Man Nets Multiple Felonies After Destructive Chase Through Downtown Naperville

March 28, 2013, 11:03 pm

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Patch Darien, IL --

Police said a North Aurora man is in custody after he led police on a car chase through downtown Naperville Thursday, hitting multiple vehicles and later fleeing officers on foot.

*Earlier: Car Wipes Out Multiple Vehicles in Downtown Naperville During Reported Police Chase*

Dwayne K. Smith, who is around 22 years old and from North Aurora, was arrested near Main Street and Aurora around 1 p.m. Thursday and faces numerous charges including two felony retail theft charges, reckless driving and resisting arrest, according to police. 

The pursuit began after police responded to a report of retail theft at Target, 1951 W. Jefferson Ave., around 12:40 p.m. Thursday. When police arrived to the store, the suspect's vehicle was seen traveling east on West Jefferson by another officer, according to the Naperville Police Department. 

The car then side-swiped three vehicles in a row, causing considerable damage to them in the 100 block of West Jefferson in the heart of downtown Naperville, according to witnesses. 

Witnesses said the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed when it hit a black Ford Explorer as well as a tan Toyota Camry and a Chevy sedan, both of which were traveling behind the Explorer on West Jefferson. 

After hitting the three cars, the vehicle turned south on South Main Street, where it reportedly hit another vehicle at the intersection of Main and Aurora, according to witnesses.

After the collision at Main and Aurora, police said in a release that Smith then briefly fled on foot before authorities took him into custody.

Smith was also charged with one count of retail theft Class 3 felony; one count of retail theft Class 4 felony; five counts of reckless driving; four counts of leaving the scene of an accident; resisting arrest; no valid driver's license and operating an uninsured vehicle, according to Naperville police.

The incident caused quite a scene as many shoppers out enjoying the spring weather in downtown Naperville gathered along the street to get a glimpse of the accident. Some local business owners had their doors propped open and heard the accident as it happened. 

"The noise was ridiculous," said Anderson's Two Doors East employee Sally Blackburn. "People were screaming because they were seeing it and then the noise of the metal-on-metal was really just crazy." 

After the incident, police had a portion of West Jefferson closed from South Main Street to South Webster Street as well as the intersection at Main and Aurora for about one hour.

Two vehicles with noticeable damage were being towed away from the scene shortly after 2 p.m. as city crews cleared shards of glass and debris from the street.

An employee of Elan Boutique, 143 W. Jefferson Ave., rushed out of the front door of the business after she heard tires squealing followed by the sound of an accident as the incident happened. 

"I ran out the door because I'm like, 'somebody is hitting cars!,'" the employee said. "[The car] wiped everybody out. And as soon as I heard like a 'bam, bam, bam,' the cop passed my door here, so I think he might have been in pursuit."

It is unknown at this time if any of the drivers sustained injuries as a result of the multi-vehicle crash. 

Police said Smith has seven outstanding warrants in two different counties.

In DuPage County, Smith has two failure-to-appear warrants for domestic battery and traffic offenses. In Kane County, Smith was wanted for no valid driver license, obstructing identification and two warrants for resisting a peace officer.

*Get news in your inbox. Sign up for the Patch newsletter.*

*Like Naperville Patch on Facebook.* Reported by Patch 13 hours ago.

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Aurora DA: Plea Deal 'Extremely Unlikely'

March 29, 2013, 2:12 am

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Prosecutors have all but nixed James Holmes' reported offer of a guilty plea to dodge the death penalty. They're "extremely unlikely" to accept the proposal without "specific access to information" on Holmes that, so far, his team has refused to provide, they say, per the Denver Post . What's more, "there... Reported by Newser 9 hours ago.

Mildred H. Gieser, 98, was a Member of the Fox Valley Animal Welfare League for 75 Years

March 29, 2013, 6:30 am

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Patch Yorkville, IL --

Mildred H. Gieser, age 98 of Decatur, IL formerly of Aurora, IL and Yorkville, IL passed away on Monday, March 25, 2013 at the Imboden Creek Living Center in Decatur, IL. She was born on June 28, 1914 in Aurora, IL the daughter of George and Magdalena (Sauber) Gieser.

Mildred was a former member of St. Therese Catholic Church in Aurora, IL. She was, for 75 years, a member of the Fox Valley Animal Welfare League in Aurora, IL. Mildred was formerly employed as a Sales Clerk in Alschulers and Rorys Women’s Clothing Store, Aurora, IL. She was a loving aunt, great aunt and great-great aunt who will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Mildred is survived by her nieces Cherlyn Hogan of Cordova, TN, Linda Gross of Decatur, IL and Nancy (Kevin) VanPelt of Yorkville, IL; her nephews, Randall (Judene) Kremer of Yorkville, IL and Greg Bergae; as well as many other great- nieces and nephews; and great-great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Magdalena Gieser; her sisters, Jacqueline Kremer and Irene Bergae; her brother, Richard Gieser and a nephew, Bruce Bergae.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, April 1, 2013 at the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 1820 Church Road, Aurora, IL with Reverend Patrick Gillmeyer, O.S. B., officiating. Interment will follow in the Marywood Cemetery in Aurora, IL.

Friends may visit from 9:00 AM until the Hour of Service on Monday, April 1, 2013 at the Church in Aurora, IL.

Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory, www.NelsonFuneralHomes.com or (630) 553-7611. Reported by Patch 5 hours ago.

Unknown Person Removed Steamer Caps from Multiple Fire Hydrants: Police

March 29, 2013, 6:30 am

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Patch Yorkville, IL --

*Wednesday, March 27*

*Unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia*

A male juvenile was arrested at 12:50 a.m. at Galena Road and Blackhawk Boulevard and charged with the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, said Yorkville police. He was also charged with improper lane usage, no valid driver’s license and failure to notify secretary of state of address change.

*Tuesday, March 26*

*Domestic dispute, disorderly conduct*

Robert A. Castro, 49, of the 100 block of West Somonauk Street, Yorkville, was arrested at 10:19 p.m. at his residence and charged with disorderly conduct in a domestic dispute, said Yorkville police.

