July 28 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Donald Trump replaces Reince Priebus with John Kelly as chief of staff
http://abc7chicago.com/news/donald-trump-replaces-reince-priebus-with-john-kelly-as-chief-of-staff/2258023/
— GOP blame-game begins after Senate sinks health care drive – AP
http://abc7chicago.com/politics/gop-blame-game-begins-after-senate-sinks-health-care-drive/2256887/

 

NBC5
— First Lady Has Complicated Relationship with SB-1 – Mary Ann Ahern and Carol Marin
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/WEB-deep-dish-diana-rauner-bruce-rauner-illinois-democrats-437258393.html

 

CBS2
— Trump Says He Has Chicago’s Crime Problem Solved
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/28/trump-crime-problem-solved/

 

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Man shot dead on Near North Side is 400th homicide this year
http://www.fox32chicago.com/news/crime/270625847-story

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Trump ousts Reince Priebus as chief of staff, names Gen. John Kelly as replacement – AP
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/ct-donald-trump-reince-priebus-john-kelly-20170728-story.html
— Illinois election officials to review new request from Trump-formed panel for voter data – Rick Pearson
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-donald-trump-illinois-elections-met-0729-20170728-story.html
— How an obscure procedural move became latest flashpoint for Rauner, Democrats – Monique Garcia
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-bruce-rauner-democrats-legislation-on-hold-met-20170728-story.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Trumps say “Trump in August” and ask “Can his flailing presidency ever deliver results?”
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-trump-presidency-failure-edit-0730-20170728-story.html

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— CPS finds fewer school-funding allies in suburbs – Mark Brown
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/brown-cps-finds-fewer-school-funding-allies-in-suburbs/
— Trump hits Chicago crime again in New York speech – Lynn Sweet
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/transcript-trump-hits-chicago-crime-again-in-new-york-speech/
— Crime on the L, CTA buses is up; 90% of serious incidents go unsolved – Robert Herguth and Nader Issa
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/crime-on-cta-l-trains-buses-up-but-90-percent-of-serious-incidents-go-unsolved-the-watchdogs/
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Trumps and anti-Republicans crow over their success in demonizing, denigrating, and condemning Trump and Republicans.
http://chicago.suntimes.com/opinion/editorial-gop-lost-on-health-care-because-most-americans-have-a-heart/
http://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/lyons-buyers-remorse-over-trump-creeps-in-flyover-country/
— All Americans deserve the same health care as Sen. John McCain – Phil Kadner  (DIERSEN: What did you do to qualify for the health care insurance that you have now?  I worked for the federal government for almost 30 years to be a member of the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program (https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/healthcare/). What did you do to qualify for Medicare?  I paid into Medicare 1964-1966, 1970 – 1972, and 1983-1997.)
http://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/kadner-all-americans-deserve-the-same-health-care-as-sen-john-mccain/
— Mayor Emanuel denies president’s repeated claim on city crime – Micheal Sneed
http://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago-politics/sneed-mayor-emanuel-denies-presidents-repeated-claim-on-city-crime/

 

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— Rauner’s special session a sideshow to fomenting downstate-Chicago clash – RICH MILLER
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170728/NEWS02/170729854/rauners-special-session-a-sideshow-to-fomenting-downstate-chicago
— Fact-checking the school funding fight – GREG HINZ
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170728/BLOGS02/170729857/school-funding-battle-is-loaded-with-fuzzy-springfield-style-math
— GOP blame game begins after Senate sinks health care drive – AP
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170728/NEWS03/170729860/gop-blame-game-begins-after-senate-sinks-health-care-drive

 

EFFINGHAM RADIO
— New Poll: Rauner Approval Rating 34-Percent  (DIERSEN: What is your approval rating?  My approval rating is very low with those who are anti-Trump, anti-Protestant, anti-conservative, anti-Republican, anti-American, anti-White, anti-male, anti-older people, anti-rich people, anti-gun owners, anti-German Americans, anti-draft avoiders (except Bill Clinton), and/or anti-those whose ancestors have been in America longer than their ancestors because I am a Trump supporter, Protestant, conservative, Republican, American, White, male, old (68), rich, gun owner, 100% German American, draft avoider, and my ancestors have been in America since the 1840s.)
http://www.effinghamradio.com/2017/07/28/new-poll-rauner-approval-rating-34-percent/

 

BELOIT DAILY NEWS
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: 19 ATTORNEYS GENERAL PROMOTE LGBTQ ACTIVITY IN THE MILITARY
http://www.beloitdailynews.com/article/20170728/AP/307289819

 

WAND
— Republican and Democrats name education funding reform negotiators – Michon Lindstrom
http://www.wandtv.com/story/35998074/republican-and-democrats-name-education-funding-reform-negotiators
(FROM THE ARTICLE: The Republicans assigned to negotiate are Senator Jason Barickman, R-Bloomington, Senator Dan McConchie, R-Hawthorn Woods, Representative Avery Bourne, R-Raymond and Representative Bob Pritchard, R-Hinkley.  The Republicans released a statement late Friday afternoon that urged for quick negotiations.)

 

CHICAGO CITY WIRE
— State reps skip legislative session, volunteer as CPS janitors
http://chicagocitywire.com/stories/511162848-state-reps-skip-legislative-session-volunteer-as-cps-janitors

 

DUPAGE POLICY JOURNAL
— Durkin demands Democrats get back to work on school funding bill – Hoang Tran
http://dupagepolicyjournal.com/stories/511162915-durkin-demands-democrats-get-back-to-work-on-school-funding-bill

 

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Temporary Restraining Order sought to halt NIU Presidential Golden Parachute payout – JOHN KRAFT
http://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2017/07/temporary-restraining-order-sought-to-halt-niu-presidential-golden-parachute-payout/
— Shirley Madigan’s Illinois Arts Council stonewalling public records requests again – JOHN KRAFT
http://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2017/07/shirley-madigans-illinois-arts-council-stonewalling-public-records-requests-again/

 

ILLINOIS POLICY INSTITUTE
— ILLINOIS’ JOBS GROWTH WORSE THAN EVERY NEIGHBORING STATE – Austin Berg and Kevin Angell
https://www.illinoispolicy.org/illinois-jobs-growth-worse-than-every-neighboring-state/

 

CAPITOL FAX
— Annual State Fair Democrat Day rally canceled
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/28/annual-state-fair-democrat-day-rally-canceled/
— Cullerton appoints – GOP urges quick negotiations – Durkin, Brady appoint negotiators *** Madigan responds to Rauner offer, appoints two members to negotiate
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/28/madigan-responds-to-rauner-offer-appoints-two-members-to-negotiate/
— Martire: Tax hike still leaves Illinois $2.5 billion short
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/28/martire-tax-hike-still-leaves-illinois-25-billion-short/
— New ILGOP video: “Get back to work”
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/28/new-ilgop-video-get-back-to-work/

 

AMERICAN CONSERVATIVE
— American Failure – ROD DREHER
https://www.theamericanconservative.com/dreher/american-failure/

 

CNN
— Reince Priebus out, John Kelly in as White House chief of staff – Jeremy Diamond
http://www.cnn.com/2017/07/28/politics/john-kelly-chief-of-staff/index.html
— Reince Priebus, shortest-serving chief of staff in White House history – Grace Hauck, Dylan Stafford and Ryan Struyk  (DIERSEN: Despite my Democrat superiors’ tremendous efforts to get rid of me, I survived a) almost 18 years as a GAO employee 1980-1997, b) almost 9 years as an IRS employee 1971-1980, and c) almost 3 years as a Post Office employee 1966-1969.)
http://www.cnn.com/2017/07/28/politics/reince-priebus-chief-of-staff-white-house-history/index.html

 

NEW YORK TIMES
— Reince Priebus Pushed Out After Rocky Tenure as Trump Chief of Staff – PETER BAKER and MAGGIE HABERMAN
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/28/us/politics/reince-priebus-white-house-trump.html

 

WASHINGTON POST
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Trumps demonize, denigrate, and condemn rich people.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/being-rich-wrecks-your-soul-we-used-to-know-that/2017/07/28/7d3e2b90-5ab3-11e7-9fc6-c7ef4bc58d13_story.html

 

WALL STREET JOURNAL
— Trump Names Homeland Security Secretary John Kelly as New Chief of Staff  Kelly to replace former Chief of Staff Reince Priebus – Rebecca Ballhaus and Peter Nicholas
https://www.wsj.com/articles/trump-names-homeland-security-secretary-john-kelly-as-new-chief-of-staff-1501275333

 

NEWSWEEK
— TRUMP’S DONE LITTLE TO STOP CHICAGO’S GUN ‘CARNAGE’ – AIDAN QUIGLEY (DIERSEN: What did Obama do to stop the carnage?)
http://www.newsweek.com/trumps-done-little-stop-chicagos-gun-carnage-643602

 

GOVERNMENT EXECUTIVE
— Ten Republicans Urge Oversight Committee Chair Not to Cut Retirement Benefits for Feds – Erich Wagner  (DIERSEN: How many Republican federal employees and Republican federal retirees live in your precinct, your municipality, in your township/ward, in your county, and in Illinois?  How viciously are they targeted?)
http://www.govexec.com/pay-benefits/2017/07/republicans-pen-letter-disavowing-retirement-cuts-feds/139794/
(FROM THE ARTICLE: It also would . . . reduce COLAs for Civil Service Retirement System workers by 0.5 percent. The Republicans who wrote Wednesday’s letter cited the “significant numbers of federal workers” in their districts, and said those people “have already sacrificed” in the name of deficit reduction. Signatories were Reps. Rob Bishop, R-Utah; Tom Cole, R-Okla.; Rob Wittman, R-Va.; Chris Smith, R-N.J.; Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa.; Barbara Comstock, R-Va.; Walter Jones, R-N.C.; Frank LoBiondo, R-N.J.; Peter King, R-N.Y.; and Austin Scott, R-Ga. “Our strongest objection is how the proposals break a promise to employees and retirees who have based career planning on longstanding promised benefit calculations,” the lawmakers wrote. “They and their families don’t deserve to be treated in this cavalier manner. No one needs to remind us of the deficit and the debt problem our nation faces, but federal employees are an easy political target.”)

