetings including residents and the public are to be conducted. This has not been happening for board/neighborhood meetings for nearly one year.
A petition signed by more than 150 individuals and residents, asked for her removal from office. She did not even read it to attendees at the last "public" meeting. She called for the meeting to be adjourned.
That is the last anyone saw or heard about this petition. If she conducts business in this way in the smaller things in our community, how can we expect her to do the right thing for the entire community in district #61?
I will not vote for this toxic potential school board member, will you? Get out and cast your vote for the future of our community!
Resa Benz-Spiker
Decatur
We Don’t Have A Democracy But Constitutional Republic
Dear Editor:
I listen to newscasters, announcers, men of education and college professors repeatedly refer to our democracy, as if they are totally unaware that we don't have a democracy, but a Constitutional Republic.
I share with the Founding Fathers a disdain for the use of democracy to describe our form of government.
They wrote that "democracies have ever been spectacles of turbulence and contention; have ever been found incompatible with personal security, or the rights of property; and have in general been as short in their lives as they have been violent in their deaths."
Democracies plow fertile ground for political demagoguery, corruption, thievery, and false promises. Democracies are governments of men and not of laws, and that is why the Founding Fathers gave us a Republic, not a democracy; and why they tried, in Jefferson's words, to "bind them down from mischief by the chains of the Constitution."
Please remember that we have a Constitutional Republic and not a democracy.
Charles L. Fowler
Toledo
Dayle Cochran Irwin Was Another Decatur Treasure
Dear Editor:
Sad news came to me this week that Decatur has lost another Treasure. Dayle Cochran Irwin, author, historian, lecturer, actress, wife, mother, grandmother...we shall never see her like again.
We've read her books, enjoyed her talks, and some of us have been privileged to see her re-enactments of famous women in history.
Dayle would get so "into" her stories, she'd stop finally and ask her audience if we wanted to hear more and we'd have to tell her to stop so we could go home and get some sleep. Her fund of knowledge was tremendous. And when she put herself into one of those women's roles, if tears were called for she cried real tears. She was living the part.
Dayle gave the last years of her life to her family, driving miles to spend weekdays with her motherless grandchildren while their daddy worked, coming back to Decatur to share weekends with husband, Mike, everyone's favorite mailman/gardener.
I pray for Dayle's family and ask God to help them cope with this terrible loss.
Mary Banton Bertram
Woodinville, WA.
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Above Letters To The Editor Were Posted 3/26/13
* * *
Earlier Letters Received Recently Posted Below
Lost Faith In City Of Decatur Leaders
Dear Editor:
Our country’s great leaders have possessed leadership traits, shouldn’t our local leaders possess some traits as well?
I have lost hope in our city (Decatur).
Millions upon millions have been spent in downtown and have not positively impacted anything. People are avoiding downtown due to traffic congestion and safety.
Mini-Golf is the answer? Unbelievable! We have a lake that is polluted, shallow, and unappealing. No big name entertainment will even stop here for fuel, let alone play their instruments.
Our city council deserves real "praise" for their great ideas that cost taxpayers millions and awarded us with scraps in return.
Congested streets and a mini golf? Well, save-my-seat! Wake up; this is not the 80's. There is no mall going to be built downtown. What an awful waste of time and money. What this city needs is leadership! I say again, "Leadership".
Unchallenged, our council makes rash and ill-advised decisions constantly.
It’s time this city starts worrying about its own and how to keep its own people here and happy. Obviously, our council speaks to no one who resides here or they would realize morale and outlook by this city’s taxpayers is grim.
With all of this late snowfall local roads off the forgotten Lakeshore Dr. have been plowed a total of zero times, leaving the hills looking like an ice rink.
However, the unlucky motorists have no skates on their vehicles. Perhaps, that is the way the city promotes civic center ice skating.
To make things worse, anyone with a school aged child or are considering having children do not want to buy here. They would rather sign to enlist their children into Marine Infantry at 8 years of age than send them to our schools. This has sent our property values plummeting.
Instead of fixing these problems, Decatur wants to build a million dollar mini-golf course. That will drive your property values through the roof?
Just because of political affiliation does not mean you have ability to lead. Leaders do the right thing, even when no one is watching them.
Can our leadership say that about theirselves?
Greg Collins
Decatur
Thanks To Administrators For Compassionate,
Skilled Care Of Residents
Dear Editor:
I would like to personally recognize Barbara Lowry and Rachel Casella, the Administrators of Lincoln Rehab Center and Heartland of Decatur, respectively, for providing compassionate and skilled care for their residents.
Barbara and Rachel are dedicated to enriching the daily lives of residents at their facilities by providing leadership and guidance for staff of many disciplines.
I, and all of the staff of Passages Hospice, am proud to work with Barbara and Rachel to bring dignity and comfort to their residents at the end of life. I have seen their dedication to our patients, and applaud them for their commitment to the hospice philosophy.
Barbara and Rachel understand that hospice care provides specialized care for their residents at the end of life, and are valuable resources to help families at Lincoln Rehab Center and Heartland of Decatur receive the care they need and deserve.
March 10th-16th was Long Term Care Administrator’s Week, sponsored by the American College of Healthcare Administrators. I encourage everyone to recognize Barbara and Rachel for their valuable work at their facilities and in our community.
Christy Cooper
Passages Hospice
Bloomington
Fred Spannaus Brings Leadership To Decatur School Board
Dear Editor:
It has been my privilege to work with Fred Spannaus on several community projects. Fred is a good man and a brilliant man. His leadership is much needed on the DPS Board.
Fred advocates setting clear community-wide goals, measuring progress towards those goals, insisting on absolute transparency with the community about progress towards those goals, and holding the district accountable for results.
Fred is diligent, pragmatic, wise, and guided by a strong moral compass. And he has the rare and special talent of bringing people together to work towards the greater good.
Fred has an old fashioned sense of civic fidelity. He understands that elected Board members are supposed to serve the taxpayers and the community, not become co-opted as an extension of the entity they were elected to hold accountable. Simply put, he’ll work for us.
Please join me in voting for Fred Spannaus on Tuesday, April 9th.
Josh Rohrscheib
Decatur
Disappointed In School Board’s Decision
To Cut 36 Teaching Positions
Dear Editor:
On March 12, the Decatur Board of Education voted to accept recommendations from the district’s administration by cutting staff who provide direct services to our students.
As president of the Decatur Education Association, representing teachers and other school employees, we are disappointed that the school board approved cutting 36 teaching positions. This means there will be 36 fewer people helping our students learn and grow.
At the same time, the administration did not ask the board to eliminate a single position in its own office. What this means is that while fewer teachers will be the classrooms working one on one with students, we will have the same number of administrators who do not interact with students on a daily basis. How does that benefit Decatur?
Teachers who provided additional student improvement to pupils at the elementary level were cut. Teachers who teach math, social studies, science, physical education and foreign languages at the high school and middle school levels were cut. Yet, not one administrator was cut from the Keil building.
This act demonstrates the values of this district. It is a district that deems administrators more important than those who provide instruction directly to our students. This decision does not serve our community well. We know it is imperative that we raise our children and teach our children in a way that allows them to compete in this global economy. However, the board is leading us in the opposite direction.
Decatur needs teachers who work directly with students every day. In the classroom, we are being asked to do more with less. We will do so because we care for our students and we want them to succeed. But the question begs to be asked: Why won’t administrators, who have little to no contact with students, be asked to do the same?
Suzanne Kreps
President, Decatur
Education Association
Chamber’s Endorsements Were Either
Poorly Written Or Intended As Written
Dear Editor:
Perhaps it is just poorly written, or maybe it was intended as written, literally.
The Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce announced its endorsements for local Decatur area elections last week. In doing so it stated in its press release, “CIPAC voted to endorse candidates who will provide support crucial to area businesses once elected.”
By inference this quoted statement says those candidates not endorsed, and there are several, will not provide support crucial to area businesses once elected. REALLY?????
John Davis
Park District Candidate
Name New Warrensburg Gym After Real Legend
Dear Editor:
Let the bird out!
Porky Pig, Woody Woodpecker, The Bird Cage - all looney-tunes.
Get real people!
Name the new Warrensburg gym after a real legend - Vic Binkley - a true gentleman and one of the best basketball coaches in the state.
Murrell Hall
Decatur
Supports Chris Riley For Decatur Park Board
Dear Editor:
It is a pleasure to offer my support to Chris Riley for election to the Decatur Park District Board of Commissioners. I have known Chris for many years and he is a thoughtful and engaging leader in our community.
His enthusiasm and love for the Decatur Park District goes back to his youth as a participant in their programs. This firsthand experience gives him a unique perspective and will help ensure a vibrant future for the Decatur Park District and the Decatur community as a whole.
Please spread the word among your friends and family to support Chris Riley for the Decatur Park District.
N. Duane Noland
Blue Mound
Gun Control Will Not Work As Crime Control
Dear Editor:
Our nation is involved in yet another debate on gun control. The latest proposals that I am aware of are reworked versions of the many gun-control laws enacted in the past 50 years and replaced with sensible concealed-carry laws. Gun control did not work as a crime control then, and will not work now.
The real problem is the decline of moral, ethical, and spiritual standards in our society. If the effort and money spent on useless gun control were directed towards the real problems, we might discover the reason our nation is such a huge market for illegal drugs.
Why so many of our young people joining gangs? Why so many of our elected government representatives and business leaders are not trusted and held in such low esteem?
If the decline in moral, ethical, and spiritual standards continues, all kinds of violent crime will probably increase, and our treasured nation and freedoms will fail and disappear.
Eldon K. Clements
Decatur
Thanks For Article On Roosevelt Junior High
Dear Editor:
Thank you very much for the Scrapbook article on Roosevelt Junior High School. It brought back memories of “many moons” ago.
I was born and raised in Harristown and graduated from Harristown Grade School. At that time, Harristown was a non-high school district, I could choose either Decatur or Niantic. I, of course chose Decatur and was enrolled in Roosevelt Junior High School.
My homeroom was a class of “aliens” – students who were new to the district due to country schools or just having moved to Decatur.
My homeroom teacher was Mrs. Wilson and I’ll never forget her. She was the sweetest, most tolerant person I have ever known. She made us all feel welcome and prepared us to enter Decatur High School the following year.
While at RJHS, I was a member of the school orchestra and chorus. We put on an operetta called “Ask the Professor” directed by Mr. Nolan. That was a memorable experience.
I graduated from DHS in 1944, went to Millikin University, and graduated from Eastern, but I still smile when I think of RJHS.
My brother gave me a subscription to your paper as a birthday present years ago. He is no longer with us, but I still enjoy reading it and share it with another “Decaturite” while on winter vacation in Alabama.
Betty L. (Bissy) Glasscock
Gays
Two Whitmore Township Trustees Explain Resignations
Dear Editor:
As trustees of Whitmore Township, we regretfully have resigned from our trustee positions due to the ongoing contemptuous behavior displayed by the supervisor and road commissioner. We have taken our duties seriously and as we audit the finances of Whitmore Township, we trustees are constantly harassed.
We have provided accountability by uncovering the theft of township funds by the road commissioner. As a result of this felony the road commissioner made a deal with the state’s attorney resulting in the payment of restitution, making a public apology and participating in a diversion program. This did, however, only take into consideration the past three years and not the previously 17 years served by the current road commissioner.
An additional lawsuit has been filed against the road commissioner by a previous employee. As before the legal fees are being accumulated for the taxpayers of Whitmore Township to take care of.
We were handed an ugly situation but did step up to take responsibility for exposing this theft.
Thank you to many taxpayers who came forward with information and were interviewed in this case. Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve Whitmore Township.
As the April 9th election approaches, please consider the cost of the theft and legal fees to Whitmore Township taxpayers, the projects and people these funds could have been spent on.
Please vote for change and correct this situation.
Pat Jones &
Danny Manning
Third Grade Class Trying To Make A Difference
Dear Citizens,
The Third Grade Class of Mt. Pulaski Grade School is trying to make a difference. We are trying to help save the Mt. Pulaski Courthouse where Abraham Lincoln once worked as a lawyer. New windows are needed, doors need to be replaced, and the stairs need to be fixed. The inside needs to be painted. If the building is not repaired, the building will fall apart. Then history will be lost! We want Abraham Lincoln’s life to be remembered in Mt. Pulaski. We want to be able to show our children this building when we are adults.
Could you help us with this project by giving a dollar (or more J) to this cause? Could you give up a soda for one day and give us the dollar. If everyone gives one dollar, it would add up, and you too could help save history!
We are children, but we feel we can make a difference in our community. Our slogan is: Courthouse Cash! So if you see this around town, you will know it is the work of our class.
Please help us make a difference. Look for our buckets around town.
You can mail your donation to:
Third Grade Class
Mt. Pulaski Grade School
119 N. Garden
Mt. Pulaski, IL 62548
Please make checks payable to: The Courthouse Foundation
The deadline is April 5, 2013
Third Grade 3A and 3B
Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Radtke
Above Letters Posted 3/19/13
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Dear Editor:
In response to Dick Blankenburg of San Diego's letter that was in last week’s edition, the United States is not and never has been a democracy
It is a republic.
Benjamin Franklin, after the Constitution was finished, wrote "we have given you a republic if you can keep it."
The word "democracy" is misused every day by politicians, teachers, and the media. The last true democracy was probably the Athens city-state, where every male citizen could vote on every issue. It is a very slow, clumsy and inefficient method of government and open to tyranny of the masses.
In a republic, government is by elected representatives of the people and the rights of minorities are protected. Granted, of late, our republic has been less than efficient, but just imagine how inefficient and unwieldy it would be if every issue had to be submitted to the electorate and voted on in a national referendum.
