Forty-Five to Seventy or Fight!

Jim Oberweis, honorary Lake County Republican State Senator, is steamed. And that steam isn't coming out of the 2-stroke, 15hp espresso maker at any Oberweis ice cream parlor:

New speed limits of 60 to 65 mph on toll roads proposed by agency officials have steamed state Sen. Jim Oberweis, sponsor of a 2014 law setting a 70 mph limit, and point to a showdown in Springfield.
Oberweis, tollway showdown emerging over 70 mph

Illinois Tollway Agency officials reserve the privilege to name a speed limit on any of their tollroads. Oberweis, according to the Daily Herald, begs to differ:

Oberweis thinks his law trumps the agency's claims that it has the legal right to set speeds, and he wants to call them on the carpet. Ignoring the 70 mph policy is a "blatant disregard of the will of the people and a misapplication of an overwhelmingly supported law that is passed," said Oberweis, a Sugar Grove Republican.
Oberweis, tollway showdown emerging over 70 mph

Whenever the question is My Way or the Highway? your LakeCountyEye burns rubber in order to run across Dr. I.M. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, the resident Roads Scholar at the College of Lake County.

"Ya." chortled Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "If Jim Oberweis thinks Illinois Law always trumps the old-boy-network he should try running for election here in Lake County. And file his paperwork over at the Lake County Election Commission."

Your LakeCountyEye was all like oh pooh. That was totally different.

"Absolutely different in one respect," continued Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "The Illinois Tollway Authority controls the Route 53 Extension, and they promised to cap the speed limit at 45mph. But the Lake County crony-combine -- those insiders who don't think anything about the Route 53 Extension goes fast enough -- will be in court, one day, waving the 70mph Law."

Was 70mph significant of anything -- why not 65 or 75?

"70 is a dog-whistle to the conservative religious voter base." explained Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "The days of our years are threescore years and ten. It's in the Bible. Look it up."

Right on the money, according to the LakeCountyEye Bible Widget:

But regarding the Route 53 Extension, wouldn't it benefit everyone to find common ground?

"A compromise is being considered." smiled Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "The Route 53 Extension may become a double-deck highway. At ground level the speed will still be 45mph. But on the upper level, where Jim Oberweis and other big-wheels will be licensed to drive, it's 70mph all the way to the border. They're going to call it the OberPass."

Too much information. Was there any parting advice for the Operatives?

Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi was preoccupied, studying the Oberweis Dairy menu above the ice cream counter: "These all look good ... I'll take the Rocky Road."

An Electoral Shock

There's an old saying in politics: "Be nice to everyone when you're getting up because you never know when you'll be going down." Haha, honorary Republican Lake County Congressman, Aaron Schock, flamed out spectacularly this week. Schock resigned from Congress and is under Federal investigation for pursuing an overblown lifestyle -- one guaranteed to make the Queen of England blush.

The news came without much warning -- Schock no doubt was feeling mixed emotions when he saw that all the long knives were out for him.

One of the longest knives to come out of the cracks belonged to vestigial Lake County Congressman, Peter Roskam.  As readers of this blog most certainly recall ...

The Schock of the New

Schock backed out of commitments to support Roskam on his bush-league effort to become the US House Majority Whip. For the record, Roskam's coveted job went to some goober from North Carolina.

They say that elephants never forget. They also say that revenge is a dish best served cold. Combine the two and now Peter Roskam currently sits on the House Benghazi Committee -- while Aaron Schock better get himself all lawyered-up, and tout suite, because his ass is in a jam.

So now that his seat is effectively up for grabs, what lies ahead for boy-wonder ex-Congressman Aaron Schock? Will he be bunking with Jesse Jackson Jr -- at the Butner Low Security Federal Prison? Or is he facing a bum rap? Time will only tell.

In the meantime, your LakeCountyEye invites Schock to come on over to Lake County. Where likeminded young-gun Republican officeholders would be tickled pink to see Schock lay bare some of his tricks of the trade.

Association for the Advancement of Tire Persons?

As far as journalistic principles go, the Chicago Tribune sets a pretty high bar. A significantly higher bar, to say the least, when compared to anything you would read in the LakeCountyEye:

Our work as journalists must always center on meeting the needs and interests of readers, viewers and listeners, and we must provide them with journalism that is trustworthy, relevant and valuable. If they have reason to doubt the credibility of our work, quality won't matter -— they will go elsewhere. That is especially important in the increasingly competitive multimedia world. Those who turn to us must be confident that the news we deliver -— as text or photo, audio or video -— is accurate and free of the influence of special interests, whether public or private, commercial or political, our own or that of our friends.
Tribune Code of Editorial Principles
Preamble

Your LakeCountyEye observed that the Tribune bought some suburban dailies from the Sun-Times a few months ago. One of the newspapers -- the News-Sun -- has benefited from an overdue face-lift. But your LakeCountyEye just assumed the News-Sun would also be expected to live up to the the Tribune's exacting editorial standards:

Heroin overdose antidote saves 2 lives in same day; 6 since Christmas in Lake County

Sharpeyed Operatives will instantly recognize Lake County State's Attorney, Michael Nerheim, circled above. While circled below is an ad for Waukegan Tire -- a Nerheim family owned business operated by Jerry Nerheim, Julie Scroggins and Steve Nerheim.

Note to Ops: Maybe no one at the News-Sun ever reads anything in the Tribune?

Recovering Resources, Transforming Water: The Old Sanitary District Embarks on a Bold New Chapter

Adlai Stevenson Center on Democracy

At a time when the threats of too much and too little water cover the globe, Debra Shore will speak on innovations for water control, conservation and cleanliness. Elected to the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago in 2006 and 2012, Debra Shore is a strong advocate for cleaning up the Chicago waterways and for resource recovery. Debra received the Public Officials Award from the Water Environment Federation in 2013.

• Sunday
  March 22, 2015
  2:00 pm
• The Stevenson Center on Democracy
  25200 N St Mary's Rd
  Mettawa (Libertyville), IL 60048
  773- 281-0378
• Admission: $15
  No Charge for Students

World's Oldest Confession

News-Sun readers last week were asked to share this tag-line with friends:

Another Lake County conviction is set to be thrown out.
DNA clears Lake County man serving 20 years for abduction, rape

One minute you're free -- the next you're doing 20-to-life for something you didn't do. Is it safe to leave your home in Lake County? Your LakeCountyEye asked the expert, Dr. I.M. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, Professor of Free Legal Advice the College of Lake County.

