Remember the Troops this Christmas

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Menu for the 2006 White House Holiday Receptions

Ladies, need some tasty ideas for your holiday meals? Take a look at what is being served at the White House this season:


Holiday Buffet Reception

Display of Specialty Cheeses and Winter Fruits (Served with a Bountiful Display of Lavish Specialty Crackers and Spiced Pecans)
Colossal Shrimp Cocktail and Jonah Crab Claws (Served with Ramsey's Cocktail Sauce and Spiced Remoulade)
Stuffed Turkey Breasts with Winter Mushrooms, Cheese and Brandied Cranberries
Sugar Cured Virginia Ham with Hot Pepper Mustard (Served with Warm Blue Corn Muffins)
Chicken Fried Beef Tenderloin with White Onion Gravy (Served with Tiny Icebox Rolls)
Herb Roasted Lollipop Lamb Chops served with Warm Yeast Rolls Honey Cup Mustard Sauce
Fresh Tamales with Tomatillo Sauce and Black Beans
Baked White Cheddar Farfalle
Sweet Potato Souffl
Asparagus Tier with Lemon-Garlic Aioli
Golden and Crimson Beet Salad with Orange, Fennel, and Feta
Holiday Reception Desserts
Cookies:
Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with Peppermint Crunch
Pecan Sandie Tree (Mexican Wedding Cookies, Russian Tea Cakes) with Layers of Cookies
Holiday Ornamental Cookies
Barney
Miss Beazley
Christmas Trees
Snowflakes
Candy Canes
Other Specialities:
Red Hat Box Mascarpone Cake White Pound Cake with Mascarpone Cream Filling, Red Marzipan Frosting and Red Ribbon Bow Decoration
Coconut Cake Coconut Chiffon Cake, Coconut Pastry Cream Filling and 7 Minute Meringue Frosting
Chocolate Roulade (Christmas Log) Soft Ganache Frosting with a Chocolate Sponge, Meringue Mushrooms, Magnolia Leaves in White Chocolate, Raspberries
Mini Tartlettes Pecan Pie, Lemon Meringue Pie, Orange Chiffon and Chocolate Boston Cream Pie
Chocolate Truffles Homemade, Bittersweet Chocolate, Ganache
Long Stem Strawberries with Dark Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Warm MacIntosh Apple Cobbler With Oatmeal Crumble
Pumpkin Trifle Spiced Pumpkin Mousse with Whipped Cream and Shaved Dark Chocolate

Let's hope for a good start to President Bush's 2007 exercise and running program!!

Mailroom Preps for Holiday Rush

KIRKUK — Soldiers work at a world-class pace to sort and prepare packages at the Warrior Post Office here during the holiday season.While mail arrives by plane to Forward Operating Base Warrior four times a week during the rest of the year, the post office, which occupies a former dining facility for Iraqi Olympic athletes, now sometimes receives mail twice a day.
The troops of the 747th Adjutant General Company Postal, a reserve unit from Helena, Mont., sort and distribute the mail to 23 units on FOB Warrior and other surrounding FOBs. The units include other military services and civilians who work on the bases.
“We normally receive about 40,000 pounds of mail per week,” said 2nd Lt. Malise Hamper, postal officer in charge. “That’s expected to increase by 50 percent over Christmas.”
The Warrior Post Office provides all the same services that a post office in the United States offers, Hamper said. They also work extended hours to ensure units traveling from other FOBs are able to pick up mail for their Soldiers.
None of the reservists were postal specialists before their current deployment. However, they have combined their previous military and civilian experience to create a more efficient sorting system than the one they took over in September.
Just in time for the rush season, they are near completion on a new mail bin system patterned after a commercial express mail deliverer.
Staff Sgt. Nathan Brasel, postal operations noncommissioned officer in charge, designed the new sorting system.
“There was a lot of wasted space in the old shelving structure,” Brasel said. “The overflow mail ended up on the floor and had to be sorted again, delaying Soldiers getting their mail.”
The new system, built by the Warrior Post Office Soldiers, includes an additional 36 square feet for each bin, ensuring that each unit’s mail is able to be organized in one spot as it comes in.
“All the mail is important,” said Master Sgt. Brett Hardcastle, post office noncommissioned officer in charge. “But … there are official documents, pieces of mail that may affect a Soldier’s career. It’s important to get that out as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
To help get mail out quicker, extra hands from around the FOB pitch in to assist with sorting. Volunteers, including a regular group of FOB Warrior firefighters, show up at the post office every time a delivery comes in.
“We would get the sorting done, but without their help, it would take four or five times as long,” Hardcastle said.
For a long time, deployed Soldiers have counted on the lift in spirits that receiving mail delivers. That touch of home is more imperative during the holidays.
“E-mail is one thing. But a letter that your spouse or family has touched is special,” said Brasel. “You can’t measure the morale boost and the contribution to the mission after Soldiers receive that mail.”

