Democratic Party - 49th Ward

Governor Quinn - Standing Up for Illinois Workers and Bring Jobs to Illinois

Governor Pat Quinn has worked to bring a huge victory to Illinois.  Ford Motor Company decided the the best place in North America to build its new SUV was right here in Illinois.  A big part of the reason that decision was made is because Governor Quinn stood up and lead the way to making Illinois the best place to build.  I know we can count on Pat Quinn to be a leader for the average Illinoisan and that is why he needs to be elected to a full term on November 2, 2010.

In the 49th Ward we have already been hard at work laying the foundation for a Pat Quinn victory and this Saturday morning, August 7 at 10:00 am we will again be going out to knock on doors for Gov. Pat Quinn, Alexi Giannoulias and the rest of the Democratic ticket.  Meet Alderman Joe Moore and I at the Campaign Office (1774 W. Greenleaf) and gives us a hand.

Here are some highlights from the Ford Plant:

Robin Kelly Event - Please Join Me 8/15/10

Robin Kelly offers the people of Illinois an opportunity to continue the excellent leadership of the State Treasurers office.  I am very happy and proud to be standing in support of Robin.  We all know that this is a very difficult time in our country to be asking for money, but I know that by investing in the Robin Kelly campaign you are making a wise decision that will provide a great return on investment.  Please join me at the home of Fay Clayton and Lowell Sachnoff to support Robin Kelly.  As you see below she stands with some very good company.

Senator Jeff Schoenberg,
Representative Robyn Gabel,
Commissioner Larry Suffredin,
Commissioner Debra Shore,
Mayor Elizabeth Tisdahl,
Alderman Lionel Jean-Baptiste,
Committeeman David Fagus,
Hon. Julie Hamos
&
William B. Kelly

Cordially invite you to meet

Robin Kelly
Democratic Candidate for Illinois State Treasurer

Sunday, August 15th, 4:00-6:00pm

Home of Fay Clayton and Lowell Sachnoff
1044 Lake Shore Blvd, Evanston

Tickets: $100, Host Committee: $500, Sponsor: $1,000

To RSVP contact Ryan at rvanmeter@robinfortreasurer.com or (708) 382-0643.
Make Checks payable to: Friends of Robin Kelly, PO Box 6953, Chicago, IL  60680.

About Robin Kelly

“Robin is a fearless, ethical, and independent reformer.  She will cut government waste, stand up for consumers, say 'no' to special interests and run a transparent office. We need her leadership to move this State forward."  Alderman Toni Preckwinkle

 “Robin is exactly the kind of person we need in the Treasurer’s Office—someone with integrity, honesty and intelligence, someone who puts the interests of Illinois families first.  But, she can’t be successful without the financial support of her friends.” United States Senator Dick Durbin

Endorsed by: Emily’s List, Illinois AFL-CIO, Sierra Club, Personal Pac, Planned Parenthood, Equality Illinois, Illinois Federation of Teachers (visit our website www.robinfortreasurer.com for a complete list of endorsements).

Authorized by Friends of Robin Kelly. Printed in house.
A copy of our reports is (or will be) available for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, IL.

Canvass for Barack's Birthday

Join us for a Canvass for Change SATURDAY, August 7th, 10:00 a.m., at 1774 W. Greenleaf in honor of President Barack Obama's birthday. We will fan out across the neighborhood to engage first-time 2008 voters and other progressive Democrats and get them to commit to returning to the polls this fall. 

We'll return to the office at 1:00 p.m. for some pizza, birthday cake and ice cream to celebrate the birthday!

RSVP for Saturday morning's event:

http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpfbfg

We'll see you Saturday!

The Campaign to Win in November Begins June 5

Many of you remember that cold January day in Springfield when Senator Obama announced he was running for President. On that day Barack was one of many United States Senators thinking or running for President. At that point we all knew Barack could give a good speech, but even taking that into consideration, he was a long shot.

Knowing that he could not win if he ran a conventional campaign the campaign team set in motion two things: a phenomenal way to raise campaign donations and perhaps even more importantly a field operation that was better run then nearly anyone has ever seen. So when it came to Iowa on a very cold winter night in January of 2008 the Illinois long shot became the front runner. The tables turned because thousands of progressive people came to Iowa for a few hours, a day a week or more to walk the precincts of Iowa in support of Barack Obama.