I notice Mr. Blankenburg only opposed right-wing organizations and their sources of income. He fails to mention the enormous amount of' left-wing organizations funded by George Soros.
Glenn Portwood
Decatur
Decatur Is A Great Place To Live
Dear Editor:
I came to Decatur in the Spring of 1957. I liked the city then, and I still do. Main Street was on Route 36 through town at that time.
When entering Decatur from the West on 36, I noticed the multi-storied houses framed by huge elm trees. The people I met were the friendliest and most accepting people I had ever encountered. One of the things I especially enjoyed was hearing the church bells ringing on Sunday morning.
I met my wife in Decatur and we recently celebrated our 55th wedding anniversary. We have witnessed many changes in Decatur over the years, some bad, but many more good.
Decatur is blessed with the finest police force and sheriff department. Our fire department and medical first-responders, our doctors and our two hospitals are the best. I believe our present city council is one of the best.
Decatur is a great place to live. I pray for more progress and much success in the future.
Eldon K. Clements
Decatur
Repeal Income Tax Because It Is Evil
Dear Editor:
The #1 reason to repeal the income tax is to end evil. The income tax is evil
because it puts government before God's directive that we are free and given our liberty by God, not government.
We are free. What we create is ours to do with as we elect.
Man has agreed to exchange some freedom for advantages offered by living in a group. Key to that concept is the principle that man, not government by force, willingly agreed to this pact. Free men can way, "This is mine. You cannot take it without my consent."
The IRS allows no such agreement. The IRS assumes a citizen is guilty without trial. The income tax has morphed into a deadly weapon used to control citizens it was supposed to help by providing revenue for governance. Now, the politically powerful use the IRS to destroy enemies, rewards friends, and grow their personal or political wealth. Men and women are forced into compliance through fear. This is evil.
Ending the income tax, FairTaxHR25 destroys the power of a handful of elite who in the pretense of funding government have for one-hundred years sucked the economic blod of citizens powerless to resist.
Beverly Martin
Fulton, MO
How Many Other Projects Exist That Americans
Know Nothing About?
Dear Editor:
Now employed by MSNBC, Robert Gibbs once served as President Obama's press secretary during 2009-2011.
He tells that when he first went through the process of becoming press secretary, one of the first things they told me was "you're not even to acknowledge the drone program."
Our denial of the existence of the program when it's obviously happening undermines the confidence of the people overall in the decisions that their government makes.
How many other projects have the American taxpayers been denied the knowledge of, and how much of our taxes paid for these things?
Phyllis Chapman
Shelbyville
Were Depression Era Prices Lower Than Today?
Dear Editor:
I saw your offering about the Depression Era Montgomery Ward prices.
Actually the prices were on a level with today’s prices.
The real question is "How long did the average wage earner have to work to pay those ‘low’ prices?”
The vast majority of products then were made in the USA. Today the related products are made by child and slave labor in 3rd world slave/sweat shops.
And, today it takes the same amount of hours worked for the average wage earner to purchase the same related products as it did back then.
Bob Minks
Decatur
Continue To Support Teachers, Dr. Key, In Molding Young People Into Responsible Adults
Dear Editor:
Have you visited a school recently where the students said please, thank you, excuse me, and opened the door for you if needed? If so, chances are you were at MacArthur High School.
Dr. Key, the principal is amazing. She and the teachers enforce the good behavior the students have been taught at home. They are molding the students into young adults to become productive people after they graduate from school.
I have been with the school district as a teaching assistant for a few years. I am so proud of the school that my chilren graduated from. I have never, not even once, been shown disrespect by a student at this school.
Parents please continue supporting the teachers and Dr. Key in molding your young people into responsible adults.
Beverly K. Williams
Decatur
What Is President Saying When He Uses ObamaSpeak?
Dear Editor:
I have spent the last 6 years since my retirement soaking up every bit of political news I can so you might say I have become a political junkie. Therefore I feel I am imminently qualified to write this letter advising all those not so politically inclined exactly what Obama is saying when he engages in Obama Speak. For today's lesson I have chosen 3 of the most frequently used words in his vocabulary; Compromise, Revenue and Fair Share (sorry I know that's 2 words).
First we'll begin with Compromise; what exactly does Obama mean when he uses the term Compromise. Substitute the word Capitulation for Compromise and you have it; there is no compromise in Obama. He is an ideologue and like all ideologues they don't compromise; they engage in subterfuge and obfuscation in order to coerce you into capitulation!
Next the word Revenue; what exactly is Obama saying when he says we need a balanced approach consisting of spending cuts and additional Revenue. Well my friends he's actually referring to increasing taxes; Taxes and Revenues are oxymorons! Individuals or companies earn Revenue by producing some good or service for which others are willing to pay; the government steals the revenue from the producers in the form of taxes; the government produces nothing but only takes from the producers through taxation. Taxes and Revenue are not synonyms and thus cannot be used interchangeably within the same sentence. Call it what you want but a Tax by any other name is still a Tax!
Finally Obama's favorite class warfare expression is Fair Share. Remember he went on and on during the 2012 campaign; the one during which he successfully divided the country, about those fortunate Americans not paying their fair share. Those small business owners who didn't build their business or those lucky at life's lotto just weren't paying their fair share. Well what's he really saying; in order to redistribute the income since his economic policies have been a disaster the only way to equal things out is to eradicate the middle class making everyone poor. Fair share means taking most of everything from those that have worked hard to get ahead in the name of fairness. From each according to their ability to each according to their need; sound familiar?
Joseph P. Quinn
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Advice: ‘Spread The Word And Stand Together’
Dear Editor:
After watching anti-Constitution politicians in Washington try to exploit the Newtown tragedy to trample on Americans' right to keep and bear arms, Gilberton Borough, Pennsylvania Police Chief Mark Kessler decided enough was enough.
Now, he is speaking out, and asking lawmakers in his small borough of around 1,000 residents to pass a nullification measure. He is also promoting the idea nationwide, most recently appearing on the popular Alex Jones radio show heard all across the country.
Chief Kessler detailed his proposed "Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance," which would prevent any federal or state infringements on the right to keep and bear firearms, accessories, or ammunition within the jurisdiction.
If approved, the resolution, citing the U.S. and Pennsylvania constitutions would nullify any unconstitutional acts purporting to restrict gun rights.
The Chief offered the following advice: "Spread the word and stand together!"
Dick Wheeler
Shelbyville
Please Consider Giving, For The Children
Dear Editor
On Saturday April 27, 2013 School Social Workers from IASSW region 17 Decatur-Springfield participated in their 2nd annual food drive in honor of school social work month. They collected donations of cash and food for the Northeast Community Fund and Catholic Charities of Decatur and for the food bank at the Methodist church in Monticello.
According to the organization Do Something, 1 in 6 people in America face hunger and 1 in 5 children are at risk of hunger. In the Latino and African American population 1 in 3 children are at risk of hunger. Over 20 million children receive free and reduced lunch each school day but only 10% have access to programs during the summer months.
People are not hungry because we do not have enough food in America. Rather, families do not have funds to purchase food due to unemployment and poverty. Unemployment is the highest indicator of food insecurity. Decatur has the highest unemployment rate in Illinois and therefore our children are at the highest risk of hunger this summer.
Please consider continuing to give to our local pantries. Have your organization do a food drive. Collect at church or ask for food as entrance to your latest event.
Wouldn’t it be great if those who attended our Decatur Celebration donated food or cash right before students return to school, when the pantries may be struggling?
Have a casual day at work; the privilege can be earned by donating food items or cash. Pantries can often buy food cheaper than every day people. Cash can also buy the perishable items that we don’t donate. Please consider giving, for the children.
Risé Davis
IASSW Co-VP
Red Blooded Americans Should Rid Nation
Of John Birch Society’s Influence
Dear Editor,
In the March 27 issue of the Decatur Tribune, you published the letter of Charles L. Fowler of Toledo in which he expressed his opinion and that of the John Birch Society’s that the USA is not a democracy, never has been, and should not be. However, we Americans have been taught differently in our public schools, since 1789.
Your editorial policy is clearly stated that “Letters to the Editor” are not necessarily the opinion of the Tribune, but, you have never editorially indicated that you disagree with Fowler and the John Birch Society.
Here are some quotes from the John Birch Society Bluebook:
Elimination of democracy: p.124 "And democracy … is merely a deceptive phrase, a weapon of demagoguery, and a perennial fraud." (Footnote 25, p. 136) Our founding fathers … spurned a democracy as probably the worst of all forms of government.”
Organizing front organizations: “…organize fronts—little fronts, big fronts, temporary fronts, permanent fronts, all kinds of fronts… A part of this same operation is the gathering of petitions, dealing with political matters, educational matters, and everything under the sun.” p.68-73
Character assastination: “…we should… start shocking the American People … Let’s make what we are talking about clearer by illustration … the head of one of the great educational institutions … some of us believe to be a Communist. I doubt if we could prove it on him. But… we would run in the magazine an article consisting of questions to this man, which would be devastating in their implications. The question technique … is mean and dirty. But the Communists we are after are meaner and dirtier, and too slippery to put your fingers on them in the ordinary way.” pp. 73-4.
Writing letters to the editor: “institute the organized planning and control to make… effectively coordinated use of the powerful letter writing weapon…Letter writing of the kind that builds opinion exactly the way single grains of sand build a whole barricade. . . we would keep a million men working every day. ” pp. 66-8.
Personally, reading Mr. Fowler and the John Birch Society Bluebook, makes my flesh crawl; why doesn't every red blooded American feel the same way and rid our nation of the John Birch Society influence and the power of their excessive dollars? Yes they are exceedingly wealthy. The Koch brothers, sons of John Birch Society founder Fred Koch, are individually two of the wealthiest 100 people in the world, each worth $22.5 billion according to Forbes.
The Koch Brothers finance the Tea Party, ALEC, and Gov. Walker’s election in Wisconsin, among other like groups. These enemies of American democracy are more dangerous in my mind that foreign terrorists.
Opposing the John Birch Society’s and Mr. Fowler’s ideology, just might adversely affect the Tribune’s advertising, so I can understand your reluctance to defend American democracy, Mr. Editor; but I am interested in your editorial opinion about “American democracy” if you have one.
Dick Blankenburg,
a Decatur native
living in San Diego
Mother’s Day Is Reminder Of Abraham Lincoln’s
Tribute To His Mother
Dear Editor:
Every year when we celebrate Mother's Day, with its new birth of environment, my heart turns to Lincoln's tribute. "All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother."
In our troubled world today, mothers need that special blessing - especially mothers separated from their loved ones by our military service - or part-time mothers who suffer from broken marriages - or mothers who have to work to help overcome the high cost of living, and are too tired to enjoy their children - or mothers who find it difficult rearing a family with all the negative pressures present in our society today.
Yes, mothers have a difficult job and are deserving of the various ways their children show their gratitude and love.
Rose F. Cunningham
Decatur
Digital Privacy Is Freedom Of The Past
Dear Editor:
Following the resignation of CIA Director David Petraeus, a former high-ranking member of the National Security Agency (NSA) claimed the FBI's probe into Petraeus indicates that digital privacy had become a freedom of the past.
"Basically the FBI has access to the data collected through the emails of virtually everybody in the country" says NSA whistleblower William Binney.
He affirmed this in a December 4 interview with the Kremlin-funded news outlet Russia Today (RT). "And the FBI has access to it."
Edward Barrett
Westervelt
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Posted 5/7/13
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Earlier Posts Start Here
‘Medical’ Marijuana Is Not What It Pretends To Be
Dear Editor:
When I was a teenager growing up in Decatur, I argued with everyone that marijuana should be legal. After spending 30 years as an addiction psychiatrist treating drug abusers in prisons, homeless clinics and treatment programs, I’ve learned the games they play. They’re really good scam artists, and “medical” marijuana is a scam on a national scale. `
The Illinois Senate will vote on medical marijuana soon, and while supporters insist it’s only for serious illnesses, a look at states with similar laws tells us otherwise.
In Colorado, only 5 percent of the medical marijuana patients had cancer, glaucoma or AIDS--the serious illnesses the law was meant for. Meanwhile, 94 percent claimed pain. In Oregon, 96 percent got their pot for pain, and that pain can be anything. In California, one woman got marijuana because her high heels hurt. Pain is easily faked and impossible to disprove.
Doctors are supposed to screen out drug abusers, but in California, Colorado and Arizona, a handful of doctors decided to get rich off marijuana, and almost all the marijuana prescriptions come from that tiny handful. In Montana, eight doctors wrote three-fourths of the marijuana recommendations. They see patients one time only, for as little as 5 minutes, handing out marijuana cards to anyone with $150. That should be illegal, but medical marijuana laws protect them.
The result: Any drug abuser can lie or exaggerate, and, for a fee, an unscrupulous doctor will give him a card to smoke pot legally. That’s where almost all the marijuana goes. They’re just using people with cancer to play on our sympathy. It’s really a bait and switch that effectively legalizes marijuana.
It doesn’t have to be. New Mexico’s law requires second opinions for easy to fake diagnoses like pain, and insists patients get marijuana from specialists familiar with their illness. The proposed Illinois law includes neither of these protections.
That’s hardly surprising. The Marijuana Policy Project, a group that wants marijuana legalized, is lobbying for this law. Of course, they didn’t fix the loopholes.
None of this would matter if marijuana were harmless, but marijuana causes DUIs and fatal car wrecks. Research from New Zealand found regular pot-smokers 9.5 times more likely to be in serious or fatal car wrecks. That’s why fatal car crashes involving marijuana skyrocketed in California, Colorado and Montana when their laws went into effect.
