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BREAKING: Anti-Second Amendment Legislator’s Criminal Record Expo

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http://newsdoors.blogspot.com/2013/03/breaking-anti-second-amendment.html According to a Colorado Bureau of Investigations report obtained by Media Trackers, State Representative Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) was arrested in 1976 on a charge of larceny and again in...

read more Reported by NowPublic 11 hours ago.

Let's Make Guns as Cool as Smoking

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Let's Make Guns as Cool as Smoking Patch Bethwood, CT --



Remember when everybody smoked?

Think about the imagery associated with smoking, making it cool, as admirable and desirable as the rugged American cowboy.

According to an op-ed published in The New York Times, the rates of Americans who smoke have dropped dramatically since the 1960s — less than 20 percent of American adults smoke now, and it was more than twice as much fifty years ago. What’s more, the rate amongst younger smokers aged 18-24 is on the decline as well.

A lot of that happened because of aggressive marketing and awareness campaigns about the dangers of smoking cigarettes, both to smokers and victims of second-hand, “passive” smoke. There are now graphic warnings on cigarette packages; who can forget the advocacy ad campaigns picturing bodies lying on the New York City streets outside of tobacco company headquarters, representing the hundreds of thousands of people who died each year from smoking?

These efforts helped tremendously when cigarette manufacturers had to admit to Congress their efforts to conceal the dangers of the products they manufacture.

Know what else helped? Legislators heard from their constituents, and that made them feel brave enough to stand up to lobbyists and campaign donations from the big money tobacco industry.

Now if we can only get similar campaigns to hit hard at the gun lobby and gun industry. For it’s clear that the parallels run deep — the gun industry trades on making billions of dollars at the expense of 30,000 people who die each year due to gun violence, including eight children in the U.S. every day.

Supporters of laws aimed at making it harder to access military-style guns and ammunition were heartened when New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the SAFE Act, strengthening his states already strong gun laws. Clearly a threat to the big business of gun manufacturing, the NRA has stepped up its attacks on Cuomo, even though the law does not require gun owners to turn in their assault weapons, only register them. It did limit the sale of magazines to seven rounds within the state of New York, and strengthened background check requirements, among other changes.

Word coming out of Hartford isn’t as encouraging. Legislators had promised that legislation on gun safety and related security issues would be quick to come following the gun massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown on Dec. 14, 2012. The self-imposed deadline of the Newtown task force has come and gone, with little to show but frustration with — and amongst — Connecticut lawmakers.

So, too, is frustration growing with Congress amongst supporters of stronger, more comprehensive gun laws. Clearly, legislators who have been traditionally supported by NRA lobbyists are getting braver in their resistance, let alone less worried about how it look to voters as time passes since the shooting in Sandy Hook.

Case in point: Sen. John McCain answered a question about an assault weapons ban from a woman whose son was killed in the Aurora movie theater shooting. While he did express his sympathy to her, that condolence was followed by him saying, “I can tell you right now you need some straight talk. That assault weapons ban will not pass the Congress of the United States.”

[Author's note: While there’s been some back-and-forth in the press coverage of how video editing portrayed the Senator during the exchange and exactly how rude McCain was or wasn’t, I’d argue that no matter what, the parent of a gun massacre victim deserves more than the usual amount of restraint and courtesy, and I think the full clip shows the Senator was less respectful than he could have been.]

On March 13, there will be an event in Washington, DC, called “Moms Take The Hill,” led by a growing grassroots organization, Moms Demand Action. Their full title is actually “Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America,” and their mission emphasizes just that — common sense. They want to appeal to lawmakers to act on three very simple solutions to address rising gun violence in the United States, according to their website:

· Ban assault weapons and ammunition magazines that hold more than 10 rounds
· Require background checks for all gun and ammunition purchases
· Report the sale of large quantities of ammunition to the ATF and ban online sales of ammunition

If you can’t make it to Washington on the 13th, there’s still a way for you to get involved. Cut out and decorate eight paper dolls, representing the eight children who are shot and killed in America every day. There is a concerted social media campaign as part of this, to flood legislators emails and offices with images of the paper dolls, and you can find out more details by clicking here.

I began this column by writing, “Remember when everybody smoked?” Wouldn’t it be great if someday I could write a column that starts, “Remember when it was easy to buy a gun?”

Hopefully it won’t take as long as 50 years to see the gun violence rates drop as dramatically as smoking rates did. Reported by Patch 5 hours ago.

Ridgefield Houses Sold: Ten Ridgefield Property Transfers

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Ridgefield Houses Sold: Ten Ridgefield Property Transfers Patch Ridgefield, CT --

Edward Kane sold 695 Ridgebury Road to Jacob Steinmann on March 4, for $839,500. Volume 977, page 685.

Ronald Rose and the Jewish Home for the Elderly sold 4 South Shore Drive to Aurora McCarroll on March 1 for $319,900. Volume 977 page 493.