It's now 2010 and we are facing difficult challenges here in Illinois and in Washington, D.C. as well. We all wanted progress to come easy, but between the economy and the Republicans it hasn't been as easy as we had hoped. But there are things we can do that will make a difference here in Illinois to help our President. The three things are simple. Elected Alexi Giannoulias to Barack Obama's United States Senate seat, elect Democrats to Republican seats, and elect Governor Quinn to a full term so that the policy from Washington is implemented in the best way possible.

We can do this. The same way people walking precincts and making phone calls elected our President we can elect Alexi, we can elect Democrats to Republican seats and we can elect Pat Quinn governor. Please join us on Saturday, June 5, 2010 in a joint effort with Organizing for America as we take to the streets at 10:00am to start knocking on doors and begin the process of winning in November.

There will be some training for those who need it. Precincts will be assigned for those who need an assignment. At about 1:00 we will meet back at the office, 1774 W. Greenleaf fir some great Rogers Park pizza.

Democratic Party of the 49^th Ward
and
Organizing for America

Campaign Kick-Off for November 2010
1774 W. Greenleaf (Greenleaf & Ravenswood)
Chicago, IL 60626

June 5, 2010 at 10:00am

Help Make Our Experiment in Democracy a Success!

Dear Fellow 49th Ward Democrat,

If you've followed the Ward 49 e-mails, you know the 49th Ward has embarked on a grand experiment in democracy called Participatory Budgeting--the first of its kind in the nation.

Below is Joe Moore's op-ed on the 49th Ward's Participatory Budgeting project  that appeared originally in the Chicago Tribune and appears today in the Huffington Post:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joe-moore/power-to-the-people_b_525497.html

Please click on the link and feel free to contribute your thoughts in the comments section.

Your fellow neighbors have developed and proposed 36 projects, which will appear on the ballot.  The projects with the most votes will get funded up to $1.3 million.  The Election will be held this Saturday, April 10th, 9-3 p.m., at the Chicago Math and Science Academy, 7212 N. Clark.  Early voting is taking place Monday-Friday this week at the 49th Ward Service Office, 7356 N. Greenview.

For a SAMPLE BALLOT, click here.  For a complete description of the project proposals, click here.

While this election is strictly non-partisan, we're calling on all our politically active volunteers to make this experiment in democracy a success.  Yes, we need you to vote, but we also need your help in other ways.

GET THE WORD OUT TO YOUR NEIGHBORS

We need to let everyone know about the upcoming Election where they will have a direct say in how their tax dollars will be spent.  You can help by:

• Distributing fliers and sample ballots door-to-door in your neighborhood
  
  
• Distributing fliers and sample ballots at the el and Metra stations during the morning and afternoon rush.

Reply to this e-mail, or call the 49th Ward Service office (773-338-5796), to volunteer and we'll assign you to an area or train station.

VOLUNTEER ON ELECTION DAY

We need plenty of help on Election Day from setting up in the morning to helping with the final count in the afternoon.  Can you lend us a hand?  We'll need volunteers from 7:30 a.m. to the end of the count late Saturday afternoon.  We can use you all day or part of the day. It's up to you.  Please reply to this e-mail, or call the 49th Ward Service Office (773-338-5796) to volunteer and we'll assign you a task.

With you help, we can show the cynics that with proper nurturing and care, democracy can flourish in Chicago.

Thanks so much!

Sincerely,

DAVID FAGUS
Committeeman

JOE MOORE
Alderman

MICHAEL JAMES
President
49th Ward Democratic Party

Mariyana Spyropolous, Todd Conner and Kari K. Steele Endorsed by the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times and the Democratic Party of the 49th Ward

Chicago Sun-Times Endorsement
3 Dems for cleaner water

January 26, 2010

A new legal battle among the Great Lakes states over the threat of Asian carp has highlighted the importance of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District.

Although rarely in the headlines, the MWRC is a $1.6 billion-a-year agency with 2,100 employees whose actions can do much to shape the economic success and environmental quality of the region. For example, it controls the canals through which some fear the invasive Asian carp could reach Lake Michigan.