 

FEDERAL NEWS RADIO
— 10 House Republicans and 18 senators speak out against federal retirement cuts – Nicole Ogrysko
https://federalnewsradio.com/your-money/2017/07/10-republicans-remind-oversight-leader-of-their-opposition-to-federal-retirement-cuts/
— Last-minute Veterans Choice funding bill filled with key VA hiring flexibilities – Nicole Ogrysko (DIERSEN: GAO hired me in 1980 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, younger person, or veteran who would take the job.  IRS hired me in 1971 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, or veteran who would take the job.  The Post Office hired me in 1966 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, or veteran who would take the job.)
https://federalnewsradio.com/veterans-affairs/2017/07/last-minute-veterans-choice-funding-bill-filled-with-key-va-hiring-flexibilities/

 

DAILY KOS
— The Government Accountability Office is investigating Trump’s abuses against the ACA – Walter Einenkel
https://www.dailykos.com/stories/1684591

July 26 Evening Edition

ABC7
— Illinois school funding bill in limbo as special session starts – Craig Wall
http://abc7chicago.com/education/illinois-school-funding-bill-in-limbo-as-special-session-starts/2251809/
— Trump says transgender people should be barred from military – AP
http://abc7chicago.com/politics/trump-says-transgender-people-should-be-barred-from-military/2251456/

 

NBC5
— Madigan Says He Believes House May Override Rauner’s SB 1 Veto – Mary Ann Ahern
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/rauner-cullerton-madigan-special-session-436830663.html
— Lawmakers Hold ‘Service Day’ in Protest of Special Session – Kye Martin
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/cassidy-williams-boycott-special-session-436766003.html
— Trump Calls Out Chicago’s Violence After Sending Feds to City
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/Trump-Calls-Out-Chicagos-Violence-After-Sending-Feds-to-City-436749943.html

 

CBS2
— Day One Of Special Session For School Funding Ended In No Decision – Derrick Blakely
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/26/special-session-school-funding/
— Public Gets First Say At Full City Council Meeting; ‘Why Did It Take So Long?’ – Craig Dellimore
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/26/city-council-first-public-comments/

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Despite new Trump threat, Emanuel holds onto sanctuary city stance – Hal Dardick and John Byrne  (DIERSEN: Ever-increasingly, anti-Trumps put foreign countries and their citizens ahead of America and its citizens. Ever-increasingly, anti-Trumps talk and act like they intend to use foreign countries, mainly Mexico, and their citizens to get rid of America and its citizens.)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-chicago-city-council-roundup-met-0727-20170726-story.html
— Cullerton won’t send Rauner school funding bill until Monday – Monique Garcia
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-bruce-rauner-special-session-met-0727-20170726-story.html
— Local Democrats attack Trump over tweet about transgender troops in the military – Katherine Skiba
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-transgender-ban-illinois-congress-met-0726-20170726-story.html
— With school scheduled to start next month, Aurora schools are still waiting on state funding – Sarah Freishtat
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/aurora-beacon-news/news/ct-abn-aurora-school-funding-st-0727-20170726-story.html
— Chicagoans get chance to speak at City Council meeting, but doesn’t mean they were heard – John Byrne and Hal Dardick
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-chicago-city-council-public-comment-met-20170726-story.html
— Transgender veterans take issue with Trump’s tweets – Leonor Vivanco
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-transgender-military-chicago-met-20170726-story.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Ever-increasingly, anti-Trumps promote gender confusion.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/glanton/ct-transgender-military-ban-dahleen-glanton-met-20170731-column.html
— Mr. Madigan, Mr. Cullerton, Wisconsin thanks you for blocking Illinois reforms – Editorial
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-foxconn-madigan-cullerton-rauner-edit-0727-md-20170726-story.html
— Boy Scouts president expected fiery Trump speech – AP
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/ct-boy-scouts-fiery-trump-speech-20170726-story.html

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Rauner camp calls Cullerton’s ‘mental state’ remark ‘inappropriate’ – Tina Sfondeles
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/rauner-camp-calls-cullertons-mental-state-remark-inappropriate/
— Trump slaps Rahm: ‘Better tell that mayor to get tough’ – Lynn Sweet
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/trump-slaps-rahm-better-tell-that-mayor-to-get-tough/
— Republican ‘repeal-only’ health care measure fails in Senate – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/republican-repeal-only-health-care-measure-fails-in-senate/
— Public participation at City Council meetings begins — within limits – Amanda Svachula
http://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago-politics/public-participation-at-city-council-meetings-begins-within-limits/
— Trump leaves transgender troops in limbo – Lynn Sweet
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/sweet-trump-leaves-transgender-troops-in-limbo/
— Waiting for Gov. Rauner to show true colors on immigration – Editorial
http://chicago.suntimes.com/opinion/editorial-waiting-for-gov-rauner-to-show-true-colors-on-immigration/

 

DAILY HERALD
— Dr. Ann Rondeau Celebrates First Year at College of DuPage
http://www.dailyherald.com/submitted/20170726/dr-ann-rondeau-celebrates-first-year-at-college-of-dupage

 

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— Illinois loses huge Foxconn factory to Wisconsin – AP
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170726/NEWS05/170729898/illinois-loses-huge-foxconn-factory-to-wisconsin
— Illinois lets Edge die as Wisconsin gets Foxconn – GREG HINZ
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170726/BLOGS02/170729887/illinois-lets-edge-die-as-wisconsin-gets-foxconn
— Illinois Dems outraged over Trump’s ban on transgender soldiers – GREG HINZ
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170726/BLOGS02/170729889/illinois-dems-outraged-over-trumps-ban-on-transgender-soldiers
— Chicago chamber beefs up lobbying team – GREG HINZ
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170726/BLOGS02/170729892/chicago-chamber-beefs-up-lobbying-team

 

WTTW
— Local Republicans Kent Gray, Joe Walsh, and Pat Brady React to the Turmoil in Washington – Paul Caine
http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2017/07/26/local-republicans-react-turmoil-washington

 

BLOOMINGTON PANTAGRAPH
— Madigan says governor won’t compromise on ed bill – AP
http://www.pantagraph.com/news/state-and-regional/illinois/government-and-politics/madigan-says-governor-won-t-compromise-on-ed-bill/article_0ba8117e-480f-5661-ae76-62a51627f006.html
— Rauner signs lawmaker cost freeze into law – AP (DIERSEN: I should write a book about my Democrat superiors, supervisors, coworkers, and subordinates in the federal government who successfully got IRS to officially investigate (that is, to disallow) my $5 a day partial day per diem requests in 1974 (SEE: http://www.gao.gov/products/463866).)
http://www.pantagraph.com/news/state-and-regional/illinois/government-and-politics/rauner-signs-lawmaker-cost-freeze-into-law/article_0ba8117e-480f-5661-ae76-62a51627f006.html
(FROM THE ARTICLE: Special session can run about $48,000 for a single day. The new law keeps that rate the same. It’ll freeze legislator per diem at $111, instead of jumping to $142. It’ll also keep mileage reimbursement at 39 cents per mile, instead of about 54 cents.)

 

FOX BUSINESS
— Illinois Lawmakers Back in Session — And Clashing With Governor – Quint Forgey
http://www.foxbusiness.com/features/2017/07/26/illinois-lawmakers-back-in-session-and-clashing-with-governor.html

 

NPR ILLINOIS
— School Funding Special Session Keeps Legislators & Gov. At Odds – RACHEL OTWELL & DAISY CONTRERAS
http://nprillinois.org/post/school-funding-special-session-keeps-legislators-gov-odds#stream/0

 

KFVS
— IL Gov. Rauner holds press conference – Amber Ruch
http://www.kfvs12.com/story/35975811/watch-il-gov-rauner-holds-press-conference

 

WJBD RADIO
— Student-Loan Forgiveness Has Halted Under Trump  Disclosure Made in Letter from Top Education Official to Senator Dick Durbin
http://www.wjbdradio.com/local-news/2017/07/26/records-studentloan-forgiveness-has-halted-under-trump

 

WROK
— William J. Kelly, Candidate for Illinois Governor, Visits with the WROK Morning Show – Riley O’Neil
http://1440wrok.com/william-j-kelly-candidate-for-illinois-governor-visits-with-the-wrok-morning-show/

 

COOK COUNTY RECORD
— Taxes hiked, Democrats blamed, but how much will Republicans be boosted in 2018? – Olivia Olsen
http://cookcountyrecord.com/stories/511147737-taxes-hiked-democrats-blamed-but-how-much-will-republicans-be-boosted-in-2018

 

SUBURBAN LIFE
— Wheaton City Council members voice support for moving historic mansion – ERIC SCHELKOPF
http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2017/07/25/wheaton-city-council-members-voice-support-for-moving-historic-mansion/asg3y52/

 

DUPAGE POLICY JOURNAL
— Durkin argues that Democratic games won’t keep schools from opening – Hoang Tran
http://dupagepolicyjournal.com/stories/511158602-durkin-argues-that-democratic-games-won-t-keep-schools-from-opening

 

SAGAMON SUN
— Batinick labels Senate education funding bill a Chicago-biased scam – Giovanni Whaley
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511155776-batinick-labels-senate-education-funding-bill-a-chicago-biased-scam
— Rauner demands end to ‘outrageous’ hold on school funding bill – Hoang Tran
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511158599-rauner-demands-end-to-outrageous-hold-on-school-funding-bill

 

REBOOT ILLINOIS
— The influence of unions in 2018 Illinois gubernatorial race: Predictable or wildcard?
https://rebootillinois.com/2017/07/26/influence-unions-2018-gubernatorial-race-predictable-wildcard/

 

ILLINOIS LEAKS
— Village of Wheeling makes up own definition of “public records” – JOHN KRAFT
http://edgarcountywatchdogs.com/2017/07/village-of-wheeling-makes-up-own-definition-of-public-records/

 

ILLINOIS POLICY INSTITUTE
— RESOLUTION WOULD CREATE SPECIAL STATE TASK FORCE ON PROPERTY TAX APPEALS – Brendan Bakala
https://www.illinoispolicy.org/resolution-would-create-special-state-task-force-on-property-tax-appeals/

 

ILLINOIS FAMILY INSTITUTE
— Pres. Trump Restores Sanity for Military Personnel – Laurie Higgins
https://illinoisfamily.org/uncategorized/pres-trump-restores-sanity-military-personnel/

 

CAPITOL FAX
— Madigan says House won’t get a chance to accept Rauner changes
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/26/madigan-predicts-av-override-wont-make-it-to-the-house/
— “That didn’t happen” *** Rauner makes another claim about Cullerton’s subservience to Madigan
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/26/rauner-makes-another-claim-about-cullertons-subserviance-to-madigan/
— ILGOP claims Pritzker’s SB 1 support means he “works for Mike Madigan”
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/26/ilgop-claims-pritzkers-sb-1-support-means-he-works-for-mike-madigan/
— Cullerton says he hasn’t released SB 1 “because of the mental state of the governor”
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/26/cullerton-says-he-hasnt-released-sb-1-because-of-the-mental-state-of-the-governor/
— Rauner won’t answer questions about his own possible conflict of interest
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/26/rauner-wont-answer-questions-about-his-own-possible-conflict-of-interest/
— Cullerton contradicts Rauner, says he plans to send SB 1 to him Monday *** Rauner again blames Madigan, ridicules Cullerton
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/26/rauner-again-blames-madigan-ridicules-cullerton/

 

TOWNHALL
— Senate Kills ‘Plan A’ and ‘Plan B’ Obamacare Replacement, Including ‘Clean Repeal’ – Guy Benson
https://townhall.com/tipsheet/guybenson/2017/07/26/update-senate-rejects-gop-plans-a-and-b-on-obamacare-repeal-with-many-gop-defections-n2360262

 

NEWSMAX
— Rep. Adam Kinzinger: Trump’s Barbs on Sessions ‘Childish’ – Sandy Fitzgerald
http://www.newsmax.com/Politics/adam-kinzinger-trump-barbs-jeff-sessions/2017/07/26/id/803942/
— Obamacare Repeal Fails Early in Senate’s Healthcare Debate
http://www.newsmax.com/Headline/Obamacare-repeal-fails-Senate/2017/07/26/id/803987/

 

GOPUSA
— OUTSTANDING: Justice Department issues new financial warning to sanctuary cities
http://www.gopusa.com/?p=27714
— TRAGIC: Legalized marijuana has brought huge black market problems to Colorado  (DIERSEN: The more that pot is pushed legally, the more that pot is pushed illegally.)
http://www.gopusa.com/?p=27757

 