These laws hit teenagers the hardest. Teenage marijuana use is 30 percent higher in “medical” marijuana states. If it passes in Illinois, more teenagers will smoke pot, they’ll smoke it more often, and they’ll start at a younger age. Researchers have shown that teens who smoke pot regularly have trouble learning, get worse grades, are less likely to finish high school or college, and as adults, are unhappier and earn less money. No one wants that for their children.
State senators should think twice before believing what the pro-marijuana lobbyists have told them.
Ed Gogek, MD
Prescott, Ariz
After Bankruptcy You Can Again Be Good Credit Risk
Dear Editor:
Bankruptcy can save your family.
If you are under financial stress, then you should not hesitate to file for bankruptcy. The vast majority of working people file bankruptcy for these very good reasons: 1. medical bills because of illness or injury 2. loss of a job. 3. divorce and 4. mortgage foreclosure.
The big corporations file for bankruptcy protection whenever they need it. For example, Donald Trump's companies are not shy about filing for bankruptcy protection. Your taxes bailed-out Wells Fargo, AIG and Chase. The bail-out saved them from bankruptcy.
Within about three years of discharge your credit will return to a good level.
After bankruptcy you become a good credit risk again. So banks and credit card companies want your business.
Here are the names of good lawyers in our community who handle bankruptcy cases: Joseph Basola (423-3411); Jay Barr (875-5311) and Andrew Bourey (422-2400). Please give this information to your family and friends.
Thank you.
William C. Faber, Jr.
Decatur
‘Fair Tax’ Is Simple, But Effective Way
To Make Taxes Fair For Everybody
Dear Editor,
Everyday on the news we hear politicians talking about budget cuts to end the federal deficit.
What we don't hear politicians talking about are ways to raise revenue in a non partisan fashion to end the federal deficit.
With the fair tax 100% of the people in America will pay taxes instead of the current 53%. The fair tax is a national sales tax based on an individuals consumption of new goods and services. The more you spend the more you pay and the less you spend the less you pay.
It is a very simple yet extremely effective way to make things fair for all who reside in the United States whether they are here legally or illegally. It captures tax revenue from people who earn an honest living as well as those who earn a dishonest living.
The fair tax is the only tax reform that will create jobs and end the deficit without battering the middle class and
driving us further apart. America needs tax reform now and the fair tax is our only true non partisan solution.
Whitney Watson
Parrish, FL
Federal Taxation Is Issue All Americans Deal With Daily
Dear Editor:
It's not a Democratic or Republican, liberal or conservative type issue.
Federal taxation is an issue all Americans deal with daily. There is a Bill in Congress, HR 25, the FairTax Bill, that eliminates all federal taxes on income and replaces it with a tax on consumption on new goods and services.
Who wins? First, the economy wins, as millions of new jobs are created due to our new found worldwide competitiveness.
Second, all Americans win as their
gross pay becomes their take home pay (states will most likely replace their income tax with a consumption tax).
Who loses? Special interest groups as politicians can no longer grant favors to supporters by creating tax loopholes.
Learn more at fairtax.org. Call your Congressman today and demand he become a co-sponsor.
Anthony Gasbarro
Fairhope Alabama
Farmers Aren’t The Only Ones Opposing RICL
Dear Editor:
Block Rock Island Clean Line is not a group of selfish farmers wanting to stop progress by opposing clean energy solutions that would help society.
Block RICL IS a group of citizens concerned with unnecessary power lines and the billions of dollars in expenses they impose on the tax payers and consumers.
Block RICL is made-up of concerned citizens who want to educate the public and ask the Illinois Commerce Commission, ICC, to study all proposed power line projects and stop unnecessary transmission lines. The group initially was begun by landowners directly impacted by Rock Island Clean Line’s project to cross Illinois farm land with huge towers carrying DC electricity from Iowa to the PJM power grid which supplies the east coast. But as more information was available to the public, the group quickly grew to include many other citizens who question a system where a private group of wealthy out-of- state investors can attempt to get public utility status and seize private land using eminent domain -Then make the public pay for their investment through electricity bills.
Also opposing the RICL power line project are citizens following the National trend to scrutinize the abuse of Federal subsidy money for supposedly “clean energy”.
These people realize that wind energy produced in the Midwest and transmitted half-way across the country is not the answer to a future of clean energy. They also feel there are better clean energy solutions close to where the energy is needed and wind subsidies abuse our Federal tax payer’s money which was intended to create future independence from fossil fuels. Wind energy is very costly to produce and requires back up production of electricity from coal, natural gas, or nuclear energy. Only a third of the electricity transmitted over the proposed “clean lines” would likely be produced by wind. Clean electricity generated by off-shore Atlantic Ocean wind farms or under water turbines located near the demand area make a lot more sense.
To learn more about the subject please go to www.BlockRICL.com. This is an issue that concerns all Americans.
Susan Sack
Mendota
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Above Letters Were Posted 4/30/13
Earlier Postings Follow:
Mayor, City Council Hurt The People
Again On Water Rate Increase
Dear Editor:
Good letter Frank Ciastke.
Not only have city leaders hurt the people again on the water rate increase, think back to the ski lift, gambling boat, prison and etc. Not only did people vote in favor of leaf burning two times, but were told, “Sorry, we know what's best for you, no burning.”
Then, of course, all the money on the mall we lost out on. Do you realize the thousands of dollars the councilmen make a year, and the superintendent of the schools? She even receives $10,000 a year for her clothing, as I hear it.
Shouldn't all this be illegal since our city hurts so bad. So many of us wear our clothing until all they are any good for is to wash down the walls. Don't they realize our city is dying? We have almost 14% unemployment, the highest in the state. We can't afford food on the table or medicine. Let all of them live monthly on the income we do, take their raises and clothing expense and let them pay for all the changes.
Why do the people just sit and complain, doing nothing?
Really, what can we do? They know what's best for us.
If the people decided to picket at the front of the entrance to the civic center blocking the entrance, are they going to throw us in jail?
Don't think so, I hear the jail is over crowded now. Oh yeah, they could put us in the gym.
We should be able to vote on everything, before they pass it. They like for us to vote for them.
I say let's tar and feather them, sending them down the tracks out of town. Oh yeah, let's not forget the mayor too. He is right beside them, deciding what's best for us.
Like I said years ago - last one to leave Decatur, turn out the lights. Then you “know-it-alls”, will have to pay the bill, if you want water.
Sandy Petroski
Decatur
People Should Back Mayor, City Council
On Water Solution Options
Dear Editor:
Concerning the water problem: I believe that one of the solutions is to top wells north of here. If this is true, or whatever solution or proposal the mayor and council have, it is imperative that the people get behind the mayor and the council. My reasoning for this is that I come from a town where I was born and lived till I was 22 and they have a nice, relatively new seven mile long lake.
They obtained it by backing the mayor and council whole-heartedly. They did this only after several years, but yet they still did it. It was only after the people got behind the mayor and council that they did it. I know there are other places who have done the same thing only quicker and have obtained stunning results.
The key I think to the whole problem is the people. They should get behind their city government.
God acts in wonderful ways, but he also wants us to handle our share of the load.
David R. Baker
Decatur
Public Needs Clear View Of Meaning Of
Change For Decatur, District 61
Dear Editor:
My thanks to the community voters who supported me in the school board election by casting their vote for change.
In investigating the purest meaning of change for Decatur and District 61, the people need to have a clear vision of the board's role in the educational process.
The board represents the voters and taxpayers and creates policies to improve or enhance the educational system thus inviting new businesses, improving the economy and raising property values An example of one of these policies would be a safe school environment established by strong disciple policies and support for staff so that instruction takes place in a fear free environment.
In addition, the board hires all staff, including the superintendent, who reports to, and is responsible to, the board. The board hires personnel based upon employment recommendations provided by the administration.
Hence, it is critical that human resources personnel have thoroughly run all back ground checks, confirmed certification requirements and investigated the "good standing" of all applicants before making employment recommendations to the board.
At the end of the year, the board reviews staff evaluations and is responsible for reduction in force, (RIF), for both teachers and administrators.
Another board task is maintaining a balanced budget and being fiscally sound. With state funding as it is, and a real estate tax base as it stands, about all the board can do is govern spending by the administration and plan ahead for personnel/program needs. No "windfall" ever exists.
The board of education is responsible for monitoring the daily running of the district. This includes approval for securing educational materials, maintaining positive staff morale, monitoring teacher-administrator relationships, addressing parents' concerns, complying with government regulations and meeting state/national mandates in a timely manner.
Within the complexity of board responsibilities comes the monitoring of student academic achievement. If annual yearly progress, (AYP), is not met, the board can and should hold the administration accountable. After research for probable cause for the lack of success, the board must make recommendations for instructional or personnel change in order to address the issues.
Based upon staff/teacher recommendations, the board should provide policies which would address and allow for all avenues of academic success.
Finally, the board should demand that all staff are treated with respect and support so that graduation rates and entry-level job applicants reflect a quality education provided by an outstanding academic curriculum.
In conclusion, change usually comes with a price and always starts at the top. It's slow, methodical and takes cooperation to achieve desired end results, but it can be done.
The board of education is, in itself, a complex combination of philosophical goals that should be based on what's best for students without political influence or ramifications.
B.A. Buttz
Decatur
‘Lost Pants’ Viewpoint Brought Back
Memory Of Bad Experience
Dear Editor:
I enjoyed the article about the irate fan who attacked the referee and lost his pants. It reminded me of a bad experience I had back in the 1950's.
In high school it was cool to wear your jeans rather low on your hips, not like today, but low.
Our family was gathered around the dinner table to say grace and my soon to be brother-in-law, John Bright, came up behind me and gave my pants a yank. Needless to say my pants and underpants came off. Quite embarrassing for all.
I heard that the irate fan was arrested for indecency in public, but released for lack of evidence.
Ron Adams
N. Fort Myers, FL
Send Illegal Immigrants Back Home
To Follow Proper Procedure
Dear Editor:
How many "illegals" do we have in our country now? The latest figure I heard on the news was 11 million.
I personally think that estimate is way low. So what do we do with them? One news outlet newscaster suggests that they're here and we can't send them home. We have to do something with them and help them.
Again I disagree.
They came here illegally, they can leave. Illegal is illegal. That's why we have the immigration laws we've had for decades.
Send them home and let them get in line like the rest of the immigrants who follow the proper procedure. Why should people who break the law by entering illegally take precedence over the law-abiding persons?
I know that there is a category in the illegal immigrants called OTM, which means other than Mexican, which tell me that anyone from the Middle East, Africa, any place in Asia or basically anyone can enter and stay with impunity.
Send them back across the border, fix the border, and follow our heretofore established rules. When they follow our rules they're more than welcome.
Charles Fowler
Toledo
Watch For Major Increase In Sewer Use Fees
Dear Editor:
City of Decatur water bills contain several line items, none apparently voluntary. The charge for water usage appears to be somewhere around the 50% mark. The sewer processing charge is about half the water use charge, and based on volume of water consumed. The Sanitary District of Decatur (SDD) is an entity unto itself and not a part of city governance.
The sewer use charge is also based on metered water usage, while the charge for recycling is fixed, whether one opts in or out. At present, only the charge for water consumed is increasing. Reducing that cost may be an option for the homeowner by installing reduced flow devices such as aerators, shower heads, and low capacity flush tanks; the sewer use and SDD charges would be reduced accordingly.
The continuing council members were not discharged by the electorate for exercising the courage to do their job. It is suggested that it would be useful to generate an anticipated percentage of success for each water project line item prior to fund commitment. Casino players know the odds of the games before they lay their money down. That would be a useful exercise for the city before spending our money. Providing such information to Council for decision making should not be all that difficult and would not constitute micro-management but appropriate stewardship of user funding.
The next item to watch for is a major increase in the sewer use fee. The revenue from that charge is slated to repay the major funds being borrowed to repair a primary sewer artery. The question becomes: if that current fee stream is not enough to repair the artery without the use of a loan, how will maintenance be continued when the proceeds are dedicated to loan repayment? Once that financial structure is in place, it seems obvious increasing the user fee will not be optional, yet no information has been forthcoming.
Michael Jontry
Decatur
Workers Memorial Day
Dear Editor:
Working people have come together year after year to call for better working conditions and stronger safety protections on the job. As a result, workplace deaths and injuries have declined significantly, exposure to hazards and toxic chemicals like asbestos and lead have been reduced and far fewer workers are dying from trench cave-ins or from being caught in dangerous machinery.
When working people have the ability to come together and collectively bargain, they have a say in safety and health conditions on the job and can demand employers protect them from harm without fear of retaliation. When working people speak out for better working conditions, this benefits everyone, not just union members.
Every worker should be able to go to work and return home unharmed to their family and loved ones at the end of the day.
So this Workers Memorial Day, let’s remember those who lost their lives by fighting for the rights of the living.
Roger Snively
Macon
More Safety Protections Needed For Workers
Dear Editor:
Every day in America, 13 workers die on the job from job injuries. Many of these deaths could have been prevented if companies identified and promptly fixed job hazards.
In our state alone, in 2011, according to the BLS 177 hardworking men and women never came home to their families. My dad was one of those hard workers who didn't come home one cold January day.
Meanwhile, companies continue to shirk responsibility and cut corners to multiply their ever-increasing profits, all at the expense of workers. I want to know: How much money is a life worth?
Decades ago, we passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) to ensure that workers have a safe work environment. Since then, we have made progress in preventing more deaths— but not enough.
On April 28, Workers Memorial Day, we pause to remember those who have lost their lives or who have become ill on the job.