Ridgefield Properties LLC sold 4 Blackberry Lane to Virginia DiSiena on March 1 for $139,900. Volume 977, page 432.

The Estate of Marie Conetta sold 26 Midrocks Road to Brian and Erica Gauquier on March 1 for $237,100. Volume 977, page 550.

Collett Schmitt sold 120-130 Prospect St., unit 30, to Ron Rubin and Gwen Rubin on March 1 for $480,000. Volume 977, page 571.

John Dyson and Katharine Dyson sold 15 Nutmeg Ridge to John Burns on Feb. 27, for $580,000. Volume977, page 283.

Nancy Simpson sold 11 Maccardo Ave. to Stephen Pocco on Feb. 27 for $430,000. Volume 977, page 321.

Country Club Development sold 11 Byron Ave., Lot 6, to Michael Rosenblatt and Amy Rosenblatt on Feb. 25 for $1,953,963.68.

Sandra Nelson sold 126 Lakeside Drive to Shawn Swersky on Feb. 21 for $305,000. Volume 976, 1,128.

Ellen McAllister Trust Perrott sold 120 Prospect St., Unit 11, to John Hall and Lucille Hall on Feb. 21 for $455,000. Volume 976, page 997.

For more information about property transfers in the town of Ridgefield, contact the Ridgefield Town Clerk. Reported by Patch 10 hours ago.

Judge won't overturn insanity law in Aurora, Colo., shooting case

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The judge in the deadly Colorado theater shootings has denied a request by defense lawyers to declare a state law on the insanity plea uncon... Reported by USATODAY.com 1 hour ago.

Summer Camp Guide: DuPage County

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Summer Camp Guide: DuPage County Patch Glen Ellyn, IL --

With the choice and variety of summer camps available in the western suburbs in 2013, boredom won't be an option for DuPage County children.

Organizations, from the YMCA to your local parks and recreation department, offer dozens of camp choices focused around science, reading, sports, music and more. Whether you're looking for an all-around experience or a more focused camp, this list features a few in your town and nearby.

** *DuPage County* **

*Forest Preserve District of DuPage County*

*Where*: Locations vary based on programs.

*Information*: Each summer, the Forest Preserve District offers a variety of four- or five-day camps for kids ages 4 to 14. A number of camps are offered ranging from equestrian to nature camps.

*Details*: Registration forms for 2013 were not yet available online. 

*College of DuPage*

*Where*: 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137

*Information: *College of DuPage has fun-filled and challenging summer camp programs for children of all ages. 

*Contact:* Program Coordinator Georgia Madden at 630-942-2063.

** *Wheaton* **

*Wheaton Park District*

*Where: *1777 S. Blanchard St., Wheaton, IL 60189-8236

*Information*: The park district offers a number of camps and aquatic programs ranging from adventure camps to sports camps. 

*Contact: *Megan Raitt, 630-510-5138 or contact the community center at 630-690-4880

*Details*: Registration for aquatic and camps began March 5.

*Wheaton College*

*Where: *Wheaton College and Long Lake, WI

*Information*: Wheaton College offers camp programs for athletics, including soccer, wrestling and basketball, the arts and one resident camp in Long Lake, WI.

*Contact: *See blog post: 

Summer Camps and Programs Offered at Wheaton College

*Details*: Registration prices increase after Apr. 1.

** *Clarendon Hills* **

*Seton Summer Day Camp *

*Where: *5728 Virginia Ave., Clarendon Hills, IL 60514

*Information*: Trained and experienced staff combining learning and outdoor fun for ages 2 to 9. Beautiful setting on three wooded acres.

*Operated by*: Montessori Education Centers Association

** *Elmhurst* **

*Elmhurst Family YMCA *

*Where*: 211 W 1st St., Elmhurst, IL 60126-2601

*Information*: At Y camp, they create an exciting, safe environment for kids to have an unforgettable summer of fun. And while they’re taking part in unique experiences and adventures, they’re also building self-esteem, developing interpersonal skills and making lasting friendships and memories. The Y offers day camps and specialty camps.

*Contact: *Susan Chansey, 630-929-2456

*Additional information: *The* *camp offers financial aid. Contact the camp for additional information.

*Nike Overnight Soccer Camps*

*Where*: Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126

*Information*: Nike Boys Elite 150 Total Player Development Camp; Campers train on a brand new astroplay surface; the only surface approved by FIFA (world soccer governing body), and learn how to take their game to the next level.

*Contact: *Dave Di Tomasso, Camp Director, 800-645-3226

*Nike Girls Overnight Soccer Camps*

*Where: *Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126

*Information: *Nike Girls Elite 150 Total Player Development Camp at Elmhurst College; Campers train on a brand new astroplay surface; the only surface approved by FIFA (world soccer governing body), and learn how to take their game to the next level.