"We're giving these away." said Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. He handed your LakeCountyEye a bumper-sticker:

HONK IF YOU'VE BEEN
WRONGFULLY CONVICTED
IN LAKE COUNTY

False convictions are the new-normal, observed your LakeCountyEye.

"Absolutely." said Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "And there are a few commonsense measures that you the taxpayer can observe to protect yourself."

Your LakeCountyEye wanted to be told more.

"If they don't have any evidence, the easiest way for them to get a false conviction," explained Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "is with a false confession. So just don't confess to anything."

Easier said than done, your LakeCountyEye thought out loud.

"Ya, if you're down in the station house, and under interrogation," continued Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "they will wear you out until they got you confessing to the Lindbergh kidnapping, Jimmy Hoffa or Jack the Ripper."

What can someone like your LakeCountyEye do?

"That's easy." smiled Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "If they haven't charged you, don't go down to the station house."

Refuse?

"Well," chuckled Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "you can start by not returning their calls. And if they do reach you, just say you're not available for the next 3 or 4 months. Tell them you have Ebola or something."

Your LakeCountyEye was taken aback. Investigators typically solicit information to help them resolve a possible crime.

Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi frowned. "You haven't been paying attention, have you? They are throwing a dragnet. If it happens to be you that gets caught, everyone gets to go home early."

Not a pleasant thought.

"Sure, go talk with them, if you prefer." continued Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "But meet on neutral territory -- never go to the station house."

Meet, like, at your place of residence?

"Haha." laughed Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Too funny."

What was your LakeCountyEye thinking?

"Go somewhere public." said Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "Meet at Chuck-E-Cheese -- any place with a bouncer in case things get out of hand."

Chuck-E-Cheese?

"That's perfect." grinned Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Who's gonna hear what anyone says there anyways, over all the noise? And make sure they pay for the pepperoni rolls."

Your LakeCountyEye heard enough, and quite well. Did Dr Bhatschidtkhrazzi have any parting advice?

"Tell your Operatives that I'm a licensed bondsman. If they mention your name I'll give them a professional discount."

Q the Eye/03.15.15

Dear LakeCountyEye,

I read with interest your article on how to secure a commission appointment with the Rauner administration:

Clout of Commissions

You advised prospective appointees to make a significant monetary contribution to the Bruce Rauner Transition Committee. Surely you were joking.

All kidding aside, how do I go about obtaining a seat on a State Commission?

A New Bruce Sweeps Clean

Dear Lobby Broom,

Absolutely. Your LakeCountyEye was only kidding, haha. No doubt about it, whatsoever at all.

It is not only unseemly but illegal to make a donation to an elected official with the expectation of a political favor in return.

Instead, you should emulate the example of Jeffrey Brincat, a Highland Park resident and CEO of Consumer Financial Services Inc. Jeffrey Brincat, Kelly Brincat, and Cynthia Brincat made contributions totaling more than $13,500 to Citizens for Rauner, Inc:

Illinois State Board of Elections

Furthermore, various Consumer Financial Services franchises made contributions totaling $29,000 to Citizens for Rauner, Inc:

Illinois State Board of Elections

The contributions total-up to: $13,500 + $29,000 = $42,500

Now, anyone who made a significant contribution to Bruce Rauner's election committee, while hoping to see a State Commission appointment, would automatically have a strike against him. In some cases 42,500 strikes. Last week, nevertheless, Governor Rauner appointed Jeffrey Brincat to chair the Illinois State Racing Commission.

All of which goes to illustrate your LakeCountyEye's point: you may have 1, 2, 3 even 42,500 strikes against you, but can still obtain a high-profile Illinois Commission appointment. Just overcome your obstacles with hard work, perseverance and by being the best man for the job!

If you are an elected official, or a previously elected official, or just a private citizen under indictment, send your political questions to Q the Eye c/o ... LakeCountyEye@gMail.com

100% Cotton?

Did Mark Kirk violate the Logan Act? Members of the Lake County Federal Crimes Task Force think he did. Deputies from the County Special Unit vowed to haul the US Senator down to the station and keep him there until he "sings like a choirgirl on the Sunday after prom."

Haha, j/k. But as readers of this blog are aware ...

Q the Eye/03.10.15

Mark Kirk signed the so-called Cotton Letter -- a threatening letter sent to the leaders of Iran -- arguably breaking Federal Law.

Kirk has been prolific when it comes to issuing tough-talking press releases about Iran:

Latest News | Mark Kirk | Senator for Illinois

Judging from the rhetoric, Kirk is a war-hawk who thinks Iran is a clear and present danger to the United States.

These Iran press releases were all sent to your LakeCountyEye's inbox -- with the exception of one: Kirk Statement on Cotton Letter Regarding Congress and Iran

To find this press release, you need to dig through Kirk's Senate website. It's all like Mark Kirk needed to acknowledge that he signed the letter, but he didn't want anyone to know.

The actual press release breaks no news. Anyone expecting observations regarding the legality of the Cotton letter, or why Kirk agreed to be a signatory, will be disappointed. The "statement" doesn't do much more than restate the content of the letter sent to the Ayatollahs in Iran:

In exchange for allowing Iran to maintain the capabilities to build nuclear weapons, the Administration promises to "comprehensively lift" as many as 14 Iran sanctions laws, many of which passed with bipartisan veto-proof majorities. There is no Constitutional authority granting a president unilateral power to repeal American law. Sanctions should not be weakened until Iran stops its nuclear weapons program, stops supporting and exporting terrorism, stops aggression against its neighbors, stops egregious human rights abuses, and stops threatening to annihilate Israel. A better deal, with bipartisan congressional backing, is the best insurance policy against a nuclear Iran, a destructive arms race, and war in the Middle East.
Kirk Statement on Cotton Letter Regarding Congress and Iran

This press-release (cum statement) addresses neither the criticism that the Cotton Letter has provoked, nor the fact that it bears Kirk's signature. Which only underscores both.

