Patch Bolingbrook, IL --

Job-searching? Want to see what's out there? Check out these job listings in the Bolingbrook area.

· Lewis University in Romeoville is looking for a tenure track nursing faculty position.
· Famous Dave's BBQ in Bolingbrook is looking for a restaurant manager. 
· Commercial Electric Exchange in Bolingbrook is looking for a door-to-door salesperson.  
· Schwan Food Company in Bolingbrook is looking for a customer sales representative.
· Executive Search Solutions in Bolingbrook is looking for an executive director.  

*Buresch's Premier Dessert Supply, Romeoville *

Ground level wholesale supply representative 

Buresh's Premier Dessert Supply Company Inc. is a new wholesale dessert company building a location in Romeoville. We are looking for a ground level wholesale supply representative that wants to grow with this new company. Must have restaurant operations experience,knowledge of selling and a good driving record. Commission plus bonus. Email Steve. Steve@cheesecakestoreonline.com

*Follett Higher Education Group, Aurora *

Call center representatives (long-term temporary)

Follett will host an invitation-only interview fair at the Aurora Distribution Center in mid-June to meet with candidates. Candidates who are interested are asked to apply for an open position at Careers@Follett (or,www.Follett.Jobs).

Candidates must apply online no later than June 4 to be considered for the interview fair. Qualified candidates will receive an email containing information for scheduling an interview on the day of the fair. The fair will be held by invitation only, making it imperative to have applications completed in advance. No walk-ins will be interviewed on the day of the fair. 

Customer service representatives at Follett’s Aurora Distribution Center will work in an energetic and fast-paced call center environment. Call Center Representative will assist with fielding customer inquiries received through inbound calls and emails providing the appropriate and timely response and entering relevant data into the system. Follett’s customer base includes students, parents, and other consumer purchasing and renting course materials in the K- 12 and/ or higher educational markets. Benefits include flexible hours and opportunities for discounts on textbook purchases. The long term temporary position are up to twelve weeks in length, however, based on job performance can be extended to an additional twelve weeks.

Necessary qualifications include a minimum of six months prior job history in a customer-focused environment. High school or General Education diploma is required, as well as typing proficiency and basic proficiency with MS Word and Outlook. Candidates must demonstrate strong customer service skills, including excellent verbal and written communication skills. Candidates with previous Call Center experience are preferred.

For more information on this and other employment opportunities at Follett Higher Education Group, visit Follett’s Careers Facebook page atwww.facebook.com/FollettRecruiting.

- - - 

*There are plenty of ways to keep up on Bolingbrook news:*

· *Sign up for our daily email newsletter*

· *Like us on Facebook.* Reported by Patch 5 days ago.

Patch Montgomery, IL --

Welcome to Job Central, our weekly column listing local job advertisements and descriptions.

We scoured the Web to bring you a selection of local job ads, but if we left anything out, please don't hesitate to add the details in the comments section. Most listings were found via Indeed.com.

Be sure to check out last week’s Job Central for more job opportunities.

If you're a local business and hiring be sure to post your hiring information in the comments below or email at natalie.stevens@patch.com.

*Oswego*

· Best Buy in Oswego is seeking a Geek Squad customer service agent.
· Meijer in Oswego is seeking a photo team leader.
· Famous Dave’s of America, Inc. in Oswego is looking for a manager in training.
· Oswego 308 School District is seeking a special education/LD teacher at Murphy Jr. High School. They are also hiring a fall and spring musical director and many other positions.
· Great Clips in Oswego is hiring a salon manager.
· Maurices in Oswego is hiring a fulltime assistant manager and a sales support associate. 

*Find more Oswego jobs here with CareerBuilder. *

*Montgomery*

· Brian and Sons Inc. in Montgomery is looking for an HVAC technician.
· Seva Beauty in Montgomery is seeking an esthetician or cosmetologist.
· Sears Holding Corp. in Montgomery is hiring a cashier. 
· McDonald’s in Aurora is seeking zone management.
· Rush-Copley Medical Center in Aurora is looking for a food service representative.
· Hollywood Casino in Aurora is seeking a security agent.

*Check CareerBuilder for more Montgomery jobs. *

*Yorkville*

· Whole Child Pediatrics in Yorkville is seeking a part-time certified medical assistant.
· Parkview Christian Academy in Yorkville is hiring a superintendent.  
· Wendy’s in Yorkville is looking for a restaurant shift supervisor.
· A family in Yorkville is seeking a full-time nanny for their two children.
· MarketSource in Yorkville is hiring a sales associate with the ability to move around the store and maneuver merchandise. 

*Find more Yorkville jobs here with CareerBuilder. * Reported by Patch 5 days ago.

Patch Algonquin-Lake in the Hills, IL --

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class John T. Larimer will be honored during the Memorial Day service in downtown Crystal Lake on Monday.

Larimer was one of 12 people killed during a mass shooting on July 20, 2012, at the Centrury 16 Movie in Aurora, Col. He was 27 years old.

A 2003 graduate of Crystal Lake South High School, Larimer enlisted in the Navy in 2011 and was assigned to Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora.

Several new honorary brick pavers have been added to the Union Soldier Statue concourse including the one for Larimer, according to the Downtown Crystal Lake webpage.

A framed replica of Larimer's brick will be presented to his parents, Scott and Kathleen Larimer, of Crystal Lake, at the Memorial Day service.

The service is scheduled to follow the Memorial Day parade hosted by the Crystal Lake American Legion Post #171. The parade begins at 11 a.m. at Crystal Lake Central High School and will proceed east on Franklin Street, north on Williams Street and west on Woodstock Street to Union Cemetery.

In the event of inclement weather, the Memorial Day parade will be cancelled and the memorial service will be held in the Field House at Crystal Lake Central High School.

 

 


  Reported by Patch 4 days ago.

Patch Naperville, IL --

**Friday, May 24**

*Manufacturing/delivery of controlled substances*

Benjamin Anthony Fillar, 20, was arrested at 12:07 p.m. near Naper Boulevard and Dunrobin Road, police said. He was charged with manufacturing/delivery of controlled substances and transported to DuPage County Jail. 

*Possession of cannabis*

Nikolas Martin Ciric, 20, was arrested at 12:07 p.m. near Naper Boulevard and Dunrobin Road, police said. He was charged with possession of cannabis. He posted bond. 

*Battery*

Colleen Bridget Fillar, 53, was arrested at 12:07 p.m. near Naper Boulevard and Dunrobin Road, police said. She was charged with battery. She posted bond. 

*DUI*

Melissa Erin Waters, 33, was arrested at 12:23 a.m. near Aurora Avenue and West Ogden Avenue, police said. She was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. She posted bond. 

*Retail theft*

Jesse Julius Christian, 18, was arrested at 5:37 p.m. near Cantore Road and Cedar Glade Drive, police said. He was charged with retail theft. He posted bond.

*Warrant*

Ashley Marie Filip, 25, was arrested at 5:52 p.m. near 75th Street and Book Road, police said. She was charged on a warrant and transported to DuPage County Jail.

*Knowingly damaging property *

Malik Rashan Chappell, 20, was arrested at 7:58 p.m. in the 100 block of 4th Avenue, police said. He was charged with knowingly damaging property and transported to DuPage County Jail. 

**Saturday, May 25**

*Criminal trespass to land*

Kevin Christopher Gadzala, 21, was arrested at 1:07 a.m. in the 0-99 block of West Chicago Avenue, police said. he was charged with criminal trespass to land. He posted bond. 