COLLEGE FIX
— Princeton’s new ‘men’s engagement manager’ to combat aggressive masculinity on campus – TONI AIRAKSINEN
https://www.thecollegefix.com/post/34858/

 

BALLOT PEDIA
— 15.3% of American workers are on the government payroll – Scott Rasmussen
https://ballotpedia.org/Scott_Rasmussen%27s_Number_of_the_Day

 

WASHINGTON POST
— The overwhelmingly white White House intern class photo, and why it matters – Nicole Lewis  (DIERSEN: Anti-Trumps shout at everyone, but especially at younger people, that Trump is a racist, a sexist, and bigot and even worse things.)
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2017/07/26/the-overwhelmingly-white-white-house-intern-class-photo-and-why-it-matters/

 

WALL STREET JOURNAL
— Senate Rejects Bill to Repeal ACA Without Replacement  Seven Republicans join Democrats in voting against the proposal – Kristina Peterson
https://www.wsj.com/articles/senate-set-to-reject-bill-to-repeal-aca-without-replacement-1501099930
— Trump Again Criticizes Sessions, This Time Over FBI Leadership – Rebecca Ballhaus  (DIERSEN: What do your critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes criticize you about?  Mine criticize just about everything that I do or do not do, but especially what I do and do not do as your GOPUSA Illinois Editor.  Previously, they focused on what I did and did not do as a TAPROOT Republicans of Illinois chairman, Wheaton Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee member, Milton Township Republican Central Committee webmaster, Illinois Center Right Coalition Steering Committee member, American Association of Political Consultants Midwest Chapter board member, GAO employee, IRS employee, etc.)
https://www.wsj.com/articles/trump-again-criticizes-sessions-this-time-over-fbi-leadership-1501084563

July 25 Evening Edition

GOPUSA ILLINOIS
— The DuPage County Election Commission (DCEC) will vote at its meeting tomorrow, Wednesday, July 26, 2017, at 3:00 P.M., in Room 3-500A, 421 North County Farm Road in Wheaton to approve proposed precinct modifications. If approved, a) 61 new precincts will be added for a total of 930 precincts, b) 49,377 (7.89%) of the county’s 626,174 voters will be affected by the modifications, and c) less than 5% will vote in a new polling place.  For additional information, visit:
http://www.dupageco.org/default.aspx. I will attend the meeting, and like I did 2 years ago, I will ask that the DCEC directly notify elected Precinct Committeemen in a tamely manner of proposed modifications a) to their precincts and b) to their precinct’s polling place. – Dave Diersen
https://gopillinois.com

 

ABC7
— By a hair, Senate votes to debate GOP health care bill – AP
http://abc7chicago.com/politics/by-a-hair-senate-votes-to-debate-gop-health-care-bill/2249336/

 

NBC5
— After Calling Special Session, Rauner Plans Unusual Joint Meeting With GOP Caucus – Mary Ann Ahern
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/After-Calling-Special-Session-Rauner-Plans-First-Ever-Joint-Meeting-With-GOP-Caucus-436525003.html
— 2 House Democrats to Boycott Special Session as School Funding Battle Heats Up – Mary Ann Ahern
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/house-democrats-boycott-education-special-session-illinois-436612793.html
— IRS Sees Big Drop in Identity Theft, Stolen Tax Refunds In 2015, identity thieves stole nearly 700,000 fraudulent tax refunds from the IRS. Last year, the number dropped to 377,000 – Stephen Ohlemacher
http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/business/IRS-Drop-Identity-Theft-Stolen-Tax-Refunds–436546963.html 

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Senate Republicans dive into debate on revamping Obamacare despite party divisions – Sean Sullivan, Juliet Eilperin and Kelsey Snell
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/ct-senate-health-care-vote-20170725-story.html
— So when will the Illinois lottery fund education? – John Kass
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/kass/ct-illinois-education-spending-kass-0726-20170725-column.html
— How to save school funding reform – Editorial
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-rauner-school-funding-veto-edit-20170724-story.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: An anti-Trump asks “How much did Anthony Scaramucci sell his soul for?”
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/huppke/ct-scaramucci-trump-huppke-20170724-story.html
— Early supporter gets a Trump slap  President’s tweet chides Sessions as doubts cloud future – Joseph Tanfani (DIERSEN: I should write a book about my critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes who have slapped me.  They all count on me keeping my policy of forgiving those who trespass against me. But I am reconsidering that policy.)
https://www.pressreader.com/usa/chicago-tribune/20170725/281655370139894
— Can millennials afford a future in Illinois? – Elizabeth Greiwe
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/commentary/ct-millennials-illinois-future-perspec-0726-20170725-story.html
— DISGUSTING, OUTRAGEOUS: Pawar crime plan: Legalize marijuana, end cash bail – Rick Pearson
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-ameya-pawar-crime-plan-met-0726-20170725-story.html
— Diana Rauner appears in new ad praising governor’s support for education – Kim Geiger
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-bruce-diana-rauner-ad-met-20170725-story.html

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Trump: Senate moved ‘one step closer’ to ending ‘Obamacare nightmare’ – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/senate-votes-on-whether-to-begin-debate-on-health-care-bill/
— OUTSTANDING: DOJ rules intensify crackdown on sanctuary cities like Chicago – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/doj-rules-intensify-crackdown-on-sanctuary-cities-like-chicago/
— Hundreds take to the streets — of Winnetka — to protest day care cuts – Stefano Esposito
http://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago-politics/hundreds-take-to-the-streets-of-winnetka-to-protest-daycare-cuts/
— Next big Springfield battle is about nothing – Phil Kadner
http://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/rauner-vs-madigan-in-the-illinois-madhouse/
— Downstate knows more about its schools than first lady does – Mark Brown
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/brown-downstate-knows-more-about-its-schools-than-first-lady-does/
— John McCain votes ‘aye’ with GOP, but says no to ‘tribal’ politics – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/mccain-warns-senate-divisions-lead-to-spinning-our-wheels/
— Trump’s political speech to Scout jamboree inspires parental outrage – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/trumps-political-speech-to-scouts-inspires-parental-outrage/

 

DAILY HERALD
— The deepening prospect that classes won’t open on time – Editorial
http://www.dailyherald.com/discuss/20170724/editorial-the-deepening-prospect-that-classes-wont-open-on-time
— 5 ways the new state budget could affect your business – Anna Marie Kukec
http://www.dailyherald.com/business/20170724/5-ways-the-new-state-budget-could-affect-your-business
— Winfield neighbors give a surprise send-off for retiring mailman – Katlyn Smith (DIERSEN: I worked for the Park Forest Post Office part-time 1966-1969 while I was a full-time UIC student and then a full-time NIU student. What plan did you have when you graduated from high school? I had an acceptance letter from UIC when I graduated from Crete-Monee High School in 1966. However, many, if not most, if not virtually everyone viewed me as not being “college material.” Neither of my parents had attended college. My father was the first of his ancestors to earn a high school diploma. My mother never attended high school. I spent my junior and senior years and the summer in between washing dishes for the minimum wage in the basement of the S.S. Kresges in Chicago Heights.)
http://www.dailyherald.com/news/20170724/winfield-neighbors-give-a-surprise-send-off-for-retiring-mailman
— District 15 preparing to distribute 4,400 laptops to students – Bob Susnjara
http://www.dailyherald.com/news/20170725/district-15-preparing-to-distribute-4400-laptops-to-students
— With animals in place, DuPage County Fair ready to open
http://www.dailyherald.com/news/20170725/with-animals-in-place-dupage-county-fair-ready-to-open
— 9 new things at the DuPage County Fair – Katlyn Smith
http://www.dailyherald.com/news/20170725/9-new-things-to-expect-at-the-dupage-county-fair
— McCain’s return for ‘Obamacare’ repeal heavy with drama – AP
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20170725/news/307259985/

 

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— Sweet deal: This $1.7 million house gets just a $3,000 property tax bill – GREG HINZ  (DIERSEN: I have owned real estate since 1972 and my wife and I have owned real estate since 1978.  All during that time, my critics/opponents, their operatives and their dupes have hinted/implied/argued/shouted first that me, and then that my wife and I, should pay higher real estate taxes.)
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170725/BLOGS02/170729909/sweet-deal-this-1-7-million-house-gets-just-a-3000-property-tax-bill

 

DNA INFO
— Thieves On The 606 Knocking People Off Bikes And Beating, Robbing Them – Alisa Hauser
https://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20170723/logan-square/thieves-on-606-knocking-people-off-bikes-then-beating-robbing-them#new_tab

 

CHAMPAIGN/URBANA NEWS GAZETTE
— Sen. Brady wins promotion – Editorial
http://www.news-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2017-07-25/sen-brady-wins-promotion.html

 

  1. LOUIS POST DISPATCH
    — When it comes to Trump, Illinois is from Mars, Missouri from Venus – Chuck Raasch
    http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/when-it-comes-to-trump-illinois-is-from-mars-missouri/article_4791c50a-fa37-5314-8c5e-2297b95f6184.html

 

WIRE POINTS
— The Education Funding Bill is a Monstrosity of Unknown Proportions – Mark Glennon
http://www.wirepoints.com/the-education-funding-bill-is-a-monstrosity-of-unknown-proportions-wirepoints-original/

 

COOK COUNTY RECORD
— Budget won’t pull IL out of financial straits; Residents can ‘look forward’ to more taxes, U of C prof says – Kacie Whaley
http://cookcountyrecord.com/stories/511149916-budget-won-t-pull-il-out-of-financial-straits-residents-can-look-forward-to-more-taxes-u-of-c-prof-says

 

WILL COUNTY GAZETTE
— Durkin demands school funding bill be sent to Rauner – Hoang Tran
http://willcountygazette.com/stories/511157183-durkin-demands-school-funding-bill-be-sent-to-rauner

 

ILLINOIS NEWS NETWORK
— Illinois workers’ money and population … ‘Gone, just like that’ – Dan McCaleb
https://www.ilnews.org/opinion/mccaleb-illinois-workers-money-and-population-gone-just-like-that/article_f61ba4c2-6d7b-11e7-b9ad-cf491d1c7b9d.html

 

CONSERVATIVE REPUBLICAN NEWS
—  NOW IS THE TIME FOR SNAP REFORM – Kent Kellar
http://conservativerepublicannews.com/2017/07/25/now-is-the-time-for-snap-reform/

 

NEWSMAX
— Rep. Kinzinger Slams Trump for Publicly Criticizing Sessions – Brian Freeman
http://www.newsmax.com/Politics/adam-kinzinger-slams-trump-publicly/2017/07/25/id/803676/

 

GOPUSA
— NYU librarian bemoans ‘racial fatigue’ from being around whites  (DIERSEN: Many, if not most of my critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes have had little or no interaction with minorities. I had lots of interaction with minorities, mainly Blacks, while I washed dishes 1964-1966; cleaned golf shoes, chipped slag, and pumped gasoline in 1966; delivered mail 1966-1969; worked on an automobile assemble line and as a security guard in 1970; sold tires, automotive services, and major appliances 1970-1971; pumped gasoline 1971-1972; collected delinquent taxes 1971-1980; and audited federal agencies 1980-1997.)
http://www.gopusa.com/?p=27416

 

THE BLAZE
— ‘Daily Beast’ writer insulted Sarah Huckabee Sanders – then Anthony Scaramucci stepped in – Carlos Garcia
http://www.theblaze.com/news/2017/07/25/daily-beast-writer-insulted-sarah-huckabee-sanders-then-anthony-scaramucci-stepped-in/

