Bears need to wake up, smell the coffee.

Chicago Bears defensive end Adewale Ogunleye writes a blog for ChicagoNow.com.
In a posting from September 8^th, Ogunleye wrote this, “Pop quiz, tell me the
preseason record of the 2008 World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers.
(Insert Jeopardy game show music here) Ok . . . time is up. The answer is 3-1. I know the preseason doesn't count for anything during the regular season but it sets the tone. We were able to finish on a great note with a win last Thursday against the Cleveland Browns and finish the preseason 3-1.” Sets the tone, huh? What about those 2006 Bears that went 2-2 during the preseason. Really set a tone for a .500 season didn't they? Oops, they went 13-3 (with a terrible quarterback) and wound up in the Super Bowl (only to lose). Not to mention the tone for the season that the Indianapolis Colts, the Bears opponents in that Super Bowl, set with
their 1-3 preseason record. What about the 2004 Patriots who went
1-3 in the preseason and won the thing.

This tone setting thing is garbage, complete trash. A team that is above average at best, with numerous holes in its defense, wide receiver corps, and no forceful backup running back is tone setting in the preseason. Give me a break. Records are crap in the preseason. Complete crap. They mean absolutely nothing. If every player had terrific preseason stats but the team went 0-4, I would be a lot more confident in the Bears than I am now.

It also seems like Wale is drinking a little too much of his own Kool-Aid with comments such as this, “We begin the season with a road game in Wisconsin and we will end with a road game in Florida. The countdown to Miami has begun.” Not to mention, “Even though we lost Dusty [Dvoracek] and Kevin [Jones] for the season, we are fairly healthy as a team.” Healthy? Then why is the defense carrying 11 defensive backs? Hell, in the injury report Charles Tillman was listed as full-participation for practice despite just one day earlier telling WSCR-AM's Laurence Holmes that he was, “50-50,” for Sunday's game. I have to run the store right now, because I think I'm running out. Wait! I found more. For more of Wale's Kool-Aid, a September 2^nd post is titled, “Ask Wale: No pressure, just thinking about Super Bowl.” The Super Bowl would be a nice thing, but right now I am focused on the Bears beating Green Bay. Then the Steelers, then the Seahawks, etc. Once I know that we have locked up a playoff spot, I'll be focused on winning playoff games. Then, once the right playoff games have been won, I will have two whole weeks to think about the Super Bowl. Until then, I have some cheese that needs to be eaten.

Around the News – Lowe Style

Husband testifies in 'Krazy Glue' case.

CTA moves to put cameras in all rail stations. Nice for the CTA to get in the 21^st century and decide to install security cameras in the stations. I wonder what genius just came up with this new, innovative idea. Nevertheless, I cannot wait until the first time some beaurecrat cries about not having enough money for service and repairs because of security cameras. The CTA –what a joke.

Apparently, Time to Waste in Illinois

By Aaron Lowe

Recently, Illinois State Senate President John Cullerton spoke to the editorial board of the Chicago Tribune. Out of his appearance before the board came this item. Cullerton told the Trib, “There’s no reason” to vote on an income-tax increase this fall because there wouldn’t be enough support to make the hike effective immediately. Now, if Cullerton supports the increase and wants to balance the budget through an income-tax hike, why won’t he call the increase for a vote? He is the Senate president and he can ram things through to the floor.

He argues in the Trib piece that there would not be enough support in the House and Senate. Even if there is not enough support, if he really believes that this needs to be done for the state of Illinois, why will he not call a vote on the issue? If he is standing up for the people of his district and the citizens of the state, then he should be willing (and eager) to take a definitive stand on this issue. With a severe economic downturn and the state billions of dollars in debt, we as citizens need real financial solutions. If it means passing a tax hike, then it means passing a tax hike. If it means cuts here, cuts there, and a smaller tax hike, then so be it.

However, Mr. Cullerton is not interested in real financial solutions for the people; he is interested in politicking in order stay in his cozy leadership position. Cullerton told the Trib that he,” also believed it was important that lawmakers adopt a less-generous pension system for future state employees before seeking a major tax increase.” The state legislature had months to do this before taking the end of the summer off. Unfortunately, the only other citizens able to take months off are most likely the ones that are facing furloughs and layoffs. They have no choice. Cullerton could have extended the Senate session and tried to prevent the recess through a vote—but he of course he did not
do that. He could have asked Governor Quinn to call a special session. Instead he politicked and prophesized. Forget about a fall tax hike vote, it might be done right before the primaries if some Republicans get involved in the scheme he told the Tribune. All of a sudden, it does not seem like Illinois is in that bad a spot. It seems like we have all kinds of time to waste. Wait. That is just how the legislating game is played in Illinois. Laws are not made to, “eliminate poverty and inequality; assure legal, social and economic justice; provide opportunity for the fullest development of the individual; insure domestic tranquility; provide for the common defense; and secure the blessings of freedom and liberty to ourselves and our posterity” as the Illinois state constitution preamble states. Instead, the game is played to the benefit of the office holder, the politician, not the every man, woman, and child individual that lives in this state every single day.