*Manufacturing/delivery of cannabis*

Emil Meshaun Evans, 19, was arrested at 2:58 a.m. at the Naperville Police Department, police said. He was charged with manufacturing/delivery of cannabis. He was transported to DuPage County Jail. 

*DUI*

· Brittany Inez Natalie Moore, 21, was arrested at 1:37 a.m. near Fort Hill Drive and Aurora Avenue, police said. She was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. She posted bond. 
· Ben Fredrick Pelot, 28, was arrested at 9:40 p.m. near 95th Street and Cedar Glade Drive, police said. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. He posted bond. 

*Possession of cannabis*

Christopher Paul Retacco, 23, was arrested at 2:20 a.m. near Ogden Avenue and Aurora Avenue, police said. He was charged with possession of cannabis. He posted bond. 

*Suspended/revoked license*

· Zackary James Coley, 28, was arrested at 4:57 p.m. near Diehl Road and North Naper Boulevard, police said. He was charged with driving on a suspended/revoked license. He posted bond. 
· Anthony Michael Jurges, 34, was arrested at 10:29 p.m. in the 2100 block ofCityGate Lane, police said. He was charged with driving on a suspended/revoked license. He posted bond. 

*Resisting a peace officer*

Christopher William Mohr, 18, was arrested at 5:43 p.m. near Thornapple Drive and Buttonwood Circle, police said. He was charged with resisting a peace officer. 

**Sunday, May 26**

*DUI*

· Christopher Michael Nathe, 37, was arrested at 12:03 a.m. near River Oak Drive and South Naper Boulevard, police said. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. He posted bond. 
· William Meade Beville, 43, was arrested at 12:12 a.m. in the 1500 block of Aurora Avenue, police said. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. He posted bond. 
· Jesse Chanthathep, 30, was arrested at 1:33 a.m. near Route 59 and Ace Lane, police said. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. He posted bond. 
· Prasenjeet Majumdar, 49, was arrested at 1:32 a.m. near North Aurora Road and Industrial Drive, police said. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. He posted bond. 
· Rachel A. Oberheide, 21, was arrested at 2:17 a.m. near Chicago Avenue and South Columbia Street, police said. She was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and transported to DuPage County Jail. 
· Jeremiah Lee Mullen, 32, was arrested at 2:21 a.m. near Feldott Lane and West Ogden Avenue, police said. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. He posted bond. 
· Elizabeth Marie Pugliani, 33, was arrested at 2:57 a.m. near Chalet Road and North River Road, police said. She was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. She posted bond. 
· Kevin Bonner Rzepczynski, 19, was arrested at 4:55 p.m. near 75th Street and River Drive, police said. He was charged with driving under the influence of drugs. He posted bond. 

*No license*

· Keroles Ezzat Salib Henein, 20, was arrested at 12:37 a.m. near Prescott Court and West Ogden Avenue, police said. he was charged with driver's license. He posted bond. 
· Raul Gayton-Guzman, 34, was arrested at 6:48 p.m. in the 1100 block of EastWarrenville road, police said. He was charged with no driver's license. He posted bond. 

*Theft*

Juan Carlos Ramirez-Gonzalez, 18, was arrested at 1:15 a.m. in the 700 block of Royal Saint George Drive, police said. He was charged with theft. He posted bond. 

*Contributing to delinquency of a minor*

Jorge Louis Palma-Jimenez, 21, was arrested at 1:15 a.m. in the 700 block of Royal Saint George Drive, police said. He was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He posted bond.

*Possession of cannabis*

· Daniel Palma, 19, was arrested at 1:15 a.m. in the 700 block of Royal Saint George Drive, police said. He was charged with possession of cannabis. He posted bond. 
· Richard William Esler, 21, was arrested at 10:51 p.m. near Raymond Drive and North River Road, police said. He was charged with possession of cannabis. 

*Warrant*

· Calvin J. Miles, 43, was arrested at 8:27 a.m. in the 100 block of Testa Drive, police said. He was charged on a warrant and transported to DuPage County Jail.
· Tyrone Marquis Taylor, 23, was arrested at 11:57 p.m. near Jefferson Avenue and South Washington Street, police said. He was charged on a warrant and released to another agency.  

*Unlawful use of an ID*

Matthew John Reasons, 19, was arrested at 4:50 p.m. near 75th Street and River Road, police said. He was charged with unlawful use of an ID card. He posted bond.

*Suspended/revoked license*

Annie Margit Mitrovich, 31, was arrested at 8:47 p.m. in the 800 block of South Washington Street, police said. She was charged with driving on a suspended/revoked license. She posted bond. 

*Possession of controlled substance*

Michael James Bradford, 20, was arrested at 10:51 p.m. near River Road and Raymond Drive, police said. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance and transported to DuPage County Jail. 

*Possession of heroin*

Kevin Michael Pepping, 25, was arrested at 10:51 p.m. near River Road and Raymond Drive, police said. He was charged with possession of 400 less than 900 grams of heroin. 

*Stolen flag*

An American flag was stolen from a front porch in the 1200 block of Laurel Lane, police said.

*Burglary*

A burglary to an unlocked vehicle was reported int he 3200 block of Mistflower Lane, police said. 

*House egged*

A home was egged for the second or third time this year in the 3600 block of Eliot Lane, police said.  Reported by Patch 3 days ago.

Two men were arrested Monday after their vehicle slammed into a rock retaining wall in Seattle. According to Seattle police, the men crashed just after 2 a.m. in the 10000 block of Aurora Avenue North following a brief chase. Officers responding to a report of a disturbance involving weapons in the area spotted the suspect vehicle and pursued it for several blocks, a Seattle Police spokeswoman said in a statement. The suspect vehicle sped away from police and slammed into a rockery, according to the police statement. The two men were then arrested. The driver was arrested on suspicion of eluding police. The passenger had outstanding warrants. A handgun recovered [...] Reported by SeattlePI.com 3 days ago.

AUSTIN, Texas, May 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Victory Energy Corporation (OTCQB: VYEY), an independent, growth-oriented oil and gas company, today announced the acquisition of a 320-acre (gross) lease in Glasscock County, Texas through Aurora Energy Partners ("Aurora"), which the... Reported by PR Newswire 3 days ago.

Patch Yorkville, IL --

Eugene Lawrence “Geno” Wagner, III, age 31 of Morris, IL passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 26, 2013. He was born on April 13, 1982 in Aurora, IL the son of Eugene Lawrence and Marcella (Miller) Wagner, Jr.

Geno was formerly employed for 14 years by the City of Aurora, IL at Phillips Park as its Zoo Keeper. He also enjoyed playing Disc Golf with his family and friends. Geno was a loving son, father, brother, uncle, nephew and cousin who will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his parents, Gene and Marcella Wagner, Jr of Yorkville, IL; his children, Zoey Elizabeth and Colton Lee Wagner, both of Long Point, IL; his sister, Angela Rose Wagner of Yorkville, IL; his niece, Marcie Futrell; several aunts, uncles and cousins; as well as his best friend, Brian Lyall of Morris, IL.

Mr. Wagner was preceded in death by both his maternal and paternal grandparents.

A Memorial Funeral Service will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, May 30, 2013 at the Larson-Nelson Funeral Home, 410 East Countryside Parkway in Yorkville, IL with Pastor Barry Norris, officiating. Interment will be private.

Friends may visit from 3:00 PM until the Hour of Service on Thursday, May 30, 2013 at the Funeral Home in Yorkville, IL.

Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory, www.NelsonFuneralHomes.com or (630) 553-7611. Reported by Patch 3 days ago.