*Theft*

Yorkville police responded to a reported theft that occurred between 4 p.m. on March 25 and 9 a.m. on March 26 on the East side of Game Farm Road from the 900 block of Game Farm Road to Route 34. Unknown person(s) removed three large, red spin off (steamer) caps from fire hydrants. The theft is estimated at $450.

*Possession of a controlled substance*

A juvenile was charged with possession of a controlled substance at 9 a.m. at Yorkville High School, said Yorkville police.

*Monday, March 25*

*Driving with revoked license*

Lonnie R. Vardell, 63, of the 0-100 block of Willow Springs Lane, Plano, was arrested at 8:07 a.m. at Route 47 and Galena and charged for driving with a revoked license, said Yorkville police.

*Criminal damage to property*

Yorkville police responded to a reported criminal damage to property that occurred at 11:28 a.m. in the 1900 block of Raintree Road. An unknown vehicle drove through a residence yard, causing about $100 worth of damages to the yard.

*Saturday, March 23*

*Suicidal subject*

Yorkville police responded to a reported suicidal subject at 5:58 p.m. at Seeley Street and Berrywood Lane. The subject was taken into custody without incident, and Yorkville Police were assisted by the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office and Oswego Police.

*Friday, March 22*

*No valid driver’s license*

Ismael Herrera Jr., 19, of the 800 block of Pierce Street, Aurora, was arrested at 3:19 p.m. at Route 34 and Route 47 and charged with driving without a valid license, said Yorkville police.

*Thursday, March 21*

*In-state warrant*

Chyrisse Williams, 29, of the 1300 block of Carolyn Court, Yorkville, was arrested at 7:27 p.m. in the 300 block of Cannonball Trail and charged with an in-state warrant out of the Aurora Police Department, said Yorkville Police. Williams was also cited for expired registration.

*Wednesday, March 20*

*Burglary to motor vehicle*

· Yorkville Police responded to a reported burglary to a motor vehicle that occurred at 1:40 p.m. in the 700 block of Edward Lane, Yorkville. A silver/white Pioneer Premier stereo was stolen from a parked vehicle.
· Yorkville police responded to a reported burglary to a motor vehicle that occurred at 2:44 p.m. in the 0-100 block of West Veterans Parkway, Yorkville. A wallet was taken from a parked car by an unknown individual. A debit card from the wallet was then used at several businesses.

*Retail theft*

Desiree A. Barnes, 19, of the 1600 block of Light Road, Oswego, was given a citation at 8:28 a.m. in the 900 block of Leila Lane and charged with retail theft after a loss prevention manager caught her with a $14 pink tank top, said Yorkville police.

*Sunday, March 17*

*No valid driver’s license*

Juan Vega, 47, of the 600 block of South Calhoun Street, Aurora, was arrested at 8:53 a.m. at Route 71 and Hollenback and charged with driving without a valid license, said Yorkville police.  Reported by Patch 5 hours ago.

Police Blotter: Forgery, MacBook Stolen, Retail Theft

March 29, 2013, 5:25 am

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Patch Naperville, IL --

**Wednesday, March 27**

*Suspended/revoked license*

Brian Anthony Ugalde, 22, was arrested at 12:50 a.m. near Lighthouse Drive and East Bailey Road, police said. He was charged with driving on a suspended/revoked license and improper lane usage. He posted bond. 

*Retail theft*

Jesus Albert Herrera, 19, was arrested at 2:35 p.m. in the 700 block of South Route 59, police said. He was charged with retail theft. He posted bond. 

*Warrant arrest*

Edgar Ortiz, 18, was arrested at 5:15 p.m. near Hackberry Court and South Whispering Hills Drive, police said. He was charged on a warrant and released to Aurora Police Department. 

*Forgery* 

Rigoberto Avila, 50, was arrested at 9:14 p.m. in the 1700 block of West Ogden Avenue, police said. He was charged with forgery and transported to DuPage County Jail. 

*MacBook stolen*

A MacBook Pro was stolen in the 3500 block of Frankstowne Court, police said. Reported by Patch 6 hours ago.

Why the bully pulpit is Obama's only hope for gun control | Harry J Enten

March 29, 2013, 4:59 am

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With public will waning, the president's paradox is that making gun control his issue is divisive but nothing gets done otherwise

President Obama tried to breathe new life into his stalled gun control agenda on Thursday, but will he have any impact? He may not have a choice: it looks like some kind of action on his part is the only hope for reform.

Over the past few weeks, the percentage of Americans favoring new gun control regulations have dropped across the board. Fox News polling saw support for background checks with new gun purchases fall by 6pt, to 85%; mental health checks by 11pt, to 72%; new ammunition limits by 10pt, to 70%; high-capacity magazines bans by 2pt, to 54%; armed guards in schools by 9pt, to 51%; and assault weapons bans by 3pt, to 51%. 

The good news for those favoring tighter gun control is that most of the specific proposals still have majority support. Background checks, the center of the White House's gun control package, still have 85%, per Fox News; and 90%, per CBS News. Even the long-doomed ban on assault weapons is at 51% and 49%, per Fox and CBS, respectively.

Of course, the issue has always been that any gun control package presented by the president would ultimately become polarized along party lines. That is, people may support specific measures in theory, but they'll disagree as soon as it becomes "President Obama's gun control plan".

We haven't had any polls attach Obama's name to gun control questions in the past few weeks. We have had broader gun control questions, though, that generally matched Obama's past proposals. I also feel these broader questions do a better job measuring the public will on gun control legislation.

The drops in support for strong, broad gun control measures have been dramatic. CBS found the percentage of Americans who want stricter regulations fell from 57%, immediately following Newtown, to 47% now. And 50% of Americans saw no need for stricter regulations, or preferred, in fact, loosening gun restrictions.