Note to Mark Kirk Ops: if Senator's goal is to cover up the gaffe, your secret is good with your LakeCountyEye.

If Wishes Were Horses Beggars Would Ride

Spring has finally sprung in Lake County. And not a minute too soon, especially for those of you disposed to walking rather than driving. Note to Ops: never bet the cab-fare on a horse named Loan Shark.

But as readers of this blog are aware ...

Gov Rauner Names Payday Loan CEO to Chair Racing Board

Governor Bruce Rauner has named Jeffrey Brincat to Chair the Illinois Racing Board. Besides being a Highland Park resident, Brincat is also the CEO of Consumer Financial Services Inc.

Both Brincat as well as Consumer Financial Services are substantial donors to Bruce Rauner's election committee. A spokesman for the new Governor however told your LakeCountyEye that the principles of corporate synergy were solely behind the appointment.

"Why would the Governor name the CEO of a so-called payday loan organization to head the Racing Board?" said the spokesman. "Quite simply these two business sectors positively reinforce each other. Let's say the horses are running on Friday afternoon but you don't get your paycheck until Monday morning. Do you stay home all weekend and pine away? Of course not, you get an advance on your paycheck from a payday loan company, and then head to the track. If you're lucky you will turn that small investment into a sizable nest-egg, pay back that loan with interest, and have enough left over to play the ponies next week. It's a win-win for everyone!"

Note to Ops: this is one example why Governor Bruce Rauner is a billionaire and you aren't.

Q the Eye/03.10.15

An Open Letter to the Leaders of the Islamic Republic of Iran:

It has come to our attention while observing your nuclear negotiations with our government that you may not fully understand our constitutional system. Thus, we are writing to bring to your attention two features of our Constitution—the power to make binding international agreements and the different character of federal offices—which you should seriously consider as negotiations progress.

First, under our Constitution, while the president negotiates international agreements, Congress plays the significant role of ratifying them. In the case of a treaty, the Senate must ratify it by a two-thirds vote. A so-called congressional-executive agreement requires a majority vote in both the House and the Senate (which, because of procedural rules, effectively means a three-fifths vote in the Senate). Anything not approved by Congress is a mere executive agreement.

Second, the offices of our Constitution have different characteristics. For example, the president may serve only two 4-year terms, whereas senators may serve an unlimited number of 6-year terms. As applied today, for instance, President Obama will leave office in January 2017, while most of us will remain in office well beyond then—perhaps decades.

What these two constitutional provisions mean is that we will consider any agreement regarding your nuclear-weapons program that is not approved by the Congress as nothing more than an executive agreement between President Obama and Ayatollah Khamenei. The next president could revoke such an executive agreement with the stroke of a pen and future Congresses could modify the terms of the agreement at any time.

We hope this letter enriches your knowledge of our constitutional system and promotes mutual understanding and clarity as nuclear negotiations progress.

Sincerely,
Senator Mark Kirk, R-IL

Dear Senator Mark Kirk, R-IL,

Your LakeCountyEye is happy to post your open letter to the Mullahs of Iran.

This blog boasts a robust international readership from over 100 foreign countries -- which include spam-bots from Russia, China, North Korea as well as phishing scams from Nigeria. Rest assured your message will be received by the hard-line Iranian Ayatollahs, loud and clear.

It has come to your LakeCountyEye's attention, nonetheless, that the authors of this letter may have violated the Logan Act and could be prosecuted for treason. While such a turn of events may seem unlikely, it should be noted that the Senator as well as your LakeCountyEye are both residents of Lake County. Where the innocent are incarcerated as routinely as the guilty, irrespective of their culpability.

Just sayin!

If you are an elected official, or a previously elected official, or just a private citizen under indictment, send your political questions to Q the Eye c/o ... LakeCountyEye@gMail.com

Gov Rauner Names Payday Loan CEO to Chair Racing Board

Judging from the number of people Bruce Rauner tapped for his new administration, Lake County must be a cornucopia of able executive talent. Either that or all of the IL GOP's big donors live in Lake County. From the Chicago Tribune:

Newly elected Governor Bruace Rauner has named residents of Lake Forest and Highland Park to the Illinois Racing Board. In a statement released Feb. 27, Rauner announced the appointment of Lake Forest resident Jeffrey Brincat, 52, thne CEO of Consumer Financial Services Inc., as chairman of the Racing Board.
Lake Forest, Highland Park residents named to state racing board

In 2010, I reported in this blog that ...

Jumping the Shark

Jeffrey Brincat was a top executive at Mercury Finance Co., which collapsed in 1997 as a result of accounting fraud. John Brincat, Jeffrey Brincat's father and CEO of Mercury Finance, went to federal prison, as a result of the fraud, in 2007.

Jeffrey Brincat now runs Consumer Financial Services Inc., which is a high-rate, "payday" loan business not unlike Mercury Finance. Mercury set up shop mostly near military bases and lent money to GIs and other low-income borrowers at high interest rates. A Consumer Financial Services facility is near the Great Lakes Naval Base.

Last month Governor Rauner said he wanted to withhold $6 billion in income tax revenue from Illinois villages and cities. This would put an unprecedented burden on local government.  Could these municipalities cover the huge shortfall by borrowing? I know where these towns and villages could go for a quick, no-doc loan.

The Old Run-a-Rauner

Lake County got scrooged. Beta-Governor Bruce Rauner wants to keep your tax dollars way down yonder in Springfield Illinois.

The Daily Herald said ...

When Gov. Bruce Rauner suggested withholding half of the municipal share of income tax revenues to shore up state finances, he assumed towns could absorb the loss by dipping into their reserves. That's easier said than done in some places, according to a Daily Herald analysis of reserves in 90 suburbs. Island Lake is one example. Already in the red by nearly $200,000, the town would lose $400,000 more next year if Rauner's income tax cuts are implemented by the legislature.
Griffin: Rauner plan could cost suburbs 25% of reserves

The Chicago Tribune said ...