December Meeting

Join us on Monday, December 11th at 7:30 pm at GOP HQ for our election of officers for 2007. Come with your ideas for the coming year, a dozen of your favorite cookies and Christmas ornament(s) that our club will to send to Louisiana as holiday remembrance gifts for victims of Hurricane Katrina. Feel free to bring a friend to the celebration!

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving meal served by soldiers to fellow soldiers in Iraq. Let us remember all of our troops who are far from home and serving around the globe.

I Am A Republican Because

I BELIEVE the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability and responsibility must be honored.
I BELIEVE in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age or disability.
I BELIEVE free enterprise and encouraging individual initiative have brought this nation opportunity, economic growth and prosperity.
I BELIEVE government must practice fiscal responsibility and allow individuals to keep more of the money they earn.
I BELIEVE the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations and that the best government is that which governs least.
I BELIEVE the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people.
I BELIEVE Americans must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times.
I BELIEVE Americans value and should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom and human rights throughout the world.
FINALLY, I believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.

Thank You Veterans

 

Bush Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to Troops

Friday, 10 November 2006
By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON — America stands committed to its military members, to the Iraqis and to victory in the war on terror, President Bush said today during a White House news conference following yesterday’s elections and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld’s resignation today.
“Amid this time of change, I have a message for those on the front lines,” Bush said. “To our enemies, do not be joyful. Do not confuse the workings of our democracy with a lack of will,” he said. “Our nation is committed to bringing you to justice. Liberty and democracy are the source of America's strength, and liberty and democracy will lift up the hopes and desires of those you are trying to destroy.” The president also offered assurances to the Iraqi people that the United States won’t abandon them. “To the people of Iraq: Do not be fearful,” he said. “As you take the difficult steps toward democracy and peace, America's going to stand with you. We know you want a better way of life, and now is the time to seize it.” The president also expressed reassurance to members of the armed forces. “To our brave men and women in uniform: Don't be doubtful,” he said. “America will always support you. Our nation is blessed to have men and women who volunteer to serve and are willing to risk their own lives for the safety of our fellow citizens.” Bush acknowledged that yesterday’s election results send a message that many people would like to speed up the timetable for bringing the troops home. “I'd like our troops to come home too, but I want them to come home with victory,” he said. He defined that victory as an Iraq “that can govern itself, sustain itself and defend itself” and said he believes that the American people agree. “I recognize that many Americans voted last night to register their displeasure with the lack of progress being made there,” he said. “Yet, I also believe most Americans and leaders here in Washington from both political parties understand we cannot accept defeat. “And so I'm committed to victory,” he said. “I'm committed to helping this country so that we can come home.” Yesterday’s election “has changed many things in Washington, but it has not changed my fundamental responsibility, and that is to protect the American people from attack,” Bush said. “As the commander in chief, I take these responsibilities seriously. And so does the man who served this nation honorably for almost six years as our secretary of defense, Donald Rumsfeld.” Bush vowed to work with both parties in Congress to ensure the best path forward for the country. He expressed optimism that although people’s approaches may differ, they share a basic goal that transcends party lines. “No leader in Washington is going to walk away from protecting the country,” he said. He called the war on terror “a tough fight,” but assured the American people, “we’re going to win that fight.”

Troops Extend Helping Hand to Town

Friday, 27 October 2006
By Spc. Chris McCann2nd BCT PAO, 10th Mtn. Div.

RUSHDI MULLA — The first few were hesitant, coming in by ones and twos, but soon the floodgates opened and the citizens here came from all over town to receive medical care for a variety of ailments Oct. 19 at a Multi-National Division – Baghdad medical operation. The Soldiers of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, conducted the medical operation to get an idea of what medical supplies the town needed and to determine what clinics and health care providers were available in the area.“It’s what we came to do, besides taking care of our own,” said Spc. Carrielynn Spillis, a native of Toledo, Ohio, and a medic with Company C, 210th Brigade Support Battalion, attached to 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment. “It’s nice being able to come here and help them.”Kazar, a resident of Rushdi Mullah, brought his cousin’s son, Mustafa, to the operation to have the 1-year-old boy’s hand treated for an injury.Medics washed it, applied antibacterial ointment and explained, through an interpreter, that each finger would have to be wrapped separately to keep them from healing together.