Only 43% of Americans said that they wanted to put major restrictions on gun ownership or make them illegal, in the latest CNN/ORC poll. That's down from 52% post Newtown. Meanwhile, the percentage who wants only minor or no restrictions is at 55% – the highest percentage ever measured by CNN/ORC.

What happened here?

Part of it, no doubt, is that President Obama's overall popularity has dropped off in recent weeks. I noted previously that his overall approval was highly correlated with support for his gun control package. That's why you see red state Democrats hesitant to get behind background checks, even as they poll at astronomical levels.

The other cause is that gun control has left the news. As I spoke about previously, the spike in support for tighter gun control after Newtown was reminiscent of trends after the Columbine massacre. These two gun tragedies were unlike others, such as the Aurora, Colorado theater shooting, because they became remained top news stories  or some time, and were thus able to enter the public consciousness.

Eventually, however, Columbine received less and less news coverage, and the polling bump faded. We can check for the same pattern with the Newtown shootings by searching the News Library archive, which tracks newspapers and television transcripts.

In the month following the Newtown tragedy, the phrase "gun control" was mentioned 23,484 times. In the second month, it actually climbed slightly to 23,506. During March, through Wednesday, the number dropped to only 9,238. Now, that's still much higher than the 1,243 mentions in the month prior to Newtown, but you don't have to be a statistician to see the downward trajectory.

The president can help gun control reenter the news, and thus the minds of Americans. Danny Hayes found that in the week following the president's initial announcement of his plans, the press mentioned gun control twice as much as previously. During that same period, the percentage of Americans who wanted tighter gun control barely strayed from the post-Newtown high. 

One might expect that a similar news spike and rebounding of support for stricter gun control can happen, given President Obama's new push. 

This not to say that the president can convince the American public of something that they don't believe. What he can do, according to research by Brandice Canes-Wrone on budget issues, is take stalled, popular proposals, and create a campaign issue out of them, thus convincing Congress to act. Background checks are, as Mark Blumenthal pointed out, the perfect example of a policy that is massively popular – and going nowhere in Congress.

We already see Democratic donors and grassroots organizations following Obama's lead, and trying to turn background checks into a campaign issue. As reported by Greg Sargent, top Democratic donor Kenneth Lerer won't give money to Democrats who don't back gun control. The Daily Kos' Markos Moulitsas followed up this report by hoping:



"It is a start of a trend. Too many big liberal voters have given to the party and candidates uncritically in the past."



Of course, this could all easily fail. The president could simply polarize the debate even more. This campaign may make red state Democrats even more squeamish, and will almost certainly make the Republican-controlled House even less likely to move towards more regulation.

But right now, the issue is already polarized. Gun control has gone nowhere in Congress, while the president was saying little. Nationally, public will on the issue is fading. The situation for gun control advocates could hardly be worse, in fact.

The flipside, though, is that by speaking, Obama can engage and activate a public that is still firmly in favor of background checks. He just might be able to change the dynamic and make politicians recognize that, politically, they are on the wrong side of the issue. Thursday's speech was a start, but it's all uphill from here on. Reported by guardian.co.uk 7 hours ago.

Prosecutors Reject James Holmes' Guilty Plea And Attack His Defense Team

March 29, 2013, 6:27 am

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DENVER (AP) — Prosecutors in the Colorado theater shooting on Thursday rejected an offer from suspect James Holmes to plead guilty in exchange for avoiding the death penalty and accused defense lawyers of a serious breach of court rules by making the offer public.

In a scathing court document, prosecutors said the defense has repeatedly refused to give them the information they need to evaluate the plea offer, so the offer can't be considered genuine.

No plea agreement exists, prosecutors said, and one "is extremely unlikely based on the present information available to the prosecution."

They also said anyone reading news stories about the offer would inevitably conclude "the defendant knows that he is guilty, the defense attorneys know that he is guilty, and that both of them know that he was not criminally insane."

Neither the defense nor the prosecution immediately returned phone calls Thursday.

Holmes is charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder in the July 20 shootings in a packed theater in the Denver suburb of Aurora. Twelve people were killed and 70 were injured.

Holmes' attorneys disclosed in a court filing Wednesday that their client has offered to plead guilty, but only if he wouldn't be executed.

Prosecutors criticized defense attorneys for publicizing the offer, calling it a ploy meant to draw the public and the judge into what should be private plea negotiations.

Prosecutors did not say what information the defense refused to give them, but the two sides have argued in court previously about access to information about Holmes' mental health.

Karen Steinhauser, a former prosecutor who is now a law professor at the University of Denver, said prosecutors clearly do not want to agree to a plea deal without knowing whether Holmes' attorneys could mount a strong mental health defense.

"One of the issues the prosecution needs to look at is, is there a likelihood that doctors, and then a jury, could find that James Holmes was insane at the time of the crime?" she said.

Prosecutors also criticized comments to The Associated Press by Doug Wilson, who heads the state public defenders' office.

Wilson told the AP Wednesday that prosecutors had not responded to the offer and said he didn't know whether prosecutors had relayed the offer to any victims as required by state law.

Prosecutors said that violated the gag order.

They also said they have repeatedly contacted "every known victim and family member of a victim — numbering over one thousand" about possible resolutions of the case, including the death penalty and life in prison without parole.

George Brauchler, the Arapahoe County district attorney, is scheduled to announce Monday whether he will seek the death penalty for Holmes. Brauchler hasn't publicly revealed his plans. He has refused repeatedly to comment on the case, citing the gag order.

Pierce O'Farrill, who was shot three times, said he would welcome an agreement that would imprison Holmes for life. The years of court struggles ahead would likely be an emotional ordeal for victims, he said.

"I don't see his death bringing me peace," O'Farrill said. "To me, my prayer for him was that he would spend the rest of his life in prison and hopefully, in all those years he has left, he could find God and ask for forgiveness himself."

A plea bargain would bring finality to the case fairly early so victims and their families can avoid the prolonged trauma of not knowing what will happen, said Dan Recht, a past president of the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar.

"The defense, by making this public pleading, is reaching out to the victims' families," he said.

___

Associated Press writer Nicholas Riccardi contributed to this report.