Good morning, Waukegan Mayor Wayne Motley. Your city just lost more than $4 million. Wakey-wakey, Gurnee Mayor Kristina Kovarik. Your village just lost $1.5 million. Ditto for Grayslake, North Chicago, Highland Park and Zion. Mundelein Village President Steve Lentz must operate with $1.5 million less and Libertyville's Terry Weppler lost $1 million. The four villages that bear variations of the Round Lake name lost $2.5 million. From the south (Buffalo Grove's $2 million) to the north (Antioch's $700,000) to the county government coffers ($4 million), Lake County budgeters have a steep hill if the deal stands.
Budget battle is heating up between Rauner, local government

Not to be outdone, Rauner (who was in Mundelein this week) said County taxes were too high ...

Rauner said only a few communities in New Jersey have higher property taxes than Lake County, but getting a handle on government spending can bring some relief.
Rauner decries high Lake County property taxes during Mundelein visit

Your LakeCountyEye attended the same Mundelein Rotary luncheon:

• Fried Chicken
• Mashed Potatoes
• Corn on the Cob
• Jello Salad

When your LakeCountyEye arrived, Rauner was talking. Rauner did not field any questions but the goshillionare businessman/Governor did have some pointed advice on how Lake County could stay competitive despite dwindling Springfield tax subsidies. Your LakeCountyEye wrote down 10 recommendations:

A Lake County Action Plan: Ten Directives from Bruce Rauner, CEO, State of Illinois

Raise the Speed Limit on the Route 53 Extension to 85 MPH More Revenue Generating Oil Trains Fewer Revenue Consuming Trade Unions Get a Good Election Commission Build Another Casino Incarcerate Fewer Innocent People and Expect Fewer Lawsuits And While You're At It, Eighty-Six that Rubber-Stamp State's Attorney's Case Review Commission Two Words: Forest-Preserve Wine-Club You Can Never Have Too Many TIF Districts The Food Banks are Empty? Let Them Eat Cake!

Look for a fly on the wall -- aka your LakeCountyEye -- at a Rotary lunch near you.

Mr Tease

There was a time, once, when the bad-boy Congressman from Illinois did not answer to the name Aaron Schock. Haha, Ex-Congressman Joe Walsh, as readers of this blog are aware, may be getting back in the game:

Special Election

Walsh told Politico that he would like to run for US Senate:

Could Rep. Joe Walsh's next act be a campaign for Senate?
Joe Walsh, tea party firebrand, weighs Senate campaign

Walsh said that back in 2012. Around the same time he told Roll Call he would run against Randy Hultgren:

Rep. Joe Walsh (R-Ill.) announced Wednesday he’ll seek re-election in the 14th district next year, setting up his state's first official face-off between two GOP Members.
Joe Walsh to Run Against Randy Hultgren in Illinois

Apparently not to be outdone, Huffington Post reported that Walsh could run for Governor:

Walsh said he has not ruled out challenging Gov. Pat Quinn in the 2014 gubernatorial race in Illinois.
Joe Walsh, Governor? Illinois Congressman Talks Political Future At Last Town Hall Meeting

But that was then. This is now.

Last week Walsh was telling The Hill that he might challenge Mark Kirk for his US Senate seat:

Controversial former Rep. Joe Walsh (R-Ill.) is talking up a Tea Party challenge to Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.).
Joe Walsh eyes comeback bid

Insanity may be doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. But in politics, doing the same thing over and over again is the cheap-and-easy way to earn some time beneath the media spotlight ...

Sun-Times:
Former Rep. Joe Walsh 'looking at' bid to oust Sen. Mark Kirk

Daily Herald:
Joe Walsh eyes challenge to U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk

Capitol Fax:
Mark Kirk should be so lucky

... and without really having to do anything.

Fixed Convictions

Probably half of the Lake County criminal justice system were seen Saturday night, on the CBS prime-time crime show 48 Hours. Another Lake County criminal conviction is under media investigation:

Blaming Melssa

In related news, the County is asking the Federal Government for transportation subsidies. This is to help subsidize the cost of all the people who've been railroaded in Lake County.

That's all your LakeCountyEye has. Do not stop on the train tracks.

Special Election

Joe Walsh, Lake County Congressman Emeritus, is back in the news. Walsh is thinking about challenging Mark Kirk in the Republican Primary for US Senate. Walsh told The Hill ...

that the senator's health is part of the reason he shouldn't win another term. "I think because of his overall physical condition I don't know anyone else would consider challenging him and that's just plain wrong," he said.
Joe Walsh eyes comeback bid

Of course, if Walsh does challenge Kirk, the Primary would have to be pretty evenly handicapped.

That's all your LakeCountyEye has. Make like a tree and beat it.

Clout of Commissions

Good news everyone: Springfield has a new Governor and he has been giving appointments to high-rollers faster than a medical marijuana clinic. The latest beneficiary of Governor Bruce Rauner's largesse is a Lake County native.  The Capitol Fax says ...

Governor Bruce Rauner has selected Joann Fratianni-Atsaves as the chairman of the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission (IWCC).
Rauner's Friday afternoon appointments

If the name sounds familiar, Fratianni-Atsaves is the spouse of Louis Atsaves -- who besides being the Moraine Township GOP Chairman is also the author of Lake County's #1, bar-none, political blog:

Common Sense in Illinois' 10th

Your LakeCountyEye conducted an in-depth investigation and learned that the Chair of the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission is not only a paid position, but a handsomely paid position. Handsome to the tune of $125,232 per year, plus expenses:

Workers' Compensation Commission

The good news is that this same Commission has 10 members who are all paid $119,840 per year. Plus expenses.

Now your LakeCountyEye maintains it would be unseemly to appoint anyone to a Commission chaired by his wife. However there are other equally qualified Lake County natives who would not be burdened with the taint of nepotism. Your LakeCountyEye, for instance. Just like Louis Atsaves, your LakeCountyEye produces Lake County's #1 political blog. And like Atsaves, your LakeCountyEye is the Moraine Township GOP Chairman.

Your LakeCountyEye has a proposal for Governor Bruce Rauner.  If your aim is to run Illinois like a business, then your first priority is certainly to keep labor costs down.  This is where your LakeCountyEye comes in.  The minute your LakeCountyEye is appointed to the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission, a handsome finder's fee will be donated (in your name) to the Governor's website ...