*Contact: *Dave Di Tomasso, Camp Director, 800-645-3226 

*Nike Soccer Camp – Extended Day or Overnight*

*Where: *Elmhurst College, 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126

*Information: *Extended day or overnight camp. Campers train on a brand new astroplay surface; the only surface approved by FIFA (world soccer governing body), and learn how to take their game to the next level.

*Contact*: Dave Di Tomasso, Camp Director, 800-645-3226

**Naperville**

*Kroehler YMCA*

*Where: *34 S. Washington St., Naperville, IL 60540-5331

*Information*: Summer day camps. At Y summer camps, kids will experience new things, develop new skills, and have fun along the way.

*Contact: *Polly Rhodes, 630-527-6599 

*Additional information: *This camp offers financial aid. Contact the camp for additional information.

*Fry Family YMCA Day Camp*

*Where: *2120 95th St., Naperville, IL 60564

*Information*: Safari Club Camp, day camp. At Y summer camps, kids will experience new things, develop new skills, and have fun along the way.

*Contact: *Claudia Langoni 630-904-9595, 

*Naperville Park District*

*Where*: Locations vary for programs

*Information*: No matter what your kids are interetsted in, Naperville Park District has summer camps that are sure to please. Choose from a variety of sports camps and creative camps for kids ages 2-17.

*Details*: Online registration begins at 8:30 a.m. April 22.

*North Central College*

*Where*: Naperville Campus

*Information*: Registration is now open for summer camps. Summer camps and workshops include academic, athletic, fine arts camps and community musicals.

*Contact*: 630-637-5560

*Details*: A 10 percent discount is available for those who sign up by May 6.  Programs serve areas including: Naperville, Aurora, Warrenville, Lemont, Downers Grove, Lisle, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Wheaton, Oswego, Geneva and St. Charles.

*DuPage Children’s Museum*

*Where*: 301 N. Washington St., Naperville, IL 60540

*Information*: Engage and encourage young minds with our camp offerings! Bring your curiosity and sense of wonder as you join museum educators for fun activities, games, crafts and other hands-on projects that explore the arts, science and math. The museum offers summer camps for all ages. Enrollment is limited and all camps require pre-registration and pre-payment.

*Contact*: Register online or call 630-637-8000.

** *Downers Grove* **

*Indian Boundary YMCA Day Camp*

*Where: *711 59th St., Downers Grove, IL 60516-1420

*Information*: At Y camp, they create an exciting, safe environment for kids to have an unforgettable summer of fun. And while they’re taking part in unique experiences and adventures, they’re also building self-esteem, developing interpersonal skills and making lasting friendships and memories.

*Contact: *Shannon Payton, 630-968-8400

** *Woodridge* **

*Summer Camp*

*Where*: 2600 Center Dr., Woodridge IL 60517

*Information*: The Woodridge Park District offers two summer-long camp programs in the months of June, July, and August. Adventure Camp is for Grades 1-5 and Trek & Travel Camp is for Grades 6-8. Each program offers weekly field trips, organized group activities, and other outdoor adventures.

*Details*: Information about 2013 programs was not yet available.

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**What did we miss? Share summer camp information in our comments and we will update the story to include the information.                     ** Reported by Patch 9 hours ago.

Man Reportedly Steals 11 Bottles of Testosterone Supplements: Police Blotter

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Man Reportedly Steals 11 Bottles of Testosterone Supplements: Police Blotter Patch Oswego, IL --

*Wednesday, March 6*

*Leaving scene of accident*

Abraham Estremero, 18, of the 100 block of Circle Drive East, Montgomery, was charged with leaving the scene of an accident for an incident that occurred at 8:48 a.m. at Route 34 and Kendall Point Drive, said Oswego police. He was also cited for driving too fast for conditions and failure to reduce speed. 

*Monday, March 4*

*Retail Theft*

Oswego police are investigating reported retail theft that occurred at the Vitamin Shoppe, 2700 block of Route 34, between 8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Employees reported they believe a white male suspect, 25-30 years old took 11 bottles of testosterone supplements from the store. The loss is valued at $555.39.

*Possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia*

· A female juvenile, 15, was arrested at 2:50 p.m. at Oswego East High School and charged with the possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia, said Oswego police.
· A male juvenile, 17, was arrested at 12:47 p.m. at Oswego East High School and charged with the possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia, said Oswego police.

*Theft*

A female juvenile, 17, was arrested at 1:50 p.m. at Oswego High School and charged with theft, said Oswego police. The student reportedly stole a cell phone from a teacher on Feb. 27.

*Sunday, March 3*

*Warrant, speeding, driving with suspended license*

Neiko Brown, 22, of the 1300 block of Market Place Drive, Yorkville, was arrested at 7:41 a.m. at Route 34 and Route 71 and charged with a warrant, speeding and driving with a suspended license, said Oswego police.