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Domestic Violence Gun Ban Passes State House Committee

March 29, 2013, 8:01 am

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A Colorado bill that prohibits convicted domestic violence offenders from possessing firearms passed in the House Judiciary Committee on a 7-4 party line vote with all Democrats approving the bill.

"Guns and domestic violence should not mix," bill co-sponsor Rep. Beth McCann (D-Denver) told the House Judiciary Committee, The Denver Post reports. "That's what this bill is all about."

SB-197 prohibits gun possession from only those convicted of certain felonies involving domestic violence or certain misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence that qualify under the firearms prohibitions of the federal law. It would also prohibit guns from individuals subject to certain protection orders that qualify under the firearms prohibitions of the federal law from possessing guns. Courts would then order those persons to relinquish their guns within 24 hours although that order could be extended to 72 hours by a judge. After a protection order has been lifted, the person could get their gun rights back.

The Denver Post reports that 13 people were shot and killed by domestic violence offenders in 2011, deaths that may have been stopped with a law like this.

SB-197 already passed in the Colorado Senate earlier in February. Read the full text of the bill here.

Republicans opposed to the bill argued once again that the bill amounts to gun confiscation. When the bill cleared the Senate earlier this month Senate Minority Leader Bill Cadman said that Republicans would like to support a bill like this, but can't in its current form. "This bill is ripe for abuse," Cadman (R-Colorado Springs) said in early March. "It's ripe for confiscation of personal private property."

The House Judiciary Committee also passed Senate Bill 195 which requires in-person training for people interested in obtaining a concealed-carry. Currently, online training is permitted, but SB-195 would ban that practice. Read the full text of SB-195 here.

Just last week, Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper signed three landmark gun control bills into law: legislation that requires background checks on all gun sales, bans high-capacity magazines and limits them to no more than 15 rounds and requires gun buyers to pay their own background check fees. None of those bills received a single Republican vote.

Coloradans views on guns appears to be changing rapidly. Although the state is home to hunters and 2nd Amendment supporters, it is also home to two of the bloodiest mass shootings in American history -- the Columbine High School massacre in 1999 and the Aurora theater shooting just eight months ago in 2012. The bills were also signed on the same day that state Department of Corrections head Tom Clements was shot at his home. The gun violence seen in urban areas and the sportsman tradition of more rural areas of the state is at the heart of the divide over gun control in the state.

When Hickenlooper signed the bills, The Associated Press reported about the two distinct points of view in the state on these new gun laws:

The bills signal a historic change for Democrats in a state where owning a gun is as common as owning a car in some rural areas.

"He just slapped rural Colorado right in the face," said Republican Sen. Brophy, who represents an eastern plains district. "They are overwhelmingly upset about this."

Each time he signed a bill, applause erupted from lawmakers and their guests, who included Jane Dougherty, whose sister was killed in the attack at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Conn.; Sandy Phillips, whose daughter was killed in Aurora; and Tom Mauser, whose son was killed in the 1999 Columbine shooting in Colorado.

Phillips, who lost daughter Jessica Ghawi, reminded Hickenlooper that it was the eight-month anniversary of the theater rampage.

"You've given us a real gift today," she told the governor.

Later, Phillips added: "Thank you so much. You're leading the entire country."

Dougherty thanked Hickenlooper with tears in her eyes. Mauser also expressed gratitude.

"I knew it would be a long haul," he said. "But I had faith in the people of Colorado."

Democratic Rep. Rhonda Fields, who represents the district that includes the Aurora theater, said the governor had signed "common-sense legislation."

"Gun violence is a problem nationwide, and sadly in the state of Colorado, we are all too familiar with some of these tragedies," Fields.

Republicans have warned that voters will punish Hickenlooper and other Democrats who voted in favor of the measures.

"The real solution here is at the ballot box in 2014," Brophy said.

Police chiefs in urban areas supported the bills, but some rural county sheriffs opposed the new background checks, arguing the move is unenforceable and endangers Second Amendment rights.

Hickenlooper said law enforcement should try to find common ground.

"This shouldn't be rural versus urban. We are one state," he said.



Although many Republican lawmakers and gun rights supporters have voiced opposition to the gun bills, recent polling from Project New America/Chris Keating and The Denver Post found that a majority of Coloradans' favor stricter gun control.

Fox31 first reported on a survey from PNA/Chris Keating which asked 905 Colorado voters, in general, if they favor stricter gun control -- 55 percent of Colorado voters said they favor of stricter gun control, while only 40 percent were opposed.

The same poll also asked Colorado voters about specific gun law proposals and the margin of support was wide for nearly all the measures in question, according to PNA/Chris Keating:



· 95 percent of voters agree that people with "serious mental health problems" should be prevented from owning a gun.
· 80 percent of voters agree that judges should be able to order someone who is "convicted of domestic violence or given a restraining order" to surrender their guns to the court.
· 80 percent of voters agree that all private gun sales should go through a licensed dealer and be subject to a background check.
· 65 percent of voters agree that guns should be banned on college and university campuses.
· 61 percent of voters agree that the sale and possession of semi-automatic guns and assault rifles should be banned.
· 61 percent of voters agree that the sale and possession of high-capacity ammunition clips, which allow some guns to shoot more than 10 bullets before reloading, should be banned.



The PNA/Keating poll echoes similar sentiments found in a recent Denver Post poll which found greater support for gun control measures than for gun-owner rights. According to The Denver Post, 60 percent of Colorado voters support proposals that would: ban assault-style rifles, limit high-capacity magazines and require universal background checks on all gun sales.

Although the Post poll found that 50 percent of those who responded say it is more important to protect gun ownership to 45 percent who say it is more important to control gun ownership, those percentages have shifted significantly since the last time the Post conducted the same poll in September. Last September, the breakdown was 56 percent saying it was more important to protect gun rights to only 39 percent saying it was more important to control guns. Reported by Huffington Post 4 hours ago.