That's why it's important that voters in the Feb. 2 Democratic primary choose wisely in selecting three candidates from among the nine who are running. (Candidates in the Republican and Green party races are running unopposed.)

Among the key issues facing the agency is whether to disinfect our local waterways as other big American cities already do, possibly with ultraviolet light. For two years now, this page has supported such a program, given that Chicago has staked its future on being a postindustrial environmentally "green" city.

Until the effluent into our rivers and canals is routinely disinfected, pathogens from human sewage will continue to pose a threat to the growing number of people who use the waterways for kayaking, canoeing, fishing or rowing crew. Common germs in human sewage can cause meningitis, encephalitis, respiratory illnesses, rashes, diarrhea, fever, infectious hepatitis, vomiting and other illnesses.

The three Democratic candidates we endorse today all strongly favor catching up with other cities by disinfecting our local waterways.

Mariyana T. Spyropoulos, a former prosecutor and secretary of state hearing officer, was appointed last August to the MWRC board by Gov. Quinn after running unsuccessfully in 2008. She also is a habitat restoration volunteer for the Cook County Forest Preserve.

Since joining the board, Spyropoulos, a Chicago resident, has supported environmental initiatives, including disinfecting the effluent. She also shares our view that the district should carefully coordinate its efforts with other agencies to arrive at a sensible response to the Asian carp threat.

In addition, Spyropoulos would make a priority of using the district -- one of the largest landowners in Cook County -- to set the standard for sustainable environmental practices.

Todd Connor is waging an energetic independent campaign with a strong environmental theme.

A former officer in the U.S. Navy and a Chicago resident, Connor is seeking elective office for the first time. His priorities, among others, are to disinfect the waterways, install an inspector general at the district, end patronage and push for competitive bidding of contracts.

Connor, whose financial management background and University of Chicago MBA would help him streamline the district's finances, also would push to change the district's approach to the Asian carp problem from one of tepid interest to leadership on the entire issue of invasive species in the waterways. He also points out that the district is one of the state's largest consumers of electricity and that finding ways to conserve could help to pay for other initiatives.

Kari K. Steele, a Chicago resident, who worked as a water chemist for six years at the city's Jardine Water Filtration Plant, is familiar with the testing and treatment process. Prior to that, she worked as a lab technician for the district and as a water sampler.

Steele would be a strong voice for conservation, effluent disinfection and other environmental issues at the district.

Chicago Tribune Endorsement
Greening the MWRD

January 20, 2010

If you don't rely on fresh water or care about the cleanliness of Lake Michigan and Chicago-area rivers, feel free to ignore the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. This obscure but important government's 900-square-mile service area — roughly the shape of Cook County — processes sewage and also collects stormwater runoff that can carry dangerous pollutants. The MWRD tries to protect this flat urban area from flooding during stormy weather.

Three seats on the nine-member MWRD board are up for election for six-year terms. The Republican and Green parties do not have contested primary races. Voters will nominate three Democrats to advance to the November general election.

The Tribune endorses:

•Mariyana Spyropoulos unsuccessfully ran for a seat in 2008, but in 2009 was appointed to fill a vacancy. She's a lawyer with an MBA and a good reputation in conservation circles, in part because of her hands-on experience as a restoration worker in county forest preserves. Spyropoulos supports a controversial proposal to disinfect treated sewage that the district releases into public waterways. Her most endearing suggestion to cut administrative costs at the MWRD is a proposal to reduce the board from nine members to five — "even if this means mine is one of the positions eliminated."

•Todd Connor is exceptionally well-versed in MWRD and water policy issues. His background — U.S. naval officer in the Persian Gulf war, Illinois inspector general's investigator, Northwestern- and University of Chicago-educated management consultant for Booz Allen Hamilton — gives him a superb skills set for a seat on this board. Connor supports stronger stormwater management measures that would help to reduce flooding, and he is open to transferring surplus MWRD land to the Forest Preserve District of Cook County or to municipalities.

•Kari Steele has 11 years of experience as a chemist and has worked in Chicago's water purification system and at the MWRD. Her scientific background qualifies her to help the board confront two challenges: how to contend with discarded pharmaceuticals that people flush into sanitary sewers, and how to deal with phosphorous that washes from fertilized lawns into storm sewage. She would stress community outreach and education so more citizens understand why water quality and conservation are crucial issues for Chicago's future.