Commentary by Aaron Lowe. ©2009 Aaron Lowe.

Chicago cop may sue over his special treatment.

The story from the Tribune here.

"Last month, Chicago Ridge police detained off-duty Chicago Police Officer William Singer after he jokingly displayed his handgun to a mall worker without identifying himself as an officer, authorities said."

"After his employment was verified, police released him as a courtesy, authorities said, but warned him to show better judgment." Ok, no big deal right? A Chicago cop getti--a cop getting special treatment from other cops. No big deal right? Happens all the time, teachers protect teachers, cops protect cops, EMTs protect EMTs, politicians protect politicians. Ok, now that it's settled then all should be good and well right? It shouldn't be after you flash a gun, but it is. Then Chicago Ridge police chief Tim Baldermann received "a notice from a law firm representing Singer and his wife, claiming emotional distress as a result of the incident." Complete crap if you ask me. While not yet suing, the Trib reported this, "On July 31, Chicago Ridge police got a notice that the law firm run by Ed Vrdolyak was representing Singer and his wife, Lisa, in their claim. Singer's attorneys have not filed a suit, thus far only requesting that evidence be preserved and insurance information be forwarded to them." Evidence in gun crimes, flashing or otherwise, should be preserved anyway in my opinion. However it is very puzzling that Officer Singer would feel "emotional distress" as a result of this. Getting detained can be quite stressful and embarrassing, but shouldn't a cop know better than to flash a gun in the middle of a mall? Or, is it just me? Apparently though I am not the only person puzzled by this course of eventsas "Chicago Ridge Mayor Eugene Siegel, a former assistant chief with the Cook County sheriff's department, said: "That doesn't sound normal. You'd think he'd be grateful for getting a break."

"Baldermann said he backs his officers and believes Singer was ultimately responsible." And I too believe Singer was the only person responsible for this puzzling and strange chain of events.

Pearson on Giannoulias/Hannity; Houlihan Commentary

The other day, via Capitol Fax, I found this hit job on Alexi Giannoulias done by Fox News.



While watching it, I was shocked to find Rick Pearson, the respectable Tribune political reporter on the piece. Well, it turns out that Pearson wasn't in on the whole hit job thing. Pearson told Steve Cochran of WGN Radio about the incident.

Pretty shallow, but pretty typical for folks like Hannity and his producers. Especially since Alan Colmes left, the show is a complete right-wing hack job.

Man goes unconscious at Lollapalooza and ends up dying.

Cook County Assessor James Houlihan announced he will not seek re-election.

Houlihan claims that he will continue to fight for property tax reform and school funding reform. (In Illinois, property taxes make up the majority of school funding leading to large disparities between rich and poor school districts.) If he is really serious about doing this, he has to have a large bully pulpit. This may have to include starting a political action committee. (Not something I should be advocating in the state of Illinois...) However, to fight people like Daley and Speaker Madigan one has to have a war chest of funds available. This can easily be accomplished through a grassroots state tour effort. Sure in Greenup, Rock Island, and Cairo the soon to be ex-Cook County Assessor might not be a big draw, but if anything in this state is going to change it is going to have to be a hard fight from the ground up. Mr. Houlihan supported a Constitutional Convention vote last year. Several special interest groups and unions did not support the "con-con." A con-con would have drafted a new state constitution. In the end, while I applaud Houlihan for modernizing the Assessor's office and coming up with independent, creative solutions to fix the state budget, I have to say that if he is serious about reform in Illinois, he has to speak up and he has to start speaking up now.

News Aggregated by Aaron Lowe
Commentary by Aaron Lowe

Around the News - Lowe Style

Sands hid fate of Gulf War pilot lost since '91.

Remains found of Gulf War's first US casualty.

US identifies navy pilot shot down in Iraq in 1991: Pentagon.

US Pilot's Remains Found in Iraq After 18 Years.

Iran court warns against criticizing proceedings.

Mass trial of Iranian protesters deepens nation's divides.

Inauguration Expected To Spark More Unrest In Iran.

LaHood: Car rebates will stop unless Senate acts.

‘Cash for Clunkers’ Becomes a Republican Target.

L.A. Episcopal leaders nominate 2 openly gay, lesbian priests as bishops.

Gunman kills 3, injures 11 at gay club in Tel Aviv.

Israeli Police Hunt for Tel Aviv Gay Club Gunman .

Campaign site goes hardcore.

Signs aid safety, hurt tickets.

Report: Illinoisans ticketed more often in Wisconsin.

Israeli gays' safe haven turns deadly.

Cabrera Hits For Cycle as Yankees Turn Back White Sox.

Scientists find new strain of HIV.