Maj. Casey Geaney of Ashland, Wisc., Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment (right) and Capt. Richard Galgon (left), both doctors with Company C, 210th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, examine Iraqi children. Spc. Chris McCann, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs.“I’m glad the Americans came to help,” Kazar said.“We’re planning treatment … to provide for local civilians in the area,” said Sgt. Jason Lane, a medic with 4-31 Inf. Regt. “We had a very good turnout, didn’t see anything too extreme, and we have a better idea of what to expect in this area.”“Initially they were fairly timid,” he said. “By the end of the operation, they were more personable, particularly the children.”The Soldiers brought bags of toys – everything from plush animals to squeezable rubber ducks, which seemed to transcend the language barrier and brought smiles.Initially, the operation was announced over loudspeakers throughout the neighborhood; but after a poor showing to start the operation, Soldiers went door-to-door to get the word out. “When we did the foot patrol with announcements, we saw a huge change (in turnout),” said Maj. Robert Griggs, a native of Colusa, Calif., and plans officer for 4-31 Inf. Regt. It wasn’t only the medics that made the operation work.“We went out to distract the enemy so the medics could act,” said Pfc. James Cook, Company D, 4-31 Inf. Regt. “We set up three traffic control points to search vehicles and patrolled the areas … It was all quiet.”“We kept an eye on things to make sure Soldiers didn’t get hurt. We all came back in one piece. It was a good patrol,” said Pfc. Samuel Rhodes, also of Co. D.“It’s a positive step in the war on terror,” said 1st Lt. Aaron Brooks, of Syracuse, N.Y., medical platoon leader, 4-31 Inf. Regt. “The Iraqis trust us enough to seek health care, and we are willing to give it in any way possible. … The end state should be that we help support the Ministry of Health to do its own medical operations.”

You're Invited on Monday, October 30

Maureen Murphy will conduct a Property Tax Appeal Workshop for you and your neighbors at HQ on Monday, Oct. 30, 7 p.m. sharp, hosted by Republican Women of Wheeling Township. Maureen is our commissioner on the Board of (Tax) Review and is seeking re-election. But the reason she’s coming out to do this workshop is that the Board of Review will be opening the books on Wheeling Township in November, giving us property taxpayers a crack at appealing our assessments. Free of charge, of course, and open to all. Pass the word and bring your tax bill!

First in A Series: Progress In Iraq

This is the first of many regular reports coming from the Multinational Force in Iraq. We are daily bombarded with negative images. Still, there ARE good things being accomplished. Turn on your nightly news and you rarely hear about those. The perception needs to change and the positive that is occuring is what will be emphasized.

Two schools reopen in Kirkuk

Saturday, 14 October 2006
BAGHDAD — Iraqi Government officials and Coalition Force members celebrated the reopening of two schools in Kirkuk Oct. 12. The renovations were part of a broader civil affairs program and will serve as a model for other area schools.
Musalla Secondary School students proudly hung their country and school flags on the newly-painted walls of their refurbished school in preparation for a ceremony attended by local officials.
The secondary school and a city elementary school are the first of six renovations under the program, which includes construction of new science labs with computers. Students can also look forward to new school supplies donated from the U.S., and other essential materials such as computer desks provided by a nongovernmental agency.
“These schools were developed to set the example for Kirkuk,” said Maj. Paul Beekman, team chief, 402nd Civil Affairs Battalion. “The Board of Education can go in and look at the schools and the equipment, and emulate it throughout the region.”
The Commander’s Emergency Response Program funds the plan and was officially authorized by congress. Officials contracted local Iraqis to complete the work during the summer while students were out of school.
Students and teachers alike are praising the new developments and anticipate heavy use of the science lab and other equipment.
“The school looks brand new and the environment will enable the students to be more focused,” said a science teacher through an interpreter. “The lab is a big improvement, allowing the students to learn hands-on.”
Musalla students were previously confined to small classrooms which limited the science projects they could work on. The new lab was designed with bigger rooms so that more students can get involved, Beekman said.
Col. Patrick T. Stackpole, commander, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, joined the governor of Kirkuk and local education officials at the ceremony marking the reopening of the schools.
Col. Stackpole told students assembled in front of him they are their country’s greatest resource.
“This is the best day I’ve had in Iraq,” he said. “Being the future of Iraq, take this opportunity and I hope to see some of you up here (on stage) someday.”
(Courtesy of 5th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)
In other developments throughout Iraq:
A tip from a concerned Iraqi citizen led Iraqi policemen to a vehicle-borne improvised-explosive device in Baghdad’s Al-Bayaa district Wednesday afternoon.
Iraqi Security Force defeated a complex attack in Mosul Thursday night with the aid of ground Forces.