Endorsed Candidates of the 49th Ward

Dear Neighbor,  

Election Day is Tuesday, February 2nd.  You will have the opportunity to vote for candidates for the U.S. Senate and Governor all the way down to the Circuit Court Judge.  This can be quite a daunting task, especially since the news media gives scant attention to most of the races.  

We in the 49th Ward Democratic Party understand your concern, which is why we have taken the time to carefully and thoughtfully examine all the candidates for office, and provide you our recommendations.  

Our primary endorsements do not come from the top down.  They come up from the grassroots—ordinary folks who volunteer their time and energy in the 49^th Ward Democratic Party to work for progressive causes and candidates.  They vote in an open process on whom to endorse for public office.   

From David Hoffman, Pat Quinn and Toni Preckwinkle at the top of your ballot, to the judicial candidates at the very end, you'll find progressive Democrats working to challenge the status quo, and bring about true reform at every level of government. 

Sincerely, 

David Fagus
Democratic Committeeman of the 49^th Ward  

PS Our Voter Guide and our Election Day Sample Ballot are now available for online viewing.  They can also be printed and brought to the polling place when you vote.  The law allows you to bring them into the voting booth.

The following are candidates are the endorsed candidates of the Democratic Party of the 49^th Ward. Each of them has been asked to put in their own words a short statement about themselves. We have tried to provide links to their websites whenever possible.

David Hoffman for United States Senator

David Hoffman is a former federal prosecutor, reform leader, and corruption fighter who will bring a distinguished record of 16 years of public service and independent, effective advocacy for Illinois taxpayers to the U.S. Senate. Hoffman has been enthusiastically endorsed by the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times, the Daily Herald, the IVI-IPO, and the Illinois Education Association.

Hoffman served as the corruption-busting Inspector General of the City of Chicago and was a member of the Illinois Reform Commission. Prior to his service as Inspector General, Hoffman was a federal prosecutor fighting guns, gangs and drugs under U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald.

  See a special message from David.

Pat Quinn for Governor of Illinois

Governor Pat Quinn has devoted his life to standing up for the working people of Illinois and fighting political corruption, government waste, and unfair taxes. He has earned a national reputation as an honest leader who is never afraid to speak his mind.

As Governor, Quinn is building on decades of proven advocacy for Illinois consumers and taxpayers. He led the fight to create the Citizens Utility Board, which has saved Illinois consumers more than $10 billion. Today, he is battling to create new jobs and new opportunities for Illinois families, bring real tax relief to taxpayers who need it most, and put our state budget back on track.
www.taxpayersforquinn.com

Mike Boland for Lt. Governor of Illinois

Mike Boland is one of the few true reformers in the Illinois General Assembly.  As State Representative, Boland fought for campaign finance reform, passed the Military Family Relief Act, which helped families under financial stress and enacted the Veterans Lottery Ticket, with the proceeds going to veterans' programs.  He also sponsored the successful Green Buildings Act and other energy and environmental laws, and has a 100% voting record on behalf of working people.

   

One of the founders of the Citizens Utility Board (CUB), Boland served for ten years on CUB fighting unfair utility rates.  He started his professional career as a public school teacher and has been a part-time college instructor for 30 years.
www.bolandforillinois.com

Lisa Madigan for Attorney General of Illinois

As Attorney General, Lisa Madigan has been a strong, effective leader who has fought for the people of Illinois against powerful special interests, including big utilities, mortgage lenders, drug and insurance companies. She protected our children from sexual predators by enacting a law to require lifetime supervision for sex offenders, made health care more accessible by stopping hospitals from gouging the uninsured, fought political corruption by initiating the state investigation into former Governor Rod Blagojevich's hiring practices and stood up for victims of predatory mortgage lending by going after the largest mortgage lenders in the country, including Countrywide for deceptively placing homeowners into loans that they didn't understand, could never afford and could not get out of. 
For more information visit: www.LisaMadigan.org.  