Scientists ID First Human With Gorilla Strain of HIV.

Swiss Diplomat Seeks Information on U.S. Hikers Held in Iran.

Around the News - Lowe Style

Black scholar agrees to meet with Obama, policeman.

Gates says it's time to 'move on' from his arrest.

To me, this Gates's whole shtick is just one big crock. How many people actually heard of him before this incident? How much money was he making? How much can he make off this? TONS!

'Cash for clunkers' rules are released.

Census threatens to rip Iraq into shreds.

Sarah Palin leaving governor's post amid confusion, criticism.

Kyrgyzstan: At the Crossroad of Empires, a Mouse Struts.


Kyrgyz opposition cries fraud over vote

Vote in Kyrgyzstan Gets Harsh Criticism

Community backlash grows regarding arrested Hoboken Mayor Cammarano.
This case is just crazy. I cannot wait to see how this thing plays out over the next few months and years. More on Cammarano and the city of Hoboken here.

Last British Army WWI veteran dead at 111. More here. And here. And here.

Report Sees Agent Orange Link to More Illnesses.

Oakland Voters Approve Marijuana Tax

Drive to legalize marijuana rolls on in California

Is Marijuana the Answer to California's Budget Woes?

New Yorker says he would have been suicide bomber.

American says he volunteered for Taliban suicide mission.

New Yorker Explains Path to Al Qaeda.

Three State Legislators Sidestepping Clout Panel.

Jupiter: Our Cosmic Protector?

Hubble snaps picture of Jupiter impact site.

Quinn, Hynes Trade Shots In Likely Primary Prelude.

The governor called Hynes a "no show" on tough budget choices, while Hynes' campaign accused Quinn of keeping quiet while disgraced former Gov. Rod Blagojevich "drove our state into a ditch.”

Pat Quinn may have kept mostly quiet and out of the forefront while Blago drove Illinois into the ground, but Dan Hynes was even quieter and even more out of the spotlight. So Dan Hynes, who ya crappin’?

“When you get in the arena, you've got to make decisions,” Quinn said. "You can't stand on the side of the road and not take part in tough battles. You can't be a no show. You can't just show up and say, 'Hey, I want to be elected to something.' I think you have to show you have the courage of your convictions to stand in the arena, take tough positions, do hard things because that's what the public demands."

But Hynes campaign spokesman Michael Rendina disputed Quinn's characterization, noting Hynes has proposed $1.2 billion in cuts to the state budget along with $1.8 billion in new money by legalizing more casinos, closing business tax breaks and expanding the sales tax to luxury items. Hynes had been critical of inconsistencies behind Quinn's failed push for an income-tax increase and questioned why the governor hadn't made cuts to try to win public support.”

Hynes did not publicly out line any of his proposed cuts or revenue raising measures. He sent out an open letter, but that had the same rhetoric as this statement. It’s easy to say build more casinos, blah, blah, blah. Unfortunately, Illinois still has an outstanding casino license because we can’t seem to find someone to develop a property that doesn’t have ties to the mob, some other crooked enterprise, or some corrupt politician. And as for Danny-boy Hynes’s cuts, I want to see them line by line. I want to know how did you come up with these cuts? Why did you just send an open letter? How come you haven’t requested a sit-down meeting with Governor Quinn? These are all questions that have to be answered before you can be believed. As for Quinn, he’s been flip flopping left and right so much that I don’t even know where to begin.

Around the News - Lowe Style

Greg Hinz from Crain's on the Olympics.

Water district's Terrance O'Brien to run against Stroger.
More from Greg Hinz. O'Brien's MWRD page. The Tribune.

Comptroller Dan Hynes to run for governor. Hynes's campaign site. (No mention yet of governor's run.)

Pat Quinn basically says Hynes has no spine.

Government 'Cash For Clunkers' Program Begins

Spokesman: Stroger Will Not Veto Pot Ordinance
I think this whole situation is so full of crap it's almost unbelievable. Let's ticket people who are high and then send them off driving while impaired.

Obama Visits Chicago for Democratic Fundraisers.

Massive New Jersey corruption case stuns citizens, voters, the media, and political observers. NYT graphic on the case. More from the NYT. Syrian Sephardic Communities Shaken by Charges Against a Leading Rabbi. More on the CW (cooperating witness) in the case. News release from the New Jersey U.S. Attorney.

Shanghai Promoting 2-Child Families.

Black officer at scholar's home supports arrest.

ComEd loses customers for the first time ever.
I know it's because of the economy, but the way this place is run it should have been hemorrhaging customers for years.


Cop that sued Sheriff's office wins money.


Cook County lets motorists pay traffic tickets online.
Slowly but surely this area can crawl out of the stone age.

Murder Charge Filed in Gay Sailor's Death

Hawaii says no to wieners!

Around the News - Lowe Style

Black professor's arrest continues to rattle Boston area.