Patch Batavia, IL --

**Malone Funeral Home**

· *Lyle A. Klein,* 82, of Geneva, was a product of the Great Depression who eventually starred and captained the Marquette University football team in the 1950s. After serving his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, he translated his passion for football and fashion into spending a life working for two of our country’s most cherished institutions: the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League and Levi Strauss & Company. Lyle will be remembered as a man who lived life to its fullest and commanded an unparalleled level of respect by all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. He was truly everybody’s All-American.

**

**Yurs Funeral Home** **

· *Georgiann "Ginger" J. Story*, 72 of Mesa, AZ, and formerly of St. Charles was employed by Wasco School working in the cafeteria for six years, then as a St. Charles School bus driver for 26 years. Most people will remember Georgiann, for her cake business, Story’s Cakes for All Occasions, which she owned and operated for more than 20 years. She was also a beloved 4-H club leader and very talented in sewing, cooking, carving pumpkins and most recently making greeting cards.

 

**Moss Funeral Home**

· *Veronica “Pete” Huemmer*, 91, of Aurora passed away May 26, 2013.  Beloved wife of Frank Huemmer; loving mother of Mary Anne (Michael) Ashe, Michael (Eileen) Huemmer; Nancy (Larry) Krull, Daniel (Denise) Huemmer, Barbara Boatman, and Janet (Troy) Meeks; adored grandmother of eleven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
· *Mary Phyllis Preston*, 88, died May 25, 2013. Her obituary is pending.
· *Arlene June Clark*, 80, of Batavia was employed by the Kane County Sheriff's Department for 17 years as the dietary supervisor. She a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Batavia who enjoyed cooking, was an avid card player and enjoyed her family and many friends.
· *Evelyn A. Evans*, 99, of St. Charles maintained a winter residence in Las Vegas for many years, where she enjoyed the Las Vegas lifestyle.  She was an avid bowler, participating in many bowling leagues throughout her life. Evelyn enjoyed spending time outdoors, where she could often be found golfing or tending to her garden. She loved spending time with her nieces and nephews.
· *Joyce Anne Sodt*, 68, of Batavia was employed by Furnas Electric, which later became Siemens, for many years. he is survived by her husband James; a daughter Rebecca Null of Batavia; a granddaughter Rhianna Null; four brothers, Ken (Carol) Null, David (Barbara) Null, Tom (Sandy) Null, and Walter Null; four sister Dottie Stassen, Janice (John) Harris, Jeri Ubell and Chris (Rex) Nelson; and many nieces and nephews. 
· *Genevieve A. Terry*, 95, of Batavia grew up on a farm west of Batavia. After graduating from Batavia High School in 1935, she attended Metropolitan Business College. She later worked as a secretary at All Steel Equipment Co. in Aurora. After marrying Homer, they settled on a dairy farm outside Batavia, where they raised their family and worked the farm. She was very active in the United Methodist Church of Batavia, where she served as treasurer of the women’s group for several decades. 
· *John M. Glenn*, 87, of Batavia proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1944-1946. After his military service, John worked at the Batavia Post Office for 33 years. After retirement, he worked for Flinn Scientific for 25 years. He was a founding member of the Batavia Orchid Society. He was also a member of the Maple Park American Legion Post 312. He loved wood-working in his spare time. John was proud to have been selected to participate in Honor Flight Chicago’s trip to Washington D.C. in July 2009. 

 

*LINK TO LAST WEEK'S NOTICES:*

· Tri-Cities Death Notices Include Many With Long Lives and Some Who Died Far Too Soon

 

**Patch Funeral Home Guide**

Are you looking for more information about Tri-Cities funeral homes and services? Would you care to review the services provided by a local funeral home? Click on the funeral home names to see the Patch Places listing for each business to write a review or learn more about the funeral home.

*Batavia*

· Moss Family Funeral Home

*Geneva*

· Malone Funeral Home
· Yurs Funeral Home

*St. Charles*

· Moss-Norris Funeral Home
· Yurs Funeral Home

**Want to keep up with Death Notices in St. Charles, Geneva and Batavia?**

· *Click the "Keep Me Posted" button below this text.*
· *Please post Death Notices in our Announcements and send followup emails to rickn@patch.com.*

*Related Topics:* Malone Funeral Home, May 21 2013, Moss Family Funeral Home, Obituaries, Tri-Cities Death Notices, Yurs Funeral Home, death notices, and funeral arrangements Reported by Patch 3 days ago.

Filed under: Investing

*United Natural Foods, Inc. Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2013 Results*

*Q3 Fiscal 2013 Net Sales Increased 12.8% Year-over-Year to $1.57 Billion*




PROVIDENCE, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- United Natural Foods, Inc. (NAS: UNFI) (the "Company") today reported financial results for the third fiscal quarter ended April 27, 2013.

*Third Quarter Fiscal 2013 Highlights*

· Net sales increased 12.8%, or $178.2 million to $1.57 billion compared to $1.39 billion in the same period last fiscal year
· Operating income increased 13.8% to $55.4 million, excluding the $1.5 million in expenses related to the Auburn labor action, or 10.7% to $53.9 million on a GAAP basis, compared to $48.6 million in the same period last fiscal year
· Net income increased 8.9% to $31.6 million compared to $29.0 million in the same period last fiscal year

"We are pleased to report increased top and bottom line results in the third quarter of fiscal 2013, underscoring the continued demand for our products and services," said Steven Spinner, President and Chief Executive Officer. "In the quarter, our team focused on driving further operational excellence through the execution of our initiatives to increase leverage of UNFI's cost structure."

Gross margin was 16.8% for the third quarter of fiscal 2013, a 7 basis point increase from the second quarter of fiscal 2013 and an 83 basis point decline from gross margin of 17.6% for the third quarter of fiscal 2012. Gross margin for the third quarter of fiscal 2013 was impacted primarily by the continued shift in customer mix to the conventional supermarket and supernatural channels and an increase in inbound freight expenses.

Total operating expenses were 13.4% as a percentage of net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2013, a decrease of 76 basis points compared with the third quarter of fiscal 2012. This improvement was driven by the Company's ongoing initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce operating expenses throughout the organization, which were partially offset by $1.5 million in operating expenses related to the labor action at the Company's Auburn, Washington facility. Total operating expenses increased $13.2 million or 6.8%, to $209.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2013 as compared to $195.9 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2012, primarily due to higher sales volume.

Operating income as a percentage of net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2013 decreased 6 basis points to 3.4% compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2012. Net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2013 increased $2.6 million, or 8.9%, to $31.6 million, or $0.64 per diluted share, from $29.0 million, or $0.59 per diluted share, for the third quarter of fiscal 2012. Adjusted for the Auburn labor action costs, operating income as a percentage of net sales increased by 4 basis points to 3.5% compared to the third quarter of fiscal 2012.

The following table details the amounts and effect of the labor action costs related to the Company's Auburn, Washington facility described above and the reconciliation of total operating income including the labor action costs (GAAP basis), to total operating income excluding the labor action costs (non-GAAP basis) for the three months ended April 27, 2013:


   
*Three months ended*
*April 27, 2013*
*(in millions)* *Pretax*   *% of Sales*
 
Operating income $ 53.9 3.44 %
Labor action costs 1.5   0.10 %
Operating income, excluding labor action costs $ 55.4   3.54 %
 

*Fiscal 2013 Year to Date Summary*

Net sales for the nine months ended April 27, 2013 totaled $4.4 billion, a 13.6% increase compared to the same period last fiscal year. Gross margin for the period was 16.7%, an 84 basis point decrease versus the comparable prior year period. The decline in gross margin was attributed to increased inbound freight costs throughout the first nine months of fiscal 2013 as well as the Company's focus on maintaining higher service levels despite greater supplier out of stocks. The continued shift in customer mix towards the supernatural and conventional supermarket channels, and to customers within the conventional supermarket channel who are migrating to limited service programs, also continued to negatively impact gross margin compared to the first nine months of fiscal 2012.