Jesse White for Secretary of State

I am seeking re-election to my 4^thterm as Secretary of State to continue to work for the people of Illinois. As your Secretary of State I will continue to fight corruption, bringing integrity to an office once plagued by corruption. I will work to make Illinois roads safer by cracking down on drunk drivers and working to initiate and pass legislation like the text messaging ban. And I will continue streamline services through the use of new technologies, cutting down on wait times and making your experience as efficient as possible.   
www.jessewhite2010.com

S. Raja Krishnamoorthi for IL State Comptroller

Raja Krishnamoorthi will bring his wealth of experience to the office of Comptroller to reform Illinois government and get a better deal for taxpayers. Krishnamoorthi has served as the Deputy Illinois Treasurer, where he gained extensive financial and management experience. As a former Special Assistant Attorney General, Krishnamoorthi worked to root out corruption in state government. Krishnamoorthi will use the office of Comptroller to reform state government by relying on new technologies and greater openness to promote citizen involvement and create real change. Krishnamoorthi, who immigrated to our country as a child and is the first person of South Asian heritage to run for statewide office, will bring a unique voice and perspective to state government.
www.rajaforillinois.com

Robin Kelly for Illinois State Treasurer

Known for her leadership, experience and commitment to the people of Illinois, Robin Kelly currently serves as Chief of Staff for the Illinois State Treasurer's Office. In addition to supervising and overseeing all departments within the Treasurer's Office, Kelly is also a primary advisor on all policy, political and operational matters. Since joining the office, Kelly has led the charge in the transforming the agency by demanding stronger ethical guidelines, streamlining and improving operations, and by introducing new, and innovative programs.

Prior to joining the Treasurer's Office, Kelly served in the Illinois General Assembly, where she advocated and supported policies that enhanced the quality of life for all Illinois residents. Kelly also served as Director of Community Affairs for the Village of Matteson.
www.robinfortreasurer.com

Janice D. Schakowsky for Congresswoman 9^th Dist.

Jan Schakowsky is a citizen advocate, grassroots organizer, and one of the most progressive members of Congress. Schakowsky has fought throughout her career for economic and social justice and improved quality of life for all; for an end to violence against women; and for a national investment in healthcare, public education and housing needs.
www.janschakowsky.org

Heather A. Steans for State Senator of the 7^th Dist.

Re-elect State Senator Heather Steans in the Democratic Primary First elected to the Illinois State Senate just two years ago, Heather Steans already has earned a reputation as one of the preeminent progressive leaders in Springfield. Steans is challenging the General Assembly leadership to craft a state budget solution and reform our health insurance industry. She won increases in vital health and human services for our families during last year's budget stalemate. Heather fought to reform health insurance in Illinois and won. Heather is 100% pro-choice and is the lead sponsor of Illinois' Equal Marriage Act.
www.senatorsteans.com

Mariyana T. Spyropoulos for Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (Three Positions Open)

As a new Commissioner on the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, Mariyana is making the safety of the water environment one of her top priorities. As the only attorney and only MBA on the Board she brings legal and business perspective to the District. Prior to opening her own law office, Mariyana worked as an Assistant Cook County State's Attorney and then as a Hearing Officer for the State of Illinois. She is also active in environmental groups such as the Sierra Club. Mariyana has volunteered for numerous environmental groups and brings a hands on experience to her work. She has volunteered for the Cook County Forest Preserve and Adopt a Beach program amongst others. Mariyana has been endorsed by the Independent Voters of Illinois (IVI-IPO), Chicago Federation of Labor, Governor Pat Quinn, Secretary of State Jesse White, and the Sierra Club amongst others. She is focusing on more outreach to the community by the District as well as having the District set the environmental standard through sustainable practices. Mariyana received her law degree from The John Marshall Law School, her MBA from Loyola University Chicago. Prior to that she completed graduate work in American Government at Georgetown University, in Washington D.C.
www.mariyana4cleanwater.com

Todd Conner for Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (Three Positions Open)

Todd Connor is a Navy Veteran, former investigator for the Illinois Inspector General's Office and graduate of Northwestern and University of Chicago (MBA.) Todd has been a voice for reform and environmental leadership at this agency that spends over $1.6 billion of our tax dollars. Todd will bring his demonstrated commitment to public service and management experience to this agency to fight for both taxpayers and the environment. His long list of endorsements include the Sierra Club, Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Congressman Mike Quigley, and Commissioner Debra Shore. To learn more about Todd's plans for reform and environmental leadership, visit www.toddconnor.org, www.cleanwaterchicago.org, www.changecookcounty.com.