*Possession of drug paraphernalia                                                                                  *

Timothy A. Kontz, 53, of the 700 block of West Liberty Drive, Wheaton, was arrested at 9:08 p.m. in the 300 block of Douglas Road, Oswego, and charged with the possession of drug paraphernalia. 

*Saturday, March 2*

*Failure to appear, driving with revoked license*

Devin D. Bily of the 500 block of Coventry Court, was arrested at 8:43 a.m. at Coventry Court and Greenview and charged with failure to appear warrant and for driving with a revoked license, said Oswego police.

*Unauthorized use of credit card*

Oswego police responded to a report of a victim’s debit card being used without authorization.

*No valid driver’s license*

Julio C. Serrano-Carlbajal, 29, of the 200 block of Cane Gorden Circle, Aurora, was arrested at 3 a.m. at Route 34 and Kendall Point Drive and charged for driving without a valid license, said Oswego police.

Maria A. Mares, 30, of the 1300 block of South Fifth Street, Montgomery, was arrested at 11:00 p.m. at Route 30 and Route 34 and charged for driving without a valid  license, said Oswego police.

*Hit and run*

Oswego police are investigating a reported hit and run to property that occurred on Feb. 26 at Fox Chase Drive North and Mill Road. A stop sign was struck by an unknown vehicle, and damages were reported at $100.

*Theft*

Oswego police responded to a reported theft that occurred at an unknown time at Oswego High School. A purse and phone were reported taken from a classroom during an after school activity.

*Friday, March 1*

*Counterfeit *

Oswego police are investigating the reported use of a passed counterfeit bill that occurred at 10:29 p.m. in the 1100 block of Route 34.

Oswego police are investigating the reported use of a counterfeit  $20 bill that was passed at the Shell Station in the 0-99 block of Chicago Road.

*Retail theft, assault*

Johnny Dizkens, 48, of the 1700 block of Linden Park Lane, Aurora, was arrested at 8:50 p.m. at the 2700 block of Route 34 and charged with retail theft and assault, said Oswego police. He reportedly stole $34.97.

*Theft*

· Oswego police are investigating a reported theft of lost property that occurred at 5:50 p.m. in the 400 block of Boulder Hill Pass. Value of lost property is $200.
· Oswego police are investigating a reported theft that occurred at 10:00 a.m. at Oswego East High School. An iPhone valued at $499 was reported stolen.
· Oswego police responded to a reported theft that occurred at 8:10 a.m. at Oswego East High School. A phone was reported taken from a student’s unlocked locker.

*No valid driver’s license*

Arizbeth Aguilera, 19, of the 0-99 block of Hubbard Way, Montgomery, was arrested at 2:40 p.m. at Old Post and Circle Drive West and charged for driving without a valid license, said Oswego police. She was also cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

*Thursday, Feb. 28*

*No valid driver’s license*

Salatiel Brigido, 33, of the 500 block of Oakwood Avenue, Aurora, was arrested at 2:33 p.m. at Madison and Tyler and charged for driving without a valid license, said Oswego police.  Reported by Patch 6 hours ago.

Sheriff Releases Walmart Incident Internal Investigation

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Patch Oswego, IL --

A Kendall County Sheriff’s deputy was determined to have "lessen(ed) the confidence and esteem" of the department following an internal investigation into an incident in which he drew a gun on a fellow shopper at the Oswego Walmart on Feb. 5 2012.

The exchange began when French made remarks to the wife of Jason Thurmond, Nicole Healy-Thurmond, about the number of items the couple had in an express checkout lane, which then escalated into a shoving match initiated by Thurmond after he said French took a step forward. French then drew his gun, stating only afterward that he was a sheriff’s deputy.

“French did not display the courtesy and decorum I expect from my employees, and thereby tended to lessen the confidence and esteem of the public in the Office of the Sheriff,” Sheriff Richard A. Randall wrote in a letter contained in the department's internal investigation. Randall released the 157-page document Thursday after of a Freedom of Information Act request from the Aurora Beacon News.  

*Download the full internal investigation here.*

“Discipline that is sufficient to prevent such conduct from occurring in the future will be imposed upon Deputy French for this rule violation,” Randall wrote.

“I find that the comments made by Deputy French towards your wife, although not hostile, vulgar or threatening, could be perceived as impolite and discourteous. I find no evidence that Deputy French’s comments or actions justified an escalation of aggression, or physical violence by you.”

Police Operations Commander Phillip J. Smith, who conducted an analysis into the matter added that French’s comments, like “Can’t you count?” and “You’re holding up the rest of the line” were not threatening.

“Furthermore, these comments were made as a private citizen, and should be treated as such and protected,” wrote Smith, as French was off-duty at the time.

Thurmond was charged with battery in the incident, but was found not guilty last November.