Bruce Rauner Transition Committee

no questions asked.

The key to success, everybody knows, is hiring people better than you. Just sayin!

lrg multi acre grassy bkyd

Good news everyone: your LakeCountyEye has a new job. Lake County's newest real estate agent has just listed a nice 13-acre undeveloped property, and invites Operatives over to Mundelein for a looksee.

This prime piece of acreage is conveniently located between Route 45 and Route 60, in the heart of the Mundelein/Vernon Hills shopping corridor. The Daily Herald called the property a ...

13-acre piece of vacant land that once held a self-storage facility. The land was to be used for rainwater detention.
Wal-Mart plan not derailed by foreclosure, Mundelein mayor says

Designated a multi-use property, the land is zoned both commercial and residential. Most importantly it is zoned agricultural. As readers of this blog are aware ...

The Ganja Line Starts in Mundelein

three marijuana dispensaries in Mundelein were granted licenses last week. The basic laws of economics -- it goes without saying -- dictate that when demand exceeds supply, suppliers reap big rewards.

This is a foreclosure and the land is priced to sell. A municipal government (which shall remain unnamed) has promised to return 50% of all sales taxes generated by the property.

A one-of-a-kind deal like this cannot last for long.

The Ganja Line Starts in Mundelein

While three on a match may be bad luck in a vape lounge -- it won't be in Mundelein. Per the Pioneer Press:

Mundelein attracted all three businesses that were given licenses to sell medical marijuana in Lake County.
Mundelein lands all 3 medical marijuana dispensaries in Lake County

For the inside dope, your LakeCountyEye contacted the one party who wouldn't be just blowing smoke on the subject: Dr. I.M. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, Professor of Potted Plants at the College of Lake County.

"I don't know how many dikes there are in Mundelein," chuckled Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "but with three marijuana dispensaries, the town will be the Amsterdam of Lake County."

Your LakeCountyEye was all like HaHa.

"Ya," added Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "with all those new clinics, the Village is going to have to beef up its EMS services. Do you know if anyone has a deal on a used ambulance?"

Your LakeCountyEye seemed to recollect a fire-sale up in Antioch.

"Last year, Mundelein shelled out $150,000 for a new town logo -- one with a prominent orange M at the top." Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi recalled. "Now we know what that M stands for: Medical Marijuana. Very farsighted of their village government."

Your LakeCountyEye was mucho misconvinced, to say the least.

"Branding is important, also, when it comes to marijuana sales." opined Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "One Mundelein dispensary has already trademarked a strain of cannabis they are calling Hawley Wowie."

Your LakeCountyEye could not imagine its street value.

"If you read the fine print, however" continued Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "the Village of Mundelein can host only one clinic. Those other dispensaries will need to set up shop elsewhere in Lake County. Some sites under consideration are Grass Lake, Highwood, Bhangs Lake, Volo Bong State Park, and Long Grove."

Long Grove?

"Convenient access to the Route 53 Extension." explained Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Of course, the secret to any retail endeavor is franchising. And medical marijuana is a growth industry. I can get you in on the ground floor."

Your LakeCountyEye would need some seed money. Did Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi have any parting advice?"

"If your Operatives know anyone selling farmland in Lake County, call me immediately!"

The 2014 Scottish Referendum: Democracy and the Future of the United Kingdom

Adlai Stevenson Center on Democracy

In September, 2014 nearly 85 percent of eligible voters in Scotland turned out for a referendum on their country's proposed independence from the United Kingdom. The measure failed with 55 percent of the people casting "NO" votes, but the process is expected to lead to more power for the Scottish Parliament and possible other reforms in the U.K. DePaul University Professor Euan Hague, a native of Edinburgh, Scotland will discuss the implications of that vote as the countries move forward.

• Sunday
  February 22, 2015
  2:00 pm
• The Stevenson Center on Democracy
  25200 N St Mary's Rd
  Mettawa (Libertyville), IL 60048
  773- 281-0378
• Admission: $15
  No Charge for Students

Lawlor? Lawlor? Lawlor?

Good news everyone: your LakeCountyEye is gainfully employed again. And toils away at Lake County's dirtiest job -- publicist for Aaron Lawlor.

Indefatigable up-and-comer -- and not to mention Lake County Board Chair -- Aaron Lawlor was last seen on this blog ...

Scoop the Poop

doing what public servants do best. Lawlor was observed shoveling excrement, all the while smiling for the cameras.

Haha, Lawlor is the star of the Internet's hottest viral video series, Lake County’s Dirty Jobs. Funded by the taxpayers of Lake County, the video series is supposed to shine a spotlight on some of the dirty jobs performed by County government. Well, whatever it is supposed to be, the first two episodes feature some professional-grade camerawork, editing, scripting, audio overlay -- not to mention bravura performances by Lake County Board Chair, Aaron Lawlor.

The News-Sun took notice and gave the shows the moral equivalent of two thumbs up:

The first jump-out-of-your-skin moment comes 30 seconds into Part I, when a protagonist reports that "one of our pumps is plugged – or partially plugged." The suspense about who gets to do the unplugging – and how it will be done – recalls Clarice Starling walking to her first meeting with Hannibal Lecter.
Moran: Lake County 'Dirty Jobs' films are Oscar contenders

Now your LakeCountyEye doesn't want to sound ungrateful, but that "protagonist" referred to by the News-Sun happens to be Lake County Board Chair, Aaron Lawlor. Who just happens to be speaking to the cameras in just about every scene of Lake County's Dirtiest Jobs.

So how often is Mr Lawlor mentioned in the News-Sun review? As often as zero -- nada -- by your LakeCountyEye's count. Aaron Lawlor's name is not mentioned once in the Sun-Times review. Skeptical Operatives can check for themselves:

Google

Despite the fact that Aaron Lawlor gets at least 10 minutes of camera time in Lake County's Dirtiest Jobs, the News-Sun totally neglects to print his name anywhere in their review. Your LakeCountyEye really, really wonders if anyone is even watching these must-see videos.

For the record, it is spelled: A-A-R-O-N  L-A-W-L-O-R

Do Vaccines Need a Shot in the Arm?