Reform on the Horizon

We have high hopes of putting an end to taxes, corruption and government waste here in Illinois. That is why we will be voting for candidates Timothy O. Schneider for Cook County Commisioner (pictured left) and Tony Peraica for Cook County Board President (pictured right) Both men will strive to bring honest government to Illinois and we believe we're overdue for that kind of change. Find out more about these candidates and how you can help them at www.votetony06.com and www.schneider2006.com

September Republican Women's Meeting

Our ladies generously donated new baby items for the Caris Pregnancy center. The center helps distressed expectant mothers in need. The donated items will go to it's "Baby Boutique".

Constitution Day

  

-The U. S Constitution was written in the same Pennsylvania State House where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where George Washington received his commission as Commander of the Continental Army. Now called Independence Hall, the building still stands today on Independence Mall in Philadelphia, directly across from the National Constitution Center.
-Written in 1787, the Constitution was signed on September 17th. But it wasn't until 1788 that it was ratified by the necessary nine states.
-The U.S. Constitution was prepared in secret, behind locked doors that were guarded by sentries.
-Some of the original framers and many delegates in the state ratifying conventions were very troubled that the original Constitution lacked a description of individual rights. In 1791, Americans added a list of rights to the Constitution. The first ten amendments became known as The Bill of Rights
-Of the 55 delegates attending the Constitutional Convention, 39 signed and 3 delegates dissented. Two of America's "founding fathers" didn't sign the Constitution. Thomas Jefferson was representing his country in France and John Adams was doing the same in Great Britain.
-Established on November 26, 1789, the first national "Thanksgiving Day" was originally created by George Washington as a way of "giving thanks" for the Constitution.
-Of the written national constitutions, the U.S. Constitution is the oldest and shortest.
-At 81, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania was the oldest delegate at the Constitutional Convention and at 26, Jonathon Dayton of New Jersey was the youngest.
-The original Constitution is on display at the National Archives in Washington, D.C. When the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, it was moved to Fort Knox for safekeeping.
-More than 11,000 amendments have been introduced in Congress. Thirty three have gone to the states to be ratified and twenty seven have received the necessary approval from the states to actually become amendments to the Constitution.

President Addresses the Nation

On the fifth anniversary of the 9-11 attacks, President Bush paid tribute to those who lost their lives and the brave heroes gave their lives to save others. We were reminded of the threat that still exists today and our need to stand firm in the face of terrorism.

In Memory of September 11, 2001

9-11 Pentagon Survivor Speaks at Freedom Festival

Pentagon Survivor Ryan Yantis was in the Pentagon assigned to the Army Staff during the 9-11 Attack and was decorated for valor. He facilitated hundreds of interviews with Army survivors, family members and leaders leading up to the first anniversary. His efforts contributed to the Army winning the Silver Anvil, the Public Relations Society of America’s premier award for communications excellence. He retired from the U.S. Army in May 2006 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

Flying the Flag Proudly

On Monday, September 11th, 2006, an American flag should be displayed outside every home, apartment, office, and store in the United States. Every individual should make it their duty to display an American flag on this fifth anniversary of our country's worst tragedy. We do this in honor of
those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those who today are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedoms.

In the days, weeks and months following 9/11, our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, those flags have all but disappeared. Our patriotism pulled us through some tough times and it shouldn't take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity.

Our American flag is the fabric of our country and together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds.

So fly your American flag of any size on 9/11. Take a moment to think back on how you felt on 9/11 and let those sentiments guide you. God Bless You and God Bless America and Her Defenders!