L.A. County coroner's staff improperly viewed Michael Jackson's death certificate.
This certainly isn't a surprise to me.

U.S. trials for H1N1 vaccine announced.
She'll be coming around the mountain...

Chinese Apple Suicide
Wall Street Journal
Christian Science Monitor


Oklahoma Trooper Suspended Over Scuffle With Paramedic.
I first heard this story awhile back from Rick Sanchez on his hour of CNN Newsroom. (2 pm Central (M-F), CNN)

Spider-Man Director to make World of Warcraft film.

Analysis Finds Toxic Substances in Electronic Cigarettes.

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland.
Apparently a trailer was released today and that's how this story came to my attention. Unfortunately, by the time I looked at a couple articles, the trailer was down because someone 'accidentally' released it early.

CPD officers may retire at 55 with benefits.

CPS investigates admissions at elite schools.

ESPN bans NY Post reporters from shows after paper publishes stills from Andrews video.

John Kass -- Mansion's 'cross' didn't help banker's tax case.
This one's a classic.

New Chicago Blackhawks winger Marian Hossa has shoulder injury.
At least Milton made it into the first game of the year.

THE TACO BELL DOG IS DEAD.

Man Says He Found Condom in French Onion Soup.

Investors, including NASCAR drivers, bilked out of $5.4 million.

Around the News - Lowe Style

City to eliminate taxi fuel surcharge.

Cook County sheriff's deputy of Palestinian ancestry sues superiors. Felt "demonized."

Giannoulias officially kicks off campaign although he has had a website up with plenty of postings for months. As noted here, he announced an exploratory committee in March.

Cook County Board votes to roll back sales tax while Todd Stroger threatens veto. How the commissioners of the board voted.

Dan Seals announces he is running for Congress again.

Around the News - Lowe Style

U.S. Withheld Data on Risks of Distracted Driving
The government lies and we all know it.

The son of Bill Kurtis has died.

If the CPD can't keep track of its own dogs can it keep track of criminals? (Not really, I mean they have 14 year olds impersonating cops at the police stations....)

Couple charged in $40 million fraud.

John Barry, former CEO who helped WD-40 become household name, dies at 84.
This guy probably helped America more than Billy Mays or the ShamWow guy.

Jerry Reinsdorf gives interview to K.C. Johnson, continues his bullcrap.
"But the only way you can avoid making a mistake is not to make a decision...It's just the thought of when you make a mistake, you own that mistake." No, duh Jerry boy. But then the moron goes on to say this, "I wouldn't mind paying the tax if it's an intelligent expenditure." But you won't pay the tax because your too afraid of mistakes. So, quit two timing us Jerry, man up, and pay the tax so we can get a good team and win some championships. What Mr. R doesn't seem to understand is that the better you do in the playoffs and stuff, the more money you make. To have a good team, you have to spend some money Jerry. While talking about the hiring of Vinny D, Jerry boy had this to say, "The novice, because he was a first-time coach, deserved a lower salary than the others." Of course we hired a novice because we wouldn't pay anybody else because you are too cheap Jerry. If we hired a veteran coach, they would probably want to bring in some seasoned assistants, costing you more money Cheap Jerry.

Around the News - Lowe Style

Former Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich will host the WLS-AM 890 noon to 2 p.m. slot tomorrow. Blagojevich is also scheduled to host the same slot next Sunday, July 26th. You can listen at wlsam.com

Today was the 91st birthday of Nelson Mandela.

Windfalls for Bankers, Resentments for the Rest. I guess these morons just don't get it.

Swine Flu expected to make return. Don't be surprised because if you listened to the news reports attentively, you would already be expecting this.

Funeral services set for Walter Cronkite.

Report: Employee Warned State About Firm Buying Burr Oak.

The White Sox beat the Orioles 4-3.

The Cubs won 6-5 over the Nationals tonight, in Washington. Alfonso Soriano hit a 3-run home run, his first homer in over a month. The Cubs play tomorrow at 12:35 Central on WGN-TV and WGN Radio 720.

Around the News - Lowe Style

Legendary CBS newsman Walter Cronkite dead at the age of 92.
NY Times, memorable reports, TV Icons on Cronkite, Sun-Times

Wienermobile crashes into southern Wisconsin home.
I'd sue for the Wienermobile, not damage money. Image driving up to a party in that pimping machine.

2 Tour de France riders hurt in air-rifle incident.

First alderman wants anti-gay minister to replace him, now wife.

Antoine Walker caught by cops at casino.
Really dude? Warrant out for your arrest on gambling debts and you are caught AT the casino. And I know he had to know about the warrant since it was all over the news.

Feds arrest convicted murderer for selling gun in former NFL player Steve McNair's killing.

McDonough booed at Blackhawks convention.

The Cubs Ted Lilly apparently has some sort of knee injury and Soriano hurt again.