Thurmond has filed a lawsuit against the Sheriff’s office citing excessive force and emotional distress seeking in excess of $400,000 in damages. Randall later claimed Thurmond offered to withdraw the lawsuit for a payment of $20,000. Reported by Patch 6 hours ago.

Update: Sheriff Releases Walmart Incident Internal Investigation

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Patch Montgomery, IL --

A Kendall County Sheriff’s deputy was determined to have "lessen(ed) the confidence and esteem" of the department following an internal investigation into an incident in which he drew a gun on a fellow shopper at the Oswego Walmart on Feb. 5 2012.

The exchange began when French made remarks to the wife of Jason Thurmond, Nicole Healy-Thurmond, about the number of items the couple had in an express checkout lane, which then escalated into a shoving match initiated by Thurmond after he said French took a step forward. French then drew his gun, stating only afterward that he was a sheriff’s deputy.

“French did not display the courtesy and decorum I expect from my employees, and thereby tended to lessen the confidence and esteem of the public in the Office of the Sheriff,” Sheriff Richard A. Randall wrote in a letter contained in the department's internal investigation. Randall released the 157-page document Thursday after of a Freedom of Information Act request from the Aurora Beacon News.  

*Download the full internal investigation here.*

“Discipline that is sufficient to prevent such conduct from occurring in the future will be imposed upon Deputy French for this rule violation,” Randall wrote.

“I find that the comments made by Deputy French towards your wife, although not hostile, vulgar or threatening, could be perceived as impolite and discourteous. I find no evidence that Deputy French’s comments or actions justified an escalation of aggression, or physical violence by you.”

Police Operations Commander Phillip J. Smith, who conducted an analysis into the matter added that French’s comments, like “Can’t you count?” and “You’re holding up the rest of the line” were not threatening.

“Furthermore, these comments were made as a private citizen, and should be treated as such and protected,” wrote Smith, as French was off-duty at the time.

Thurmond was charged with battery in the incident, but was found not guilty last November.

Thurmond had filed a lawsuit against the Sheriff’s office citing excessive force and emotional distress seeking in excess of $400,000 in damages. Randall later claimed Thurmond offered to withdraw the lawsuit for a payment of $20,000.

As of Thursday night, the Kendall County Board agreed unanimously to approve the settlement to Thurmond for $20,000, according to the Aurora Beacon. The rest of the lawsuit will be dropped.

Even if the county were to win the lawsuit, said State’s Attorney Eric Weis, the lawsuit would cost at least $25,000 to defend, which is the deductible on the county's insurance, according to the Beacon.  Reported by Patch 2 hours ago.

Local Metra Commuters Delayed Hours After Man Killed by Train in Westmont

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Patch Lisle, IL --

By Joe O'Donnell

Local commuters on Metra's Burlington Northern Santa Fe line were delayed several hours Thursday evening after a pedestrian was killed by a train.

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The 30-year-old male pedestrian was struck and killed by an eastbound train at the Cass Avenue crossing in Westmont during the evening commute at approximately 5:45 p.m. Thursday, police confirmed.

"The pedestrian was crossing the tracks at the grade crossing when he was struck by an eastbound Metra Rail Commuter train," according to a press release from Westmont Police Chief Thomas Mulhearn. "The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:03 p.m. by medical personnel from Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove via paramedics from the Westmont Fire Department."

The Naperville Sun is reporting that the train that hit the man was carrying an engineer and crew, but no passengers. 

Naperville, Aurora and Lisle passengers were on board other trains on the line, which were delayed several hours during the incident.

Thompson said "it's too early to make any calls" on what led to the collision. The identity of the victim is being withheld as family are notified. 

BNSF trains were halted until about 6:45 p.m., Mulhearn's release reads, and Cass Avenue traffic was detoured around the crossing until 8:30 p.m.

"This accident is currently under investigation by the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Police, the DuPage County Coroners Office and this department," Mulhearn's release says. "This incident is being classified as a death investigation at this time."

Local BNSF passengers experienced delays throughout the night as a result, but as of 10:26 p.m. Thursday, there were no BNSF service advisories listed on Metra's website. Reported by Patch 9 hours ago.

Real Gun or Fake? Learn the Differences at a DuPage Township Seminar

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Real Gun or Fake? Learn the Differences at a DuPage Township Seminar Patch Bolingbrook, IL --

Could you identify a real gun from a pellet gun, BB gun or a painted water gun?

Could having a fake gun be life-threatening? 

DuPage Township will host a seminar March 20 to tackle those issues, as well as the use of BB and other "fake" guns in Will County crime and the dangers BB and pellet guns pose.

The seminar will be held at the Levy Center at 5:30 p.m. There will be free pizza and pop. 

The event is a collaboration between DuPage Township and the H.E.A.R.T. organization. H.E.A.R.T. assists teens 13 to 18 years of age in Will County who are in need of court-ordered community service compliance.