Freedom Festival 2006 in Barrington

Reflecting upon and recommiting ourselves to freedom, supporting those in uniform who defend freedom and celebrating America were three things that were accomplished at this year's We Do Care Freedom Festival in downtown Barrington. The family oriented festival touched the hearts and minds of those in attendance.
Just two days before the 5th anniversary of the 9-11 terrorist attacks, a solemn wreath laying ceremony and gun salute to honor those whose lives were sacrificed, opened the day's events. The remainder of the day was devoted to letting deployed service men and women know that they are being supported. Entertainment was provided throughout the day by the Spirit of the USO Band, Navy Band Great Lakes, Bataille Academie of the Danse, Jasper and Joe Cantafio & the 101st Rock Division.
Childrens activities included a climbing wall, moonwalk, face painting, creating cards for troops and a Freedom Walk.
In between the entertainment there were some special guests. First hand accounts were heard from 9-11 Pentagon Survivor Ryan Yantis. We learned from Lieutenant General Victor Renuart, who is the Senior Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense, Washington D.C. Sgt. Allison Kizerow, Iraq veteran (MP) US Army Reserves shared her story of being deployed as a 19 year old.
A documentary of the day's events is being produced.

Upcoming Events - Mark Your Calendars!

Saturday, Sept. 9, 8:30 a.m. Republicans of Wheeling Twp. meeting featuring State Chamber CEO Doug Whitley – ROWT HQ, 909 E. Rand Road, Arlington Hts. – no charge – info: Ruth O’Connell, 847/632-1774

Saturday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m. Property Tax Appeal Workshop featuring Maureen Murphy – Republican Women’s HQ at 1563 Ellinwood, Des Plaines – info: Kay Jarzombek, 847/825-1616

Saturday, Sept. 9, noon – 10 p.m., Celebrate America Family Fest (Support the Troops!) – Metra station parking area, downtown Barrington, info: Lisa Smith, 847/818-0754

Sunday, Sept. 10, 4 p.m., New Trier Republican picnic – $10, info: June O’Donoghue, 847/441-5177

Saturday, Sept. 16 , 11 a.m., Oktoberfest – NW Republican Women – featuring State Sen. Dan Rutherford (for Secretary of State) – Edelweiss, 7650 W. Irving Park Road, Norridge, $25 – info: Cora Thompson, 847/347-8680

Monday, Sept. 18, Noon, Salad Bar luncheon, meeting year kickoff – featuring County Commr. Tony Peraica – South Park Recreation Center, Talcott Road @ Cumberland Avenue, Park Ridge – no charge – info: Kay Jarzombek, 847/825-1616

Monday, Sept. 25, 5:30-7:30, Buffet reception for Reg’l Schools Supt. Robert Ingraffia – the Alumni Club, Schaumburg, $35 – info: Ruth O’Connell, 847/632-1774

Monday, Sept. 25, 7:30 p.m., monthly meeting, Republican Women of Wheeling Township, featuring spokesman for Caris Pregnancy Centers, participants please bring new clothing item for infant – ROWT HQ, 909 E. Rand Road, Arlington Hts. – no charge – info: Penny Pullen, 847/394-9355

Saturday, Sept. 30, Noon – Red, White & Blue Luncheon featuring Tom Roeser & Sen. Dan Rutherford – Republican Women of Park Ridge – Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect, Park Ridge – $45 or $320 for table of 8 – info: Kay Jarzombek, 847/825-1616 or Sharon Kelly, 630/738-1612

Saturday, Oct. 14, Republican issues forum breakfast – Republican Women of the 10th Cong’l District – place to be announced (in New Trier or Northfield Township) – info: June O’Donoghue, 847/441-5177

Saturday, Oct. 14, morning – Republicans of Wheeling Twp. – Candidate open house – 909 E. Rand Road, Arlington Heights – info: Ruth O’Connell, 847/632-1774

Suinday, October 22, 5 p.m., New Trier/Northfield & Evanston Dinner – featuring Bill Bennett – speaking before dinner & signing books (America: The Last Best Hope) – Allgauer’s on Milwaukee Ave., Northbrook – $150/person – info: June O’Donoghue, 847/441-5177

Support the Troops by Attending Freedom Festival

Saturday, Sept. 9 We Do Care is staging a Celebrate America Family Freedom Festival from noon to 10 p.m. rain or shine. This third annual festival is all about supporting our troops. It will be at the Metra station in downtown Barrington – plenty of free parking available. Booths will be available to sign up to adopt a soldier, send a care package and participate in other great support efforts. Sign a giant banner to be sent to the troops who are protecting us in harm’s way. At noon the USO will put on a program; 2-6 p.m. will feature events for children and teens; music all evening, a beer garden and food. A climbing wall, face painting and a moon walk for the children. A wonderful way to support our troops, celebrate our country and inculcate patriotism in our young folks.