We can’t afford to be silent any more. Workers and their families shouldn’t have to endure agonizing losses because our elected officials and business leaders refuse to take action. Let’s make sure these workers did not die in vain. We need more safety protections for all workers, and we need them now.
Steve Woosley
Decatur
The Smart Meter Is Coming To Decatur
Dear Editor:
I am going to tell you about the hazards and risks that can happen with the Smart Meter. It is a new type of electrical meter that will measure your energy usage like the old analog meter does now. It will send information back to the utility by wireless signal.(radio frequency microwave Radiation signal instead of having a meter read).
Health issues: It emits dirty electricity and powerful , pulsed RF radiation into the home every 3-6 seconds.
Complaints: headaches, dizziness,nausea, insomnia, earaches, nose bleeding, heart palpitations, brain fog and general feeling of weakness. The RF,also, interferes with medical devices such as pace makers. The Radiation is a Class 2B carcinogen, according to the World Health Organization and the that it alters DNA and bloodcells.There has been no scientific testing on the Smart Meter. .
A risk of hacking: Computerized RF system of control overall electrical power and appliances , including security alarms. Privacy Rights can be at risk.
There is a risk of fires. Many fires have been caused by the Smart Meter.
Rates of electricity can become higher, depending on when the family is home. They can use the time of day to charge more such as at breakfast, dinner, washing clothes.
Smart Meters are surveillance devices that are in violation of Federal and State Wiretapping laws.
Violation of the 10th Amendment---States Rights. Violates the 4th Amendment-Privacy Law .
Invasion of Privacy: knowing where you are in your house, what appliances you are using and when. A future goal is to have all appliances replaced with those containing RF chips for even more regulation and control.
Ameren says they are mandatory but the Energy Policy Act of 2005 does not mandate the Smart Meter. It only offers to install upon customer request.
The U.N. is promoting the Smart Meter and Smart Grid under Agenda 21 or Sustainable Development . Whenever you hear the word “Sustainable,” it is part of Global Redistribution and power.
At the beginning of April, 2013, V. P. Biden suggested that we vote to be a One World Order. This is the preview of what President Obama wants to do by Executive Order in his last 2 years when he can “govern”-- as he puts it. Our Constitution would not be the law of our land; but the U.N. would be our law.
What can you do to help prevent Smart Meters? Spread the word to everyone who will listen to you. Write letters to the editor of the Decatur Tribune newspaper, call your City officials, legislature, even though many voted for the Smart Meter. Call Governor Quinn.
Some of us have the “Pre-cursor” to the Smart Meter. My analog meter was removed, unknowingly to me, in 2007. Didn’t ask me; no permission given.
Americans need to stand up and fight for things that are being pushed on us by our government. We don’t work for the government; the government works for us. We need to fight for our Constitution and the Bill of Rights. The 1st, 2nd, 4th and 10th Amendments are being violated. The President is pushing Socialism which turns into Communism. Dictatorship is not for America. Fight it. We still have property rights, but we won’t much longer if we roll over, play dead and let people talk us out of our rights. Websites: www.decatursmartmeterawarenesswebstart.com; www.napervillesmartmeterawareness.org; “Just Say No Big Brother’s Smart Meter “by Orleen Koehle.
June Innis
Decatur
America Is Headed For Destruction
Dear Editor:
America is headed straight towards destruction. And this destruction will come as a judgment from God. This judgment can only be averted if we seek God and turn ourselves and our country around.
Responsibility for the ungodliness which now prevails in our great country belongs to each one of us. But why me, you are probably thinking, to yourself. Because God says so! You see, God is going to hold us responsible for everything. For what we have done and for what we failed to do.
In the Word of God (the Holy Bible) it says, "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecclesiastes 12:13).
We failed our duty in many different ways!
We stood by as our nation was being corrupted and perverted, and we let ungodliness seep into every aspect of our lives. Everything which God considers abomination is now acceptable in America.
Some of our political leaders now brazenly support things which God Almighty called wicked and abominable.
They are either not knowledgeable in God's word, or are defying God. The Holy Bible shows what happened to nations who dared to defy God, or that got so morally depraved that God finally destroyed them.
So we need to admit that America is morally and spiritually corrupt, and that it is time to turn back to God. As a start, turn the TV off, and then close your eyes, sit back, take a few deep breaths, and relax for a a few minutes without thinking.
Then believe the Bible truth that there is a living God, our Creator, who created everything that was created and made, including you, and that He loves you.
On a clear night, go outside where it is dark and look at the moon, stars, and the never-ending universe. Everything you see before you, stands, on God's Word.
God wants us to love him, obey him, and serve him, in return for the life he has given us. To get to know God, read the Word of God, the Holy Bible, from beginning to end.
Manuel Ybarra, Jr.
Coalgate, Okla.
* * * *
Posted 4/25/13
“Letters To The Editor” are the opinions of the writers and not necessarily the opinion of the Decatur Tribune editor and publisher, staff, or advertisers.
To submit a letter, send to: Decatur Tribune, P. O. Box 1490, Decatur, IL 62525, or e-mail a letter to decaturtribune@aol.com
Earlier Letter Posts Start Here
Closed Coal Mines Don’t Buy Caterpillar Equipment
Dear Editor:
Attention: low information (Democrat) voters. Recently government environmentalists fined an electric generating company over one million dollars and made it promise to spend millions more to filter fumes it produces when it burns fuel to create electricity.
It also had to promise to shut down a perfectly good electric generating plant and fire the workers at the plant because it uses coal for fuel - as many electric plants have done for over a century. President Obama promised he would see to it coal generating plants would be forced out of business by worse and worse regulations - a promise he is keeping.
Coal comes from coal mines dug by coal miners who use mining machines which Caterpillar makes in Decatur, Illinois. The following formula for how to impoverish your fellow citizens and yourself, low information Democrat voter goes like this:
1) You are convinced to believe human beings can control the natural climate of the earth by burning so-called fossil fuels like wood, coal, oil, gas - and by breathing and omitting carbon gas and the government should stop as much of this as possible as soon as possible.
2) The power to tax is the power to destroy, therefore government taxes by fines people (companies are made up of people) who produce products people want and need from such fossil fuels (like gas for cars and homes and electricity for I-Pods, etc).
3) Companies pay the fines and collect the money from the public by charging more for gas and electricity. Where do you think the electric company gets the million dollar fine it pays? Look in your mirror.
4) Coal mines shut down throwing coal miners' families into poverty.
5. Closed coal mines don't buy mining equipment from CAT which fires 460 people in Decatur, Illinois, where the low information voters can't wait to vote for more Democrats like Obama - Durbin - Scherer, etc.
Now you understand why Decatur's unemployment rate is so high. Dear Democrats, why don't you look into the faces of your neighbors who are losing their jobs because of the way you vote and tell them how glad you are they are no longer destroying our climate with their bad lifestyles?
John E. Fick
Decatur
Attorney General Madigan Didn’t Help
With Scam Calls From ‘Ann’
Dear Editor:
“Hi, this is Ann with card member services.”
Does this "Ann" or some other phony name sound familiar?
If you feel like you are being harassed almost on a daily basis by these jerks, often more than once a day, you are not alone. A person would think that if Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan was notified about this they would do something to stop it. Well, think again.
Since I am on the national do not call list, I called Madigan's office and a very nice lady listened to my complaint and informed me that this is a scam to get personal information from people that are gullible enough to give it to them.
When I asked her if these gullible folks she was talking about was Obama voters, she said she had better not comment on that. I gave her what phone numbers I was able to get from these people, and I thought maybe they might do what they could to prosecute them.
Well, boy was I wrong.
A few weeks later along comes a letter from Lisa Madigan's office which stated that they didn't have a clue what to do to stop this from happening, but if anybody has an idea how to stop it to let them know what it might be!
This gives new meaning to the word incompetence. I have absolutely no doubt that our attorney general's daddy used Democrat campaign money to buy her way into office. Is there zero honesty left in the Illinois Democrat machine? I hope the Dems are happy now that Illinois is headed down the tubes to no return.
Robert Jenkins
Macon
U. S. Government Is Bent On Disarming Citizens
Dear Editor:
There has been a great deal of whoopla recently in the news media, and there probably should be. Our Washington government, at least certain ones, are bent on disarming the American people, even if they have to do it one step at a time.
The limitation of the number of shells any weapon can carry is just a start. Let's not even go that far. The Constitution guarantees Americans the right to keep and bear arms - and that right shall not be infringed!
There are those in Washington, namely California Senator Diane Feinstein, who favors no one having a weapon.
She says, "If somebody tries to take me out, I'm going to take them with me."
She has been a strong advocate of disarming the general public, but apparently it's okay for her to possess firearms. I think that's called hypocrisy!
Dick Wheeler
Shelbyville
A Note of Congratulations and Thanks
Dear Editor:
Congratulations to David Cooprider and Dale Colee. They campaigned with vigor and integrity. These men are pillars of our community, and Richland is in good hands.
While defeated, I am not discouraged. I am grateful for the innumerable acts of kindness and words of encouragement received from friends and neighbors throughout our community.
I am deeply humbled that 8,339 citizens trusted me with their vote. And most of all, I am inspired by how many of our neighbors share the hope of renewing and improving our community. In this process I learned much and made many new friends. I thank you all.
Josh Rohrscheib
Decatur
Congress has NO Right to Make Any Gun Laws
To The Editor:
Senator Kirk, you can’t lawfully make laws concerning guns, so stop it now! You should vote NO on any proposed gun law. Congress doesn’t have the constitutional authority to make laws concerning guns, but you are proposing to do so anyway.
You obviously believe in rule of man (King Kirk), not rule of law; you sir are a despot! You swore an oath to uphold the constitution, but fail to do so on a regular basis, just like Dick Durbin. You do what "you" feel is right, regardless of the supreme law of the land and your lack of authority to do so. You can’t lawfully do any thing you want, read the U.S. Constitution, it’s your rule book. You disagree; then I demand you cite the article, section and clause of the U.S. Constitution that grants you that authority. None of you tyrants who propose gun laws respects that the powers "we the people" granted to Congress via the U.S. Constitution are numbered and very limited. The U.S. Constitution is in place to protect the people from congress' so-called "best" intentions and tyrants.
Article VI, cl. 2 says: “This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof; and all Treaties made, or which shall be made, Under The Authority of The United States, shall be the supreme Law of the Land; and the judges in every State shall be bound thereby, any thing in the Constitution or Laws of any State to the Contrary notwithstanding.”
“Under the Authority Of The United States; the United States grants congress their limited powers via the Constitution, so when you make laws outside your granted authority, that law is not made under the authority of the United States and is null and void. It is a long standing Principle of Law that a “law” which is contrary to the Constitution is no law at all.
Many people mistakenly believe that our rights come from the first Ten Amendments to the Constitution. They speak of ”Our constitutional rights, our First Amendment right to free speech, our Second Amendment right to keep & bear arms, and so forth. But it’s a mistake to think that our rights come from the Constitution. Those rights are constitutionally secured not constitutionally given.
The Constitution is about the powers which We The People delegated to the federal government. The Constitution is not about Our Rights, which are God-given and pre-exist the Constitution. Which is the very reason you arrogant clowns in Congress have no lawful authority to makes laws concerning the people's rights to keep and bear guns. The following is from the preamble to the Bill of Rights:
“The Conventions of a number of the States, having at the time of their adopting the Constitution, expressed a desire, in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its {congress) powers, that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added: And as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government, will best ensure the beneficent ends of its institution.”
Yet you power abusers ignore your limits. Senator Kirk, I am ashamed to say I voted for you. I thought you were a better American than that.
Roger German
Decatur
Memories Of Little Katie Who Lived Next Door
Dear Editor:
A few weeks ago a young lady came to visit me and said, "Hello, Grandma Rosie. I'm Little Katie who lived next door to you a long time ago! Do you remember me?"
Wow! What a surprise. I said, "You have the same lovely dark eyes and hair." When they moved away from Decatur years ago, they moved to North Dakota. Now, Katie was coming from Bettendorf, Iowa, some 200 miles away, just to see me again!
Little Katie was around a year and a half to two years old when she used to come across the yard to see me every day. When the tulip bed was in bloom, she would always stop to admire the flowers. Her little arms reached out to me when she greeted me with,"Hello, Grandma Rosie!"
Then, she would run to find Thomas, my cat, sleeping in his bed. As soon as he would see Little Katie coming, he would run upstairs. Little Katie crawled up the stairs on all four, and I would be right behind her so she didn't fall. When she found Thomas, he would hide under the bed.
Little Katie had a lovely mother and dad, and a brother. Her dad worked at ADM, and when he came home, he was always greeted by Little Katie's outstretched arms. Her dad even had special license plates on his car, with "DA DA" printed on them. What wonderful memories!
A week after her visit, I received a large box from California, by way of UPS. It contained a large bouquet of tulips, all colors and just half in bloom. What a surprise. In the box was a letter thanking me for the nice visit, and the tulips were in memory of those she loved so well years ago. There was also a beautiful vase for me to put them in, and a box of chocolate candy.
Wow! Surprise, no end!
Rose F. Cunningham
Decatur
* * * *
Above letters posted 4/16/13
* * * *
Earlier Postings Below
Tribune Article Brought Back Old Memories
Dear Editor:
I read where Dale Abbott got you started as editor of the Trib. He also got me started in the printing business.
The article in the Editor's Notebook, entitled "Remembering The Trib From A Long Time Ago", published a couple weeks ago, brought back old memories for me.
I started working for Dale Abbott in December 1951 and worked through July, 1961. Joe worked for the Decatur Signal Depot. When it closed he transferred to the Electronics Command at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey. So we moved to New Jersey.