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James Holmes' Guilty Plea Rejected, He Might Get the Death Penalty

March 29, 2013, 9:26 am

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Prosecutors in the case of Aurora shooter James Holmes have turned down a deal by the defense which would have secured him a life sentence in exchange for a guilty plea. State attorneys have considered Holmes' timing for the plea, which comes after his attorneys have suggested criminal insanity as motivation for the killings and have refused to release information in the case. Global Post reports that the prosecution dubs accepting the plea "extremely unlikely based o... Reported by Softpedia 2 hours ago.

Hunt Valley-Cockeysville Obituaries Through March 29

March 29, 2013, 9:15 am

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Patch Hunt Valley-Cockeysville, MD --

Here are links to obituaries for the Lutherville-Timonium area as posted by local funeral homes:

*Lemmon Funeral Home of Dulaney Valley*

· William T. Anderson passed away Mar. 27.
· Edna B. Beckstrom passed away Mar. 26.
· Pamela L. Cofiell passed away Mar. 25.
· Charles C. Freitag Sr. passed away Mar. 25.
· Mary-Alice (Powers) Garmer passed away Mar. 24.
· Jennie (Baublitz) Sparks passed away Mar. 20.
· Maynard E. Keadle passed away Mar. 19.
· Dorothy J. Zelenka passed away Mar. 19.

*Ruck Funeral Homes*

· Mary Wootsey Derr Aitken passed away Mar. 28.
· Donna Jean Rosselló passed away Mar. 28.
· Valee R. Corame passed away Mar. 27.
· Gerald Joseph Curran passed away Mar. 27.
· Carol G. Hjortsberg passed away Mar. 27.
· J. George Bechler Jr. passed away Mar. 26.
· Harold E. Hoffner Jr. passed away Mar. 26.
· Joan S. Roemer passed away Mar. 26.
· James A. Tezzano passed away Mar. 26.
· William D. Anderson passed away Mar. 25.
· Sally T. McClelland passed away Mar. 24.
· Harold Williams passed away Mar. 24.
· Chris Kanaras passed away Mar. 23.
· John Raymond Harris passed away Mar. 23.
· Raymond Adam Keska passed away Mar. 23.
· James Radomsky passed away Mar. 23.
· James Ray Gibson Sr. passed away Mar. 22.
· Arline M. Herb passed away Mar. 22.
· Nancy Lightfoot King passed away Mar. 22.
· Aurora S. Richards passed away Mar. 22.
· Geraldine Eva Rouse passed away Mar. 22.
· Mildred F. Callahan passed away Mar. 21.
· John Patrick Taylor Sr. passed away Mar. 21.
· Joyce Virginia Wayson passed away Mar. 21.
· Calvin Vernon Warns passed away Mar. 20.
· Carl Oscar Gussio passed away Mar. 19.
· Frederick Marcuson passed away Mar. 19.

*Evans Funeral Chapel*

· Charles Edward Andrathy passed away Mar. 27.
· Arthur Robert Barget Jr. passed away Mar. 26.
· Sharon C. Ritt passed away Mar. 26.
· Colby Stephen Morgan passed away Mar. 25.
· Dorothy Elaine Walters passed away Mar. 25.
· Betty J. Collins passed away Mar. 24.
· Marion R. Ziegler passed away Mar. 21.
· William J. Fassio passed away Mar. 20.
· Wilma R. Maenner passed away Mar. 20.
· Victoria Anne Kuzmik passed away Mar. 19. Reported by Patch 2 hours ago.

Parkville-Overlea Obituaries Through March 29

March 29, 2013, 11:36 am

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Patch Parkville-Overlea, MD --

*Evans Funeral Chapel*

· Charles Edward Andrathy passed away Mar. 27.
· Arthur Robert Barget Jr. passed away Mar. 26.
· Sharon C. Ritt passed away Mar. 26.
· Colby Stephen Morgan passed away Mar. 25.
· Dorothy Elaine Walters passed away Mar. 25.
· Betty J. Collins passed away Mar. 24.
· Marion R. Ziegler passed away Mar. 21.
· William J. Fassio passed away Mar. 20.
· Wilma R. Maenner passed away Mar. 20.
· Victoria Anne Kuzmik passed away Mar. 19.

*Ruck Funeral Homes*

· Mary Wootsey Derr Aitken passed away Mar. 28.
· Donna Jean Rosselló passed away Mar. 28.
· Valee R. Corame passed away Mar. 27.
· Gerald Joseph Curran passed away Mar. 27.
· Carol G. Hjortsberg passed away Mar. 27.
· J. George Bechler Jr. passed away Mar. 26.
· Harold E. Hoffner Jr. passed away Mar. 26.
· Joan S. Roemer passed away Mar. 26.
· James A. Tezzano passed away Mar. 26.
· William D. Anderson passed away Mar. 25.
· Sally T. McClelland passed away Mar. 24.
· Harold Williams passed away Mar. 24.
· Chris Kanaras passed away Mar. 23.
· John Raymond Harris passed away Mar. 23.
· Raymond Adam Keska passed away Mar. 23.
· James Radomsky passed away Mar. 23.
· James Ray Gibson Sr. passed away Mar. 22.
· Arline M. Herb passed away Mar. 22.
· Nancy Lightfoot King passed away Mar. 22.
· Aurora S. Richards passed away Mar. 22.
· Geraldine Eva Rouse passed away Mar. 22.
· Mildred F. Callahan passed away Mar. 21.
· John Patrick Taylor Sr. passed away Mar. 21.
· Joyce Virginia Wayson passed away Mar. 21.
· Calvin Vernon Warns passed away Mar. 20.
· Carl Oscar Gussio passed away Mar. 19.
· Frederick Marcuson passed away Mar. 19.

*Miller-Dippel Funeral Home*

· Dorothy Margaret Becker passed away Mar. 26.
· Maeanna E. Gordon passed away Mar. 18.

*Lassahn Funeral Home*

· Lawrence J. Ches passed away Mar. 28.
· John Lee Padgett passed away Mar. 27.
· Matthew R. Ralston passed away Mar. 25.
· Elizabeth C. Heier passed away Mar. 22.
· Shirley Jeanette Robertson passed away Mar. 19.