 

THE HILL
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: An anti-Trump says “Election Commission’s focus will lead to suppressive voting laws.”
http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/politics/343581-election-commissions-focus-will-lead-to-suppressive-voting-laws
— White House press aide resigns amid shakeup – JORDAN FABIAN
http://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news-other-administration/343648-white-house-press-aide-resigns-amid

 

POLITICO
— House overwhelmingly approves Russia sanctions – ELANA SCHOR
http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/25/house-overwhelmingly-approves-russia-sanctions-240951

 

HUFFINGTON POST
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Trumps say “If The Election Were Held Today, Trump Would Get 99 Electoral College Votes.”
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/if-the-election-were-held-today-trump-would-get-99_us_59779aeae4b01cf1c4bb73d1

 

USA TODAY
— ‘Boys will be boys’ gets a new spin in Silicon Valley sexism scandal – Jessica Guynn and Jon Swartz
https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2017/07/21/silicon-valley-sexism-backlash/493800001/

 

FORBES
— Why Illinois Is In Trouble – 63,000 Public Employees With $100,000+ Salaries Cost Taxpayers $10B – Adam Andrzejewski
https://www.forbes.com/sites/adamandrzejewski/2017/07/25/why-illinois-is-in-trouble-63000-public-employees-with-100000-salaries-cost-taxpayers-10b/#51b70a081141

 

FED SMITH
— RSC Budget Proposes Cuts to Pay, Retirement Benefits – Ian Smith (DIERSEN: All during the almost 30 years that I worked for the federal government, my critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes wanted my pay and benefits to be cut.  All during the almost 20 years that I have been federal retiree, my critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes have wanted my retirement benefits to be cut.)
https://www.fedsmith.com/2017/07/25/rsc-budget-proposes-cuts-pay-retirement-benefits/

July 23, 2017 Evening Edition

CBS2
— Crowded Field Of Illinois Democratic Governor Hopefuls Take Stage At Forum – Craig Dellimore
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/23/crowded-field-democratic-governor/
— J.B. Pritzker’s Ideas For The State To Help Poor Neighborhoods
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/23/at-issue-j-b-p
NBC5
— Gloves Come Off at the Cook County Board – Carol Marin and Mary Ann Ahern
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/deep-dish-gloves-come-off-at-the-cook-county-board-436150133.html
CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— DuPage County Board member John Curran appointed to state Senate – Gary Gibula
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/ct-nvs-curran-state-senate-st-0724-20170723-story.html
— Rooting out more City Hall racists: Taxpayers funded this orgy of prejudice – Editorial
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-chicago-water-racist-emails-edit-0723-20170721-story.html
— Republicans are in full control of government — but losing control of their party – Sean Sullivan and Robert Costa
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/ct-republicans-control-party-20170723-story.html
DAILY HERALD
— Trump tweets frustration with Republicans – AP
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20170723/news/307239928/
DETROIT FREE PRESS
— Can Michigan take the politics out of political boundaries? – Brian Dickerson
http://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/brian-dickerson/2017/07/23/anti-gerrymandering-initiative/497984001/
UPSTREAM IDEAS
— Analyzing Cook County Property Taxes With Dan Patlak
http://upstream-ideas.com/upstream-ideas/ideas/analyzing-cook-county-property-taxes-with-dan-patlak
DUPAGE POLICY JOURNAL
— Glen Ellyn School District 41 holds $12 million in long-term debt
http://dupagepolicyjournal.com/stories/511135830-glen-ellyn-sd-41-holds-12-million-in-long-term-debt
SAGAMON SUN
— Madigan accused of holding school funding hostage – Kacie Whaley
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511154446-madigan-accused-of-holding-school-funding-hostage
BRUCE RAUNER
— Help Build a Better Future  Sign the petition and show that we’re united against the income tax hike. It’s time to turn the page on unsustainable and dangerous habits of the past. Together we can make Illinois a place where our children will want to build their lives rather than a place to escape.
https://www.brucerauner.com/tax-hike-petition/
ILLINOIS POLICY INSTITUTE
— AFSCME PRESSURING COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO RAISE SALES, ALCOHOL, PARKING AND CIGARETTE TAXES – Chris Lentino
https://www.illinoispolicy.org/afscme-pressuring-cook-county-commissioners-to-raise-sales-alcohol-parking-and-cigarette-taxes/
LIFEZETTE NEWS
— Durbin Expands Russia Hysteria to Voter Fraud Commission: ‘Exactly What Putin Wants’  Senate Minority Whip claims Trump integrity effort meant to suppress ‘right to vote,’ discredit ‘democratic process’ – Kathryn Blackhurst
http://www.lifezette.com/polizette/durbin-expands-russia-hysteria-voter-fraud-commission-exactly-putin-wants/
LIVE ACTION
— Abortion advocates cry foul when Illinois governor hires a pro-life communications specialist – Susan Michelle-Hanson
https://www.liveaction.org/news/abortion-advocates-cry-foul-when-governor-hires-a-pro-life-communications-specialist/
BREITBART
— Harvard Law Professor: ‘White Liberal College Graduates’ Are ‘the Least Tolerant’ – THOMAS D. WILLIAMS, PH.D.
http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/07/22/harvard-law-prof-white-liberal-college-graduates-least-tolerant/
THE HILL
— DURBIN: Trump’s voter fraud commission will accomplish what Putin wants – JULIA MANCHESTER
http://thehill.com/homenews/senate/343371-top-dem-trumps-voter-fraud-commission-will-accomplish-what-putin-wants
WASHINGTON POST
— Trump had ‘The Art of the Deal.’ Now Democrats say their economic agenda is ‘A Better Deal.’ – Ed O’Keefe and David Weigel
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/trump-had-the-art-of-the-deal-now-democrats-say-their-economic-agenda-is-a-better-deal/2017/07/22/c1f54b8c-6d56-11e7-9c15-177740635e83_story.html
WORLD TRIBUNE
— Eleven states have counties with more registered voters than voting-age citizens  (FROM THE ARTICLE: Illinois: Alexander, Bureau, Cass, Clark, Cook, Crawford, DuPage, Franklin, Grundy, Hardin, Henderson, Jefferson, Jersey, Massac, McHenry, Mercer, Monroe, Pulaski, Rock Island, Sangamon, Scott, Union, Wabash, Washington, White.)  (DIERSEN: Ask you Republican Precinct Committeeman/Captian how much deadwood is in your precinct.)
http://www.worldtribune.com/eleven-states-have-counties-with-more-registered-voters-than-voting-age-citizens/
FORBES
— The Government Shouldn’t Force Pro-Life Doctors To Promote Abortion, And A Federal Judge Agrees – George Leef
https://www.forbes.com/sites/georgeleef/2017/07/23/the-government-shouldnt-force-pro-life-doctors-to-promote-abortion-and-a-federal-judge-agrees/

July 22 Evening Edition

DUPAGE COUNTY REPUBLICAN CENTRAL COMMITTEE
— John Curran appointed to State Senate  County Board Vice Chairman picked as Radogno replacement
https://www.facebook.com/DuPageGOP
(FROM THE ANNOUNCEMENT: Downers Grove, Ill. — The Republican 41st Senate District Selection Committee announced today the appointment of John Curran to the Office of State Senator for the 41st Senate District of Illinois. “John Curran will be an excellent State Senator for the 41st District,” said DuPage County GOP Chairman Brian Krajewski. “As the Vice Chairman of the DuPage County Board, John is a strong advocate for fiscal restraint and good government reforms, has deep roots in the community, and knows the pressing issues that southwest suburban residents face.” After interviewing about a dozen candidates, the committee members agreed that Curran is the most qualified person to serve the remainder of Christine Radogno’s term. “We interviewed many outstanding candidates who applied to fill this vacancy,” said Will County GOP Chairman Kathy Havel. “John’s record in support of respectful, responsible, representative government and his extraordinary commitment to constituent service was clear.” Since 2008, Curran has served the 3rd District of the DuPage County Board, where he led the effort to ban the end-of-career pension enhancements that is projected to save taxpayers $28 million. During his public service, he has pushed for transportation infrastructure development and cost-saving public employee reforms. For his professional career, he is a Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney focusing on employment and labor litigation. He also has municipal experience as a former trustee for the Village of Woodridge and is a current resident of Downers Grove. The 41st Senate District is in Cook, DuPage, and Will Counties. The Selection Committee consisted of Chairman Krajewski, Chairwoman Havel, Lyons Township GOP Committeewoman Christine Cook, and Lemont Township GOP Committeeman Howie Ludwig. Also present were Downers Grove Township GOP Chairman Bob Grogan, Lisle Township GOP Chairman Jay Fisher, and Homer Township GOP Chairman Brian Burian.)

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Trump’s new message man begins by deleting inconvenient tweets – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/trumps-new-message-man-begins-by-deleting-inconvenient-tweets/
— Chris Kennedy links his family’s tragedies to Chicago shootings – Sam Charles
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/chris-kennedy-links-his-familys-tragedies-to-chicago-shootings/

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Kennedy recounts his family’s history with gun violence as he unveils his plans – Rick Pearson
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-chris-kennedy-violence-plan-met-0723-20170722-story.html

 

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— Who’s telling the truth about state school funding—Rauner or Dems? – GREG HINZ
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170722/ISSUE05/170729945/illinois-state-school-funding-fight-involves-lots-of-fuzzy-math

 

DAILY HERALD
— Rauner, Madigan duel; legislators flee in frustration – Editorial
http://www.dailyherald.com/discuss/20170722/editorial-rauner-madigan-duel-legislators-flee-in-frustration

 

KEWANEE STAR COURIER
— TRAGIC: Kewanee Park District to add video gaming at 19th Hole – By Will Buss
http://www.starcourier.com/news/20170721/kewanee-park-district-to-add-video-gaming-at-19th-hole

 

CENTRAL ILLINOIS PROUD
— Scaramucci sorry for calling Trump a ‘hack’ with a ‘big mouth’ in 2015  ‘I should have never said that,’ he said – MATT EGAN
http://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/politics/scaramucci-sorry-for-calling-trump-a-hack-with-a-big-mouth-in-2015/771427365

 

WSIL TV
— Trump’s new message man deletes inconvenient tweets – AP
http://www.wsiltv.com/story/35947471/trumps-new-message-man-deletes-inconvenient-tweets
— Minneapolis shooting brings unwelcome attention to Somalis – AP
http://www.wsiltv.com/story/35945670/minneapolis-shooting-brings-unwelcome-attention-to-somalis
(FROM THE ARTICLE: But negative comments have included former U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann’s recent statement that Noor was an “affirmative-action hire by the hijab-wearing mayor of Minneapolis” – an apparent reference to the fact that Mayor Betsy Hodges has worn a head scarf when meeting with leaders of the city’s Somali-American community. Bachmann also suggested Noor may have shot Damond for “cultural” reasons.)