My work with Dale started when I was having lunch with his sister Eilene. She gave me Dale's phone number and said if you are looking for work call him.
So when I called him, he asked, "What do you know?".
I said, "Nothing". He said you are hired. Start work Monday.
It didn't take long to see how cluttered and unkept his desk was. So when he left for a job one day I decided to clean it.
I thought he would be very happy. WRONG! He looked very sad and disappointed. He said I had almost put him out of business. I told him not to worry. I filed it under “J” for junk. (I didn't get fired.)
Dale was a very good teacher and knew printing inside and out. He taught me a lot about the business. I even became a stripper. (Film stripper that is).
Abbott Litho soon became Abbott & Foran.
Then along came Tom. Young McKenzie was fresh out of school and ready for work. He fit in very well with the company. Tom and I enjoyed many lunches together through the years I remained there.
I'm glad to hear where Tom lives now.
Yes, it was a great experience working for Dale.
When we moved to New Jersey I worked in two different printing shops at different times. The bosses couldn't believe all I knew about the business.
In fact I knew more than they did. Not bragging. Just stating facts -- the results of Dale's teachings.
A faithful reader of THE TRIB
Betty Crowder
Grove City, PA
Help Make Annual Father’s Day Event Successful
Dear Editor:
It is almost time for Decatur Housing Authority's Annual Father's Day Event and we need your help in making this event a success. We are asking for donations from the community as well as volunteers in support of this event. Below is a brief description of what this event entails.
On behalf of Decatur Housing Authority's ROSS program in partnership with many Macon County Agencies, the goal of the Father's Day 2013 Event is to inspire an atmosphere within the Public Housing Authority and Local Community in which fathers can gain child development and sustainable life skills while participating in educational, recreational, and social events that will foster engagement between fathers and their children. This event will take place at Garfield Park on June 13, 2013 from 4:00-7:00 p.m.
We are looking for grade school participants throughout the community who are interested in entering the "What My Daddy Means To Me" essay contest. Criteria are as follows:
• Essay must consist of 100 words or less
• Grade categories are K-3rd grade and 4th-6th grade, one winner from each group to be announced at the event
• Essay must be submitted by May 15, 2013
Both winning essays will be read at the event and the winners will be announced and awarded. All essays are to be submitted to Decatur Housing Authority at 1808 E. Locust St. Decatur, IL 62521. Please direct all quests to Vashida Apholone, ROSS Coordinator, at 217-423-7745 ext. 3026 or Sue Force ext. 3047.
Thank you so much for your help in making this event a success.
Vashida Alpholone
Decatur
Nation Headed For ‘Regulatory Cliff’
Dear Editor:
In recent months we have heard untold warnings and ravings about the financial cliff. I assume we have either gone over or have overcome. There's another cliff that is looming, and that is the "Regulatory Cliff." About what? Anything and everything. The U.S. Government says that in the last 90 days, it instituted nearly 6,000 new rules, with loads more to come. If its plans remain unchecked, we'll face another economic "cliff".
For example - The EPA, which has been regulating farm dust for decades, indicates it may tighten the standards as part of its review of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). This would very likely put the standard below the amount of dust created during normal farming operations, making it impossible to meet. The effect will be to drive many already-struggling family farms into insolvency - and drive up food prices even higher.
The Greenhouse Gas Regulation rules, says the report, "will cost more than $300 to $400 billion a year, and significantly raise the price of gas at the pump and energy in the home. It's not just coal plants that will be affected: under the Clean Air Act (CAA), churches, schools, restaurants, hospitals, and farms will eventually be regulated." Many farms, for example would be slaughtered by the EPA's cost-per-animal outcome known as the "cow tax." According to the report, "EPA itself estimated that in its best case scenario, there will be over 37,000 farms and ranches subjects to greenhouse gas permits at an average cost of $23,000 per permit annually, affecting over 90% of the livestock production in the United States."
Enough regulating, Washington!
Phyllis Chapman
Shelbyville
Disappointed With Senator Kirk’s Endorsement
Of Same-Sex Marriage
Dear Editor:
I am very disappointed with Senator Kirk’s decision to endorse same-sex marriage. I understand his reasoning behind this, and I too do not like discrimination of any person. However, it isn’t what you or I feel that counts – it’s what God says on the subject and He says homosexual behavior is an abomination to Him. Our human reasoning and thinking is what has placed this country in the terrible mess it’s in today.
If our legislators continue to hold to this opinion on same-sex marriage, and vote for it, they will lose me and tens of thousands of voters who have been standing behind them. We cannot tolerate this type of mentality to infiltrate our government any longer, exacerbating the damage that has already been done.
I ask you, senators and representatives, please reconsider your position and do what is right by your supporters and, most importantly, what’s right by your God.
Steve McGuire
Follow Ebert’s Example On Treatment Of Animals
Dear Editor:
The passing of Roger Ebert represents a great loss to the world of movies and those who love them—a group that encompasses practically everyone, including the PETA staff.
In recent years, as Ebert's online work increased, he found a forum to more fully address social issues affecting, among others, animals, the environment, and human health. Writing about the comedy Best in Show, he acknowledged his affection for dogs, adding, "but I cannot understand dog shows, which make dogs miserable while bringing out the worst traits of their owners."
Ebert called Forks Over Knives, a documentary examining the effect of animal-based diets on our health, "a film that could save your life," and offered this assessment: "What every human being should do is eat a vegetarian diet based on whole foods. Period. That's it. Animal protein is bad for you. Dairy is bad for you. Forget the ads: Milk and eggs are bad for you."
Other recent blogs and tweets touched on how factory farming harms the hungry, his own transition to vegan foods, and watching chimpanzees newly freed from a laboratory as they first experience the outside world.
PETA encourages people concerned about injustice toward other beings to follow Roger Ebert's compassionate example by speaking out. The balcony is open. To learn more about helping animals, visit www.PETA.org.
Jeff Mackey
The PETA Foundation
Norfolk, VA
Some Aspects Of FairTax Need Clarification
Dear Editor:
Some clarification of the FairTax is in order. I have read from several forums where people state the poor and middle class will suffer under FairTax.
The poor and middle class are not put into hardship with this transparent tax. In fact, these two groups are better off with FairTax as they will have more spending money and can choose when to pay taxes.
How would these groups make out under FairTax?
First, by having all the money in their paycheck.
Second, the Prebate provides money back up to the poverty level for the person and family. The Prebate is based on the Department of Health and Human Services. For a family of four, the prebate amount is $7,135, or $595 monthly.
Thus, the family has their full paycheck plus $595 monthly for new products and services. This Prebate money is money to offset the tax on basic needs, such as food and new clothes. Remember, used products are not taxed. Everyone would receive the Prebate based on family size and not income.
The FairTax removes all federal income, payroll, self-employment, alternative minimum, capital gains, estate,gift, and corporate taxes. Also, the FairTax rate is roughly equal to the Combined Federal Tax Rate of 14.91%, Old Age Survivors and Disability Insurance, also known as Social Security, rate of 6.31%, and Hospital Insurance, or Medicare, rate of 1.78%.
Therefore, products should cost about the same as they do now. The prices may go down as the companies' realize savings by not paying the 'old' business taxes, mentioned above. In addition, the FairTax would generate revenue from the underground economies while stimulating the overall economy.
Please contact your Representatives telling them you want FairTax. For more information, and to check this information out, go to http://www.fairtax.org, or search for FairTax in your favorite search engine.
Dr. Walter Wesley Snyder V
Pottstown, PA
Looming April 15th Tax Deadline Should Cause Citizens To Consider Another Way To Pay
Dear Editor:
Does the looming April 15 deadline weigh heavy on your mind or have you even been thinking about the IRS?
If you are a businessman, you have to think about the IRS at minimum every payday when you are calculating how much of your employees’ money you have to withhold and send to them.
If the IRS takes a hunk out your pay every payday, now is the time of the year that you have to calculate to find out if you have to send them even more money or get a refund of some of your money.
What if as an employee you only sent the IRS money when you bought a new good or service or if you are a businessman, you only had to look at your cash register receipts to know how much to send the IRS?
Sound too good to be true?
There is a plan already developed called the FairTax. The entire tax bill can be read in about 20 minutes. If you would like to see true tax reform call your representative, Aaron Schock at 202-225-6201, who is on the Ways and Means committee.
Dexter Bland
Piedmont Alabama
* * * *
Above Letters Posted 4/9/13
Earlier Letters Below:
Appalled By 36 Teachers Not Being Rehired Letter
Dear Editor:
I am appalled at the letter I read in the Tribune about thirty-six teachers not being rehired and the administrators not taking on any of their responsibilities.
When I ran for the school board the main problem was teaching the kids how to read. Surely more teachers would help. Also I am sure the administrators have enough education to also fill in teaching. People not doing anything seems to be the norm in this situation and the teachers are not at fault
These kids that are growing up now are our future. They will be the leaders of tomorrow, or will they?
Parents and teachers alike have to combine to educate these kids. They are our future. Don't let them go to waste.
David R. Baker
Decatur
Public Should Be Alarmed By Huge Increase In City’s Water Bills
Dear Editor:
This letter is in response to Mr. Keith Alexander's suggestion or request that the need has arisen for the community to absorb a huge increase in our water bill. I don't think anyone is too upset with an increase; however, when we experience an increase that is more than double, why should we be expected to sit quietly and not be perturbed about it.
Currently, we are experiencing high gas prices, food prices are on the rise and many other consumer products are increasing in price. Just for reality's sake, let's imagine that an automobile was $30,000 today and if you were to go back the very next day and the same car had increased to $60,000, would that be disturbing to anyone? What if a gallon of milk was $3 today, but when you went to purchase it tomorrow, it was $6. Wouldn't that be alarming to anyone that experienced it?
We know that there is a terrible problem with the water situation here in Decatur and it needs to be corrected. There's a difference in trying to correct a problem and remain within reason and being ridiculous, without compassion for anyone that is affected. After all, even with the present water bill prices, there are people without jobs, people retired and on fixed incomes that are having a hard time keeping their water turned on as it is.
We know that this issue has to be resolved, but we're asking the city to keep it real. Just live and let live.
Thank you.
Joe Roundtree
Decatur
Who Should Guard Our Chickens?
Dear Editor:
Before Social Security, most people were not able to support themselves when they were too old to work. People had to work very hard all their lives. They worked all day long and earned a very low wage. When the parents were too old to work, the children had to support them or they would die.
After the great Depression, there was only two classes of people, the super rich and the poor. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was faced with restoring the wealth and helping people get by. His plan was to confiscate all the wealth of the nation by stealing all the gold. At that time most people used gold and silver coins to buy and sell. He told everybody that as the gold coins were passed around that serious amounts of the gold was worn away, and lost.
To prevent this loss, he proposed a plan to print Dollar Bills (Gold Certificates). Everybody was bound by law to turn in all their Gold Coins, in exchange for Gold-Backed “Gold Certificates”.
All this gold would be kept in a Federal Vault, and never used. It was kept as security for all the Gold Certificates that the public was issued. If anybody refused to turn in all their gold coins and gold bars, they would be arrested and put in a federal prison. With few exceptions, only a very small amount of gold jewelry would be allowed to be kept.
(Note – The antichrist will confiscate all the gold and all the silver again.)
After all the gold had been confiscated, there was a shortage for making jewelry, consequently the price of gold tripled fast. This gave the government a fast profit for turning the country around. He then set in motion a plan to put everybody back to work, and to confiscate more of our money. He created the WPA program. The government would hire people to build roads and bridges, to support their families. He then created the Social Security program. Everybody would be required to give the government a certain amount of their wages, which the government would “set aside for them for their old age”.
The more money they set aside, the more money they could draw “with interest” when they retired. Even the people who were nearing 65 at that time would be able to draw Social Security, but they would not draw much, because they had not paid in much.
The people who paid in a lot for a long time would draw a lot more. That was the way it would work. That is the way it still is, but they are trying to change the rules now. The money is already gone, but they won't tell you that.
That is sort of the way the wolf said to the farmer. Let me guard your Chicken Coop. Look into these honest eyes. Have you ever seen any more honest eyes than these? Trust me! I sure won’t let anybody steal any of your chickens. Ever!
Sound familiar? What do you think?
Rev. Dr. Delane John Chapman
Decatur
Hooray For The National Weather Service
Dear Editor:
Who would've thought that we'd have so much snow, so late in the year? The National Weather Service did.
Thanks to them, we all got the warning we needed to make sure we were prepared for this past weekend's storm.
Sadly, "sequestration" budget cuts are going to affect this important organization. Fewer employees will mean less accurate forecasting. That could mean disaster for us when the next storm comes our way.
Too often, federal employees are the scapegoats for our country's budget woes. The National Weather Service is one example of the good work that they do for us here in Illinois.
Ilene McQuality
President, NARFE
National Active & Retired
Federal Employees
Edwards Chapter #399
Glad That Rohrscheib Is Running For RCC Board
Dear Editor:
I’m glad to see that Josh Rohrscheib is running for a seat on the Richland College Board. Josh was my political science professor at Richland. After spending a semester as his student, I am certain Josh Rohrscheib would do an exceptional job on the Richland Board.
I’ve always believed the adage “before anyone will care how much you know, they need to know how much you care.” With Josh, it was evident from day one that our class had a special teacher who cared deeply about his students and their success. He made an extra effort to get to know us, to learn about our ambitions, and to do all he could to help. Anyone who cares that much for his students would be an asset on the Richland Board.