Stories from Katrinaland - God Responds to Disaster in New Orleans

Club member Pam Reed has announced the release of this newly published book. A year ago Pam was so moved by the Katrina disaster, she and her sister Penny were prompted to travel to the stricken area. While there, they connected with Trinity Church in Covington, Louisiana. After returning home Pam continued to stay informed of progress via the church's website. Letters were being posted regularly by Pastor Michael Sprague, who reached out to his scattered flock, telling stories of the work being done by teams sent from all over the country by the Compassion Ministry of the Evangelical Free Church of America. Sensing that these stories needed to be more widely told, Pam put a book together in cooperation with the pastor. If you would like a copy of this collection of inspiring stories that focus on relief, recovery and redemption, please send a $20 check or money order made out to "Trinity Church" and mail it to P.O. Box 351, Prospect Heights, IL 60070

One Year Anniversary of Katrina

This week President Bush proclaimed August 29, 2006 to be a National Day of Remembrance of Hurricaine Katrina. In addition to remembering those who perished in the destructive storm, he called upon Americans to continue helping fellow citizens whose lives have been disrupted and to support the Gulf Coast rebuilding effort.

Congressman Mark Kirk's Washington Office

  

Washington Monument

  

Lincoln Memorial

  

Mount Vernon

  

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

  

The White House

  

Arlington National Cemetary

  

Korean War Memorial

  

Freedom Isn't Free

  

Summer Getaway to Washington D.C.- The Capitol

As the summer seasons comes to a close, last week some of our members took a road trip to Washington D.C. for a few days of sightseeing. A guided tour of the Capitol, visits to the Vietnam, Korean and WWII Memorials, a stroll along the reflecting pool at the Mall and a stop at the White House, a visit to Arlington Cemetary and Mount Vernon, were among the sites that were taken in.
Post here and share your summer vacation memories with us.



  

2006 Congressional Issue Survey Results

I would like to share with you the results of a recent 10th Congressional District issue survey distributed by Congressman Mark Kirk. Constituents had the opportunity to share opnions on key issues of the day. Over 1,000 responses from every part of the district were received. These results include legislation that the Congressman is supporting.
------------------------------
Out-of-State Pedophiles

Our first question concerned proposals to link interstate pedophile and criminal data bases to help schools deny employment to criminals coming from outside of Illinois. 91% of respondents supported this legislation and only four percent opposed it as potentially violating rights of school job applicants. Five percent were undecided.



Currently, most states do not have access to criminal information on individuals outside of their home state. Last week, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 4894, the School Acquiring Faculty Excellence Act -- legislation that I co-sponsored -- providing schools access to national criminal data bases to obtain criminal information when hiring teachers.



Gasoline Conservation

Congress is considering raising the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards for all cars and trucks in America. 83% of respondents supported this as a needed conservation measure, while only 14% opposed this as an unneeded burden on auto makers and unions. Three percent were undecided.



I voted to increase CAFE standards and I currently support legislation that raises these standards from 20.7 miles per gallon to 33 miles per gallon by 2014. Increasing fuel economy would save the average family $2,000 per year. Without this action, the U.S. will depend on foreign oil to cover 75 percent of its energy costs.



401 (Kids) Savings Accounts

Congress will soon debate legislation to create 401 (Kids) tax-deferred savings accounts for a child's college education or the first-time purchase of a home. 65% of respondents supported the creation of these accounts as a needed way to boost savings, while 20% opposed them for budget deficit reasons. 15% were undecided.



By 2020, college tuition is estimated to cost a quarter of a million dollars for a four-year degree. There are currently no full federal programs to help parents or children save for college tuition, or to purchase a first home. I co-authored H.R. 5314, the 401 (Kids) Family Savings Accounts Act, to provide parents and children the incentive to save for college and to purchase a first home.



Illegal Immigration

Over 11 million people are in the U.S. illegally. With regard to illegal aliens living in the United States, 19% supported granting amnesty, allowing them to become American citizens, 32% supported arresting them for deportation and 49% did not like either option.