Total operating expenses for the nine months ended April 27, 2013 were 13.8% of net sales or 89 basis points lower than the comparable prior fiscal year period. Total operating expenses increased $38.6 million, or 6.7%, to $611.2 million, compared to $572.6 million for the nine months ended April 28, 2012. Total operating expenses for the nine months ended April 27, 2013 included approximately $6.1 million in expenses related to the labor action at the Company's Auburn, Washington facility. Excluding these expenses, operating expenses were $605.1 million, a 103 basis point decline as a percentage of net sales versus the same period last fiscal year. Total operating expenses for the nine months ended April 27, 2013 also included expenses of approximately $1.6 million related to the termination of a licensing agreement and the write-off of the associated intangible asset. Total operating expenses for the nine months ended April 28, 2012 included $5.3 million in expenses related to the restructuring and divestiture of the Company's conventional non-foods and general merchandise lines of business and $1.7 million in expenses related to the onboarding of a national customer.

The following table details the amounts and effect of the labor action costs related to the Company's Auburn, Washington facility described above and the reconciliation of total operating expenses including the labor action costs (GAAP basis), to total operating expenses excluding the labor action costs (non-GAAP basis) for the nine months ended April 27, 2013:


   
*Nine months ended*
*April 27, 2013*
*(in millions)* *Pretax*   *% of Sales*
 
Total operating expenses $ 611.2 13.82 %
Labor action costs (6.1 ) (0.14 )%
Total operating expenses, excluding labor action costs $ 605.1   13.68 %
 

Operating income as a percentage of net sales was 2.9% for the nine months ended April 27, 2013, an increase of 5 basis points over the same period in fiscal 2012. Excluding the $1.6 million of expenses related to the write-off of an intangible asset in the nine months ended April 27, 2013 and the $6.9 million of expenses related to the restructuring of the Company's conventional non-foods and general merchandise lines of business and the onboarding of a new national customer in the nine months ended April 28, 2012, operating expenses as a percentage of net sales were 13.8% for the first nine months of fiscal 2013, a decrease of 74 basis points compared to 14.5% for the same period in fiscal 2012.

Net income for the nine months ended April 27, 2013 increased $9.6 million, or 14.5%, to $75.8 million, or $1.53 per diluted share, from $66.2 million, or $1.35 per diluted share, for the nine months ended April 28, 2012.

"As we begin the final quarter of fiscal 2013, we are opening two new distribution facilities," added Mr. Spinner. "Our Albert's Organics division recently completed a successful relocation to a new, larger facility in New Jersey that nearly doubled their existing warehouse space, positioning the division to further capitalize on the demand for organic produce and perishables. In June, we expect to consolidate our four existing locations in Aurora, Colorado into a single, new 500,000 square foot broadline facility in Aurora, Colorado."

*Updated Fiscal 2013 Guidance*

Based on UNFI's fiscal 2013 performance to date and the current outlook for the remainder of the 2013 fiscal year, the Company is raising its net sales guidance for the fiscal year ending August 3, 2013, to a range of $6.03 billion to $6.06 billion, which represents a 15.2% to 15.7% increase in total net sales over fiscal 2012. On September 11, 2012, the Company previously provided fiscal 2013 net sales guidance of a range of $5.88 billion to $5.98 billion, an increase of approximately 12.3% to 14.2% over fiscal 2012. The Company's fiscal 2013 is a 53 week fiscal year, with the additional week occurring in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013. The Company expects that the additional week in fiscal 2013 will contribute approximately 2.2% to 2.3% to the Company's overall anticipated fiscal 2013 net sales growth.

The Company is also narrowing its GAAP earnings per diluted share guidance for fiscal 2013 to a range of approximately $2.12 to $2.14, an increase of approximately 14.0% to 15.1% compared to fiscal 2012 GAAP diluted earnings per share of $1.86. Excluding the impact of the $1.6 million write-off of the intangible asset, the $4.9 million unclaimed property settlement and the discrete tax benefit of $2.7 million primarily related to the reversal of reserves for uncertain tax positions (collectively, the "special items"), the Company expects diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2013 in the range of $2.15 to $2.17 per share, an increase of approximately 10.8% to 11.9% versus fiscal 2012 diluted earnings per share of $1.94 excluding the expenses associated with the restructuring and divestiture of the Company's conventional non-foods and general merchandise lines of business and the expenses related to the onboarding of a national customer. The Company previously provided GAAP earnings guidance of $2.12 to $2.18 per diluted share on February 26, 2013.

The following table details the amounts and effect of the special items and the reconciliation of net income and diluted earnings per share guidance, excluding the special items (non-GAAP basis), to net income guidance, including the special items (GAAP basis) for the fiscal year ending August 3, 2013:


     
*Year Ended August 3, 2013* *Low Range*   *High Range*
(in thousands, except per share data) *Pretax Income*

  *Net of Tax*

  *Per*
*diluted share*

*Pretax Income*

  *Net of Tax*

  *Per*
*diluted share*

 
Income, including special items: $ 168,559 $ 104,891 $ 2.12 $ 170,803 $ 106,010 $ 2.14
 
Special items:
Expenses incurred as a result of the termination of a long-term licensing agreement and the write-off of the associated intangible asset (included in total operating expenses)

1,629 981 0.02 1,629 981 0.02
Expense incurred in connection with agreement to settle multi-state unclaimed property audit (included in other, net expenses)

4,900 2,950 0.06 4,900 2,950 0.06
Discrete tax benefit primarily related to the reversal of reserves for uncertain tax positions

— (2,675 ) (0.05 ) — (2,675 ) (0.05 )
                           
Income, excluding special items:     $ 175,088     $ 106,147     $ 2.15     $ 177,332     $ 107,266     $ 2.17  
 
 

*Conference Call & Webcast*

The Company's third quarter fiscal 2013 conference call and audio webcast will be held today, Tuesday May 28, 2013 at 4:30 p.m. EDT. The audio webcast of the conference call will be available to the public, on a listen-only basis, via the Internet at www.earnings.com or at the Investors section of the Company's website at www.unfi.com. The online archive of the webcast will be available on the Company's website for 30 days.

*About United Natural Foods*

United Natural Foods, Inc. (http://www.unfi.com) carries and distributes more than 65,000 products to more than 27,000 customer locations throughout the United States and Canada. The Company serves a wide variety of retail formats including conventional supermarket chains, natural product superstores, independent retail operators and the food service channel. United Natural Foods, Inc. was ranked by Fortune in 2006 - 2010 and 2012 as one of its "Most Admired Companies," winner of the Supermarket News 2008 Sustainability Excellence Award, recognized by the Nutrition Business Journal for its 2009 Environment and Sustainability Award and chosen by Food Logistics Magazine as one of its 2012 Top 20 Green Providers.