 

CHICAGO CITY WIRE
— Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls applauded tax increase, GOP says – Kacie Whaley
http://chicagocitywire.com/stories/511149921-democratic-gubernatorial-hopefuls-applauded-tax-increase-gop-says

 

THE BLAZE
— Survey reveals how many Americans have tried marijuana — and the results are stunning – Justin Haskins  (DIERSEN: If you want to destroy an individual, push pot on that individual. If you want to destroy an organization, push pot on that organization. If you want to destroy a company, push pot on that company. If you want to destroy a government, push pot on that government. If you want to destroy a country, push pot on that country. If you want to destroy a race, push pot on that race.)
http://www.theblaze.com/news/2017/07/22/survey-reveals-how-many-americans-have-tried-marijuana-and-the-results-are-stunning/

 

NEWSMAX
— Trump Says USS Ford Is Message to the World – Reuters  (DIERSEN: The USS Ford sends a message to countries that might officially declare war on America, but what about those countries that have unofficially declared war on America, like Mexico?  Mexico has unofficially declared war on America by illegally sending many millions of its citizens into America illegally, by illegally keeping many millions of its citizens in America illegally, and by illegally sending mountains of illegal drugs into America illegally.)
http://www.newsmax.com/Headline/US-Trump-USS-Ford/2017/07/22/id/803204/

 

MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE
— Trump’s plan to dump agencies fizzles out  A conservative Republican Congress refuses to go along. – William Douglas and Anshu Siripurapu
http://www.startribune.com/trump-s-plan-to-dump-agencies-fizzles-out/436045103/

 

NEWSWEEK
— Lawmakers Agree on Sweeping Russia Sanctions Package – AP  (DIERSEN: My Democrat GAO superiors agreed on the following sanctions package for me:  force me to retire in 1997 when I was 49 years old, always rank me in the bottom half of my coworkers for pay-for-performance purposes, do not promote me beyond GS-13, keep me off audits of IRS for all but 3 of the almost 18 years that I worked for GAO, and force me to take an $18,847 pay cut in today’s dollars to transfer from IRS to GAO in 1980.  My Democrat IRS superiors agreed on the following sanctions package for me: do not promote me beyond GS-12, disallow my education deductions in 1978, and disallow my partial day per diem claims in 1974.  My Democrat Post Office superiors agreed on the following sanctions package for me: force me resign in 1969 and disallow my sick leave requests in 1969 and 1968.)
http://time.com/4869831/lawmakers-agree-on-sweeping-russia-sanctions-package/

 

THE DAILY BEAST
— Mexican Drug Smugglers High on Ford  Trump’s Wall is an epic fail in the making. Here’s how the Sinaloa Cartel smuggles drugs into the U.S. from a Ford plant in Sonora. – Jeremy Kryt
http://www.thedailybeast.com/mexican-drug-smugglers-high-on-ford

 

FED SMITH
— Legislation Introduced to Make Federal Employees ‘At-Will’ Employees – Ian Smith (DIERSEN: My critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes have always promoted patronage. Because I have always been a Republican, were it not for federal civil service protections, a) the Post Office would NOT have hired me in 1966 or let me work there for almost 3 years, b) IRS would NOT have hired me in 1971 or let me work there for almost 9 years, c) IRS would NOT have promoted me in 1972, 1973, or 1974, d) GAO would NOT have hired me in 1980 or let me work there for almost 18 years, and e) GAO would NOT have promoted me in 1986.)
https://www.fedsmith.com/2017/07/22/legislation-introduced-make-federal-employees-at-will-employees/

July 18 Evening Edition

ABC7
— What’s made in your state? White House hosts Made in America Showcase
http://abc7chicago.com/politics/white-house-hosts-made-in-america-showcase/2230831/
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Ever-increasingly, anti-Trumps encourage people to come to America illegally, to stay in America illegally, and to bring others to America illegally.
http://abc7chicago.com/politics/father-of-4-forced-to-part-with-family;-will-be-deported-to-mexico/2229776/

 

NBC5
— Republican State Senator Sam McCann May Challenge Rauner in Primary – Mary Ann Ahern
http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/republican-state-senator-sam-mccann-weighs-run-against-rauner-435230603.html
— Berrios Faces County Board’s Questions on Property Tax System – Mary Ann Ahern
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/joe-berrios-hearing-cook-county-board-435267953.html

 

CBS2
— Berrios Under Fire Again Regarding Property Tax System
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/18/berrios-under-fire-again-regarding-property-tax-system/

 

WLS AM
— Adam Kinzinger criticizes Trump son over Russian meeting
http://www.wlsam.com/2017/07/18/republican-congressman-criticizes-trump-son-over-russian-meeting/

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Together, Pritzker, Rauner spending $120,000 a day on campaign – Tina Sfondeles and Mitchell Armentrout
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/together-pritzker-rauner-spending-120000-a-day-on-campaign/
— ‘Let Obamacare fail,’ Trump declares as GOP plan collapses – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/health-care-bill-collapse-leaves-divided-gop-at-crossroads/
— Rauner interviewed ‘body man’ fired on first day, former staffers say – Tina Sfondeles
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/rauner-interviewed-body-man-fired-on-first-day-former-staffers-say/
— IG alleges preferential parking scheme on streets near United Center – Fran Spielman
http://chicago.suntimes.com/sports/ig-alleges-preferential-parking-scheme-on-streets-near-united-center/
— Trump is doing exactly what his supporters expect him to do – Neil Steinberg
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/steinberg-trump-is-doing-exactly-what-his-supporters-expect-him-to-do/
— CAMPAIGN SCORECARD: Money raised and spent in governor’s race – Mitchell Armentrout and Tina Sfondeles
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/campaign-scorecard-money-raised-and-spent-in-governors-race/
— Health insurance American-style is always a disaster – Phil Kadner
http://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/kadner-health-insurance-american-style-is-always-a-disaster/
— Rep Steven Andersson who helped end budget impasse is uncommitted on school bill – Mark Brown
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/brown-rep-who-helped-end-budget-impasse-is-uncommitted-on-school-bill/

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— ‘Let Obamacare fail,’ Trump says after GOP health care plan collapses – AP
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/ct-gop-health-care-bill-20170718-story.html
— Big-dollar donations show why governor race to be most expensive in Illinois history – Rick Pearson
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-illinois-governor-race-campaign-fundraising-met-0719-20170718-story.html
— Doings-area lawmakers fear property tax, workers’ comp reforms died with Illinois budget – Kimberly Fornek
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/hinsdale/news/ct-dhd-state-budget-followup-tl-0720-20170718-story.html
— Obamacare wins again as GOP adds to its list of stalled legislation – Clarence Page
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/page/ct-obamacare-health-care-repeal-page-perspec-0719-jm-20170718-story.html
— Nasty Women Oak Park art event to raise funds for Planned Parenthood of Illinois – Caitlin Mullen
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/oak-park/news/ct-oak-nasty-women-art-tl-0720-2-20170718-story.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: An anti-Rauner says “Rauner lurches from crisis to crisis.”
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/zorn/ct-rauner-budget-crisis-school-funding-zorn-perspec-0719-md-20170718-column.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: An anti-Rauner says “Bruce Rauner doesn’t care.”
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/commentary/ct-rauner-flooding-disaster-perspec-20170718-story.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: An anti-Trump says “The U.S. will pay a price for Trump’s stunning incompetence.”
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/commentary/ct-donald-trump-incompetent-president-20170718-story.html
— County officials quiz Berrios about fairness of his office – Hal Dardick
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-cook-county-board-assessor-berrios-met-20170718-story.html
— Dennis Hastert released from prison but still faces sex-offender treatment – Christy Gutowski, Jason Meisner and Elyssa Cherney
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-dennis-hastert-released-chicago-20170718-story.html
— ‘Campaign’ by getting things done. Say, Democrats, where are those reforms? – Editorial
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-rauner-governor-election-campaign-edit-0719-md-20170718-story.html

 

DAILY HERALD
— DuPage starts process to remove land from taxing district – Robert Sanchez
http://www.dailyherald.com/news/20170718/dupage-starts-process-to-remove-land-from-taxing-district

 

CHAMPAIGN/URBANA NEWS GAZETTE
— Black backs Vermilion chairman in 104th District GOP race – Tom Kacich
http://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/2017-07-18/black-backs-vermilion-chairman-104th-district-gop-race.html

 

PEORIA JOURNAL STAR
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: An anti-Caterpillar asks “Does Caterpillar speak with a forked yellow tongue?”
http://www.pjstar.com/news/20170718/luciano-does-caterpillar-speak-with-forked-yellow-tongue

 

BELLEVILLE NEWS DEMOCRAT
— Here’s where Illinois stands on Trump’s Voter Fraud Commission – Roger Schlueter
http://www.bnd.com/living/liv-columns-blogs/answer-man/article161905908.html

 

PEORIA PUBLIC RADIO
— Illinois’ Gubernatorial Race: One of the Nation’s Priciest – TONY ARNOLD
http://peoriapublicradio.org/post/illinois-gubernatorial-race-one-nations-priciest#stream/0

 

MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL
— Democrats say Gov. Scott Walker accepted donation from marijuana trade group – Lillian Price
http://www.jsonline.com/story/news/politics/2017/07/18/walkers-drug-testing-proposal-faces-criticism-democrats/487578001/

 

ILLINOIS NEWS NETWORK
— Breen: Democrat’s school funding bill latest in series of “blackmail” bills – Greg Bishop
https://www.ilnews.org/news/state_politics/breen-democrat-s-school-funding-bill-latest-in-series-of/article_6a391f56-6b56-11e7-8dc7-4f031db91327.html

 

DUPAGE POLICY JOURNAL
— Ives calls Besler ideal choice for Rauner re-election bid – Caitlin Nordahl
http://dupagepolicyjournal.com/stories/511149745-ives-calls-besler-ideal-choice-for-rauner-re-election-bid

 

CAPITOL FAX
— The real danger with the way the Rauner purge is being handled
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/18/the-real-danger-with-the-way-the-rauner-purge-is-being-handled/
— Bill Black endorses candidate for Hays seat
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/18/bill-black-endorses-candidate-for-hays-seat/

 

DAILY CALLER
— Congress’ Plan To Eliminate Government Waste: Create A New Commission – Thomas Phippen
http://dailycaller.com/2017/07/18/congress-plan-to-eliminate-government-waste-create-a-new-commission/

 

CNN
— Hastert victim ‘surprised’ at former speaker’s early release – Sophie Tatum
http://www.cnn.com/2017/07/18/politics/dennis-hastert-investigation-cnntv/index.html

 

WASHINGTON POST
— GOP again hits federal retirement in latest budget plan – Joe Davidson
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2017/07/18/gop-again-hits-federal-retirement-in-latest-budget-plan/
— Report calls for new civil service system with more power to agencies – Joe Davidson  (DIERSEN: My critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes have always promoted patronage. Because I have always been a Republican, were it not for federal civil service protections, a) the Post Office would NOT have hired me in 1966 or let me work there for almost 3 years, b) IRS would NOT have hired me in 1971 or let me work there for almost 9 years, c) IRS would NOT have promoted me in 1972, 1973, or 1974, d) GAO would NOT have hired me in 1980 or let me work there for almost 18 years, and e) GAO would NOT have promoted me in 1986.)
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2017/07/18/report-calls-for-new-civil-service-system-with-more-power-to-agencies/

 

CATO
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Ever-increasing, CATO makes it clear that it exists a) to elect and reelect Democrats and b) to promote cheap labor.
https://www.cato.org/blog/north-carolina-other-states-should-reconsider-e-verify
https://www.cato.org/blog/e-verify-does-not-lower-unemployment

 