It is the first time DuPage Township will present this program, according to officials. 

The organizers said they scheduled the program to provide a resource following shootings in Newtown, CT, and Aurora, CO. 

The following scenario is printed on the program flyer: 



PARENTS, imaging yourself a police officer patrolling a dim, lit street or responding to a call for help in an alley, a park or a ATM! Suddenly you are FACE TO FACE wth a teenage kid or a drug-crazed addict AIMING A WEAPON AT YOU! The rush of adrenaline and the human instinct to survive overtakes you! What are you going to do? IF THAT GUN IS REAL you may only have seconds to make a life-changing decision. IF THAT GUN IS NOT REAL then what? 

Who Lives and Who Dies? 



More about H.E.A.R.T.: 



We are a one of its kind, unique intervention program assisting youth 13-18 years of age in Will County who are in need of court ordered community service compliance. We also offer an alternative to suspension program for high school students in the Valley View school district. Our program has taken the formerly used methods of serving community service and transformed it into a life changing experience for youth at risk and the alternative to suspension allows a student to continue their education verses being suspended which could jeopardize their future of graduating high school! We teach and counsel our students in juvenile law and its consequences, social and life skills coaching and we offer anger management counseling.  Our program opened its doors in 1999 and to date has serviced over 2100 children in the Will County area. Our program is aggressively working with the court system to help juveniles avoid convictions, regain focus, build confidence and gain respect for self, home and the community in which they live! Our sole mission is to:

“Help keep the CUFFS off kids.”

Reported by Patch 9 hours ago.

12-Year-Old Oswego Girl Reported Missing in Aurora

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12-Year-Old Oswego Girl Reported Missing in Aurora Patch Montgomery, IL --

A 12-year-old girl from Oswego has been reported missing since Thursday morning, according to an Aurora Police Department bulletin.

Hazel Maria Gonzales, 12, was dropped off at her grandmother's house in the 300 block of Cedar Street, Aurora, about 6:15 a.m. Thursday. She never showed up to Jefferson Middle School. She lives in the 100 block of Harbor Drive, Oswego, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Jefferson school administrators contacted Hazel's mother at 10 a.m. after she did not show up for class. Her family last reported seeing her at 7 a.m.

According the the bulletin, Hazel's phone goes straight to voicemail.

Police believe she may be in the company of "unknown high school aged subjects" near the grandmother's house, according to the Tribune, but have been unable to contact her.  

Aurora Police are asking anyone with information about Hazel’s location to call (630) 256-5500. Reported by Patch 2 hours ago.

12-Year-Old Oswego Girl Reported Missing

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12-Year-Old Oswego Girl Reported Missing Patch Oswego, IL --

A 12-year-old girl from Oswego has been reported missing since thursday morning, according to an Aurora Police Department bulletin.

Hazel Maria Gonzales, 12, was dropped off at her grandmother's house in the 300 block of Cedar Street, Aurora, about 6:15 a.m. Thursday. She never showed up to Jefferson Middle School. She lives in the 100 block of Harbor Drive, Oswego, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Jefferson school administrators contacted Hazel's mother at 10 a.m. after she did not show. Her family last reported seeing her at 7 a.m. 

According the the bulletin, Hazel's phone goes straight to voicemail.

Police believe she may be in the company of "unknown high school aged subjects" near the grandmother's house, according to the Tribune, but have been unable to contact her.  

Aurora Police are asking anyone with information about Hazel’s location to call (630) 256-5500. Reported by Patch 6 hours ago.

Aurora theater shooting: Judge in James Holmes case won't overturn insanity law

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 The judge in the deadly Colorado theater shootings has denied a request by defense lawyers to declare a state law on the insanity plea unconstitutional. Reported by Denver Post 6 hours ago.

Aurora shooting judge won't overturn state's insanity law, clearing way for 'shooter' James Holmes to enter plea

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DENVER — The judge in the deadly Colorado theater shootings has denied a request by defense lawyers to declare a state law on the insanity plea unconstitutional. In a ruling released Friday, state District Judge William Sylvester granted one defense request, for a written explanation of the consequences of pleading not... Reported by NY Post 4 hours ago.

Report: Disney Executives May Be Only Roadblock Between Olbermann, ESPN

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Report: Disney Executives May Be Only Roadblock Between Olbermann, ESPN Disney executives may be the only roadblock between ESPN and Keith Olbermann. 

According to a report in BIgLeadSports, a site that in the past has been very credible with its reporting on the inner workings of the network, ESPN President John Skipper "wants the cantankerous Olbermann back," and the network may likely obtain his servies "as early as late-May."

After the New York Times ran a story on Sunday evening in which Skipper seemed to indicate, to casual observers, that ESPN did not want Olbermann back and liberal and shrill anchor was begging them for a job, many dismissed Olbermann's chances of returning to the network he once left to the joy of many at the network Olbermann had berated, demeaned and generally treated badly. Others thought the story could have been planted to gauge the response of employees at the network. 