*For more information on United Natural Foods, Inc., visit the Company's website at* *www.unfi.com* *.*

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in this press release regarding the Company's business that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and management estimates; actual results may differ materially. The risks and uncertainties which could impact these statements are described in the Company's filings under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including its annual report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on September 26, 2012, its quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on December 6, 2012 and March 6, 2013, and other filings the Company makes with the SEC, and include, but are not limited to, the Company's dependence on principal customers; the Company's sensitivity to general economic conditions, including the current economic environment, changes in disposable income levels and consumer spending trends; the Company's ability to reduce its expenses in amounts sufficient to offset its increased focus on sales to conventional supermarkets and the resulting lower gross margins on the sales; the Company's reliance on the continued growth in sales of natural and organic foods and non-food products in comparison to conventional products; the Company's ability to timely and successfully deploy its new warehouse management system throughout its distribution centers; increased fuel costs; the Company's sensitivity to inflationary and deflationary pressures; the relatively low margins and economic sensitivity of the Company's business; the potential for disruptions in the Company's supply chain by circumstances beyond its control; the risk of interruption of supplies due to lack of long-term contracts, severe weather, work stoppages or otherwise; the ability to identify and successfully complete acquisitions of other natural, organic and specialty food and non-food products distributors; and management's allocation of capital and the timing of capital expenditures. Any forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and, as such, speak only as of the date made. The Company is not undertaking to update any information in the foregoing reports until the effective date of its future reports required by applicable laws. Any projections of future results of operations are based on a number of assumptions, many of which are outside the Company's control and should not be construed in any manner as a guarantee that such results will in fact occur. These projections are subject to change and cou*l*d differ materially from final reported results. The Company may from time to time update these publicly announced projections, but it is not obligated to do so.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures: To supplement its financial statements presented on a generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") basis, the Company has included in this press release non-GAAP financial measures (including operating expenses, operating income, net income and earnings per diluted share) in each case excluding certain unusual items as described in more detail within this press release. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the comparable GAAP financial measures are presented in the tables appearing below labeled "Consolidated Statements of Income with Adjustments" for the nine months ended April 27, 2013 and April 28, 2012. The presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for any measure prepared in accordance with GAAP. The Company believes that presenting its operating expenses, operating income, net income and earnings per diluted share for the nine months ended April 27, 2013 and April 28, 2012 excluding these items facilitates making period-to-period comparisons and is a meaningful indication of its operating performance. The Company's management utilizes this non-GAAP financial information to compare the Company's operating performance during the 2013 fiscal year versus the comparable periods in the 2012 fiscal year and to internally prepared projections.


     
 
*UNITED NATURAL FOODS, INC.*

*CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (Unaudited)*

(In thousands, except per share data)

 
 
*Three months ended* *Nine months ended*
*April 27,*
*2013*   *April 28,*
*2012* *April 27,*
*2013*   *April 28,*
*2012*
 
Net sales $ 1,566,217 $ 1,388,023 $ 4,421,957 $ 3,892,361
Cost of sales 1,303,220   1,143,492   3,681,334   3,207,570  
Gross profit 262,997 244,531 740,623 684,791
 
Operating expenses 209,140 195,856 609,591 567,330
Restructuring and asset impairment expenses —     37     1,629     5,255  
Total operating expenses 209,140     195,893     611,220     572,585  
 
Operating income 53,857   48,638   129,403   112,206  
 
Other expense (income):
Interest expense 1,591 1,111 3,942 3,566
Interest income (133 ) (176 ) (474 ) (565 )
Other, net 121   (205 ) 5,103   (37 )
Total other expense, net 1,579   730   8,571   2,964  
 
Income before income taxes 52,278 47,908 120,832 109,242
Provision for income taxes 20,657   18,876   45,055   43,042  
Net income $ 31,621   $ 29,032   $ 75,777   $ 66,200  
 
Basic per share data:


Net income $ 0.64   $ 0.59   $ 1.54   $ 1.36  
 
Weighted average basic shares of common stock 49,303   48,848   49,200   48,717  
 
Diluted per share data:


Net income $ 0.64   $ 0.59   $ 1.53   $ 1.35  
 
Weighted average diluted shares of common stock 49,567   49,207   49,483   49,017  
 
 


     
 
*UNITED NATURAL FOODS, INC.*

*CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Unaudited)*

(In thousands, except per share data)

 
 
*April 27,*
*2013* *July 28,*
*2012*
*ASSETS*


Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 13,876 $ 16,122
Accounts receivable, net 364,411 305,177
Inventories 722,675 578,555
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 33,532 21,654
Deferred income taxes 25,353

  25,353  
Total current assets 1,159,847 946,861
 
Property and equipment, net 311,575 278,455
 
Other assets:

 

Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments Reported by DailyFinance 3 days ago.

The Aurora Clinic announces the launch of the Aurora Clinic’s medical marijuana evaluation program.

Portland, OR (PRWEB) May 28, 2013

The Aurora Clinic announces the launch of the Aurora Clinic’s medical marijuana evaluation program. The Aurora Clinic has clinical experience in the field of medical marijuana reaching back to 2004; the Aurora Marijuana Clinic is one of Oregon and Washington’s top providers of medical marijuana evaluations.

The Aurora Clinic’s mission is to help patients minimize their dependence on prescription narcotics and to live healthy, productive lives, free from pain.

The Aurora Clinic does that by identifying individuals who could benefit from medical marijuana and providing the physical exam needed to make legal use of it for medicinal purposes. The Aurora Clinic is committed to the highest legal and ethical standards and operates in full compliance with state and federal law.

The Aurora Clinic has earned a reputation for efficient, skillful, professional service. What does that mean? It means The Aurora Clinic’s patients will also have their phone calls returned promptly. Patient’s medical records are kept safe and secure in compliance with the Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Patients can expect their visit to last no longer than one hour, with all the patient’s paperwork ready to turn into the state and with all their questions answered.

QUALIFYING MEDICAL CONDITIONS
“The evidence is overwhelming that marijuana can relieve certain types of pain, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms caused by such illnesses as multiple sclerosis, cancer and AIDS — or by the harsh drugs sometimes used to treat them. And it can do so with remarkable safety. Indeed, marijuana is less toxic than many of the drugs that physicians prescribe every day.”
—Joycelyn Elders, M.D., former Surgeon General under President Clinton

Medicinal hemp can be used to address a variety of symptoms associated with migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, degenerative joint or disk disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, osteoarthritis, chronic pain syndrome, multiple sclerosis and many other illnesses.

According to Oregon state law, these symptoms include:
Severe pain
Seizure
Nausea
Cachaxia (severe weight loss despite eating a healthy diet)
Muscle spasms

In addition, OMMP certification is legally available to anyone with:
Cancer
Glaucoma
HIV/AIDS
Alzheimer's

Traditional pain management programs often involve medication that is addictive or that demands a higher dose as tolerance increases. There can also be unpleasant side effects, such as nausea and constipation. It doesn't have to be that way. The way that The Aurora Clinic see it, marijuana can help a patient avoid all of that, serving as a gateway—off of harmful narcotics and into a healthier, more productive life.

In addition to being a healthy part of a pain management program, marijuana can provide relief from nausea, irritable bowel and a host of other ailments.
The Aurora Clinic can be reached at (503) 232-3003 or by visiting there site at http://theauroraclinic.com Reported by PRWeb 3 days ago.

Patch Oswego, IL --

*Monday, May 27*

*Domestic battery*

Victor Torres, 26, of the 1500 block of Auburn Avenue, Naperville, was arrested at 6:40 a.m. in the 0-99 block of South Bereman Road, Montgomery, and charged with domestic battery after striking an ex-girlfriend with a beer bottle, said the Sheriff’s office.

*Sunday, May 26*

*Domestic battery*

Crystal Marie Bourgoine, 35, of the 100 block of Circle Drive West, Montgomery, was arrested at 5:07 a.m. in the 100 block of Circle Drive West and charged with domestic battery, said the Sheriff’s office.

Steven Michael Plum, 47, of the 0-99 block of Fernwood Road, Montgomery, was arrested at his residence and charged with domestic battery, said the Sherff’s office.