SexEd @ CPS.

Putting the go back in Chicago.

Big Banks use bullshit practices to turn big profits.

Around the News - Lowe Style

Pat Quinn names a cemetery oversight task force.

Hiring monitor: Chicago making progress, but patronage remains.

Hillary Clinton, the State Department, and the White House.

Biden and Cantor spar on the stimulus.

Health care couple flip-flops. This isn't the 1990's.

Daley on hand for Sears, err, Willis Tower ceremony.

More on "Big Willie."

Future moon suits.

Twitter hacks. More.

The state of Illinois's financial credibility sucks. Big time.

Piniella and the President.

Steve Stone returns to the 670 the Score.

Billy Joel and Elton John.

Clout High School.

Rod on the Radio.

Quinn vs. Hynes over Burr Oak.

Mutton bustin': The Hell?

Murder defendant gambles and wins.

The Cubs have signed former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher B.J. Ryan to a minor league deal. He'll spend time in Mesa, hopefully go to Iowa, and then if all goes well the big boys on the North side.

Around the News - Lowe Style

Oak Lawn crime: Man allegedly dumped trash while in his underwear.

Firm advises Oak Lawn on cuts and restructuring.


Wrigley Field issue: At closed meeting, Ald. Tom Tunney says businesses dislike competition from street vendors. Classic case of David (street vendors) versus Goliath (business owners).

U of I Admissions Scandal

Tomorrow, the Sears Tower officially becomes the Will.i.am, err, Willis Tower. More here.

Abortion and Sonia Sotomayor

Old lady that had babies is dead.

Illinois Idiots might have a budget -- or not.

Havlat rips John McDonough.

Antoine Walker has warrent issued for bad checks.

Kirk could publicly announce his bid for Senate next week.

Style differences between Tallon and McDonough.

Cook Country Board President Todd Stroger on Public Affairs with Jeff Berkowitz.

Around the News - Lowe Style - All-Star Edition

Tonight is the 2009 MLB All-Star game on FOX.

The Illinois Senate is in a rush to regulate graveyards.

Code Blue, or is it Red, no it's Orange...wait Pink! DHS to review color-coded terror-alert system.

"Given the world we live in and what's happened in the last 18 months, I think this is one sport where you can't even fathom that anyone would think that," he said. "Some of us - and let me be blatant - have to live in the real world, not in a little scenario that doesn't exist." -- Bud Selig on moron-agents.

Article on Bud Selig's 'State of the Game' address

New Have Firefighter got hired because he claimed discrimination. So that's his shtick.

Racism? in the city of Brotherly Love.

Republican Congressman Troubled That Public Option Is "Cheaper," Has "Clear Advantages"

The American League has just won the game 4-3 over the National League. (10:23 CDT)

Around the News - Lowe Style

Maybe it's not the Viagra that's spicing things up.

FBI may not be able to identify all Burr Oak bodies.

Hulk Hogan: Resurrection

Paul Sullivan's Lineup Ideas for the 2nd Half

Zell is at it again with his f%^&ing tricks.

Nice break for a guy with spine problems.

Apocalypse.

The Cubs might go after former Blue Jays reliever B. J. Ryan, since he was recently placed on waivers. He won't be claimed off waivers by another team because he has $15 million left on his contract. If a team were to claim him, they would be on the hook for the money. This means he would clear waivers and be given unconditional release. That would put the Blue Jays on the hook for his contract. (Any team that signed him would still have to pay him the minimum salary.)

Jim Riggleman takes over as interim manager for fired Manny Acta. Nationals will still suck and you can mark that one down.

Around the News - Lowe Style

Jonathan Sanchez, a pitcher for the San Francisco Giants, threw the first no-hitter of the 2009 MLB season on the night of Friday July 10th.

MLB.com AP via Chicago Tribune Most Recent No-Hitters by Team (AP via Tribune)

GM can't find someone new to make cars....

Was a gay couple targeted by Mormons for a kiss on the cheek?

Burr Oak Scandal
New York Times Chicago Tribune

Bush Wiretapping Program
Wall Street Journal LA Times

Google Moon Mapping?
Microsoft Silverlight 3

Around the News - Lowe Style

Quinn tables tax hike...for now....

Fox Chicago guts 10pm newscast.

“It is pretty bad when I go and fight a tyrannical government somewhere else,” Congine said, “and then I come home to find it right here at my front door.”

Kadner on Madigan.

THE BURR OAK SCANDAL

Kadner

Southtown Star

Till's Relative

First Lawsuit

Burr Oak to be closed as crime scene

Expert says identification will be an overwhelming task

Around the News - Lowe Style

Roland Burris is expected to announce on July 10th that he will not seek election to a full term in the U.S. Senate. A run down of some of the Burris Senate Saga at the Trib's Clout Street.