Comprehensive immigration reform legislation will not work unless we first regain control of our borders and reduce the flow of illegal immigrants coming into the United States. Strengthening our borders should be the basis of a comprehensive immigration reform bill. The immigration debate can only begin when we gain control of our borders.



Classroom Safety

Under federal law, a teacher must show a specific suspicion before searching a student for a weapon or drugs. Congress is considering reforms to give latitude to teachers to keep their classrooms drug-free and gun-free.



With regard to this proposal, 70% supported giving teachers wider powers to search students without their permission, 23% oppose this proposal because it could violate the privacy rights of students and eight percent were undecided.



I co-sponsored H.R. 5295, the Student and Teacher Safety Act of 2006, that will give teachers more latitude and powers to keep their classrooms drug-free and gun-free.



Iraq

With regard to Iraq, 46% supported staying until the elected Iraqi government asks us to leave, 30% supported announcing a scheduled departure, regardless of what happens to the recently elected Iraqi government, and 18% supported an immediate departure of all U.S. troops. Six percent were undecided.



The death of Abu Musab al-Zarqawi provided a boost to our soldiers and to the newly elected Iraqi government. I was encouraged to hear Iraq's National Security Advisor, Mouwafak al-Rubaie, say last week he believed the security situation in Iraq should improve enough to allow a large number of U.S.-led forces to leave Iraq by the end of this year.



Mercury Pollution

Studies show that Lake Michigan suffers from mercury pollution. Most of this pollution comes from coal-fired plants that produce electricity. Congress is considering mandating new pollution control equipment that could raise the cost of electricity. With regard to this proposal, 73% supported additional pollution controls, even if electricity rates rise, 20% opposed such controls because electricity already costs too much and seven percent were undecided.



Although coal-fired electric power plants are the main source of mercury pollution, they are exempt from regulations in the Clean Air Act requiring power plants to reduce mercury emissions. With approximately 14,000 babies in Illinois born every year at risk of neurological damage due to mercury, I am authoring federal pollution control legislation that will cap national mercury emissions and create even stricter standards near the Great lakes.



Medicare Prescription Drugs

The federal government recently offered seniors the option to add coverage for their prescription drugs to their Medicare Part A and B plans. Over 55,000 seniors in the 10th Congressional District signed up for this coverage.



With regard to the Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, 38% supported implementing Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, working out problems as they arise, 14% favored scraping the plan all together as either too expensive or complicated and 26% favored ending all options for coverage and offering only one government plan. 21% were undecided.



Over 38 million seniors signed up for Medicare's Part D prescription drug coverage. Many seniors are now saving thousands of dollars on their prescription drugs because of Medicare Part D. This is why I supported legislation updating Medicare's prescription drug coverage and am proud millions of seniors have help from Medicare with the high cost of prescription drugs.



Suburban Gangs

Gangs connected to international drug cartels are moving out of Chicago and into the suburbs. There are over 3,000 documented gang members operating north of Lake-Cook Road. With regard to this problem, Congress is considering extending federal criminal jurisdiction against gang members in schools. 83% feel this reform is needed to support suburban police departments who are now fighting urban drug gangs, 12% opposed this as an unwanted extension of federal law enforcement into local police jurisdictions and five percent were undecided.



In April, I hosted a briefing in Waukegan with federal officials and local law enforcement on new federal funding available to help suburban police departments combat gangs. I was proud to present the Waukegan Police Department with a $100,000 federal grant I secured for their work against north suburban gangs. They will offer their experience to help other police departments combat a growing suburban gang problem. I also helped write H.R. 5291, the Gang Elimination Act of 2006, a federal plan to help eliminate America's most notorious gangs.



National Security Agency

After 9/11, the President authorized the National Security Agency (NSA) to expand its international wiretaps to also monitor people who had been contacted by terrorists groups inside the United States. With regard to this program, 74% felt the program should be continued to monitor potential terrorists in the U.S., while 21% said it should be stopped and the NSA should be banned from working in the U.S. Five percent did not know.



I believe the NSA should be in charge of collecting foreign intelligence only. In my judgment, the FBI -- working under the supervision of a federal judge -- is the federal agency best suited to conduct lawful surveillance involving Americans or any American telephone. The FBI has a long history of running successful counterintelligence operations within the United States and works well within the framework of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). I am currently working in Congress to transfer the jurisdiction for these operations exclusively to the FBI and under the protections of FISA and our Fourth Amendment.