A public health emergency has been issued. A highly contagious and possibly fatal virus -- one that has been dominating the headlines -- has been confirmed and observed near Lake County. Residents are instructed to stay indoors until further notice.

Does your LakeCountyEye refer to the recent measles outbreak? Nope -- your LakeCountyEye refers to Ebola.

Haha, j/k -- it's really the measles.

Those Operatives (who have been living in a plastic bubble) should be aware that infectious diseases are like 45 rpm records. And that the measles just knocked Ebola off the top of the charts.

A vaccine has been available since 1963, and it was believed that the measles had been eradicated in the United States. Well, guess again. Anyone not immune is urged to be vaccinated. The only exception are infants less than a year old, and residents of Wauconda, where it is believed that ...

vaccines have chemicals "that are very harmful to your neurotoxins."
Wauconda trustee candidate calls vaccines dangerous

But if you are anything like your LakeCountyEye, then nothing says 100% total immunity better than a full hazardous material suit. Luckily, the leading manufacturer of hazmat outfits is located right in the middle of Lake County:

I Haz a Suit

And as a consequence, Lake County is measles-free:

Lake County measles test comes back negative

This same leading manufacturer had been threatening to move out of Lake County. If they did move to Wisconsin or Indiana, there is no telling which infectious diseases would be coursing through Lake County today. Fortunately, the Governor intervened:

Medline Industries, the giant medical supply distributor in the northern suburbs, has agreed to keep its headquarters in Illinois in exchange for nearly $18 million in tax credits from the Quinn administration. The Mundelein-based firm, one of the largest private companies in the state, also plans to add at least 200 jobs in Lake County and spend at least $60 million expanding operations statewide, according to a statement from Gov. Pat Quinn.
Medline gets tax break to keep its HQ in Illinois

Lake County is grateful to have a Governor who cares about the health of his State. And not some uber-billionaire with a record of outsourcing jobs, who cares only about being the next Vice President of the United States.

The Gold Seal

Groundhog Day was cancelled in Lake County. Pistakee Phil is still waiting for a road crew to plow the snow out of his groundhog hole.

Haha j/k.

Lake County's roads are making news, however. The Daily Herald says the Lake County Department of Transportation is ...

requesting $540,000 in motor fuel tax funds be spent in hopes of preserving two segments of road before more extensive repairs are needed. The technique is called "microsurfacing" and is being targeted for about three total miles in northern Lake County: Deep Lake Road from Route 173 to the Wisconsin state line and North Avenue from Deep Lake Road to the state line.
Lake County considers new technique to preserve pavement

The technique is similar to sealcoating your driveway. The difference being you don't end up tracking tar all over your house.

In related news, county planners made a surprise announcement: the Route 53 Extension will be paved with gold. One source told your LakeCountyEye that the price of gold is at a five-year low. "If we buy now," he said, "we just wait for the next gold-market bubble, and the Route 53 Extension pays for itself."

That's all your LakeCountyEye has. No phony goldbricking here. Dude.

What Goes Arauner Comes Arauner

Lake County, like most counties -- no, like all counties -- in Illinois, has a new Governor. Bruce Rauner became a household name earlier this month, when sworn in as the 42nd Governor of Illinois.

Rauner however was introduced to readers of this blog last summer, when your LakeCountyEye strung together the Haha-Bruce-Rauner-Looks-Like-Howdy-Doody meme:

Doodyville

A mere eight months has passed and your LakeCountyEye's hilarious viral meme is already an Internet cliche:

Capitol Fax

Note to Ops: when all else fails, clown around.

The Lake County Election Recommission

Note to Ops: you know Lake County has lost its edge when the Daily Herald runs a story about a beleaguered Election Commission. And the story is not about Lake County:

Just when it looked like officials would create the first written, mutual agreement spelling out the funding and operation of the Aurora Election Commission, Kane County Board members said Thursday they would rather work toward disbanding it.
Kane to investigate disbanding Aurora Election Commission

Is something new matriculating up at the electoral college? Your LakeCountyEye asked Dr. I.M. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, Professor of Election Surprise Studies at the College of Lake County.

"Ya, some activist judge said the Lake County Election Commission was unconstitutional." said Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Since then, Lake County has had to operate without an Election Commission."

Old news to your LakeCountyEye.

"Now the Aurora Election Commission," continued Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi "has been threatening to relocate out of Kane County unless they get some generous tax concessions."

Your LakeCountyEye did not follow.

"It's that same old story you always hear in Lake County." sighed Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Local taxing bodies pony up with generous tax rebates to lure some new hotshot tech-oriented concern into their community."

Your LakeCountyEye was not exactly sure where this was leading.

"There is a secret plan in the works," confided Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi "to get the Aurora Election Commission to relocate into Lake County. They've already been promised $2.3 million in tax breaks and other concessions."

Your LakeCountyEye was taken aback.

Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi sensed your LakeCountyEye's chagrin. "Do you know how many jobs an Election Commission creates? There are more than 400 election precincts in Lake County.  And every one needs election judges, poll watchers, tech support, ward heelers, you name it.  And these precincts are spread throughout the County.  It's estimated that an Election Commission would eliminate unemployment in Lake County. Totally."

Your LakeCountyEye regained enough composure to wonder who was going to pay for it.

"It will be self-funded." smiled Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi "Lake County has been lobbying Springfield to create a new kind of TIF district. This new hybrid TIF district would extend two miles in every direction from each precinct polling location -- and would tax only new, non-residential properties, mainly commercial and retail. The extra property taxes generated from the increasing property values would more than pay for an Election Commission. Booyah!"

Your LakeCountyEye heard enough. Did Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi have any parting advice?

"County officials wish to remind your Operatives that the 2015 municipal election is just around the corner. Vote early and vote often."

Your Tax Dollars at Work

When asked for the secret to success, your LakeCountyEye always answers: Sacrifice & Hard Work.

Haha, j/k. The correct answer is: Move your company to Gurnee.

The News-Sun observed that ...