As my teacher, he stressed the importance of thoughtfully thinking about both sides of issues. At the core of his teaching philosophy is the belief that students get the most out of classes they enjoy, and they grow the most when being built up, encouraged, and empowered. He also led us to focus on the practical aspects of education – how we turn our training at Richland into a career.
Josh is incredibly bright and energetic. He taught us to be tenacious problem solvers. I trust that he will find practical and just solutions to problems facing Richland and our community. For all these reasons, I’m excited to vote for Josh Rohrscheib for the Richland Board.
Bruce Ball
Moweaqua
Jackson Has Proven He Is Qualified For School Board
Dear Editor:
We are coming up on a school board election. Normally, there is a very poor local turnout of voters. Ninety-nine percent of politicians begin their careers with local elections and we should all be aware of for whom we are voting and why we are voting for that person. Because we know or like a person is not a good enough reason to vote for them.
What are their intentions? Are they seeking to move up the political ladder? Will they do the job they are running for to the best advantage of the people who live in the community? If running for the school board, will they recognize the changes that have occurred in the past thirty to forty years?
Are they aware that almost fifty-six percent of the students in District #61 are minority? What is the percentage of minority school teachers or school board members in the area? Do they work and live in the city or on the fringe where they don't know the real issues?
What happened when we went to school is not very relevant to today's youth.
So many things should be taken into consideration, especially in the economy we live in. We must start becoming involved in all elections, while we still have the freedom to vote. It is our right today, let's keep it that way.
My vote will be for T.J. Jackson, a man who has proven over the years to have an interest in the future of our children and the city of Decatur. Above this, he has lived a life of honesty and integrity, which are needed qualifications if he is to lead the school district into the future.
Ardena Hunter
Decatur
Comments By Two Former Whitmore Township Trustees
Cannot Be Ignored By Road Commissioner
Dear Editor:
The recent politically motivated letter written by two former trustees of Whitmore Township regarding my integrity as Road Commissioner of Whitmore Township cannot be ignored. First, I would like to thank the people of Whitmore Township for their overwhelming support throughout a very public and stressful situation, for standing with me and defending my good name.
To say that the trustees were handed an “ugly situation” is simply an untrue statement. These dissenting trustees and their seemingly burning desire to find something against me created it. Much time and effort digging through my records and receipts was spent to come up with finally determining that money received for grave digging over the past 35 years was not properly channeled. Steps have since been taken to be transparent going forward.
Falsely claiming “As a result of this felony the road commissioner….” is a serious and libelous statement for which they bear responsibility. No charges were ever filed. There was no theft and there is no felony. At no time were taxpayer or government funds involved. Not one dollar from grave digging went into my pocket.
Further, these trustees have not been subject, as they state, to ongoing contemptuous behavior by the supervisor or me nor have they been constantly harassed. The many attendees supporting me at the Township board meetings would agree. I also question their faithful performance of duties as trustees in light of numerous absences at our board meetings for which, I might add, they received payment.
I defend my record for the past 20 years as Whitmore Township Road Commissioner as one that is fiscally sound with roads efficiently maintained using well-kept equipment, a record that is one of the best in the surrounding area.
I am proud of my loyal crew who worked 24 hours straight during the recent snowstorm to ensure each taxpayer could travel unhampered. There is no situation in need of correction.
I welcome your vote of confidence for me to continue as Whitmore Township Road Commissioner.
Mike Spent
Whitmore Township
Road Commissioner
A Vote For Rohrscheib Is A Vote For Our Future
To the Editor:
Community renewal depends in large part on the willingness of a new generation of talented, dedicated people to step up. New ideas, energy and enthusiasm are vital qualities as we struggle in our area to maintain education, services, and the economy amid a changing environment. In this contest, I have been particularly impressed by Josh Rohrscheib, a candidate for the Richland Board of Trustees as one of the bright hopes for our future.
A Macon County native, Rohrscheib began his education at RCC and knows firsthand the important difference a quality start can mean in a young person’s life. He went on to the University of Illinois where he eventually earned a law degree. Then he returned to Decatur where he continues to practice law.
But he also gives back at a level and with a commitment one does not normally associate with a young person just beginning a career. He is active in a group of young professionals donating to local charities. More than just a member of, he is a participant in a number of local groups. He has also taught at both Richland and Millikin University. He is committed to open, transparent government at all levels. All of this is remarkable enough yet there is more.
In forty-plus years in this community, I have rarely met a young person so gifted, so open to listening to rather than simply deciding for others, as intelligent, well-read, and practical as Josh Rohrscheib. To me, a vote for him is a vote for our future and that of generations yet to come.
I encourage others to learn more about this young man and consider supporting him for Richland trustee.
Bob Sampson
Former Richland Trustee Supports Dr. Cooprider For RCC Board
Dear Editor:
As a former Richland College Trustee I strongly support David Cooprider for election to the position of Trustee of Richland Community College. I have known Dr. Cooprider for many years. David Cooprider has the qualifications and experience to be fully prepared to serve Richland and our community. I encourage the voters in the district to vote for David Cooprider for Trustee of our Richland Community College.
Neil Pistorius
Decatur
Colee Has Earned Your Vote As Richland Trustee
Dear Editor:
Dale Colee is a good man. A successful family man with hs wife Rita, and they have four adult children. The children are busy like dad; one a benefits manager, one a store manager and marketing specialist, one a pharmacist and one currently attending law school.
You already know the admirable job he has done as the trustee and president of the Board of Trustees at Richland Community College from his past actions. He has more than earned your vote. I wanted to remind the voters that even though he is always busy with Richland, the store and his family, he took time last year to raise over $13,000 for what I think is one of America's great charities, The Wounded Warrior Project.
Because of Dale's leadership, soldiers suffering horrible injuries are given a chance to ride again, to read again, to feed themselves, a chance to live as normal a life as they can. It didn't surprise this old soldier that Dale Colee wants to help these men and women who did so much for us again. Dale Colee, pro-family, pro-jobs, pro-education, pro-America! Vote Dale Colee for Richland Trustee!
Ron Stephens
Decatur
Bird Deserves Support As Hickory Point
Township Highway Commissioner
Dear Editor:
Kevin Bird deserves our support for Hickory Point Highway Commissioner. After working for Hickory Point Township Road District for a total of 28 years and serving as Highway Commissioner for the last 18, Kevin obviously knows how to get this job done.
Hickory Point Township has some of the best roads in this area and we get excellent service in snow removal, etc. He also works well with the city, county and other townships, sometimes sharing equipment to save taxpayers money. He provided the place where the city hauled and burned hundreds of loads of brush after the ice storm a few years ago.
Kevin is well known for his work ethic and township road knowledge and was recently elected to serve on the Macon County Board and was appointed to serve on the Transportation Committee and Regional Planning Committee.
Kevin provides "proven leadership".
Please support Kevin Bird for Hickory Point Highway Commissioner.
Larry Tish
Decatur
Colee Is Right Person To Serve As RCC Trustee
Dear Editor:
Dale Colee is exactly the type of individual to serve as a Richland Community College trustee - a lifelong resident, committed to public education and a successful business owner, dedicated to our community. I have always admired his energy and work ethic, his family's involvement in innumerable events and the community spirit of Dale's Southlake Pharmacy.
Please join me in electing Dale Colee as an RCC trustee.
N. Duane Noland
Blue Mound
Candidate Well Qualified For Richland Board
Dear Editor:
When I graduated from high school, like many young people, I thought I knew everything. But the reality was I knew very little, especially about what it took to be a good student. If I would have attended a four year university straight out of high school, I would have failed miserably. Things were supposed to come easy, right? I was going to go out there and conquer the world, and it wouldn’t even take much effort or energy.
I don’t exactly remember how I ended up at Richland. Frankly, my high school grades were poor, and Richland was likely my only option. Today, I thank God I had that option.
At some point near the end of my first semester, I got it. I was not performing well at all in my classes. But, it hit me that even though I was going to a community college, it wasn’t going to come easy. I was going to have to work for it. It was going to take some energy, some effort. The humanity!
But thankfully, because of some committed instructors and patient tutors, I put in the effort and energy required and would eventually go on to graduate with a strong GPA and then transfer and enjoy academic success at ISU. Richland Community College literally changed my life.
And that is why I feel so strongly about the upcoming election in which we get to choose trustees to serve on Richland’s board.
I am enthusiastically supporting Josh Rohrscheib for one of those seats. He is a young professional who like me, attended Richland and is committed to seeing our community succeed. And unlike me, he actually went on to become a professor at Richland. No stranger to a classroom, he has also taught at Millikin and the University of Illinois.
Josh also is an accomplished attorney, small businessman, and local media developer. That’s not bad for someone who is nearly two decades younger than the next youngest board member.
I believe Josh to be a vigorous, new voice for a new generation that desperately needs Richland to remain a viable avenue to a better life.
Make no mistake; Josh’s opponents are well qualified and skillful political candidates. But when it comes to the future of a treasure like Richland, I am going with someone who is enthusiastic and dynamic. I am choosing energy and effort, vigor and vision. I will vote for Josh Rohrscheib.
Robert Brice
Mt Zion
All Is Not Well In Decatur School District
Dear Editor:
I am pondering the upcoming school board election and its potential impact on the community. All election results on April 9th will be important, but none more so than the school board results.
Decatur's perceived image radiates from the quality and safety of our schools, and students' post high school success rate in the private sector and world of higher education.
Publicly, city leaders and school administrators claim all is well within our schools, but realistically, the academic facts speak otherwise as do disciplinary/classroom management issues.
What needs to be done? Change! We need to create a new Decatur image predicated upon truth, and establish a new perception of our community and schools. If our community wants change, election results will reflect that desire.
The core of this election is truth and trust, and how facts are transferred to the public when the reported truth is not predicated upon trust.
Two additional keys to this election are administrative/board responsibility and accountability.
If election results indicate the public demands change, politicians and political powers within the community should listen to the voters and acknowledge their concerns as truth in order to hold the school administration/board accountable for academic, financial and behavioral issues. We all want Decatur's schools to be the best, and safest, but until we admit, address and resolve the real issues, nothing will change, and Decatur's current perception will continue to be reality.
B.A. Buttz
Decatur
What Happens In Our Schools Affects All Of Decatur’s Citizens
Dear Editor:
As a retired Decatur Public School teacher, I meet with other retired teachers to share remembrances and swap stories. Many of them are still involved, substituting or volunteering. Recent stories I heard were so appalling that I had to speak out. It appears that Decatur teachers are fighting battles every single day with attacks coming from all sides.
There were reports of the superintendent and principals degrading entire staffs. Some volunteers witnessed students being allowed to disrupt classes with little restraint because their parents had complained to Keil building officials; consequently, teachers were instructed to treat these students differently.
If it seems difficult to understand why teacher would work under such uncomfortable conditions, one must understand that devoted teachers care deeply about their students and their profession. The impending budget cuts will only make accomplishing their mission more difficult.
What happens in our schools affects all of Decatur's citizens. In order to improve the economic climate and the quality of the community, we must have an effective school system. A correlation exists between teacher morale and continued innovation in the classroom. Improved morale and conditions within our schools will reverse the trend of low test scores and poor graduation rates. The best hope for the teachers and students of our schools is to elect new School Board members who understand Decatur schools and have intelligent ideas for improvement.
I have attended forums where School Board candidates displayed their understanding of Decatur school issues by presenting their ideas and answering questions. Three candidates demonstrated intimate knowledge of the issues and had sound strategies for addressing problems: B. A. Buttz, Alida Graham, and Billy Roberts. These three candidates are our best hope for improving our schools and also our immunity
Marsha Spaulding
Decatur
Rohrscheib Brings Youth, Energy And New Ideas To Richland
Dear Editor:
As a former Richland Community College Trustee, I am very excited by one of the candidates for the Richland Board. Josh Rohrscheib is an energetic young leader in our community. He has vision, integrity, a true heart forpublic service, and shares my deep love of Richland.
Josh has experience in higher education policy from serving as Student Body President at the University of Illinois where he created an innovative
scholarship program that now provides hundreds of students with $2,500 annual scholarships incentivizing community service.
Josh understands education and he generates big ideas.
Josh Rohrscheib would bring much needed youth, energy, and a fresh perspective to the Richland Board. At 32, he is almost 20 years younger than the next youngest board member. He understands the needs and perspectives of our most valuable asset.....Richland students.
Josh will be a student advocate focused on improving student outcomes, increasing retention rates, and developing partnerships to put Richland graduates to work in our community.
Please join me in supporting Josh Rohrscheib for Richland Trustee on Tuesday, April 9th.
Tim Dudley
Decatur
Attributes Describe Decatur School Board
Candidate B. A. Buttz
Dear Editor:
Desirable qualities for a school board member.
B - broadminded - sees the whole picture
O - outstanding at completing tasks
A - attention to detail
R - responsible to the people for the students
D - discipline understood and enforced - with common sense
M - manager - one who can lead and also collaborate well with others
E - educator - former DPS student, teacher, principal and central office administrator
M - mentor willing to share and encourage
B - bridge builder of all people - a true believer of the value of diversity
E - evaluating each situation in a reasonable way
R - respectful of all with a willingness to listen
The above attributes describe B.A. Buttz. Please vote for B.A. Buttz for Decatur Public School Board. Make your vote really count!
You will notice that I live in Mt. Zion, so you may question my involvement. During my 34 years in education, I had the privilege of attending numerous workshops and classes taught by B.A. His knowledge and genuine love for educating the children made those opportunities of learning very important to me in my career.
I believe Decatur has many great families, students, teachers and administrators.
With B.A. leading the way, they will be empowered to succeed and reach their highest potentials.
Give Decatur a chance - vote for B.A. Buttz.