Kari K. Steele for Commissioner of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (Three Positions Open)

Kari Steele is a chemist and committed environmentalist, and she would bring needed scientific expertise to the MWRD Board of Commissioners," said Jack Darin, Director of the Sierra Club, Illinois Chapter. "We all win when decisions about our water supply are informed by sound science, and that's exactly what Kari Steele would do on the MWRD Board.
www.electkaristeele.com

Toni Preckwinkle for Cook County Board President

Toni Preckwinkle is one of the leading forces for reform and independence in the Chicago City Council and has brought together a wide base of supporters to build a vibrant campaign to change the direction of county government. In many ways, her campaign is a reflection of our diverse community. Her coalition includes strong progressive leaders like U.S. Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, U.S. Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and U.S. Congressman Luis Gutierrez and dozens of local leaders and community activists. Her campaign has been endorsed by the top newspapers in the city and suburbs, including the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Sun-Times and the Daily Herald.
www.tonipreckwinkle.org

David D. Orr for Cook County Clerk

Cook County Clerk David Orr has been a progressive political voice for over 30 years. He has instituted election reforms including the Motor Voter law, Early Voting, and youth judge programs. Orr's government efficiency programs have earned recognition from Microsoft and his colleagues nationwide. As alderman, Orr fought for Chicago's first major ethics legislation. Orr served as mayor after Mayor Harold Washington's death, providing strong and sensible leadership during a tumultuous time.
www.davidorr.org

  Tom Dart for Cook County Sheriff

 Dart oversees the Sheriff’s police department, the operations of Cook County Jail,
holding over 10,000 inmates and employing over 3,000 correctional officers,
and for providing judicial safety in the courtrooms.

In October 2008, Dart announced his deputies would no longer conduct evictions until
greater safeguards were available to protect tenants. Dart again made headlines in
March 2009 when he filed a lawsuit against the website craigslist, accusing its owners
of public nuisance through its “erotic services” section.

Those bold steps led Time magazine in 2009 to designate Dart as one of the 100 Most
Influential People in The World.

Raymond A. Figueroa for County Assessor

Ray Figueroa has devoted his lifetime to promoting reform and justice, first as an independent, reform-minded alderman under Harold Washington, and later as a circuit court judge. Figueroa was endorsed by the Chicago Tribune, who stated their belief that Figueroa would run a fair assessor's office, impervious to insider influence. Figueroa would preserve and enhance the numerous transparencies current Assessor Jim Houlihan has brought to the arcane assessment process, and has no allegiance to the "pay-to-play" insiders, who in the past have secured big tax breaks for their friends and wealthy clients.
www.rayfigueroa.com

Larry Suffredin for Cook County Commissioner

Larry Suffredin has earned a reputation as one of the few true reformers on the Cook County Board. During the last seven years, Suffredin worked closely with Commissioners Mike Quigley and Forrest Claypool to bring needed reforms to County government, and led the battle to create the Independent Health and Hospital Board, which brought—for the first time—professional management to the County's health and hospital system Suffredin will work to strengthen and expand the Health and Hospital Board's powers to continue system-wide reforms. , and will continue to advocate for reform and transparency in all areas of County government.
www.suffredin.org

James R. Epstein

James Epstein, a judge for more than 10 years, is rated "Highly Qualified" for the Appellate Court by the Illinois State Bar Association. The Chicago Tribune endorsed Epstein, calling him "one of the most respected people in Chicago law." The Chicago Council of Lawyers praised his "outstanding legal ability." Epstein is a former Public Defender and past president of the Illinois Judges Association. He taught at Northwestern Law School for 15 years. Epstein is active in the community as an officer of the Daniel Murphy Scholarship Fund which sends financially challenged Chicago students to private high schools.
www.judgeepstein.com

Don R. Sampen

My qualifications to serve as appellate court judge may be best summed up, not by me, but by the Chicago Council of Lawyers which, after reviewing my credentials, stated that I am 'well respected as a trial litigator, an appellate practitioner, and as an author. He is considered to have very good legal ability and an excellent temperament. The Council finds him Well Qualified for the Appellate Court.
Link to Information on Don Sampen

Sebastian T. Patti

I was appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court to the Illinois Appellate Court, 1st District in August 2009 to fill the vacancy of Justice Leslie South. I was the first openly-gay man to serve on the Appellate Court. I now seek election to this position. Prior to my appointment, I served as a Cook County Circuit Court Judge. I was first appointed to the Circuit Court in 1995 and won county wide election in 1996.