FED SMITH
— Union Exec: EPA Has Sent Over 1,000 Buyout Notices to Employees – Ian Smith (DIERSEN: Have you gotten a buyout notice?  I did in 1993 when I was 45 years old. In 1993, GAO sent $25,000 buyout notices to all its employees like me who had 25 or more years of federal service.)
https://www.fedsmith.com/2017/07/18/union-exec-epa-sent-1000-buyout-notices-employees/

July 16 Evening Edition

ABC7
— $1 million in marijuana found in brand new Ford Fusions made in Mexico – AP
http://abc7chicago.com/business/$1-million-in-marijuana-found-in-brand-new-ford-fusions/2224127/

 

CBS2
— Gov. Rauner Adds Cook County To Disaster Proclamation
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/16/gov-rauner-adds-cook-county-to-disaster-proclamation/

 

FOX NEWS CHICAGO
— Trump White House launching ‘Made in America’ week starting Monday – AP
http://www.fox32chicago.com/news/268256488-story

 

WGN RADIO
— Rep. David McSweeney on Illinois’ new budget: “This is a real loss for taxpayers and it’s not going to solve our underlying crisis” – JASMINE COOPER
http://wgnradio.com/2017/07/16/rep-david-mcsweeney-on-illinois-new-budget-this-is-a-real-loss-for-taxpayers-and-its-not-going-to-solve-our-underlying-crisis/
— The Sunday Spin: Politics with Rick Pearson Full Show 7/16/17 – JASMINE COOPER
http://wgnradio.com/2017/07/16/the-sunday-spin-politics-with-rick-pearson-full-show-71617/

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Illinois has state budget but no school funding plan – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/illinois-has-state-budget-but-no-school-funding-plan/

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— White House pitches ‘Made in America’ week – AP
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/ct-made-in-america-week-20170716-story.html
— Ann Coulter had to switch seats on a Delta flight. Then came the eruption. – Avi Selk
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/ct-ann-coulter-delta-20170716-story.html
— Nearly 6 months into office, Trump’s approval rating drops to 36 percent – Scott Clement and Dan Balz
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/politics/ct-trump-approval-rating-poll-20170715-story.html
— With Illinois budget deal secured, public universities still face challenges – Dawn Rhodes
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-budget-deal-universities-met-20170713-story.html

 

SPRINGFIELD STATE JOURNAL REGISTER
— Even with a budget, eliminating bill backlog will take time – Doug Finke
http://www.sj-r.com/news/20170715/even-with-budget-eliminating-bill-backlog-will-take-time

 

BELLEVILLE NEWS DEMOCRAT
— Look at your paycheck, and say hello to your new Illinois tax increase – Editorial
http://www.bnd.com/opinion/editorials/article161649513.html

 

CENTRAL ILLINOIS PROUD
— Trump defends Donald Jr. in Sunday morning tweets – MATT KORADE (DIERSEN: What do you do and who defends you?  I put out a GOPUSA ILLINOIS email every morning and every evening. Very few defend me because my critics/opponents in Wheaton, in Glen Ellyn, in Milton Township, in DuPage County, and in Illinois have lots of religious, government, political, and/or financial clout and they have made it very clear that they will have their operatives and their dupes viciously destroy any individual, any organization, any company, or any government that might come to my defense.)
http://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/politics/trump-defends-donald-jr-in-sunday-morning-tweets/766742039

 

UPSTREAM IDEAS
— Charles Cooke: Standing For Conservatism In The Age Of Trump
http://upstream-ideas.com/upstream-ideas/ideas/atc-w-charles-cooke-standing-for-conservatism-in-the-age-of-trump

 

CHICAGO CITY WIRE
— Property tax freeze not the route to reform in Illinois, policy pro argues – Hoang Tran
http://chicagocitywire.com/stories/511148901-property-tax-freeze-not-the-route-to-reform-in-illinois-policy-pro-argues

 

DUPAGE POLICY JOURNAL
— Who are Milton Township’s highest-paid employees?
http://dupagepolicyjournal.com/stories/511139295-who-are-milton-township-s-highest-paid-employees

 

SAGAMON SUN
— Rauner urged to drive his message home: ‘I am on your side’ – Karen Kidd (DIERSEN: Who is on your side? Individuals, organizations, companies, governments, and countries that are members of the following groups are NOT on my side: anti-Trump, anti-Protestant, anti-conservative, anti-Republican, anti-American, anti-White, anti-male, anti-older people, anti-rich people, anti-gun owners, anti-German Americans, anti-draft avoiders (except Bill Clinton), and/or anti-those whose ancestors have been in America longer than their ancestors.)
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511112682-rauner-urged-to-drive-his-message-home-i-am-on-your-side

 

DAILY CALLER
— Comedian Raises Over $1 Million For Planned Parenthood By Selling ‘Nasty’ Shirts – GRACE CARR
http://dailycaller.com/2017/07/15/comedian-raises-over-1-million-for-planned-parenthood-by-selling-nasty-shirts/CNN

 

BLAZE
— New poll reveals why many Americans disapprove of Trump — and it has nothing to do with Russia – Justin Haskins
http://www.theblaze.com/news/2017/07/16/new-poll-reveals-why-many-americans-disapprove-of-trump-and-it-has-nothing-to-do-with-russia/

 

CNN
— Susan Collins: GOP bill would affect ‘most vulnerable’ – Eli Watkins  (DIERSEN: How vulnerable have you been, and how vulnerable are you now?  My critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes have always hinted/implied/argued/shouted a) that I have never been vulnerable and that I never will be vulnerable because I am a White male and b) that I should pay the price of Affirmative Action, Diversity, and Inclusion because of that, and because I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth, because I have always been privileged, because I am healthy, because I avoided the draft, because the federal government overpaid me, because my wife has always had a job, because my wife and I gave up trying to have children, because we did not adopt, and because we did not become foster parents.)
http://www.cnn.com/2017/07/16/politics/susan-collins-health-care/index.html

July 16 Morning Edition

ABC7
— John McCain surgery for blood clot could complicate Senate vote – AP
http://abc7chicago.com/politics/john-mccain-surgery-for-blood-clot-could-complicate-senate-vote/2222292/
— Congresswomen protest for ‘right to bare arms’ – CNN  (DIERSEN: While I worked for IRS 1971-1980 and for GAO 1980-1997, I wore a suit and tie.)
http://abc7chicago.com/politics/congresswomen-protest-for-right-to-bare-arms/2221728/

 

NBC5
— Senator Bernie Sanders Addresses Health Care at Rainbow PUSH Convention – James Neveau  (DIERSEN: Ever-increasing, Democrats hint/imply/argue/shout that Republicans should provide Democrats with free health care.)
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/senator-bernie-sanders-speaks-at-rainbow-push-coalition-convention-434722153.html

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— McConnell delays action on health care bill after McCain surgery – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/mcconnell-delays-action-on-health-care-bill-after-mccain-surgery/
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Trumps crow over their success in driving Trump’s poll numbers down.
http://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/trump-approval-rating-at-36-percent-washington-post-abc-news-poll/

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: In a front page top of fold editorial in the Naperville Sun with a big color picture unethically made to look like a news article, Democrats promote LGBTQ activity big time.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/ct-nvs-foster-forum-lgbtq-issues-naperville-st-0716-20170715-story.html
— Will County plans to lower property tax rate, finance chairman says – Susan DeMar Lafferty
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/news/ct-sta-will-lowers-taxes-st-0714-20170706-story.html

 

DAILY HERALD
— AS THE DEMOCRAT PARTY’S STRANGLEHOLD ON ILLINOIS TIGHTENS: FRONT PAGE TOP OF FOLD WITH BIG COLOR GRAPHIC: Why Illinois’ personal income growth is 49th in nation – Anna Marie Kukec
http://www.dailyherald.com/news/20170715/why-illinois-personal-income-growth-is-49th-in-nation

 

SPRINGFIELD STATE JOURNAL REGISTER
— Governments must do more to listen to citizens – Andy Shaw  (DIERSEN: What about “citizens” who want governments to get rid of individuals, organizations, companies, governments, and countries that are Trump supporters, Protestant, conservative, Republican, American, White, male, older, rich, gun owners, German American, draft avoiders (except Bill Clinton), and/or those whose ancestors have been in America for a long time?  Ever-increasingly, members of the aforesaid groups are buying firearms and ammunition for their self-defense.)
http://www.sj-r.com/opinion/20170715/andy-shaw-governments-must-do-more-to-listen-to-citizens
— Medicaid alternatives seen as ‘unrealistic’ by ACA supporter – Dean Olsen
http://www.sj-r.com/news/20170715/medicaid-alternatives-seen-as-unrealistic-by-aca-supporter
— Now hiring: Low unemployment complicates search for workers – Tim Landis  (DIERSEN: GAO hired me in 1980 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, younger person, or veteran who would take the job.  IRS hired me in 1971 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, or veteran who would take the job.  The Post Office hired me in 1966 because it could not find a qualified Democrat, minority, female, or veteran who would take the job.)
http://www.sj-r.com/news/20170715/now-hiring-low-unemployment-complicates-search-for-workers

 

CHAMPAIGN/URBANA NEWS GAZETTE
— School-funding formula is next big fight – Editorial
http://www.news-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2017-07-16/school-funding-formula-next-big-fight.html

 

PEORIA JOURNAL STAR
— Quiet after the budget storm? Of course not – Doug Finke
http://www.pjstar.com/news/20170715/statehouse-insider-quiet-after-budget-storm-of-course-not

 

BELLEVILLE NEWS DEMOCRAT
— Hey, congressman, mind if we punch you? – Editorial
http://www.bnd.com/opinion/editorials/article161583218.html

 

NORTHWEST HERALD
— McHenry’s Fiesta Days offers free refreshments to designated drivers – Jordan J. Wilson
http://www.nwherald.com/2017/07/12/mchenrys-fiesta-days-offers-free-refreshments-to-designated-drivers/axdygo1/

 

ALTON DAILY NEWS
— Bulk Of Illinois Tax Increase Aimed at Tackling Pension Crisis – Greg Bishop
http://www.altondailynews.com/news/details.cfm?clientid=17&id=248369#.WWtdcIjyuM8
— AS THE DEMOCRAT PARTY’S STRANGLEHOLD ON ILLINOIS TIGHTENS: Homeownership For Millenials Increasing, But Not In Illinois – Cole Lauterbach
http://www.altondailynews.com/news/details.cfm

 

NAPERVILLE COMMUNITY TELEVISION
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Ever-increasingly, Democrats promote LGBTQ activity in Naperville big time.
https://www.nctv17.com/bill-foster-hosts-lgbtq-panel-in-naperville/

 

NORTHWEST INDIANA TIMES
— OUTSTANDING: Indiana already sharing extensive voter data with Trump advisory commission leader – Dan Carden
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/indiana-already-sharing-extensive-voter-data-with-trump-advisory-commission/article_2c595abf-3d3d-5096-bc78-821f4601b8f8.html

 

DUPAGE POLICY JOURNAL
— Housing vouchers continue to stir debate in Naperville – Glenn Minnis
http://dupagepolicyjournal.com/stories/511112820-housing-vouchers-continue-to-stir-debate-in-naperville
— Hultgren meets five Yorkville workers who escaped persecution around globe – Brent Zell  (DIERSEN: Ever-increasingly, anti-Trumps shout at immigrants and at refugees that members of the following groups are racists, sexists, bigots, and even worse things: Trump supporters, Protestant, conservative, Republican, American, White, male, older, rich, gun owners, German American, draft avoiders (except Bill Clinton), and/or those whose ancestors have been in America for a long time.)
http://dupagepolicyjournal.com/stories/511130911-hultgren-meets-five-yorkville-workers-who-escaped-persecution-around-globe