Barbara Janes
Mt. Zion
Duane Potter Is A Proven Candidate For
Decatur Township Supervisor
Dear Editor:
“There is one proven choice for township supervisor, and that person is Duane Potter”.
This is a statement we made in a letter to the editor in March of 2009. Duane Potter was our choice at that time and we believe he should be reelected on April 9th, 2013.
We have known Duane Potter for over 20 years through neighborhood organizations and civic groups. We worked together, as volunteers, for the Heritage and Holly Home Tours sponsored by NWRAPS and for the City of Decatur’s Old Towne Tif.
Last year we volunteered to help Duane organize the “Voices of the Past’, a very successful tour of Greenwood Cemetery.
We have always found Duane Potter to be efficient, well-organized and resourceful.
Duane Potter has developed programs that have helped the Township to carry out its duties without raising taxes.
Duane Potter needs your support and vote on April 9th.
Jim and Claudia Williams
Decatur
Vicki Sheets Will Be A Decatur Township Assessor
With Plenty Of Experience
Dear Editor:
As the owner of a business located in Decatur Township, I am extremely upset over the property assessment situation in this township. I have to pay my taxes, regardless of how unfairly those taxes may have been assessed. I don’t mind paying my fair share, but I want to know it’s fair.
I’m tired of the excuses and the inaction. It’s clear that Decatur Township needs an Assessor who not only has experience with property assessment, but is also experienced in office administration.
Vicki Sheets has both – experience with assessments and over 20 years administration, budget and management experience. She also has a Bachelor of Science degree in Management and Organizational Leadership, earned Summa cum laude from Millikin University in 2005. In addition, she is certified in Mediation and Conflict Resolution and is a 2007 graduate of the University of Illinois Government Leadership Academy.
Vicki is a hard worker who has proven she knows how to create and implement programs that get results. She has experience in township government and is very knowledgeable on government budgets. She is the person Decatur Township taxpayers can depend on to ensure all property assessments are fair, accurate and equitable.
Regardless of when you vote – you can early vote at the County Clerk’s office, 141 S Main Street (across from KFC), from now until April 6; or at your polling place on April 9 – Decatur Township has the opportunity to elect an Assessor who can put this township back on track.
I may be a Republican, but I encourage everyone in Decatur Township to put politics aside and vote for the most qualified candidate. Vote for Vicki Sheets for Decatur Township Assessor. She’ll work hard for all of us!
Jennifer Leach
Decatur
Potter Has Guided Decatur Township Through Its Fiscal Crisis
Dear Editor:
For the last four years, Duane Potter has guided Decatur Township through its fiscal crisis. We all appreciate the sound financial position that the Township is in right now. He has managed to do a wonderful job despite all the obstacles that were placed in his way. So much of the success of the Township is due to Duane’s foresight and perseverance.
I have served on several boards with Potter and know him to be intelligent, trustworthy and hard working. He can get things done and is committed to improving the lives of all the people in our community.
There is no one better qualified to lead our Township than Duane. We have an opportunity to reelect him so he can continue to serve. Please vote for Duane Potter.
M. Anne Pondelick
Decatur
Supports Rohrscheib For RCC Board Of Trustees
Dear Editor:
One of the candidates running for Richland Community College Board of Trustees has first-hand knowledge about the positive difference it has made and can continue to make in individual lives. Not only is Josh Rohrscheib a former student there but members of his family have also used its program to prepare for new careers.
Rohrscheib began his college career at RCC and went on to earn his law degree at the University of Illinois. He has a self-described “passion for higher education” based not only on his and his family’s experiences but because of the tremendous power for good RCC has in our community.
He is equally concerned about non-traditional students, technical program students, and traditional college students because he knows all of these add up to a better community that is poised to meet the challenges of the 21 st century.
Rohrscheib brings experience in state government, in charitable work, in community programs along with his energy and enthusiasm for making RCC all that it can be.
Richland, he says, should be about helping its student succeed. When they succeed, our communities succeed. That’s why I’m voting for Josh Rohrscheib.
Jessica Scow
Decatur
* * *
Above "Letters To The Editor" Posted 4/2/13
EARLIER LETTER POSTINGS BELOW...
Buttz Will Be Excellent Addition To School Board
Dear Editor:
As a product of Decatur Public Schools, I know that this system can be one of the best.
Barry A. Buttz is also a product of Decatur School District 61. He has spent his life helping the students and teachers here to achieve their personal best.
As principal of Washington School, Mr. Buttz brought organization and a sense of purpose to the school and its students.
As an administrator at the Keil Building, he presented informative, helpful workshops to teachers, and proved invaluable as a mentor to new teachers.
During the public panel discussion held by the NAACP a few weeks ago, it was evident that Barry Buttz has a perspective about education as a whole, an overview of how schools should operate and what their goals should be in order to give students the best education possible and to bring out the best in them.
There are many things in schools that don't necessarily come with more money: an understanding of the most important goals for achievement, standards of discipline that all students are expected to maintain, consistency in doing what is best for the learning of all students, and how to go about it.
Barry A. Buttz will be an excellent addition to the School Board of Decatur School District #61. He cares about the education of all our students and will help to see that they get it by restoring Decatur's standing as one of excellence and innovation.
Now, for all those who want improved schools and test scores, an improved reputation as a leader in real achievement, it is our obligation to go out and vote on April 9 for those who will truly help to bring those results. Vote for Barry A. Buttz.
Margaret Kirby Rothe
Decatur
Vote Colee For Richland Community College Board
Dear Editor:
I am writing to ask you to vote for Dale Colee for a position on the Richland Community College Board. I have known Dale for more than three decades.
Our paths first crossed when he was a medical executive and when his children participated in summer sporting events we attended. Dale is an entrepreneur who works daily in his own business. He is a registered pharmacist . This reflects his climb up the education ladder.
He has served on the Board of Trustees of Richland Community College and, as I write this, he is the President of the Board. He not only attends board meetings, but shows his devotion to Richland by attending out of town classes and seminars to aid Richland and to better educate himself. He obviously could not do all he does and still run his business without the help of his daughters, Lauren and Erica. Along the path to their college degrees they were students at Richland .
His efforts extend beyond his work and Richland. He is involved with many charities. He was recently recognized for his humanitarian work when he was given the Pride and Progress Award in Forsyth.
As a veteran, I appreciate his support of the Wounded Warrior Project.
For all he does, I recommend Dale Colee!
Joseph Schrodt, M.D.
Forsyth
Karl Meurlot Would Bring Experience To School
Board In Critical Times
Dear Editor:
Decatur Public Schools is Big Business.
Since DPS is one of Decatur's top employers receiving 43% of Decatur's property taxes, voters in the April school board election should choose candidates wisely. They should have the background and expertise necessary to be responsible to taxpayers for overseeing a multiple-million dollar entity and be willing to share their knowledge with a newly elected board.
There are 7 board members required with 10 candidates running to fill 4 vacant seats making it possible for a quorum to be elected, who may share a goal, that may or may not be in the best interest of the district and taxpayers.
Since the district has a record of spending far greater than revenue, it would be prudent for the voters to elect at least one who comes with a background in accounting, business management, and as an attorney with expertise in Illinois school codes and be willing to donate this knowledge to the district's fiscal problems, especially considering the state's goal of cutting off funds to schools thus leaving it up to local property taxes to fill this shortfall.
Decatur is fortunate to have Karl Meurlot, who has the experience and is willing to run for the DPS school board in these critical times. He would immediately bring to the board years of experience without a lengthy orientation period as opposed to inexperienced lay people. He would understand the budgeting process and strive for a balanced budget and bring fresh thinking to a board who may believe their job is to approve every item on an agenda without question or comment as observed in the televised board meetings.
Harry Kemper
Decatur
Don’t Let Illinois Lose Good Teachers Due
To Government Mismanagement
Dear Editor:
When I came to Illinois a teacher was today, tomorrow, and yesterday…a life shared, a story told, a lesson taught, a hope for the future, a smile from the past.
A teacher is the wind in a student's face, a challenging wind, the warmth of the sun for a job well done.
The touch of a hand that says you are special. A teacher is a coach imploring the team to strive, to seek, and not to yield.
A counselor knowing the need of a gentle word or an emotional nudge and to many the first smile of the day and the last at night. Yes, teachers are these and more.
They are shapers, makers, caretakers of futures.
But above all else, they were you and I, recalling the successes of yesterday, caring for a good today, and providing for a most-positive tomorrow for our school students.
Now after 30 years in education teachers are the sin-eaters of the legislature and four previous governors who failed to provide oversight of the state's monies.
Computers can't do it all…we still need good teachers.
Don't let Illinois lose good teachers due to the mismanagement of the government.
Larry Janes
Mt. Zion
Rohrscheib Would Be Valued Addition To Richland Board
Dear Editor:
Over the past year, it has been my good fortune to get to know Josh Rohrscheib, a young lawyer who is seeking a seat on the Richland Community College Board.
There are several reasons Josh would be a valued addition to the board. At 32, his own college days are recent enough that he can offer insights into the problems faced not only by Richland students, but also by students of the four-year campuses many RCC grads will go on to.
Josh has more personal ties to the college as well. He credits Richland with his career and with turning his father’s life around. Since returning to Decatur to start his law practice, he has taught both at Richland and at Millikin University and made friends among the students, faculty and staff at both institutions.
Josh is a cum laude graduate of the U of I Law School, was student body president at the U of I, and created a scholarship fund providing hundreds of thousands of dollars in aid to students in return for community service. In the past year, he founded a local on-line magazine, Re:Decatur.com, offering the community a new venue for news and communication.
His experience working with various Democratic political organizations, at the local, state and national level, should prove helpful to Richland’s administration in this era of shrinking resources.
His integrity, energy and enthusiasm all recommend him for the job.
Gary Minich
Decatur
The Fair Tax Will Generate More Revenue
Than The Federal Income Tax
Dear Editor:
With the passing of the 16th amendment in 1909, the way was paved for our Congressional leaders to play Robin Hood to their hearts content. Through it they can manipulate favors, tax breaks and shenanigans favoring all of their Special Interests and agendas. Tax credits, special deductions, and write-offs are but a few.
Today, conditions are worse than ever, with more being demanded from our Corporations and our 'rich', with middle Americans suffering like never before. Our corporations are the highest taxed in all industrialized countries and go through new hoops to do business every time a Congress is re-elected or another Czar appointed.
We may never agree on a 'fix' but most will agree that something needs to be done or the nonsense continues. Those of us who favor tax reform seem to have identified three basic options: revising the 74,000 page existing IRS code ( it was 400 pages in 1913); leveling a Flat tax; or the favorite of Dr. Ben Carson and me, the 'Fair' tax.
I totally object to the first because it retains IRS. Whereas the second is an improvement it still embraces the income tax in part with a flat tax added. Again it leaves an open door for Congress to continue their tomfoolery and special interest tweaking. So let's get serious about implementing a 'Fair' tax and give it a KISS (keep it simple stupid). We are a consumption based economy so why not simply tax consumption (sales)? Everyone consumes so everyone pays and pays the same percent. that's why it's Fair. The wealthy will pay more because they will make more and subsequently spend more and pay more taxes.
The Fair Tax Act originally proposed in 2003, calls for: repealing the 16th amendment thereby eliminating the IRS and saving the Feds over 150 billion dollars in 10 years; and discontinuance of the Federal individual and business income taxes, gift, estate, capital gains, Social Security, AMT, Medicare and self-employment taxes.
This could save 6.3 billion hours of tax preparation annually which would equate to billions of dollars more being placed back into the economy for 'consumption'. All states will collect the national sales tax and remit to the Feds through individual state collection systems already in place. Eliminate Income Tax filing totally for individuals and businesses.
Just think...no more Form 1040. All of this will be replaced by a single 23% National sales tax on consumption. Since the poor could be affected disproportionately, a prebate of 23% will be granted monthly to those at the poverty level to offset their new tax responsibility.
Since workers will have 100% of their paycheck to spend, proponents claim that the increase in consumer spending will expand the economy and create jobs, productivity and wages. Our overall taxable base will increase by all of those within our underground economy who currently avoid taxes.
It is estimated that the Fair tax will generate $500 million more in federal tax revenue than the income tax it would replace. there could be 1.7% increase in disposable income across the board. Dr. Ben Carson also observed that with all of us paying taxes and at the same rate, we will all have some 'skin' in the game and become move vigilant observers of government spending.
Some 'good' unintended consequences might surface. Class warfare could end since the elimination of the IRS will deny our politicians one vehicle to reward their special interests' favorites and penalize their opponents. (Some special interests may dry up.) Government spending may be more closely scrutinized since every consumer including illegals will be paying Federal sales taxes and more interested in how their money is being spent, even the low-informed.
Perhaps the best good consequence is the impact that having no IRS will have on our national Affordable Care Act (Obama Care). Without the IRS making our personal and private financial -data available to the Feds, a significant portion of Obama Care would be unenforceable.
Why the Fair Tax? Because its fair to all!
Bob Kimmons
Warrensburg
School Board Candidate Will Not Get Her Vote
Dear Editor:
Politicians many times tell you what they think you want to hear. At a recent forum at the Decatur Public Library, I heard a candidate speak some things I don't believe to be true.
Alida Graham, candidate for school board, stated her motivation is to serve the public and to advocate for parents and students of district #61.
She does not and has not done this. She has proven this to be untrue by her mistreatment of children and families at Old King's Orchard Community Center. She does not respond to parents, board members or residents in general when there are problems. She ignores and dismisses people.
There are five families that have had to take unresolved issues outside of OKO and still not gotten answers or resolution.