Republicans in Illinois are jumping on State Senator Kirk Dillard, who is running for governor, because he said, "I look forward to having Lisa Madigan as attorney general when I’m the governor." DuPage county State's Attorney and GOP-man Joe Birkett announced he was running for AG. More from Clout St.

Quinn flip flops AGAIN!

Filing a complaint with the police? Make sure you come during business hours!

Homero Tristan & Co. insist he did everything correct!
This story just keeps getting better and better and better

Drug cartels in Maine?!?

The Ensign Affair gets weirder and weirder...

Sick Cemetary Scandal; Feds getting hacked; more

A disgusting scandal at a historical Chicagoland cemetary.

North Korea might be behind the hacking case of the federal websites.

Blagojevich's last chief of staff, John Harris, pleads guilty.

Band takes United Airlines baggage handling to task on YouTube.

1 in 4 Illinois adults is obese.

Illinois Politics

Lisa Madigan has announced today that she will not seek election as United States Senator or Governor. Instead, she will seek re-election to her current post as Illinois Attorney General. It had been reported by several news organizations that the Democrats and the Obama administration were courting her to run for either the Illinois U.S. Senate seat currently held by Roland Burris or for Governor. By seeking to stay in the same office, she will likely face Joe Birkett, the DuPage county State's Attorney. She narrowly defeated Birkett to become AG in 2002 and faced only token opposition in 2006 when she was re-elected AG. As of this time, Birkett is the only announced Republican in the AG race.

This creates a political vacuum in the Democratic primaries for Governor and the U.S. Senate seat. State treasurer Alexi Giannoulias has already announced he is running for the Senate seat. Incumbent Governor Pat Quinn is expected to seek re-election, but has not officially announced anything. Dan Hynes, current state comptroller, is expected to be a major player for either seat. Although he has not announced anything, he was expected to try a run for AG if Madigan moved up, but now he can seriously consider the Senate seat or the Governorship. In recent weeks, Hynes has been critical of how Quinn has handled the budget brouhaha. It has also been speculated that Congressman Danny Davis would make a play for the Senate seat, but it appears more and more that he is lining himself up to run for Cook County Board President. (Btw, that crowded field already includes Alderman Toni Preckwinkle and Cook Cty. Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy Brown.)

In other news, Republican Congressman Mark Kirk is supposedly telling folks in Washington that he will attempt the jump from House to Senate. Illinois GOP chariman Andy McKenna has also allegedly begun to talk with Republican honchos about running for the Senate seat.

Gearing up for a fight in Illinois!

Around the News - Lowe Style

Bomb parts smuggled into 10 federal buildings during test
What a great job as usual. I always feel secure in America!

Feds Hacked!

Daley's HR chief quits!

Inspector General David Hoffman called on the guy, Homero Tristan, to be fired for lying to investigators from the IG's office. Tristan said the allegations by IG were "grossly erroneous and irresponsible." Since 2005 a federal court appointed hiring monitor has also been keeping tabs on city hiring.

Both the court hiring monitor and Daley's Office of Compliance have repeatedly criticized Tristan for his alleged failure to comply with the city's own hiring plan. In a report last month, the compliance office said the department's leadership often "lacks a basic understanding of the new hiring plan."

Tristan claims to have done nothing wrong, but he is quitting to avoid being a "distraction (Daley spokeswoman Jacquelyn Heard)". This is the same Tristan that close ties to Daley's Latino allies.

Hoffman had investigated Tristan's alleged failure to report to the court and others a Jan. 29 letter written by Ald. Michael Zalewski (23rd) on behalf of a city worker who wanted to avoid a transfer to another job site. Tristan this year told the hiring monitor he was aware of Zalewski's letter but was unsure if he had to report it, according to court records. Hoffman said Tristan told his investigators he was not aware of the letter until weeks later.

Oh, Illinois politics!

Zell and the Cubs Sale

So, the Tribune Company wants to sell the Chicago Cubs. Months of tough negotiations and tiresome bargaining has led to this. And this. It could be TribCo trying to play hardball and run up a bidding war for the team. But, in my opinion that is the wrong move to make. The Ricketts family has spent months hammering out financing and the rates for the Cubs broadcast deals. The Ricketts family lined up three banks to pony up the loan portion of the deal. Due to the tight global economy, banks are refusing loan requests every single day and this includes from billionaires such as the Ricketts family. What would I do if I were the Ricketts family? Walk away from the deal. Of course this would be one big bluff, but I would call up the TribCo negotiators and tell them that we (the Ricketts family) are walking away. I would do this because it would force the hand of Zell and MLB. MLB would then pressure Zell and TribCo and the Ricketts would get the franchise anyway. Since the Utay group really is in this now as a sort of dog and pony show contestant, a bluff walk-away by the Ricketts family would create tremendous pressure on TribCo. So, now the deal can get done…or the Cubs can stay on the block and agonize and be in gridlock many more months. Let's wait (hopefully not long) and see.