But the Times story, according to BigLeadSports, was "a test balloon with Disney executives" because ultimately, "they will determine whether or not Olbermann goes back to ESPN."

If Disney executives allow Olbermann back at ESPN, it could tarnish not only ESPN but also ABC, a network already reeling from many high-profile stories it has botched due to its liberal biases. 

When Olbermann was at MSNBC, he was primarily responsible for turning that network into the shrill and partisan leftist outlet that it is today. Before this shift happened, liberal NBC News reporters--like Chuck Todd, Brian Williams, and Andrea Mitchell--made regular appearances throughout the day--and night--on MSNBC.

But even these biased reporters found MSNBC's new tone to be so hackish and over-the-top that they did not want to be associated with much of MSNBC's daytime and primetime programming for fear that being associated with MSNBC would tarnish what they think is an objective brand of news they put out at NBC. 

Olbermann also reportedly berated fellow employees at the network and did not get along with people like Joe Scarborough. The same thing happened at Current TV, which fired him one year into his five-year, $50 million contract. Olbermann has reportedly sued Current TV for nearly $70 million, and the case is set to go to trial later this year. 

The past has been prologue for the cantankerous anchor, who often demeaned colleagues and assistants when he was last at Bristol. Should he go back to ESPN, some of the network's high-profile talent may indeed protest and cringe at the thought of his presence. 

But, more importantly, Olbermann carries a lot more political and partisan baggage since he covered sports for ESPN and, before that, for news outlets in Los Angeles. Because he is now associated with shrill liberal outlets like MSNBC and Current TV, his presence at ESPN may repel a considerable number of viewers in a center-right country. ESPN has seen its ratings decline for some of its primetime shows. And with Fox Sports 1 set to debut on August 17, Olbermann's presence may further drive viewers to seek out alternative sports programming. 

And because Disney owns ESPN and ABC and both networks do a lot of joint programming, Olbermann would also be toxic to ABC's brand that needs cannot use any more tarnishing. If ESPN hired Olbermann and he, for instance, were to make appearances on Good Morning America, which has seen its ratings surge, he may damage that franchise by repelling women who may be disgusted by his past misogynistic comments. 

Consider also that Disney/ABC CEO Bob Iger on Wednesday admitted that ABC News had presented news in a "slightly inaccurate way or in ways we weren't necessarily proud of":





When it came time for a general Q&A, the first question, judging from the loud mix of positive and negative reaction, was arguably the most controversial -- a man complaining about political bias at ABC and ESPN and citing specific examples: Newsman Brian Ross reporting that Dark Knight Rises mass killer James Holmes might be a member of the Tea Party[.] …

Iger acknowledged mistakes but was not specific. "We have, at times, either presented the news in a slightly inaccurate way or in ways we weren't necessarily proud of," he said, "but I firmly stand behind our news organizations because I believe that overall the job that they do is one that is worthy of respect."



After the tragic "Dark Knight" Aurora shooting at a Colorado movie theatre last year, Brian Ross, with encouragement from George Stephanopoulos, immediately--and falsely--blamed the shooting on the Tea Party because he found a "Jim Holmes" on the webpage of a Colorado Tea Party site. 

ABC also slimed Beef Products, Inc. with their so-called expose on "pink slime." The network has been accused of blowing off "the evidence Beef Products presented to the network's producers saying that their first reports were wrong" and not correcting its initial false reports on the air and, instead, stepping up its campaign against "pink slime" even after presented with evidence that their initial reports may been seriously flawed. 

Alan Caruba, "a member of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) for over 30 years and founder of The National Anxiety Center, which serves as a clearinghouse to debunk mainstream media," took ABC to task, saying the network needed to be sent the journalism code of ethics.  

ABC News also tried to claim--without any evidence--that Trayvon Martin was shot last year because he was black and attempted to manipulate public perception of the tragedy by initially blurring out George Zimmerman's gash on the back of its head in the video the network initially aired when the nation was riveted by the case. Less than a week after ABC aired the distorted video, the network conceded that the enhanced video showed gashes on the back of Zimmerman's head, debunking ABC's initial claim that "no abrasions or blood" could be "seen in the video." 

Disney executives will have to decide if Olbermann is worth the risk, but ABC--and particularly its news brand--is not in a position where it has considerable room for error or can gamble with volatile and unabashedly liberal personalities like Olbermann.  Reported by Breitbart 3 hours ago.

Judge rejects Aurora suspect's insanity plea motions

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Judge rejects Aurora suspect's insanity plea motions The judge in last year's Colorado theater shootings, in which 12 people died and 70 others were wounded, rejected the defense's request Friday that he strike down the state's law on insanity pleas. Reported by msnbc.com 3 hours ago.