I am a founding memeber of ICCP and OKO and have chosen to resign due to her disregard for mistreatment of individuals. She has her own agenda and it is not for the betterment of OKO.
At present time Old King's Orchard Community Center is a 501(C)3. As called for in the by-laws; the majority of the board must be residents of the area. This is not the case.
Open meetings including residents and the public are to be conducted. This has not been happening for board/neighborhood meetings for nearly one year.
A petition signed by more than 150 individuals and residents, asked for her removal from office. She did not even read it to attendees at the last "public" meeting. She called for the meeting to be adjourned.
That is the last anyone saw or heard about this petition. If she conducts business in this way in the smaller things in our community, how can we expect her to do the right thing for the entire community in district #61?
I will not vote for this toxic potential school board member, will you? Get out and cast your vote for the future of our community!
Resa Benz-Spiker
Decatur
We Don’t Have A Democracy But Constitutional Republic
Dear Editor:
I listen to newscasters, announcers, men of education and college professors repeatedly refer to our democracy, as if they are totally unaware that we don't have a democracy, but a Constitutional Republic.
I share with the Founding Fathers a disdain for the use of democracy to describe our form of government.
They wrote that "democracies have ever been spectacles of turbulence and contention; have ever been found incompatible with personal security, or the rights of property; and have in general been as short in their lives as they have been violent in their deaths."
Democracies plow fertile ground for political demagoguery, corruption, thievery, and false promises. Democracies are governments of men and not of laws, and that is why the Founding Fathers gave us a Republic, not a democracy; and why they tried, in Jefferson's words, to "bind them down from mischief by the chains of the Constitution."
Please remember that we have a Constitutional Republic and not a democracy.
Charles L. Fowler
Toledo
Dayle Cochran Irwin Was Another Decatur Treasure
Dear Editor:
Sad news came to me this week that Decatur has lost another Treasure. Dayle Cochran Irwin, author, historian, lecturer, actress, wife, mother, grandmother...we shall never see her like again.
We've read her books, enjoyed her talks, and some of us have been privileged to see her re-enactments of famous women in history.
Dayle would get so "into" her stories, she'd stop finally and ask her audience if we wanted to hear more and we'd have to tell her to stop so we could go home and get some sleep. Her fund of knowledge was tremendous. And when she put herself into one of those women's roles, if tears were called for she cried real tears. She was living the part.
Dayle gave the last years of her life to her family, driving miles to spend weekdays with her motherless grandchildren while their daddy worked, coming back to Decatur to share weekends with husband, Mike, everyone's favorite mailman/gardener.
I pray for Dayle's family and ask God to help them cope with this terrible loss.
Mary Banton Bertram
Woodinville, WA.
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Above Letters To The Editor Were Posted 3/26/13
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Earlier Letters Received Recently Posted Below
Lost Faith In City Of Decatur Leaders
Dear Editor:
Our country’s great leaders have possessed leadership traits, shouldn’t our local leaders possess some traits as well?
I have lost hope in our city (Decatur).
Millions upon millions have been spent in downtown and have not positively impacted anything. People are avoiding downtown due to traffic congestion and safety.
Mini-Golf is the answer? Unbelievable! We have a lake that is polluted, shallow, and unappealing. No big name entertainment will even stop here for fuel, let alone play their instruments.
Our city council deserves real "praise" for their great ideas that cost taxpayers millions and awarded us with scraps in return.
Congested streets and a mini golf? Well, save-my-seat! Wake up; this is not the 80's. There is no mall going to be built downtown. What an awful waste of time and money. What this city needs is leadership! I say again, "Leadership".
Unchallenged, our council makes rash and ill-advised decisions constantly.
It’s time this city starts worrying about its own and how to keep its own people here and happy. Obviously, our council speaks to no one who resides here or they would realize morale and outlook by this city’s taxpayers is grim.
With all of this late snowfall local roads off the forgotten Lakeshore Dr. have been plowed a total of zero times, leaving the hills looking like an ice rink.
However, the unlucky motorists have no skates on their vehicles. Perhaps, that is the way the city promotes civic center ice skating.
To make things worse, anyone with a school aged child or are considering having children do not want to buy here. They would rather sign to enlist their children into Marine Infantry at 8 years of age than send them to our schools. This has sent our property values plummeting.
Instead of fixing these problems, Decatur wants to build a million dollar mini-golf course. That will drive your property values through the roof?
Just because of political affiliation does not mean you have ability to lead. Leaders do the right thing, even when no one is watching them.
Can our leadership say that about theirselves?
Greg Collins
Decatur
Thanks To Administrators For Compassionate,
Skilled Care Of Residents
Dear Editor:
I would like to personally recognize Barbara Lowry and Rachel Casella, the Administrators of Lincoln Rehab Center and Heartland of Decatur, respectively, for providing compassionate and skilled care for their residents.
Barbara and Rachel are dedicated to enriching the daily lives of residents at their facilities by providing leadership and guidance for staff of many disciplines.
I, and all of the staff of Passages Hospice, am proud to work with Barbara and Rachel to bring dignity and comfort to their residents at the end of life. I have seen their dedication to our patients, and applaud them for their commitment to the hospice philosophy.
Barbara and Rachel understand that hospice care provides specialized care for their residents at the end of life, and are valuable resources to help families at Lincoln Rehab Center and Heartland of Decatur receive the care they need and deserve.
March 10th-16th was Long Term Care Administrator’s Week, sponsored by the American College of Healthcare Administrators. I encourage everyone to recognize Barbara and Rachel for their valuable work at their facilities and in our community.
Christy Cooper
Passages Hospice
Bloomington
Fred Spannaus Brings Leadership To Decatur School Board
Dear Editor:
It has been my privilege to work with Fred Spannaus on several community projects. Fred is a good man and a brilliant man. His leadership is much needed on the DPS Board.
Fred advocates setting clear community-wide goals, measuring progress towards those goals, insisting on absolute transparency with the community about progress towards those goals, and holding the district accountable for results.
Fred is diligent, pragmatic, wise, and guided by a strong moral compass. And he has the rare and special talent of bringing people together to work towards the greater good.
Fred has an old fashioned sense of civic fidelity. He understands that elected Board members are supposed to serve the taxpayers and the community, not become co-opted as an extension of the entity they were elected to hold accountable. Simply put, he’ll work for us.
Please join me in voting for Fred Spannaus on Tuesday, April 9th.
Josh Rohrscheib
Decatur
Disappointed In School Board’s Decision
To Cut 36 Teaching Positions
Dear Editor:
On March 12, the Decatur Board of Education voted to accept recommendations from the district’s administration by cutting staff who provide direct services to our students.
As president of the Decatur Education Association, representing teachers and other school employees, we are disappointed that the school board approved cutting 36 teaching positions. This means there will be 36 fewer people helping our students learn and grow.
At the same time, the administration did not ask the board to eliminate a single position in its own office. What this means is that while fewer teachers will be the classrooms working one on one with students, we will have the same number of administrators who do not interact with students on a daily basis. How does that benefit Decatur?
Teachers who provided additional student improvement to pupils at the elementary level were cut. Teachers who teach math, social studies, science, physical education and foreign languages at the high school and middle school levels were cut. Yet, not one administrator was cut from the Keil building.
This act demonstrates the values of this district. It is a district that deems administrators more important than those who provide instruction directly to our students. This decision does not serve our community well. We know it is imperative that we raise our children and teach our children in a way that allows them to compete in this global economy. However, the board is leading us in the opposite direction.
Decatur needs teachers who work directly with students every day. In the classroom, we are being asked to do more with less. We will do so because we care for our students and we want them to succeed. But the question begs to be asked: Why won’t administrators, who have little to no contact with students, be asked to do the same?
Suzanne Kreps
President, Decatur
Education Association
Chamber’s Endorsements Were Either
Poorly Written Or Intended As Written
Dear Editor:
Perhaps it is just poorly written, or maybe it was intended as written, literally.
The Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce announced its endorsements for local Decatur area elections last week. In doing so it stated in its press release, “CIPAC voted to endorse candidates who will provide support crucial to area businesses once elected.”
By inference this quoted statement says those candidates not endorsed, and there are several, will not provide support crucial to area businesses once elected. REALLY?????
John Davis
Park District Candidate
Name New Warrensburg Gym After Real Legend
Dear Editor:
Let the bird out!
Porky Pig, Woody Woodpecker, The Bird Cage - all looney-tunes.
Get real people!
Name the new Warrensburg gym after a real legend - Vic Binkley - a true gentleman and one of the best basketball coaches in the state.
Murrell Hall
Decatur
Supports Chris Riley For Decatur Park Board
Dear Editor:
It is a pleasure to offer my support to Chris Riley for election to the Decatur Park District Board of Commissioners. I have known Chris for many years and he is a thoughtful and engaging leader in our community.
His enthusiasm and love for the Decatur Park District goes back to his youth as a participant in their programs. This firsthand experience gives him a unique perspective and will help ensure a vibrant future for the Decatur Park District and the Decatur community as a whole.
Please spread the word among your friends and family to support Chris Riley for the Decatur Park District.
N. Duane Noland
Blue Mound
Gun Control Will Not Work As Crime Control
Dear Editor:
Our nation is involved in yet another debate on gun control. The latest proposals that I am aware of are reworked versions of the many gun-control laws enacted in the past 50 years and replaced with sensible concealed-carry laws. Gun control did not work as a crime control then, and will not work now.
The real problem is the decline of moral, ethical, and spiritual standards in our society. If the effort and money spent on useless gun control were directed towards the real problems, we might discover the reason our nation is such a huge market for illegal drugs.
Why so many of our young people joining gangs? Why so many of our elected government representatives and business leaders are not trusted and held in such low esteem?
If the decline in moral, ethical, and spiritual standards continues, all kinds of violent crime will probably increase, and our treasured nation and freedoms will fail and disappear.
Eldon K. Clements
Decatur
Thanks For Article On Roosevelt Junior High
Dear Editor:
Thank you very much for the Scrapbook article on Roosevelt Junior High School. It brought back memories of “many moons” ago.
I was born and raised in Harristown and graduated from Harristown Grade School. At that time, Harristown was a non-high school district, I could choose either Decatur or Niantic. I, of course chose Decatur and was enrolled in Roosevelt Junior High School.
My homeroom was a class of “aliens” – students who were new to the district due to country schools or just having moved to Decatur.
My homeroom teacher was Mrs. Wilson and I’ll never forget her. She was the sweetest, most tolerant person I have ever known. She made us all feel welcome and prepared us to enter Decatur High School the following year.
While at RJHS, I was a member of the school orchestra and chorus. We put on an operetta called “Ask the Professor” directed by Mr. Nolan. That was a memorable experience.
I graduated from DHS in 1944, went to Millikin University, and graduated from Eastern, but I still smile when I think of RJHS.
My brother gave me a subscription to your paper as a birthday present years ago. He is no longer with us, but I still enjoy reading it and share it with another “Decaturite” while on winter vacation in Alabama.
Betty L. (Bissy) Glasscock
Gays
Two Whitmore Township Trustees Explain Resignations
Dear Editor:
As trustees of Whitmore Township, we regretfully have resigned from our trustee positions due to the ongoing contemptuous behavior displayed by the supervisor and road commissioner. We have taken our duties seriously and as we audit the finances of Whitmore Township, we trustees are constantly harassed.
We have provided accountability by uncovering the theft of township funds by the road commissioner. As a result of this felony the road commissioner made a deal with the state’s attorney resulting in the payment of restitution, making a public apology and participating in a diversion program. This did, however, only take into consideration the past three years and not the previously 17 years served by the current road commissioner.
An additional lawsuit has been filed against the road commissioner by a previous employee. As before the legal fees are being accumulated for the taxpayers of Whitmore Township to take care of.
We were handed an ugly situation but did step up to take responsibility for exposing this theft.
Thank you to many taxpayers who came forward with information and were interviewed in this case. Again, thank you for the opportunity to serve Whitmore Township.
As the April 9th election approaches, please consider the cost of the theft and legal fees to Whitmore Township taxpayers, the projects and people these funds could have been spent on.
Please vote for change and correct this situation.
Pat Jones &
Danny Manning
Third Grade Class Trying To Make A Difference
Dear Citizens,
The Third Grade Class of Mt. Pulaski Grade School is trying to make a difference. We are trying to help save the Mt. Pulaski Courthouse where Abraham Lincoln once worked as a lawyer. New windows are needed, doors need to be replaced, and the stairs need to be fixed. The inside needs to be painted. If the building is not repaired, the building will fall apart. Then history will be lost! We want Abraham Lincoln’s life to be remembered in Mt. Pulaski. We want to be able to show our children this building when we are adults.
Could you help us with this project by giving a dollar (or more J) to this cause? Could you give up a soda for one day and give us the dollar. If everyone gives one dollar, it would add up, and you too could help save history!
We are children, but we feel we can make a difference in our community. Our slogan is: Courthouse Cash! So if you see this around town, you will know it is the work of our class.
Please help us make a difference. Look for our buckets around town.
You can mail your donation to:
Third Grade Class
Mt. Pulaski Grade School
119 N. Garden
Mt. Pulaski, IL 62548
Please make checks payable to: The Courthouse Foundation
The deadline is April 5, 2013
Third Grade 3A and 3B
Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Radtke
Above Letters Posted 3/19/13
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Decatur, IL 62525-1490.
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Phone: 217/422-9702
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Email: decaturtribune@aol.com
Send your letter to
the editor to decaturtribune@aol.com
or to: Decatur Tribune,
P. O. Box 1490,
Decatur, IL 62525-1490.
* * * *
Looking southwest from the editor's office in the Millikin Court Bldg. downtown
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