*Johnson-Fosbrink Funeral Home*

· Joanne B. Zour passed away Mar. 23.

*Parkview Funeral Home*

· Stephen W. Luken passed away Mar. 20. Reported by Patch 2 minutes ago.

Aurora theater shooting judge says Monday hearing will go on

March 29, 2013, 9:49 am

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The judge overseeing the Aurora theater shooting murder case has moved to quell a feud between prosecutors and defense attorneys that spilled behind-the-scenes details on plea negotiations into Reported by Denver Post 2 hours ago.

BioPharm Insight Journalist Awarded Fellowship by Association of Health Care Journalists

March 28, 2013, 6:04 am

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≪ Previous: Aurora theater shooting judge says Monday hearing will go on

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Infinata’s Biopharm Insight reporter Christine Livoti chosen from a record number of applications for fellowships

Norwood, MA (PRWEB) March 28, 2013

Infinata’s BioPharm Insight™ is pleased to announce that Christine Livoti was selected to receive a fellowship to attend the National Press Foundation’s second annual program on “Obesity Issues 2013” in Aurora, Colo., April 28 – May 1. The program is sponsored by the Anschutz Health and Wellness Center at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, Colo.

Christine is a member of BioPharm Insight’s global team of investigative journalists who provide subscribers with a daily stream of proprietary intelligence predicting market-moving events 6-24 months in advance. BioPharm Insight offers the global biopharmaceutical community a unique combination of business intelligence, market analytics, key industry contacts, and award-winning independent investigative journalism.

She combines biopharmaceutical industry and business expertise. Christine has worked with NABsys, the Slater Technology Fund, and Landmark Ventures. She graduated from Brown University with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Biology. Christine has published her research in tissue engineering. In addition to Obesity, Christine’s coverage areas include HCV, HIV, Diabetes, Melanoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, Dermatology, Cosmetics/aesthetics, Sequencing Technology and Diagnostics.

Since 1976, the National Press Foundation has provided professional development opportunities to more than 5,000 editors, producers and reporters, helping them to better understand and explain the impact of public policy on readers and viewers.

Linda Topping Streitfeld, Director of Programs for the National Press Foundation, said, “Based on Christine’s experience in covering obesity and related issues, we know she will make an outstanding contribution to the program.”

This is Christine’s second fellowship win this year: In February she was chosen from among a record number of applicants to receive a Fellowship from the Association of Health Care Journalists, a 1300-member independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing public understanding of health care issues.

Learn how BioPharm Insight can help you find new business opportunities by starting a free trial today.

About BioPharm Insight
BioPharm Insight is the definitive guide to the global biopharma community. BioPharm Insight provides subscribers with an information edge by combining the most comprehensive real-time database of companies, drugs, contacts, M&A and licensing deals, forecasts and clinical trial data with proprietary forward-looking intelligence uncovered by an independent team of investigative journalists months or even years before it breaks in mainstream media. To learn more, visit http://www.biopharminsight.com. Follow BioPharm Insight on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Infinata, Inc.
Infinata provides personalized technology solutions to turn information into insight. Services include a comprehensive BioPharm Solutions Suite, unique Wealth Prospecting tools and innovative Custom Data Services. Infinata is a part of Mergermarket, a Financial Times Group company and a division of Pearson plc. To learn more, visit http://www.infinata.com. Reported by PRWeb 2 days ago.

Around $1,500 Worth of Damages to Oswegoland Park District Property Reported: Police

March 29, 2013, 1:13 pm

≫ Next: Glen Burnie Death Notices Through March 29

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Patch Oswego, IL --

*Wednesday, March 27*

*Domestic battery*

Oswego police responded to a reported domestic battery that occurred at 2 a.m. in the 100 block of Springbrook Trail. The offender fled the scene before officers arrived.

*Tuesday, March 26*

*Hit and run*

Oswego police responded to a reported hit and run that occurred between 12:15 p.m. and 12:30 p.m. in the 3000 block of Route 34. A legally parked car was struck by an unknown vehicle resulting in over $500 worth of damages. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Oswego Police Department at 630-551-7300.

*Criminal damage to property*

Oswego police responded to a reported criminal damage to property that occurred at an unknown time at the Oswegoland Park District Skate Park, 4000 block of Plainfield Road. A window on a restroom structure was reported broken, resulting in $265 worth of damages.

*Monday, March 25*

*Criminal damage to property*

Oswego Police responded to reported criminal damage to property that occurred at an unknown time at the Oswegoland Park District Skate Park, 4000 block of Plainfield Road. Windows and a light were reported broken, resulting in $830 worth of damages.

*Sunday, March 24*

*No valid driver’s license*

· Sharita M. Bradley, 23, of the 2700 block of West Wright, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was arrested at 10:03 p.m. at Route 34 and Fifth and charged with driving without a valid license and no plate light, said Oswego police.
· Sonia G. Torrs-Mendoza, 35, of the 3200 block of South Kennedy Avenue, Chicago, was arrested at 10:27 p.m. at Route 34 and Orchard and charged for driving without a valid license and no insurance, said Oswego police.
· Ruly Amaro Mejia, 20, of the 500 block of Smith Boulevard, Aurora, was arrested at 11:27 p.m. at Hill and Goodwin and charged with driving without a valid license, speeding and no insurance, said Oswego police.

*Warrant*

· Jazmon L. Jamerson, 37, of the 400 block of Bower Lane, Oswego, was arrested at 12:26 a.m. at Douglas and Bluegrass Parkway and charged with an in-state warrant, said Oswego police.
· Roberto Martinez, 27, of the 0-99 block of Pickford, Montgomery, was arrested at 10:25 p.m. at Douglas and Bluegrass Parkway and charged with an in-state warrant and driving with a suspended license, said Oswego police. 