*Saturday, May 25*

*Warrant*

Josef Stefan Holland, 30, of the 0-99 block of Woodridge Road, Montgomery, was arrested at 12:48 a.m. outside his residence and charged with a warrant out of Kane County, said the Sheriff’s office. He was also cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle and given warnings for no plate lights and failure to signal when required.

*Friday, May 24*

*Domestic battery*

Kristen Marie Pylest, 20, of the 0-99 block of Sheffield Road, Montgomery, was arrested at 12:22 a.m. at Rush-Copley Hospital and charged with domestic battery for an incident earlier in the evening at 10:30 p.m., said the Sheriff’s office.

*Theft*

· Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported theft that occurred between 8 p.m. on May 23 and 10:18 a.m. on May 24 in the 100 block of Saugatuck Road, Montgomery, . A black iron spoked wheel valued at $125 was reported stolen.
· Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported that occurred between 6 p.m. on May 23 and 9:13 a.m. on May 24 in the 100 block of Boulder Hill Pass, Montgomery. Two black iron spoked wheels and a black iron milk can valued at $300 were reported stolen.

*Criminal damage to property*

Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported criminal damage to property that occurred at 9:51 p.m. in the 100 block of Boulder Hill Pass, Oswego. An explosion was reported inside a porta-potty. Minor damage was observed on the inside and at this time there are no suspects.

*DUI, driving with revoked license, warrant*

Adrian Jimene-Velazquez, 34, of the 200 block of Loucks Street, Aurora, was arrested at 11:30 p.m. at Route 31 and Case Street, Oswego, and charged with driving under the influence, driving with a revoked license and a warrant out of Aurora for driving on a revoked license with a $5,000 bond, said the Sheriff’s office. He was also cited for improper lane usage, speeding, unsafe equipment and illegal transportation of alcohol.

*Wednesday, May 22*

*DUI, disorderly conduct*

Amy Marie Runkle, 36, of the 0-100 block of Fernwood Road, Montgomery, was arrested at 2:25 a.m. in the 0-100 block of Greenbriar Road, and charged with driving under the influence and disorderly conduct, said the Sheriff’s office. Runkle drove to a residence on Greenbriar road while allegedly intoxicated and then proceeded to pound on the front and rear doors of the residence while yelling and screaming, which alarmed the homeowner.

*Burglary, criminal damage to property*

Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported burglary and criminal damage to property that occurred 6:39 p.m. on May 21 and 9:27 a.m. on May 22 in the 0-100 block of Sonora Drive, Montgomery. A bicycle was reported taken from inside a backyard shed.

*Warrant*

Nicholas Alexander, 21, of the 100 block of Harbor Drive, Oswego, was arrested at 8:13 a.m. at his residence and charged with a failure to appear warrant out of Kendall County for the unlawful consumption of alcohol, said the Sheriff’s office.

*Sunday, May 19*

*Unlawful consumption of alcohol, curfew*

A male juvenile, 16, was arrested at 1:04 a.m. at Route 30 and Briarcliff Road and charged with the unlawful consumption of alcohol and a curfew violation, said the Sheriff’s office. Reported by Patch 2 days ago.

Patch Montgomery, IL --

*Monday, May 27*

*Domestic battery*

Victor Torres, 26, of the 1500 block of Auburn Avenue, Naperville, was arrested at 6:40 a.m. in the 0-99 block of South Bereman Road, Montgomery, and charged with domestic battery after striking an ex-girlfriend with a beer bottle, said the Sheriff’s office.

*Sunday, May 26*

*Domestic battery*

Crystal Marie Bourgoine, 35, of the 100 block of Circle Drive West, Montgomery, was arrested at 5:07 a.m. in the 100 block of Circle Drive West and charged with domestic battery, said the Sheriff’s office.

Steven Michael Plum, 47, of the 0-99 block of Fernwood Road, Montgomery, was arrested at his residence and charged with domestic battery, said the Sherff’s office.

*Saturday, May 25*

*Warrant*

Josef Stefan Holland, 30, of the 0-99 block of Woodridge Road, Montgomery, was arrested at 12:48 a.m. outside his residence and charged with a warrant out of Kane County, said the Sheriff’s office. He was also cited for operating an uninsured motor vehicle and given warnings for no plate lights and failure to signal when required.

*Friday, May 24*

*Domestic battery*

Kristen Marie Pylest, 20, of the 0-99 block of Sheffield Road, Montgomery, was arrested at 12:22 a.m. at Rush-Copley Hospital and charged with domestic battery for an incident earlier in the evening at 10:30 p.m., said the Sheriff’s office.

*Theft*

· Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported theft that occurred between 8 p.m. on May 23 and 10:18 a.m. on May 24 in the 100 block of Saugatuck Road, Montgomery, . A black iron spoked wheel valued at $125 was reported stolen.
· Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported that occurred between 6 p.m. on May 23 and 9:13 a.m. on May 24 in the 100 block of Boulder Hill Pass, Montgomery. Two black iron spoked wheels and a black iron milk can valued at $300 were reported stolen.

*Criminal damage to property*

Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported criminal damage to property that occurred at 9:51 p.m. in the 100 block of Boulder Hill Pass, Oswego. An explosion was reported inside a porta-potty. Minor damage was observed on the inside and at this time there are no suspects.

*DUI, driving with revoked license, warrant*

Adrian Jimene-Velazquez, 34, of the 200 block of Loucks Street, Aurora, was arrested at 11:30 p.m. at Route 31 and Case Street, Oswego, and charged with driving under the influence, driving with a revoked license and a warrant out of Aurora for driving on a revoked license with a $5,000 bond, said the Sheriff’s office. He was also cited for improper lane usage, speeding, unsafe equipment and illegal transportation of alcohol.

*Wednesday, May 22*

*DUI, disorderly conduct*

Amy Marie Runkle, 36, of the 0-100 block of Fernwood Road, Montgomery, was arrested at 2:25 a.m. in the 0-100 block of Greenbriar Road, and charged with driving under the influence and disorderly conduct, said the Sheriff’s office. Runkle drove to a residence on Greenbriar road while allegedly intoxicated and then proceeded to pound on the front and rear doors of the residence while yelling and screaming, which alarmed the homeowner.

*Burglary, criminal damage to property*

Sheriff’s deputies responded to a reported burglary and criminal damage to property that occurred 6:39 p.m. on May 21 and 9:27 a.m. on May 22 in the 0-100 block of Sonora Drive, Montgomery. A bicycle was reported taken from inside a backyard shed.

*Warrant*

Nicholas Alexander, 21, of the 100 block of Harbor Drive, Oswego, was arrested at 8:13 a.m. at his residence and charged with a failure to appear warrant out of Kendall County for the unlawful consumption of alcohol, said the Sheriff’s office.

*Sunday, May 19*

*Unlawful consumption of alcohol, curfew*

A male juvenile, 16, was arrested at 1:04 a.m. at Route 30 and Briarcliff Road and charged with the unlawful consumption of alcohol and a curfew violation, said the Sheriff’s office. Reported by Patch 2 days ago.

Patch Arlington Heights, IL --

A Naperville man is accused of swerving his vehicle at a female protester from Christian Liberty Academy in Arington Heights in February near the Planned Parenthood in Aurora, according to the Daily Herald. 

Michael Fabian, 25, is charged with misdemeanor aggravated assault in the case, according to the Daily Herald.  

The girl was one of 10 who was demonstrating as part of a program through Christian Liberty Academy in Arlington Heights, according to the Daily Herald. She was handing out anti-abortion pamphlets along the frontage road in front of Aurora's Planned Parenthood when the vehicle swerved "'five to 10 feet' in her direction," according to the Daily Herald. 