 

SANGAMON SUN
— GOP denounces House passage of ‘radical’ abortion bill – Caitlin Nordahl
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511112231-gop-denounces-house-passage-of-radical-abortion-bill
— Chicago schools again get huge funding preference, GOP alleges – Caitlin Nordahl
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511123533-chicago-schools-again-get-huge-funding-preference-gop-alleges

 

HEARTLAND INSTITUTE
— Phyllis Schlafly’s Proposal to Replace Do-Nothing, Professional Republican Legislators – Nancy Thorner
http://blog.heartland.org/2017/07/phyllis-schlaflys-proposal-to-replace-do-nothing-professional-republican-legislators/

 

NEW YORK TIMES
— How Universal College Admission Tests Help Low-Income Students – SUSAN DYNARSKI (DIERSEN: What was your ACT score?  Mine was only 24.  Sooner or later, if you seek a government office or a political office, your critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes will use your ACT score against you.)
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/14/upshot/how-universal-college-admission-tests-help-low-income-students.html
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Trumps demonize, denigrate, and condemn Breitbart.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/15/opinion/sunday/no-one-cares-about-russia-in-the-world-breitbart-made.html

 

WASHINGTON POST
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Trumps crow over their success in driving Trump’s poll numbers down.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/poll-finds-trump-standing-weakened-since-springtime/2017/07/15/2decf03a-68d2-11e7-9928-22d00a47778f_story.html

 

TIMES TRIBUNE
— Courts review political redistricting issues – G. TERRY MADONNA AND MICHAEL YOUNG
http://thetimes-tribune.com/opinion/courts-review-political-redistricting-issues-1.2219377

 

TWIN CITIES PIONEER PRESS
— Growing disgust with the ethos of college campuses does not mean a rejection of higher education – Esther Cepeda  (DIERSEN: Ever-increasingly, Democrat teachers crank out “good little Democrats” who despise if not hate individuals, organizations, companies, governments, and countries that are Trump supporters, Protestant, conservative, Republican, American, White, male, older, rich, gun owners, German American, draft avoiders (except Bill Clinton), and/or those whose ancestors have been in America for a long time.)
http://www.twincities.com/2017/07/16/esther-cepeda-growing-disgust-with-the-ethos-of-college-campuses-does-not-mean-a-rejection-of-higher-education/

July 15 Evening Edition

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Lake County officials say lots of unknowns remain around state school funding – Emily K. Coleman
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/lake-county-news-sun/news/ct-lns-lake-county-school-funding-st-0715-20170714-story.html

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— Trump Jr. inflicts wounds on GOP – Linda Chavez  (DIERSEN: My critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes have always hinted/implied/argued/shouted that I inflict wounds on the Milton Township Republican Central Committee (MTRCC), DuPage County Republican Central Committee, Illinois Republican Party (IRP) and that I inflicted wounds on TAPROOT Republicans of Illinois, Wheaton Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Center Right Coalition, American Association of Political Consultants, etc. BECAUSDE I PROMOTE THE REPUBLICAN PARTY PLATFORM, BECAUSE I PROMOTE THE IRP PLATFORM, AND BECAUSE I PROMOTE THE MTRCC RESOLUTION AGAINST VIDEO GAMBLING.)
http://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/chavez-trump-jr-inflicts-wounds-on-gop/

 

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— Illinois: Land of still unfunded pension obligations
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170715/ISSUE07/170719902/illinois-legislature-did-nothing-about-the-130-billion-unfunded
— Big names on Obama Foundation list of donors – LISA BERTAGNOLI  (DIERSEN: To give money to Democrats is to shout that you are anti-Trump, anti-Protestant, anti-conservative, anti-Republican, anti-American, anti-White, anti-male, anti-older people, anti-rich people, anti-gun owners, anti-German Americans, anti-draft avoiders (except Bill Clinton), and/or anti-those whose ancestors have been in America longer than their ancestors.)
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170715/NEWS07/170719891/big-names-on-obama-foundation-list-of-donors
— The next battlefield in a fight that just won’t end – RICH MILLER
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170715/ISSUE11/170719895

 

SPRINGFIELD STATE JOURNAL REGISTER
— Labor-backed group says Rauner misleading in tax talk – Bernard Schoenburg
http://www.sj-r.com/opinion/20170714/bernard-schoenburg-labor-backed-group-says-rauner-misleading-in-tax-talk

 

KANKAKEE DAILY JOURNAL
— Too few legislators showed leadership by taking per diem – Editorial  (DIERSEN: My Democrat IRS superiors, supervisors, coworkers, and subordinates hinted/implied/argued/shouted that I was greedy because I claimed partial day per diem in 1974 (SEE:
http://www.gao.gov/products/463866) and because I deducted job-related graduate business and accounting courses 1972-1980.)
http://www.daily-journal.com/opinion/editorials/too-few-legislators-showed-leadership-by-taking-per-diem/article_07baeaa8-fc7f-57cf-864d-36214e24f1e1.html

 

HERALD & REVIEW
— State tax hike costs $580 more on average for Decatur residents – CLAIRE HETTINGER
http://herald-review.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/state-tax-hike-costs-more-on-average-for-decatur-residents/article_3c5f95c2-787c-56d5-8829-ffae22584e39.html
— School officials worry Illinois flooding may impact classes – AP
http://herald-review.com/ap/state/school-officials-worry-illinois-flooding-may-impact-classes/article_659a6465-ce43-5cb3-8914-ec3d155afe12.html

 

SANGAMON SUN
— Linking Dem gubernatorial hopefuls to Madigan called strategic mistake – Karen Kidd
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511112688-linking-dem-gubernatorial-hopefuls-to-madigan-called-strategic-mistake

 

ILLINOIS NEWS NETWORK
— Pension payments to eat up entire $5 billion tax increase, and more – Greg Bishop
https://www.ilnews.org/news/state_politics/pension-payments-to-eat-up-entire-billion-tax-increase-and/article_94eee638-68ac-11e7-9796-3fbbcd87a6ba.html

 

DAILY WIRE
— FLASHBACK: TIME Magazine In 1996 Bragged About How U.S. Interfered In Russian Election – JOSEPH CURL
http://www.dailywire.com/news/18593/flashback-time-magazine-1996-bragged-about-how-us-joseph-curl

 

FOX NEWS
— ABC, NBC under fire after smearing Christian organization as a “hate group” – Corrine Weaver
http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2017/07/13/abc-nbc-cnn-defending-1st-amendment-is-hate-speech-media-hit-ag-sessions-for-speech-to-christian-group.html

 

NEWSWMAX
— Governors Steer Clear of Trump Talk As Healthcare Vote Looms – Sandy Fitzgerald
http://www.newsmax.com/Politics/governors-nga-trump-healthcare/2017/07/15/id/801818/

 

SAN DIEGO UNION TRIBUNE
— Gerrymandering and partisan polarization – JAMES W. INGRAM III
http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/opinion/commentary/sd-utbg-gerrymander-political-boundaries-20170714-story.html

 

FED SMITH
— Legislation Would Make Retired Federal Employee Pensions Public Information – Ian Smith  (DIERSEN: What does DeSantis say about my Democrat GAO superiors constructively having me on reduced pay administrative leave since 1997? Since 1997, they have had the Civil Service Retirement System pay me $1,008,644 in today’s dollars (238 months X $4,238) to “sit a home.” My critics/opponents, their operatives and their dupes side with my Democrat GAO superiors.)
https://www.fedsmith.com/2017/07/15/legislation-make-retired-federal-employee-pensions-public-information/

July 11 Evening Edition

NBC5
— Rauner Staffer Brad Hahn Fired as Shakeup Continues in Governor’s Office  NBC 5 has learned Brad Hahn was fired Tuesday morning – Mary Ann Ahern  (DIERSEN: When employers fire employees, force them to resign, or force them to retire, should they be required to issue press releases that explain in detail exactly why the employee was fired, forced to resign, or forced to retire?  For that matter, when employers take adverse actions against their employees, should they be required to issue press releases that explain in detail exactly why they took those adverse actions?  Should employees be allowed, encouraged, and/or required to issue press releases that tell their side of the story?)
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/rauner-staffer-fired-as-shakeup-continues-in-governors-office-433865933.html
(FROM THE ARTICLE: The shakeup in Governor Bruce Rauner’s office continues as NBC 5 has learned Brad Hahn was fired Tuesday morning. Hahn had served as deputy chief of staff for public engagement and communications director. He has been a longtime GOP staffer, working for both Comptroller Judy Barr Topinka and Leslie Munger. When Hahn was hired last year, he was part of the 23 people who worked for Munger and were then hired by the Rauner administration when Munger lost her bid for re-election. Insiders said the morale inside the Rauner office and campaign is very low among those who do not agree with the governor’s decision to shift his strategy to a more conservative tone.)
— Read the Full Memo From Gov. Rauner’s New Chief of Staff
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/rauner-chief-of-staff-kristina-rasmussen-memo-433934633.html
— New Survey Shows Kennedy Maintaining Lead in Democratic Race for Governor  JB Pritzker is gaining traction, the survey shows – Mary Ann Ahern
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/New-SKennedy-is-maintaining-his-lead-in-the-Democratic-race-for-Illinois-governor-433863543.html

 

CBS2
— Top Missouri Official Disses Illinois
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/11/missouri-official-disses-illinois/
— Latino Chicago Students Receive $110,000 In Combined Scholarships – Bernie Tafoya  (DIERSEN: Did you get any scholarships?  My critics/opponents, their operatives, and their dupes hint/imply/argue/shout that I did not get any scholarships a) because my grades and ACT score were not good enough, b) because I did not play sports, let alone excel in any sport, c) because my washing dishes for the minimum wage during my junior and senior years and the summer in between did not demonstrate leadership potential, and d) because my parents were filthy rich.)
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2017/07/11/latino-students-scholarships-chicago-aldermen/

 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE
— Rauner staff changes could signal a sharper tone – Monique Garcia  (DIERSEN: In Illinois, if you get elected or appointed to an office as a Republican, you obligate yourself to defend and advance the Illinois Republican Party platform.)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/politics/ct-bruce-rauner-staff-changes-met-0712-20170711-story.html
— Activists demand resignation of Palos Township trustee following Facebook posts – Zak Koeske  (DIERSEN: Ever-increasingly, Democrats promote Islam. Soon, if not already, Democrats will stop you from getting an education, stop you from getting a job, stop you from owning property, etc. unless you promote Islam. Ever-increasingly, Muslims make it clear that they want to abolish the First Amendment. What do Rauner and Trump have to say about that?)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/news/ct-sta-palos-township-protest-st-0711-20170711-story.html
— Is Mike Pence betting it will all come crashing down on Trump? – Sarah Posner
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/commentary/ct-mike-pence-trump-russia-20170711-story.html
— Rep. Andersson sticks up for ‘Republican values’ by bucking GOP governor – Eric Zorn
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/zorn/ct-andersson-rauner-madigan-illinois-budget-zorn-perspec-0712-md-20170711-column.html
— What Trump’s election commission could do – Editorial
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/editorials/ct-trump-voter-fraud-commission-edit-0712-20170711-story.html
— Former Foster aide Carole Cheney announces run for Roskam’s U.S. House seat – Erin Hegarty
http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/naperville-sun/ct-nvs-carole-cheney-peter-roskam-election-st-0712-20170711-story.html
— Donald Trump Jr.’s emails are far more damning than anyone could have imagined – Randall Eliason  (DIERSEN: My Democrat superiors, supervisors, coworkers, and subordinates in the federal government did not put in writing things that would incriminate them.)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/commentary/ct-donald-trump-jr-emails-russia-0170711-story.html
— Most expensive cities in the world for commuting to work  (DIERSEN: Chicago is ranked 11th. I walked to work and to graduate business and accounting classes in downtown Chicago 1974-1978.)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/travel/ct-most-expensive-cities-commuting-work-20170710-photogallery.html