*Theft*

· Oswego police responded to a reported theft that occurred on March 22 between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. in the 2400 block of Route 34. A cell phone valued at $650 was reported stolen.
· Oswego Police responded to a reported theft that occurred on March 20 at Kendall Pointe Storage. A burglary to a storage unit occurred, with the theft valued at $200.

*Saturday, March 23*

*Warrant*

Ravean S. Davis, 22, of the 400 block of North River Street, Aurora, was arrested at 10:28 a.m. at Walmart and charged with an in-state warrant.

*Burglary to motor vehicle*

Oswego police took a report of a burglary to a motor vehicle in which a purse was stolen between 2 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. at Farmington Lakes and Heritage.  The victim described the two suspects that took the purse as black males in their mid-20s standing at 5’8” to 5’9” tall. They were last seen on foot.

*Theft*

Oswego police are investigating reported theft that occurred on March 8 at the Oswego YMCA. A cell phone was reported stolen.

*Friday, March 22*

*Retail theft, unlawful possession of alcohol by a minor*

Abraham Gomez, 18, of the 600 block of North May Street, Aurora; and David Reynoso, 18, of the 1100 block of Watson Street, Aurora, were arrested at 10:30 p.m. in the 2300 block of Route 34 and charged with retail theft under $300 and the unlawful possession of alcohol by a minor, said Oswego police.

*Thursday, March 21*

*Hit and run*

Oswego police responded to a reported hit and run that occurred at 5:45 p.m. in the 300 block of Fifth Street. An unknown vehicle struck a legally parked car.

*Criminal damage to property*

Oswego police responded to a reported criminal damage to property that occurred at the Oswegoland Park District Skate Park, in the 4100 block of Plainfield Road. A window and a security light were reported broken, resulting in $305 worth of damages.

*Battery*

Oswego police responded to a reported battery that occurred at 12:19 p.m. at Franklin and Polk. The victim was located but did not wish to cooperate with an investigation. Reported by Patch 23 hours ago.

Glen Burnie Death Notices Through March 29

March 29, 2013, 8:27 pm

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Patch Glen Burnie, MD --

Patch has collected local death notices. To read the full obituary, click on the name.

*From Singleton Funeral Home:*

· *Mae Baynes*, 86, died on March 27.
· *Howard Davis*, 56, died on March 26.
· *Victor D'Aurora*, 82, died on March 25.
· *Santa Norgran*, 97, died on March 23.
· *Mary Miller,* 84, died on March 21.
· *James Richardson*, 86, died on March 21.
· *Carol Harmon*, 66, died on March 17.* *

*From Kirkley Ruddick Funeral Home:*

· *Ann Scarselletta*, 86, died on March 27.
· *Richard C. Keith*, 71, died on March 25.
· *Thomas J. MacKenzie*, 53, died on March 25.
· *Leonida Villanueva Mariano*, 80, died on March 21.

 

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Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter | Sign up for our newsletter Reported by Patch 15 hours ago.

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Elmbrook Spotlight: Gina McElherne, Rachel Reid Share Love for Teaching

March 29, 2013, 10:47 pm

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≪ Previous: Glen Burnie Death Notices Through March 29

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Patch Brookfield, WI --

*Gina McElherne                   *

· School: Dixon Elementary School         
· Grade/Subject: Second Grade
· Years in the Elmbrook School District:  Seven years - three in first grade and four in second grade
· College/University:  St Norbert College for undergrad and Aurora University for my master's degree

*What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:*
I love my students and my colleagues.  I am surrounded by hard workers who have a mutual respect for one another.  I also feel supported by the administration. 

*Why I wanted to be a teacher:
*I wanted to become a teacher because I have always enjoyed working with children and helping them learn/develop new ideas. I was fortunate to have some experiences with coaching and being retreat leaders in high school.  Those were positive experiences for me and led me on my journey to become an educator. I felt it was important to give students a positive learning foundation, so they enjoy school, are excited to come, and see it as a place where they can learn and be collaborative with classmates and teachers.  I want them to feel like they are part of a team and not just a number. 

*If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:*
I’m really not sure because I never really wanted to be anything else…..maybe a buyer for a retail store or an event planner for a larger organization.  I have friends with those jobs and they kind of seem fun.

*My least favorite subject in high school was:
*Shakespeare – the teacher was boring and even fell asleep a few times during class 

*My favorite school lunch menu item was:*
The giant rice crispy treats

*Rachel Reid*

· School: Fairview South
· Grade/Subject: Junior High/High School Autism
· Years in the Elmbrook School District: First year
· College/University: Northern Illinois University 

*What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:*
Elmbrook is committed to developing teachers in the district to ensure a great education for the students. I am supported by the administration team to be innovative to guarantee every student receives instruction that plays off of their strengths.  

*Why I wanted to be a teacher:*
I wanted to teach special education because I want to help improve the lives of the students.  I wanted to not only teach them their core academics but the skills that will help them lead the most independent lives possible. 

*If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:*
Scuba dive instructor in Belize

*My least favorite subject in high school was:*
Physical education

*My favorite school lunch menu item was:*
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Reported by Patch 13 hours ago.

Home for Sale Has Grand Staircase, Master Bedroom with Vaulted Ceilings

March 29, 2013, 9:19 pm

≫ Next: District 202 Reschedules Special Education College Night

≪ Previous: Elmbrook Spotlight: Gina McElherne, Rachel Reid Share Love for Teaching

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Patch Twinsburg, OH --

This four-bedroom, three-bathroom home, at 3236 Neille Lane, has 3,426 total square feet. Its listing price is $399,900, according to AOL Real Estate.

The home has a two-story foyer and nine-foot ceilings. A study near the front entrance has glass French doors. The kitchen has a breakfast area, tall cabinets, a pantry and an island.  The family room is wired for surround sound. The laundry room and separate mud room also are located on the first floor. 

Nicki Hullis of Howard Hanna Aurora is in charge of the listing. For a private showing, call (330) 562-6188. Reported by Patch 14 hours ago.