Does Holly Madison Win For Strangest Celeb Baby Name Ever? Find Out What She Named Her Daughter!

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Does Holly Madison Win For Strangest Celeb Baby Name Ever? Find Out What She Named Her Daughter! Holly Madison gave birth to a baby girl just a few days ago, so obviously the next step after that is revealing the little one's name. And let's just say the moniker she gave Baby Rotella is...colorful?

*OK! News: Holly Madison's Bizarre Birthing Plan*

Holly's daughter's name is — wait for it — *Rainbow Aurora Rotella*. Um, maybe they'll just call her Rain for short?

*OK! News: Holly Madison Reveals Her Wedding Plans!*

Holly told E! that she wanted to give her daughter a unique name, so mission accomplished there. She said: "Growing up, there was a girl in my school named Rainbow and I was so envious of that name. I thought it was so pretty and unique."

*What do you think of the name Rainbow? Is that up there on the list of strange celeb baby names or is it actually kinda cute? Tweet us @OKMagazine!*

Photo credit: 
Splash News Reported by OK! Magazine 3 minutes ago.

Holly Madison Just Gave Her Baby A Ridiculous Name

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Holly Madison Just Gave Her Baby A Ridiculous Name Former Playboy model and reality television star Holly Madison wanted to be creative when she named her baby daughter. 

The name she settled on?

Rainbow Aurora. 

“I wanted to give my daughter a unique name,” the former Girls Next Door star told E! “Growing up, there was a girl in my school named Rainbow and I was so envious of that name. I thought it was so pretty and unique!” 

Rainbow's father is Holly's boyfriend, Pasquale Rotella. She used to date Playboy founder Hugh Hefner. 

*SEE ALSO: The 'Red Coat Girl' From 'Schindler's List' Describes How The Film Traumatized Her >*

Please follow The Wire on Twitter and Facebook.

Join the conversation about this story » Reported by Business Insider 1 hour ago.

Dog Killed, Arrest Made in March 1 Home Invasion; 1 Suspect Still at Large

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Dog Killed, Arrest Made in March 1 Home Invasion; 1 Suspect Still at Large Patch Batavia, IL --

· SOURCE: North Aurora Police Department

A suspect has been arrested and charges have been filed in the March 1 home invasion an shooting incident in the 200 block of Laurel Drive, North Aurora police report.

Detectives identified Quintin D. Mullen, 22, of the 1700 block of Felten Road, Aurora as a suspect and then issued an “Attempt To Locate” bulletin to area police agencies on Monday night. Mullen was arrested by officers of the Aurora Police Department around 4:25 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, in the 2300 block of Ogden Aveneu, Aurora.

Aurora police turned Mullen over to North Aurora police .and he was held overnight at the North Aurora Police Department. The Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office authorized the following charges against Mullen:

· Home Invasion—Discharge a Firearm, a Class X Felony
· Armed Robbery—Discharge a Firearm, a Class X Felony
· Armed Violence—Discharge Firearm While Committing Felony, a Class X Felony
· Aggravated Discharge of a Firearm, a Class X Felony
· 2 counts of Aggravated Unlawful Restraint, Class 3 Felonies
· 2 counts of Aggravated Assault, Class 4 Felonies

Mullen appeared at a bond hearing this morning at the Aurora Branch Court, where a judge set his bond at $500,000. He must post 10 percent of that, or $50,000 in cash, to be released from custody pending trial.

He was transported to the Kane County jail, where he remains in custody.

"North Aurora Police detectives believe that this incident was drug-related and was not a random attack," a press release says.

During the incident, the victims’ dog, a pitbull/American Bulldog mix named “Sunny,” approached another suspect, who fired three shots, striking Sunny in the chest, throat and leg. Sunny was treated at a local veterinary office, where he later died of his wounds.

That suspect is still at large. He was described as a black male in his 20s, with dark complexion, and long dreadlocks down to his shoulders, wearing a black hoody and dark pants. This incident remains under investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call North Aurora Police detectives at (630) 897-8705, Ext. 610. Anonymous tips may be left by calling (630) 897-8705 and choosing Option 3.

**Related:**

· Police: Shooting Suspects Never Found Item During Home Invasion

 

Patch reports on law enforcement activity in Geneva, using information provided by official agencies. Persons charged with a crime, or issued a citation for violation of a local ordinance, are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If you or a family member are charged with a crime or cited for a violation, and the charge or citation is subsequently adjudicated, we encourage you to notify Geneva editor Rick Nagel at rickn@patch.com and we will do follow-up reporting on the case. Reported by Patch 22 hours ago.

Aurora theater documents: James Holmes spent days in restraints

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Aurora theater shooting suspect James Holmes spent "several days, frequently in restraints" in a Denver hospital in November after authorities said he was in need of immediate psychiatric help, Reported by Denver Post 22 hours ago.
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