Lowe

Around the News (Chicago Sports) - Lowe Style

Detroit: Ben Gordon's City
Good luck with that one Ben.

Blackhawks sign Marian Hossa, let Havlat walk


Havlat will tell us "the real story" about why he's not in Chicago anymore.

Piniella gets ejected as Cubs win, still has fire (for now!)

Lowe

Around the News - Lowe Style - June 30, 2009

Teen bullying: Tormented boy's short life ends in suicide

Emergency rooms busier in summer NO DUH!


AP Newsbreak: SC governor calls lover 'soul mate,' says he 'crossed lines' with other women

When will this fool resign? Maybe he's trying to book an appearance on Maury or Steve Wilkos. (Or Geraldo?)


Outside the ballpark: Proposal would move peddlers, bucket boys farther away from Wrigley

The bucket boys are the real problem to me. Believe me...I know.


CPS job cuts

My god, Norm Coleman finally gave up. Well actually he was forced to give up. About time.

States do not know how to fiscally manage themselves

Rick Morrissey: Blame Hendry!

For some reason, some alderman in Chitown don't want jobs for the city.

Trib editorial: Stroger Tax Birthday

Brookfield Zoo is 75!

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Poll: Most MLB players would not want to play for Piniella, Guillen

Probably because Piniella and Guillen demand things out of their players. Other weak managers don't.

Around the News - Lowe Style - June 29, 2009

Time to go around the news: Lowe style.

Chicago personnel chief says inspector general 'reckless' in calling for his dismissal

Excerpt from the Tribune:
In a letter obtained by the Tribune, Human Resources Commissioner Homero Tristan said he was always truthful with investigators for Inspector General David Hoffman who were probing whether an alderman used clout to help a city worker. "The report is a baseless assault on my character and integrity as well as the honesty and professionalism of the Department of Human Resources," he wrote.
This is the city of Chicago, county of Cook, state of Illinois. The HR department has zero honesty and just as much professionalism as honesty. Check that. The HR department employs professional cronies, professional crooks, professional political elbow rubbers, and professional rubber-stamp hiring managers. If the city's HR dept. was full of honest, professional workers, the city would not be under federal order to have an independent hiring inspector. Tristan needs to cut the bs...big time.

Cook County State's Attorney has employee involved in ugly, bitter custody battle.

A politically connected Cook County state's attorney's office employee threatened to use her position to expose her ex-boyfriend as a federal informant against the Outfit, voice mail messages played in court suggest.


Granted that this woman's husband threatened violence against her, allegedly held a gun to her head, and threatened to abduct their children, she improperly used her position. The article states that the State's Attorneys office could bring "disciplinary or criminal" charges against this employee. Could bring? "Disciplinary." You have got to be kidding me. I don't care how threatened you feel or how politically connected you are but in a situation involving gross misuse of a public office and in this case of a public safety office, only criminal charges fit the bill. I'm sure that the media won't really cover this though and it will just fall by the wayside and die out. However, this just goes to show that in Illinois everyone is fair game if you've got info. The misuse of position in this case to me is simply sickening and pathetic.

Vintage Brookfield Zoo photographs.

In other news, the Cubs have inked 21 of their 50 picks from this years draft. The list includes first-round pick Brett Jackson out of UC-Berkeley.

Lowe

More on Milton Bradley

More on the Bradley confrontation from Paul Sullivan in a Trib blog.

The Cubs are claiming the spat is over and I believe it is. Bradley and Piniella both did/said things in a situation ripe for confrontation and ended up having a confrontation.

Milton Bradley spoke to Cubs beat reporters before Saturday’s game and confirmed that manager Lou Piniella called him a "piece of [expletive]" during their confrontation Friday at U.S. Cellular Field.


To me, Bradley is masking his feelings for the comment. I think Bradley does truly respect Lou Piniella as a manager and it has been a struggle (from the left side of the plate) for Bradley that he hasn't really faced before, so I believe the comment does "hurt" Bradley.

"The last time someone called me a piece of [expletive] I tore my ACL," Bradley said, referring to an argument with umpire Mike Winters at the end of the 2007 season. "So, I mean, I've learned how to deal with that. I'm fine. You know, it's Lou Piniella."

In my opinion it was more a heat of the moment thing (Bradley & Lou), although I believe Bradley did deserve some strong, pointed, and choice words to describe his behavior. As for Milton comparing it to the Mike Winters thing, I think the situations are totally different and in a way it is Bradley again being self-centered in his comparison. Bradley is basically trying to say he has all this new found restraint. Bradley, if you have restraint I suppose it was shown in not reacting to Lou's comment, but what you did to Winters was unprofessional just as what Winters said to you was conduct totally unbecoming of an umpire and the Winters situation has no real merit in comparison to this Piniella spat.