GOP Women to Welcome County Commissioner Tony Peraica

Sunday night (June 11),Tony Peraica, our nominee for County Board President will be at HQ for the meeting of our Republican Women of Wheeling Township. All are welcome to attend and meet and hear Tony in this informal setting. The meeting starts at 7:30 (board meets at 7). This would be an especially good meeting to encourage women in your family or your neighborhood to get active with the Republican Party. (Club dues, by the way, are only $10 per year.) Tony has a real story to tell, and he’s in the news almost daily, so his name should be starting to be familiar by now. He’s an exciting speaker who delivers facts and energy. Gentlemen welcome, too.

Republican Women's Day at the Peter Roskam for Congress Campaign

Join Elizabeth Roskam and other Republican women for fellowship and good old fashioned campaigning on Saturday, June 24 beginning at 11:30 a.m. They will be knocking on doors and making phone calls to send Peter Roskam to Congress! For details call Amy at (630)221-0006 or email amy@roskamforcongress.com

Cuba - Then and Now by Gladys Davis

At the May women's club meeting Arlington Heights resident Gladys Davis (pictured left) shared her experiences as an exile who fled Cuba at the age of 9. She was separated from her family but later reunited with them in the States. Her presentation included poignant DVD movie clips of her family in Cuba and the way they remembered their beloved homeland in the 1950's. Gladys described a happy middle class life immersed in the Cuban culture when it was ripped away by the Castro regime. Afterwards there were many changes including government rationing of food and supplies. Everything they did was monitored and her family lived in fear for their lives. They were robbed of freedom of speech, freedom of religion and under the tyrannical Castro government, left with no way to defend themselves. Under totalitarian government there was no justice or fair trials and the conditions in jails were horrible. Life in Cuba today is step back in time -now an isolated existence for the people there, with a blackmarket economy, lacking communication (there is no internet access) and modern modes of transportation. Coming to the States was a culture shock for her and her family at first but Gladys has enjoyed being a U.S. citizen. Her speech was very inspirational. The women left with a better understanding of how fragile freedom is and a heartfelt gratitude for living in democracy with the privilege to exercise rights.

A Friendly Visit by Congressman Kirk

Republican women are among many ROWT members who welcomed Congressman Mark Kirk at the HQ office in April. A town hall type meeting took place. Energy policy and border security were the main topics of concern.

 

What American Support Means to the Troops

The link here leads to an area of the America Supports You website where you can view messages from our troops. Continued support for the military means a great deal to the soldiers who are far from home in harm's way. You can also leave a personal message thanking the troops for defending our freedom. The site also features news articles about how Americans are supporting the military and their families. The Defense Department has designated the month of April as Month of the Military Child.

Primary Election Night

Republican women recorded primary results on election night March 21. The GOP headquarters was active all evening and included an election party once the polls closed. The ROWT volunteers worked hard and delivered nearly 10,000 sample ballots directly to Republican voters. Just under 18,500 were mailed. Click the above link for unofficial primary results. Congratulations to Ruth O'Connell (picutred right) who officially became our new Wheeling Township Committeeman! An election recap will occur at the next ROWT meeting scheduled for April 8.

Oberweis for Governor

Click the above clink to see the new edition of the "Illinois Reformer" reviewing Jim's plan to create jobs, reform state government, uphold traditional values and enforce immigration laws. You can find out more about the Oberweis campaign on www.oberweisforillinois.com.

New Voting Machine Demo

The county clerk's office brough a demonstrator model of the new touch screen voting machine to the Feburary ROWT meeting. The new machine will be in all polling places in March. It is very user friendly.

President Addresses American Legion

On Friday, February 24, 2006 at the American Legion Washington Conference President Bush addressed the American legion, thanked American's veterans for their service and outliend the Administration's commitment to helping veterans. The President also discussed the war on global terrorism. Go to the link above to read full contents of the speech.

Upcoming Events

Monday, Feb. 27 Early voting begins at village and town halls

Saturday, March 25 Eagle Forum Spring Luncheon
featuring Phyllis Schlafly at Park Ridge
Country Club

Spotlight on Dan Patlak -Wheeling Township Assessor

Dan, our newly installed Wheeling Townsip Assessor spoke at our January women's club meeting. As taxpayer advocate, he shared information about permits, assessment appeals and various other services. The link above will take you directly to Dan's own web page at the township where you will find a complete listing of taxpayer services and tips. You will also find helpful links to the Cook County Assessor's office, Cook County Board of Review and Cook County Treasurer's office .