The Daily Herald has more information on this article.  Reported by Patch 2 days ago.

CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago teenager is expected to plead not guilty to a charge he sought to join an al-Qaida-linked group fighting Bashar Assad's regime in Syria.

An arraignment for Abdella Ahmad Tounisi (too-NEE'-see) is scheduled for Wednesday at federal court in Chicago.

The FBI says it snared the 18-year-old in an online sting. Authorities arrested him last month at O'Hare International Airport as he allegedly prepared for the first leg of a trip to join Jabhat al-Nusrah.

Early this month, one federal judge agreed to release the Aurora teen to home confinement pending trial. But another judge reversed that ruling, saying Tounisi posed a threat to the community.

He's charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. If convicted, he faces a maximum 15-year prison term. Reported by Huffington Post 2 days ago.

An Aurora teenager pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges he sought to join an al-Qaida-linked militant group fighting Bashar Assad’s regime in Syria. Reported by Chicago S-T 2 days ago.

Undeterred by failure in the Senate, a growing movement is attempting to take on the NRA at its own game – and win

Terri Rousseau is a member of what she calls "the saddest club in the world". She was forced to join it on 14 December last year when her daughter, Lauren, a teacher at Sandy Hook elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut, was shot dead along with all 14 of the young children in her classroom.

On that day, Rousseau was thrown together with the other members of club: the families of 26 children and educators who died in Newtown, along with survivors and victims' relatives from previous mass shootings at Columbine, Virginia Tech, Tucson, Oak Creek and Aurora. The group acts as an informal self-help resource, providing mutual support, advice and consolation.

Almost six months after the Newtown tragedy, a new and far more significant phenomenon has begun to emerge from this unique collective. Out of its shared suffering, a political movement is beginning to coalesce that is changing the nature of the gun debate in America and posing a formidable challenge to the country's leading pro-gun lobby, the National Rifle Association.

After decades in which the NRA was assumed to hold a vice-like grip over gun policy in the country – its will pointless to resist by politicians in state assemblies, Congress and the White House alike – an alternative voice has suddenly surfaced, with the potential to redress the balance. At its front and centre are the Newtown families, who are turning grief into a political force to be reckoned with.

President Barack Obama drew on that force as he sought to introduce a new bill that would have extended FBI background checks to all gun sales. The attempt failed in a vote in the US Senate on 17 April that fell six votes short of the 60 needed to avoid a filibuster.

But contrary to the general impression that the gun debate has yet again stalled, with the NRA winning the day, the struggle for new gun safety laws has in fact been taken up a notch since the April vote. In the short term, the Newtown families and their allies hope to secure a second Senate vote that might break through the 60-vote ceiling and put universal background checks on the statute books. But even if that fails again they have their eye on a long-term goal: to achieve nothing less than a sea change in America's attitude towards gun safety and end forever the NRA's stranglehold on the issue.

That determination was on display recently in Dayton, Ohio, where Rousseau, who had travelled from her home in Danbury, Connecticut, addressed a hall packed with local people, politicians, gun control advocates and police chiefs. She handed out photographs of her daughter, printed with an appeal: "In her memory, please be a persuasive voice for peace on Earth."

Rousseau began her brief, tear-filled comments haltingly, explaining that as a copy-editor for a local Connecticut newspaper she was not accustomed to public speaking. But then she unleashed the emotion of Newtown. "Parents aren't supposed to bury their children. I was forced to do this with my only daughter, Lauren, when she was brutally murdered in the classroom in front of her little students. You cannot imagine the searing pain until it happens to you."

From the visceral impact of that terrible experience, Rousseau then delivered a political punch:



Why can't we pass gun legislation requiring background checks on all gun sales? There's no good reason for not doing this – it can only make all Americans safer. It wouldn't bring my daughter back, but nothing will.



In an interview with the Guardian, Rousseau explained that the urge for action became an imperative for her very soon after her daughter's death. Within a week of Adam Lanza's rampage through the school with a military-style semi-automatic assault rifle, she had begun to attend meetings in the homes of other bereaved Sandy Hook parents. Within a month, families from mass shootings in Columbine, Virginia Tech, Tucson, Seal Beach and Aurora had arrived in Newtown to attend a private group meeting of the "saddest club in the world". Organisers were appointed, plans laid, strategies devised and connections made to high-powered lobbyists, campaigners, lawyers and fundraisers, all volunteering their help for a cause that had suddenly found its time.

"We have become a tremendous political force partly because of all the people who care and who are donating their skills. Goodness is coming out of evil. What happened was so unspeakable you try to push it out of your mind by doing everything you can to make the world a better place in Lauren's name," Rousseau said.

The impact that the Newtown families have brought to the gun debate has been enhanced by the speed with which they organised in the wake of the tragedy, rendering their message to the American people all the more poignant because it was almost in "real time". As Josh Horwitz, executive director of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, observes: "The turn around from bereaved parent to super-activist has shortened with each tragedy, from years to months and now with the Newtown families to just a few weeks."

Newtown gave the movement for gun control a new focus – "parents aren't supposed to bury their children", in Rousseau's iteration – every bit as dynamic as the NRA's relentless banging of the Second Amendment drum. It also gave the gun control movement something that it lacked before Newtown – organisational strength.

Until 14 December, the NRA had the unrivalled upper hand, operating as it does a well-oiled network of millions of members who it enthuses through a constant round of conventions, publications and political campaigns. The NRA also had the advantage of an in-built recruiting ground for members, through the thousands of gun shops and firing ranges that are scattered throughout the country and are natural NRA sympathisers.

No such entry point existed for advocates of safer gun laws. There are no "victims shows" where support can be mustered.

That's where the internet has come into its own. The post-Newtown gun control movement is consciously drawing upon the lessons learnt by recent political campaigns, including Obama's presidential runs, in terms of the extraordinary uplift that can be gained through online organising, both in terms of cash and volunteering.

While the Newtown families are the emotional face of the movement, behind the scenes a sophisticated nationwide infrastructure is in place, spreading the message in a cohesive and co-ordinated fashion. Individual citizens who are passionate about gun safety can now find an outlet for their energies through the internet in a way that was never open to them before.

Established gun control advocacy groups such as the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence and the Brady Campaign have been joined by a plethora of new internet-fueled start-ups popping up across the US. They include Americans for Responsible Solutions, the group founded by the former Democratic Congress member Gabby Giffords, who was shot in the head in Tucson, and One Million Moms for Gun Control, which was set up by a woman in Indianapolis. The beating heart of this new network is Mayors Against Illegal Guns (MAIG), an advocacy group formed in 2006 by the New York mayor, Michael Bloomberg. Its director, Mark Glaze, believes that, finally, the gun control movement has found its voice and shed its long-lasting subservience to the NRA.

"For a generation the NRA had this issue all to itself. They had more grassroots supporters, more intensity, and a political operation that was not all it was cracked up to be but was better than nothing," Glaze said. But now, he added:



We are putting in place a grassroots operation that's capable of tapping the public passion for this subject and channeling it in a useful direction.



The NRA likes to boast about the 4 or 5 million members on its subscription lists, a number that has invoked hushed reverence in commentators on the gun debate. For the first time, the opposing gun control movement can now claim with justification an army of supporters every bit as great as the NRA's.