Gurnee area taxing bodies have been asked to pony up tax rebates to the tune of $2.3 million over five years to help bring the AKAHN Semiconductor corporate headquarters, tech incubator and manufacturing operations to the old Kenall facility in the Grand Tri-State Business Park.
Taxing bodies asked to pony up for tech firm eyeing Gurnee

Those taxing bodies included schools:

The requested 50 percent rebate on property taxes would total $172,000 for Woodland Elementary, $90,000 for Warren Township High School, $21,000 from Lake County, $18,000 from the park district and $10,500 from the township. The county also would rebate $500,000 in sales tax over five years.
Taxing bodies asked to pony up for tech firm eyeing Gurnee

If they teach Investing 101 at the Warren Township High School, this Daily Herald story from last week may be of interest:

Questions about the viability of a project touted by AKHAN Semiconductor -- a high-tech company being lured to Gurnee with millions of dollars in state and local incentives -- have surfaced in a complaint filed with a federal agency by a former Argonne National Laboratory executive.
Questions about AKHAN, looking to move to Gurnee, surface in complaint

Of course, $90,000 removed from any high school budget is a lot of money, even in the best of circumstances. To put that in some perspective, the Warren Township High School bully said he would need to steal a year's worth of lunch money before ever seeing $90,000.

That's all your LakeCountyEye has. Loitering between classes will not be tolerated.

Q the Eye/01.22.15

Hi,

My name is Nicholas and I work at Artsy.net. While researching Edvard Munch I found your post -- The Chicago Tribune Creepy Cartoonist™ Breeds the Screaming Memes. Great post, by the way.

I actually worked on Artsy's new Edvard Munch page and I think it would be a great resource for your readers. The newly designed page includes his bio, over 20 of his works, exclusive articles about Munch, as well as his up-to-date exhibitions -- it's a unique Edvard Munch resource.

Check out Artsy's 10 Favorite Screams to honor one of Munch's greatest works.

I'd like to suggest adding a link to Artsy's Edvard Munch page, as I believe it would benefit your readers.

Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions on how we can improve the page. I'd also love to stay in touch about future opportunities.

Best,
Nicholas

Dear Nicholas,

Your LakeCountyEye is happy to oblige anyone with a bitchin mononym. Readers of this blog, however, want to know: Who in the vorld is Edvard Munch?

Your LakeCountyEye launched an exhaustive, in-depth investigation and came up with a couple good Google hits. Did you know that Edvard Munch is the fellow who drew that famous Scream picture?

Also, did you know that Edvard Munch is regarded somewhat as the Zeppo Marx of the art world? He was overshadowed by his three, more successful, siblings -- Simon, Theodore & Alvin Munch:

This isn't to say that Munch's heirs have done badly for themselves -- they were farsighted in granting licenses to their brand:

As to your requests, it is the policy of this blog not to post complimentary links to other websites -- at least not without adequate remuneration. Contact you LakeCountyEye for a rate-card today. Be sure to ask for the goofy-named-website discount!

If you are an elected official, or a previously elected official, or just a private citizen under indictment, send your political questions to Q the Eye c/o ... LakeCountyEye@gMail.com

They Got the Guns But We Got the Guns

When it comes to concealed carry Lake County is outgunned. At least according to statistics released by the Illinois State Police. Their report, per the Daily Herald, says ...

Cook County accounts for the most active concealed carry permits with 23,921. The report doesn't distinguish suburban Cook County from Chicago. Will County follows with 6,134 active concealed carry applications. DuPage falls third in the suburbs with 5,577. Lake County saw 4,252 active concealed carry applications in 2014, followed by Kane County with 2,873. McHenry County rounds out the suburban list with 2,555 applications.
Concealed carry applications fall far short of projections

To help explain these numbers, your LakeCountyEye contacted the only straight shooter with the straight dope on concealed carry, Dr. I.M. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, Professor of Suburban Warfare at the College of Lake County.

"These are alarming statistics." Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi threw down the report. "Lake County has a population of just over 700,000.  With 4,252 concealed carry permits, that means you have to round up 165 men, women and children in Lake County before you will find someone carrying a concealed weapon."

A tall order, indeed.

"By comparison," continued Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi, "McHenry County's population is somewhat above 300,000 -- but they have 2,555 permits for concealed carry. Which works out to one weapon per every 121 persons in McHenry County. These are not healthy numbers."

Not healthy?

"It's simple math." Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi pulled out a slide-rule. "165 minus 121 equals 44. That means in every shoot-out between someone from Lake County and someone from McHenry County, there are 44 innocent bystanders from Lake County who will not be carrying a weapon. I hope your health insurance is paid up. Everyone knows how trigger-happy they are over in McHenry County."

Your LakeCountyEye had to concede the point. Even so, to illustrate his case Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi produced a recent Tweet ...

McHenry County Right to Carry Association Outlines Spring Plans

"Our alarming pistol gap has not escaped the attention of the Lake County bigshots." he said in a conspiratorial tone. "Plans are already in the works to get Lake County better weaponized."

A Pistol Gap?

"Anyone who lives near the border knows what I'm talking about." confided Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Suppose McHenry County decides to mobilize along its eastern border -- BOOM all of a sudden you have on your hands a Cuba Township pistol crisis."

A Cuba Pistol Crisis?

"I know what you are thinking." squinted Dr. Bhatschidtkhrazzi. "Why doesn't Lake County build a defensive shield instead? Well do you have any idea how much a Kevlar Wars type of Pistol Defense System will cost?"

Your LakeCountyEye heard enough. Was there any parting advice?

"Tell your Operatives that a well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed!"

Guantanamo: A Persistent Legal Stain on the American Justice System

Adlai Stevenson Center on Democracy

Distinguished Chicago lawyer Lowell Sachnoff will discuss ways in which President Barack Obama could close the Guantanamo facilities before his second term ends in two years. Since 2002, when the United States military went into Afghanistan after the September 11, 2001 terrorists attacks, more than 775 men have been held for various periods of time at the prison. Several have died in captivity; many have been returned to their home countries or other nations; and many remain at the prison without any charges having been filed against them.

• Sunday
  January 25, 2015
  2:00 pm
• The Stevenson Center on Democracy
  25200 N St Mary's Rd
  Mettawa (Libertyville), IL 60048
  773- 281-0378
• Admission: $15

So Sewer Me

As sure as the tide goes in the tide goes out, the on-again-off-again Lake County sewer line to a Grayslake truck terminal is on again. On-Again in the sense that it is a done deal. The News-Sun says ...