 

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES
— More top aides to Gov. Bruce Rauner are ousted – Sam Charles
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/another-top-aide-to-gov-bruce-rauner-is-ousted-report/
(FROM THE ARTICLE: One day after Gov. Bruce Rauner replaced his chief of staff, two other staffers in the governor’s administration have been ousted, according to published reports. NBC5 reported Tuesday that Brad Hahn, who served as Rauner’s communications director, was fired. Both Hahn and the governor’s office did not return messages seeking comment. It was unclear if a replacement had been named. Hahn joined the Rauner administration in December 2016 after serving as chief of staff to former Illinois Comptroller Leslie Munger, who is now Rauner’s deputy governor. Catherine Kelly, a spokeswoman for Rauner’s administration, also was fired Tuesday, though she was expected to resign as early as next month, according to the Capitolfax.com website, which covers Illinois state politics. The shake-ups came a day after Rauner tapped Kristina Rasmussen to replace Richard Goldberg as his chief of staff. Rasmussen had previously served as president of the Illinois Policy Institute, a conservative-leaning think tank.)
— Children who make mistakes deserve a second chance – Phil Kadner  (DIERSEN: Your past predicts your future.)
http://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/kadner-children-who-make-mistakes-deserve-a-second-chance/
— Missouri treasurer to legislature: Don’t be like Illinois – AP
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/missouri-treasurer-to-legislature-dont-be-like-illinois/
— Sorting fake from felonious in Trump Jr. email flap – AP  (DIERSEN: My Democrat superiors, supervisors, coworkers, and subordinates in the federal government did not put in writing things that would incriminate them.)
http://chicago.suntimes.com/news/faq-news-sorting-fake-from-felonious-in-trump-jr-email-flap/
— Trump Jr.’s Russia emails raise troubling questions – Editorial (DIERSEN: My Democrat superiors, supervisors, coworkers, and subordinates in the federal government did not put in writing things that would incriminate them.)
http://chicago.suntimes.com/opinion/editorial-trump-jr-s-russia-emails-raise-troubling-questions/

 

DAILY HERALD
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: Anti-Republicans say “GOP confronts no-win situation on health care.”
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20170711/news/307119839/
— Donations of cash, food collected during Wheaton 4th of July Parade – Cathy SooHoo
http://www.dailyherald.com/submitted/20170710/donations-of-cash-food-collected-during-wheaton-4th-of-july-parade

 

CRAIN’S CHICAGO BUSINESS
— New budget threatens to deepen pension debt – JOE CAHILL
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170711/BLOGS10/170719965/illinois-2018-budget-could-deepen-state-pension-debt
— Spinning aplenty as poll shows Kennedy still ahead of Pritzker – GREG HINZ
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20170711/BLOGS02/170719961/spinning-aplenty-as-poll-shows-kennedy-still-ahead-of-pritzker

 

WTTW
— Gov. Bruce Rauner Shakes Up Staff – Nick Blumberg
http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2017/07/11/gov-bruce-rauner-shakes-staff
— Illinois Rep. Steven Andersson Deposed as House GOP Floor Leader – Evan Garcia
http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2017/07/11/illinois-rep-steven-andersson-deposed-house-gop-floor-leader
— State Budget Passes. Now What? – Paris Schutz and Amanda Vinicky
http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2017/07/10/state-budget-passes-now-what

 

ALTON TELEGRAPH
— DIERSEN HEADLINE: John J. Dunphy demonizes, denigrates, and condemns “White extremists.”  Anti-Trumps demonize, denigrate, and condemn Whites who support Trump as being “White extremists.”)
http://thetelegraph.com/opinion/105359/dunphy-extremists-within-our-borders

 

CENTRAL ILLINOIS PROUD
— Most Republicans say higher education is hurting America  Pew: 58 percent view college negatively  (DIERSEN: Democrat teachers crank out “good little Democrats” who are anti-Trump, anti-Protestant, anti-conservative, anti-Republican, anti-American, anti-White, anti-male, anti-older people, anti-rich people, anti-gun owners, anti-German Americans, anti-draft avoiders (except Bill Clinton), and/or anti-those whose ancestors have been in America longer than their ancestors.)
http://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/national/most-republicans-say-higher-education-is-hurting-america/762917379

 

NAPERVILLE PATCH
— Former Foster Staffer Looks To Unseat Roskam  Carole Cheney says she is running for Congress. – Shannon Antinori
https://patch.com/illinois/naperville/former-foster-staffer-looks-unseat-roskam

 

SUBURBAN CHICAGOLAND
— CHENEY LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO UNSEAT ROSKAM – Ray Hanania
http://suburbanchicagoland.com/2017/07/11/cheney-launches-campaign-to-unseat-roskam/

 

CHICAGO CITY WIRE
— GOP: Pritzker promotes himself, not area school kids – Caitlin Nordahl
http://chicagocitywire.com/stories/511126002-gop-pritzker-promotes-himself-not-area-school-kids

 

UPSTREAM IDEAS
— Rauner’s New Chief Of Staff Kristina Rasmussen
http://upstream-ideas.com/upstream-ideas/ideas/rauners-new-chief-of-staff-kristina-rasmussen

 

SANGAMON SUN
— Morrison says GOP legislators gave themselves black eye with budget passage – Giovanni Whaley
http://sangamonsun.com/stories/511145302-morrison-says-gop-legislators-gave-themselves-black-eye-with-budget-passage

 

ILLINOIS NEWS NETWORK
— Treasurer Frerichs urges Gov. Rauner to champion budget, tax hikes he vetoed – Greg Bishop
https://www.ilnews.org/news/state_politics/treasurer-frerichs-urges-gov-rauner-to-champion-budget-tax-hikes/article_4ce79c2e-664d-11e7-98c6-778a39d0170c.html
— INN asks the tough statehouse questions regardless Madigan’s bullying – Chris Krug
https://www.ilnews.org/opinion/krug-inn-asks-the-tough-statehouse-questions-regardless-madigan-s/article_c93f037e-64d7-11e7-9e2a-df0c79f746ba.html

 

ILLINOIS FAMILY INSTITUTE
— Being Pro Life Empowers Women and Families – Joshua Denton
https://illinoisfamily.org/life/pro-life-empowers-women-families/

 

CAPITOL FAX
— Illinois Policy Institute’s Lucci, Scott Walker’s Patrick hired by Rauner
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/11/illinois-policy-institutes-lucci-scott-walkers-patrick-hired-by-rauner/
— Hahn out, more to come
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/11/hahn-out-more-to-come/
— Budget games could lead to a cash crunch
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/11/budget-games-could-lead-to-a-cash-crunch/
— “Smoothing” sounds nice, but it’s another way of saying “We’re shorting the pension funds”
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/11/smoothing-sounds-nice-but-its-another-way-of-saying-were-shorting-the-pension-funds/
— New website asks why no women are running for governor  (DIERSEN: Because all the jobs that I had were bad jobs, few if any women wanted them. Qualified women could always get better jobs elsewhere. I did yard work and delivered newspapers 1962-1964; washed dishes 1964-1966; cleaned golf shoes, chipped slag, and pumped gasoline in 1966; delivered mail 1966-1969; worked on an automobile assemble line and as a security guard in 1970; sold tires, automotive services, and major appliances 1970-1971; pumped gasoline 1971-1972; collected delinquent taxes 1971-1980; and audited federal agencies 1980-1997.)
https://capitolfax.com/2017/07/11/new-website-asks-why-no-women-are-running-for-governor/

 

GOPUSA
— Left-wing ‘diversity’ vs Muslims and their ‘customs’
http://www.gopusa.com/?p=26878
— Leftists Tormented by Trump’s Inspiring Warsaw Speech
http://www.gopusa.com/?p=26929
— Silencing the silencers  (DIERSEN: Who wants to silence you and why? I should write a book about those who want to silence me and why.)
http://www.gopusa.com/?p=26881

 

DAILY CALLER
— Illi-noise: Another ‘Progressive’ Blue State Cannot Pay Its Bills – Ron Hart
http://dailycaller.com/2017/07/11/illi-noise-another-progressive-blue-state-cannot-pay-its-bills/

 

CNN
— Pro-Trump media scrambles to react to bombshell emails – Oliver Darcy  (DIERSEN: My Democrat superiors, supervisors, coworkers, and subordinates in the federal government did not put in writing things that would incriminate them.)
http://money.cnn.com/2017/07/11/media/right-wing-media-donald-trump-jr-emails-russians/index.html

 

WALL STREET JOURNAL
— Paying Professors: Inside Google’s Academic Influence Campaign  Company paid $5,000 to $400,000 for research supporting business practices that face regulatory scrutiny; a ‘wish list’ of topics. – Brody Mullins and Jack Nicas
https://www.wsj.com/articles/paying-professors-inside-googles-academic-influence-campaign-1499785286

 

NEW YORK POST
— Firing hundreds at the VA should be just the start – Betsy McCaughey  (DIERSEN: McCaughey should write an article about a) why my Democrat GAO superiors forced me to retire in 1997 when I was 49 years old, always ranked me in the bottom half of my coworkers for pay-for-performance purposes, did not promote me beyond GS-13, kept me off audits of IRS for all but 3 of the almost 18 years that I worked for GAO, and forced me to take an $18,847 pay cut in today’s dollars to transfer from IRS to GAO in 1980; b) why my Democrat IRS superiors did not promote me beyond GS-12, disallowed my education deductions in 1978, and disallowed my partial day per diem claims in 1974; and c) why my Democrat Post Office superiors forced me resign in 1969 and disallowed my sick leave requests in 1969 and 1968.)
http://nypost.com/2017/07/11/firing-hundreds-at-the-va-should-be-just-the-start/

 

FOX 59
— Police: 11 Fishers teens hospitalized after eating THC-laced gummy bears
http://fox59.com/2017/07/07/police-11-fishers-teens-hospitalized-after-eating-thc-laced-gummy-bears/
(FROM THE ARTICLE: Authorities with the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office say 11 teens from Fishers were hospitalized after eating gummy bears laced with THC, an active ingredient found in marijuana. Police began investigating the incident just before midnight on Thursday after they were dispatched on a medical call to the 5200 N block of CR 325 W. A 19-year-old male at the scene told a deputy that he became ill after ingesting drugs, and he needed to go to the hospital. He said he was in the area camping with friends, and they also ingested the drugs. Several more sheriff’s deputies arrived and found 10 other teens that all said they were suffering from a rapid heart rate, pain in their legs, blurred vision, and hallucinations. According to the sheriff’s office, a deputy determined that they each ate one half of a gummy bear that supposedly contained THC.)