MAIG has 1.5 million grassroots supporters signed up on its website. On top of that, there is the massive email list that Obama compiled during his two presidential campaigns and that has been used in its new guise – Organizing for Action – to deliver more than 1.4 million signatures to Congress, calling on members to pass a law expanding background checks to all gun sales. In addition there are a number of progressive online campaigns that offer their support, such as MoveOn.org with 7 million members and Howard Dean's Democracy for America, with 1 million.

Money too is no longer the huge weakness that it used to be. As the New Republic points out this month, the gun control movement has until this moment been woefully outmatched by the NRA and other gun rights groups, which can draw on the largesse of gun manufacturers.

But with the bottomless resources that flow from Bloomberg's vast wealth, put at $27bn, the inequality is fast closing. Bloomberg has openly stated his objective: he will use his fortune unashamedly to back "candidates who will stop people from getting killed", and obversely to oppose those who do the bidding of the NRA and block new laws to promote public safety. The full scale of his vision is likely to become evident in the mid-term elections in 2014, by which time Bloomberg will have vacated the post of New York mayor and will be able to devote himself to the challenge. His aides have already indicated that through Independence USA, the political action committee or Super PAC that he created, he will target political races from Louisiana to Alaska.

So far, Bloomberg's hit rate looks pretty good. Last year, Independence USA spent $10m on a blitz of TV advertising to support pro-gun control candidates and unseat the NRA's favourites. That didn't quite match the sum the NRA invested trying to do the opposite: $17m. Yet Bloomberg came away with arguably more palpable successes: he helped remove an NRA mainstay, Joe Baca, in California, and assisted Kathleen Kane to become attorney general of Pennsylvania, among other achievements. By contrast, the NRA spent $12m of its war chest on a failed effort to force Obama from the White House, and of the eight US Senate races it tried to swing, it won only one.

In his gun control activism, Bloomberg is fighting the NRA at its very own game: he is applying the same kind of pressure on politicians that the pro-gun lobby has long made the cornerstone of its advocacy – by holding them to account for their voting records.

"It's going to take a campaign-style drive to get us to the number of votes we need to enact universal background checks, and we now know how to do this," Glaze said.



It's a matter of banging home the fact that background checks do not damage the Second Amendment and save a lot of lives, and over time with 90% of the public wanting this to happen politicians will ignore this at their peril. Finally we've reached the point where the human cost of a cavalier attitude to a crucial public safety issue has come home to roost.



In the short term, the new gun control movement hopes that the heat will be felt by several of the US Senators who voted against universal background checks, including four Democrats. A concerted and tightly co-ordinated push is being made in several of their back yards, including that of the Republican senator Kelly Ayotte in New Hampshire, where Bloomberg has taken out a $700,000 ad buy in an attempt to change her no vote.

"We are telling politicians: don't fight these battles by the rules of the old war, don't think about the NRA – the rules of the engagement have changed," said Adam Green, co-founder of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, which is spending $150,000 on TV and newspaper ads in Montana and North Dakota in an attempt to persuade senators Max Baucus and Heidi Heitkamp to switch their no votes.

The same ambition to find those missing votes and put universal background checks back on the floor of the US Senate brought Terri Rousseau to Dayton. In her case, it was the desire to turn up the temperature on Rob Portman, one of the 41 Republican Senators who voted against the bill in April. A life-sized photograph of the Ohio Senator was posted on the wall of the conference hall where the rally was staged, its caption saying: "Senator Portman, take a second look at comprehensive background checks."

"The NRA are very powerful now, but I think we are making some progress," Rousseau said, after the rally. "I think as people become more aware of how the NRA works and what its ties are to the gun industry, eventually they will come to understand that their motives are not so pure."

Rousseau said that she is minded to remain active in the movement for greater gun safety for a number of years, "until something is done. I'll keep at it until the laws are strengthened."

She is clear about this: all her labours are for Lauren. "Just the idea of all those children being slaughtered. I'm just really glad she went first, that she didn't watch that happen to the kids. Lauren would be in favour of anything that I or anybody else can do to make the world a safer place for children. She loved them so much." Reported by guardian.co.uk 2 days ago.

Colorado's laws for insanity pleas do not violate the U.S. Constitution, the judge in the Aurora movie theater shooting murder case has ruled. Reported by Denver Post 2 days ago.

AURORA — Long-term, Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan envisions a city with entertainment, housing and retail within a half-mile of every station on the light-rail line along Interstate 225 that Reported by Denver Post 2 days ago.

Graduate Degree Programs for Elementary and Secondary Education Teachers Address Growing Demand for Science and Math Educated Professionals

Aurora, IL (PRWEB) May 30, 2013

Aurora University Online is pleased to announce three master’s degree programs in science and mathematics education for elementary and secondary teachers looking to further their education. Developed alongside the national standards in both science and math, these programs are the first of their sort, designed specifically with teachers in mind. Participants will gain knowledge in the content area, as well as instruction on how to teach it. The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) master’s degree programs come at a time when the demand for qualified science and math teachers in Illinois continues to grow.

According to the 2005 Illinois State Assessments and Prairie State Achievement Tests, in 3rd grade, approximately 79 percent of students meet or exceed mathematics standards. By the 11th grade, this number drops to 53 percent, slightly more than half of all students*. The deficit of science and math proficient students extends beyond Illinois; according to an infographic developed by Aurora University Online about 78 percent of American high school graduates do not meet standard levels for at least one entry-level STEM college course. Meanwhile, there are currently 3.7 million unfilled STEM jobs in the U.S. STEM careers are projected to grow by 17 percent**, further verifying the need for qualified teachers who can prepare students with the skills needed for their futures.

“There is a serious need in Illinois for our students to start learning math and science fundamentals at an early age and to engage in educational experiences that will help them retain this knowledge throughout the years,” said Dr. Saib Othman, dean for the College of Arts and Sciences at Aurora University. “Aurora University has long been a partner to Illinois in helping establish degree programs that address this need. By offering these master’s degree programs online, we offer teachers opportunities and accessibility to further their knowledge and education, so they can bring that back to the classroom.”

The Aurora University Online STEM programs focus on the new national standards in mathematics and science – Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards – and how to implement them in the classroom, with the degree programs including:


·     Master of Arts in Mathematics Education
·     Master of Arts in Mathematics and Science Education for Elementary Teachers
·     Master of Arts in Science Education

Emphasizing real-world application, the programs seamlessly integrate teaching methods and content, and allow teachers to address challenges through group and independent work. The programs help teachers grow to become leaders and advocates for mathematics and science education in their own schools and districts.

The STEM master’s programs were initially developed with funds from the U.S. Department of Education MSP (Math and Science Partnership) program. After the first cohort successfully completed the programs, Aurora University began to explore an online degree option.

For more information about Aurora University Online’s degree programs, visit http://online.aurora.edu.

*Illinois STEM Education Report
**STEM: Good Jobs Now and For the Future (United State Department of Commerce)

To embed the Aurora University Online Infographic on a site, visit Stimulating STEM for a ready-to-use code.

About Aurora University
Aurora University is an inclusive community dedicated to the transformative power of learning, annually educating more than 4,400 degree-seeking students at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. The university has a long tradition of preparing students for lives of service and leadership, and using its resources and expertise to meet the needs of the community. In addition to its main campus in Aurora, Ill., Aurora University offers programs online, at its George Williams College campus in Williams Bay, Wis., and at the Woodstock Center in downtown Woodstock, Ill. Learn more at aurora.edu.

### Reported by PRWeb 1 day ago.

Patch Batavia, IL --

The 2013 North Aurora Community Parade is coming up at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 2, and you'll want to keep that in mind if you're attending or driving in the area.

The parade will begin at the Clocktower Plaza, located at the intersection of Oak Reported by Patch 15 hours ago.