"To me, Lou Piniella is somebody. If its a motivating tactic and he's taking a different switch since people are saying he didn't have fire, then I understand. I take a lot of heed in what he has to say. It matters. I take it to heart and I'm better for it."


That quote right there makes me have a new respect for Bradley. To me it shaves off some of his cry baby attitude and shows that he really is trying to deal with all the pressure of playing (and struggling) for the Cubs.

In regards to the gatorade cooler thing, Bradley had this to say:
Has Bradley been singled out for something that teammates Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster and Carlos Marmol have also done?

"Like I've said, I don't have the same set of rules as other people," he said. "I've committed mistakes in my past to where you don't get the leeway other guys might get. To a certain extent, I guess that's fair."

It has been a pattern with you Milton, even for little things. Then the Sully post goes on to describe Bradley's 3 or 4 broken helmets this year.

Bradley said he has broken 3-4 helmets this year, adding "it's nothing drastic."

Maybe I don't know baseball equipment, but it sounds a tad high to me. I mean how many helmets do you get per year? I know its the majors but I think you would try not to waste so many helmets.

Bradley said he and Piniella still have a relationship and have no problems and I believe Bradley when he says that. Lou spoke in the heat of the moment and he did apologize to Milton so I'm sure the two have hashed things out.

Lastly, some people in the Cubs organization think White Sox security/clubhouse guys may have leaked the p.o.s. (piece of sh-t) comment to the media.

The Cubs are concerned over alleged leaking of the confrontation between Bradley and Lou Piniella by White Sox security. The Sox are denying the accusations. Is Bradley upset it was leaked?

"Usually people who work in clubhouses don't quote things to reporters," he said. "That's part of [their] job. Players say things every day that no one would want to read in the papers -- managers, coaches. It's part of the game. If you're going to have some kind of an exchange like that, there are going to be swear words, and there's going to probably be regrets. As long as the two men hash it out together that's what's important, and you move on."

Now I don't agree with any type of leak like that although as a fan I love the gossip aspect of it and seeing as how Bradley and Piniella seem to have hashed things out, I think all is well...well, except for the Cubs overall disappointment this year.

The Sox won today, so we've got to get back on the horse of victory tomorrow.

Final Score: 8-7 White Sox > Cubs.
Winning pitcher: Bobby Jenks Losing Pitcher: Sean Marshall (his baserunner even though Ascanio gave up the final hit)

Lowe

Milton Bradley

Milton Bradley. Oh, Milton! We have witnessed the return to your old ways. Bashing Gatorade machines (much like your fellow Cub teammates, great camaraderie), screaming in the dugout, and on, and on. Lou Piniella had enough and sent Bradley home early. Or, in Lou’s own words, “I told him to take his uniform off. He threw his helmet and smashed the water cooler and there was water flying all over. I told him to take his uniform off and go home. I followed him up to the clubhouse and we exchanged some words. I don't like when those things happen, but I was tired of watching it." Lou Piniella also said Bradley's actions have been a "common occurrence." Well, that is just Bradley, but you have to draw a line in the sand somewhere. "I've looked the other way a lot and I'm done with it,” Piniella said. Well, I hope the Cubs are also done with it. I know I am. I believe that Cubs management needs to lay down the law to Mr. Milton Bradley. Fine him, suspend him, and move on. Team fines are easy to levy, but I think (I think) for a team suspension of an active player, you have to place him on the restricted list. If Bradley was placed on the RL (restricted list), the team wouldn’t have to pay him, so I think a two-day RL trip would suffice. Unfortunately, Bradley hitting well against lefties this season and the Sox are scheduled to start two lefties the next two games in Mark Buehrle and John Danks. (The Cubs are also on track to face Pirates lefty Zach Duke on Monday the 29th.)


More from Carrie Muskat

More from the Trib/Paul Sullivan
On Milton being all alone in the world

On Milton leaving


More from Bruce Miles/The Daily Herald

More from Gordon Wittenmyer/The Sun-Times


Lowe

Around the News - Lowe Style

Here are some articles and links I found interesting:

All City Baseball Announcers


http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/chi-26-cubs-white-sox-broadcastejun26,0,2259566.story?obref=obinsite

By Dan McGrath | Tribune staff reporter | June 26, 2009

TV play-by-play: Len Kasper, Cubs.

TV analysis: Steve Stone, White Sox.

Radio play-by-play: Pat Hughes, Cubs.

Radio analysis: Bob Brenly, Cubs.

3 out of 4 Cubs is great and as an added bonus, Stone was the Cubs TV analyst for years and years.

The Ricketts Deal is allegedly progressing
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-cubs-sale-momentum-090626-,0,670429.story

Reinsdorf has made a bid for an NHL team according to sources
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/hockey/blackhawks/chi-27-reinsdorf-jun27,0,1273128.story

Apple flip flops on 'Hottest Girl' app
http://www.informationweek.com/news/personal_tech/iphone/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=218101614

Lowe