District 202 Reschedules Special Education College Night

March 30, 2013, 6:31 am

≫ Next: Kendall County DUI Arrests: March 30

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Patch Plainfield, IL --

District 202 will host an IEP and 504 College Night for special education students and their families from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, at Plainfield South High School, 7800 W. Caton Farm Road, Plainfield.

This event was originally scheduled for March 5, but was canceled due to inclement weather.

This free event will provide important information for special needs students who want to attend college, including required documentation; entrance requirements; college expectations; and student responsibilities.

Representatives will be on hand from several colleges and universities including Joliet Junior College, Southern Illinois University, Lincoln College and Aurora University to help answer questions for families and students.

PSHS National Honor Society members will provide free babysitting services.

For more information please contact District 202 Assistant Director for Student Services Dee Graves at (815) 577-4108 or dgraves@psd202.org

*This information was provided by Plainfield District 202. * Reported by Patch 5 hours ago.

Kendall County DUI Arrests: March 30

March 30, 2013, 5:39 am

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≪ Previous: District 202 Reschedules Special Education College Night

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Patch Montgomery, IL --

*Oswego*

*March 25 *Gustavo A. Rojas Jr., 27, of the 2400 block of Columbia Lane, Montgomery, was arrested at 4:06 a.m. at Route 30 and Fifth Street and charged with a DUI, driving on a suspended license, the illegal transportation of alcohol, having no insurance, improper lane usage and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident after crashing into a semi-truck, said Oswego police. He was transported to Rush Copley Hospital with injuries. 

**What to keep up on crime news from around the area? Like our Crime-n-Shame Facebook page**

*Yorkville*

*March 24 *Josephus Turner, 62, of the 500 block of California Avenue, Aurora, was arrested at 8:51 p.m. at Cannonball and North, Bristol, and charged with driving under the influence after deputies witnessed him weaving within the lane of travel and he failed field sobriety tests, said the Kendall County Sheriff’s office.

*Montgomery*

*March 24 *Tyler Perkins, 20, of the 1100 block of Long Grove, Aurora, was charged with driving under the influence at about 3 a.m. March 24 near Montgomery Road and Crown Street, according to Montgomery police reports. He was initially stopped for driving without lights when required, police sai

*March 23 *Alfonso Dagoberto Aguilar, 36, of the 0-99 block of Marnel, Montgomery, was arrested at 2:44 a.m. at Galena Road and West Highland Drive, Bristol, and charged with driving under the influence and a property damage accident, said the Sheriff’s office. Deputies had responded to a single vehicle rollover in which Aguilar’s vehicle left the roadway and ended up upside down on a residence lawn. Aguilar was also cited for improper lane usage, illegal transportation of alcohol and operating an uninsured vehicle.

*March 23 *Bryan Hibben, 28, of the 2500 block of Deerpoint Road, Montgomery, was charged with driving under the influence at about 2:20 a.m. March 23 near Galena and Orchard roads, according to Montgomery Police reports. He was initially stopped for improper lane usage.

Police report information is provided by local police departments. Charges are not evidence of guilt. They are a record of police actions on a given day, and persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. If you or a family member are charged or cited and the case is subsequently adjudicated, we encourage you to notify the editor. We will verify and report the outcome. Reported by Patch 6 hours ago.

Enjoy Your Last Weekend Before Sales Tax Goes Up

March 30, 2013, 6:19 am

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≪ Previous: Kendall County DUI Arrests: March 30

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Patch Redwood City, CA --

 

Enjoy the lower sales tax while you can - because it goes up on Monday.

On Monday, April 1, the base sales tax in San Mateo County goes up half a cent, as a result of the voter-approved Measure A, which appeared on the November, 2012 ballot.

The sales tax will rise from 8.5 percent to 9 percent in all cities and in the unincorporated areas, except in the cities of *San Mateo* and *Half Moon Bay*. As a result of voter-approved sales taxes in those cities, the sales tax will be 9.5 percent in Half Moon Bay and 9.25 percent in the city of San Mateo.

Measure A was placed on the November 2012 ballot by the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors. The tax, which "sunsets" after 10 years, is expected to raise approximately $60 million per year for "general fund purposes."

Much contention has brewed across the county in the past few months over how, exactly, the supervisors will spend the anticipated $60 million per year.

Some are upset that it seems Measure A is being treated as a "jail tax," since the county has already voted to spend anywhere from $145 to 160 million to build a new county jail in Redwood City - which is also expected to cost $30 million per year to operate once it's up and running.

Other ideas the supervisors have tossed around in their last few meetings include mental health intervention services - particularly advocated for in the wake of recent deadly mass shootings across the country like Aurora, Colo. and Newtown, Conn. - upgraded library programs, public art projects, a bicycle program coordinator, restoring an independent county parks department, and school safety.

Recently, the county solicited feedback from residents on how they think the Measure A funds should be spent.

Read the ballot statement and full text of Measure A here.

Whatever happens, this is the last weekend to shop or dine out with a lesser sales tax rate, so take advantage of it while you can! Be sure to visit *Patch's directory* for listings of local shops, restaurants and other businesses, if you're looking for something fun and local to do this weekend.

For a full listing of sales and use tax rates effective April 1 by county or city, visit the State Board of Equalization.

*What do you plan to do this weekend, before sales tax goes up? And, what do you think the Measure A funds should be spent on? *Tell us in the comments below.

**Also on Redwood City-Woodside Patch:**

· *Resident Interrupts Teens Burglarizing His Home*
· *More Boat Slips Boarded Up at Pete's Harbor, Despite State's Orders*
· *New Redwood City Charter School Announces Location*
· *Docktown Residents Respond to City Takeover*
· *Comparing Class Sizes: Redwood City & Woodside K-8 Schools*
· *Gang Member Who Viciously Attacked Sequoia Student Earns Third Strike*
· *Community Upset Police Find Leyla Beban at Fault in Fatal Collision*

**Stay informed on the latest news and events in your local neighborhood - follow Patch!**

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Want to share your opinions with the communities of Redwood City and Woodside? Start your own blog here.* Reported by Patch 5 hours ago.