Opposition from municipalities in central Lake County wasn't enough to stop the County Board from voting Tuesday, Jan. 12, to approve a sewer line for property that Grayslake officials are looking to develop as a trucking terminal.
Lake County OKs sewer service to controversial trucking hub proposal

The sewer line, needed for a proposed truck terminal near Mundelein, is so unpopular that County Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor tried to sneak it through a special County Board meeting, called last December:

Lake County Board's trucking proposal hearing questioned

Lawlor, for the record, is the noted star of the local cable series ...

Lake County’s Dirty Jobs

which showcases some of the dirty jobs performed by the Lake County government. Lawlor was most recently in Vernon Hills, shoveling sewer sludge at a wastewater treatment plant:

Lake County Board Chairman Lawlor gets dirty for new cable TV program

What's up next? The uninformed sources say filming has already begun on a new Lake County Dirty Jobs video: Look for Lawlor digging a sewer line from the Lake County Central Permit Facility in Libertyville to a new truck terminal in Grayslake.

That's all your LakeCountyEye has. Please evacuate immediately. Or get off the pot.

The Global Optimum

Mark Kirk -- the only US Senator living in Lake County -- shot off his mouth last week. Kirk told a reporter at the E&E Daily that global warming isn't caused by greenhouse gas emissions. To prove it, he cited Greenland as evidence, stating that Greenland was green back in the day of Leif Erikson, which coincided with a period of exceptional planetary warmth known as the global optimum.

Kirk now is backpedaling from these comments. The Chicago Tribune reports that ...

After criticism from environmental groups, Sen. Mark Kirk said Thursday that climate change is real and human activity contributes to it.
Sen. Kirk clarifies view on climate change

Kirk did not backtrack on his claim that Greenland was green in the time of Lief Erikson, some 1,000 years ago -- during a period known as the global optimum, a time of climate warming. For the record, Greenland has been covered by an ice sheet for 110,000 years. Additionally, global optimum is not a term of climate science, and it is unknown what Kirk meant by it.

Your LakeCountyEye will keep you apprised as further developments warrant. Until then, Operatives are challenged to match-up the individuals pictured below with a recent quotation of theirs:

Quotable Notables: Who Said It?
Grandpa Simpson	"Like the time I caught the ferry over to Shelbyville. I needed a new heel for my shoe, so, I decided to go to Morganville, which is what they called Shelbyville in those days. So I tied an onion to my belt, which was the style at the time. Now, to take the ferry cost a nickel, and in those days, nickels had pictures of bumblebees on 'em. Gimme five bees for a quarter, you'd say. Now where were we? Oh yeah: the important thing was I had an onion on my belt, which was the style at the time. They didn't have white onions because of the war."
Mark Kirk	"We had the previous warming period, which was called the global optimum, and the best way to talk about that is when Leif Erickson went west from his home, he discovered a landmass that he called Greenland, because it was," Kirk said after Senate Republicans' first weekly caucus lunch. "And that was called the global optimum, because the planet was much warmer. By calling Greenland 'green land,' we know that the climate has been changing pretty regularly within recorded memory."

Ultima Phule

Lake County US Senator and favorite son Mark Kirk may have changed the course of history this week. Kirk explained the facts behind global warming to the E&E News:

"We had the previous warming period, which was called the global optimum, and the best way to talk about that is when Leif Erickson went west from his home, he discovered a landmass that he called Greenland, because it was," Kirk said after Senate Republicans' first weekly caucus lunch. "And that was called the global optimum, because the planet was much warmer. By calling Greenland 'green land,' we know that the climate has been changing pretty regularly within recorded memory."
Kirk disavows climate change ahead of expected Senate vote

Your LakeCountyEye did some fact checking and learned that the Greenland ice sheet is actually 110,000 years old:

Greenland ice sheet

In comparison, if Leif Erickson (c. 970 – c. 1020) was alive today, he would be a sprightly 1045 years old:

Leif Erickson

As far as the global optimum goes, it's some mathematical thingy dealio:

In mathematics, a global optimum is a selection from a given domain which provides either the highest value (the global maximum) or lowest value (the global minimum), depending on the objective, when a specific function is applied.
Global optimum

How long has Mark Kirk been in Washington? He may be drinking the Kool-Aid. Or something.

Scoop the Poop

The thought of slowly descending into the bowels of a sludge pit doesn't automatically bring to mind Aaron Lawlor. But it will if the Daily Herald has any say on the matter:

"A lot of people don't know what county government does," Lawlor said before his descent into the stinky pit. "By coming out and getting my hands dirty, I think we're showing them what Lake County does in a very interesting way."
Lake County Board Chairman Lawlor gets dirty for new cable TV program

Haha, Lake County Chairman Aaron Lawlor put on his protective gear and shot a photo-op in a Lake County water treatment facility. For those Ops with a strong stomach, here is the raw video:

Dirty Job

Lawlor will be starring in a series of educational videos, themed around the dirty jobs performed by the Lake County government. This is an apparent effort to raise the brand awareness -- either for Lake County government or for Aaron Lawlor.

Look for Lawlor to take on some of these dirty jobs, in the near future:

• State Representative
• State Senator
• US Congressman

Dirty jobs all. But somebody has to do them.

99 Pennies for Your Thoughts

Your LakeCountyEye is betraying no secrets to reveal that the planetary odometer rolled over to 2015 on Thursday morning. Of course along with every New Year come the obligatory New Year's resolutions -- of which your LakeCountyEye has two this year:

1. No More Recycled Jokes
2. No More Cheap Shots at the Daily Herald

Your LakeCountyEye will keep a tally sheet and scores will be posted on Dec 31. Until then, the Daily Herald wants your input:

The Daily Herald considers its letters space to be a forum for unfettered community conversation. We strive to publish as many of the letters we receive as possible, with subjects ranging from a simple observation about life in a local community to a passionate discussion about controversial local, national or international issues.
Join the suburban conversation on our editorial page

Your chance to join the suburban conversation is just one click away ...

Join the suburban conversation on our editorial page

Note to Ops: Give the mailman your letter to the the Herald. A first class stamp is only 49¢.