I bring 30 years legal experience to the bench. Before I was appointed and elected to the bench, I practiced law with the US Environmental Agency in Chicago, fighting polluters and protecting the public health, safety and welfare of the people of Chicago and Cook County.

I have been found Qualified, Recommended or Highly Recommended for the Appellate Court by all of the Bar Associations. I was found "Highly Qualified" by the Women's Bar Association of Illinois, and I've been endorsed by IVI-IPO, Personal PAC, and the Illinois Federation of Teachers.

I am honored by the endorsement of the 49th War; I am asking people for their help, support and vote. I am seeking to secure a full ten-year term on the Appellate Court. Please vote for Justice Sebastian Patti - PUNCH 143!
www.sebastianpatti.com

William H. Hooks

Judge William H. Hooks seeks countywide election, with over a quarter century of field tested work experience as a Marine Lieutenant Colonel, law school adjunct professor, prosecutor, judge advocate, private attorney, Special State's Attorney, Eagle Scout and now as a Judge serving in the Criminal Division. Visit www.votejudgehooks.com for Judge Hooks' bar evaluations, biography and endorsements including and those by labor (CFL, AFL-CIO) and the independents (IVI-IPO). Judge Hooks was also endorsed and slated by Cook County Democratic Party. PUNCH 151 to elect Judge William H. Hooks as Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County (Richard Berland Vacancy). The Chicago Tribune recently endorsed Judge Hooks and commented that he received "exceptional marks from every major bar group.
www.votejudgehooks.com

Terry MacCarthy

Terry MacCarthy's superior bar ratings are based on a 19 year legal career with the Cook County Public Defender. Terry tried more than 500 cases and teaches trial advocacy and evidence extensively around the country. Terry is married and the proud parent of four children.

ENDORSED BY:

*DEMOCRATIC PARTY OF THE 49th WARD

*CHICAGO TRIBUNE

*CHICAGO FEDERATION OF LABOR

*INDEPENDENT VOTERS OF ILLINOIS INDEPENDENT PRECINCT ORGANIZATION (IVIIPO)

*CHICAGO CHAPTER- COALITION OF BLACK TRADE UNIONISTS

*SHEET METAL WORKERS' UNION 73

*PERSONAL PAC

*43rd WARD DEMOCRATS

www.terrymaccarthy.com

Linda J. Pauel

I am running for judge because we need more qualified and fair-minded judges on the bench. I have been an attorney for over 18 years and have extensive legal experience. I have practiced in the Municipal, Chancery and Law Divisions of the Circuit Court. I have handled bench and jury trials, I have practice criminal and civil law, and I have experience as a prosecutor and defense counsel. I am also very active as a volunteer in my community and in the Chicago Public Schools. I received my Juris Doctor from Chicago-Kent and graduated 3rd in my class with High Honors. I have been found "Qualified", "Recommended", or "Highly Recommended" by all of the major bar associations. I am passionate about ensuring that everyone who comes before the courts is treated fairly without regard to their sex, sexual orientation, race, religion, income level or national heritage.
www.lindajpauel.com

Raymond W. Mitchell

Judge Raymond W. Mitchell has served on the bench since his appointment by the Illinois Supreme Court in 2008. The Illinois State Bar Association finds Judge Mitchell "Highly Qualified," and every bar association has found him qualified or better. In its endorsement of Judge Mitchell, the Chicago Tribune wrote: "A strong endorsement for Judge Raymond Mitchell… He has outstanding credentials — and his two opponents are not recommended by almost every bar group." Judge Mitchell graduated from Brother Rice High School and later attended Loyola University and the University of Chicago. To learn more about his campaign, please visit www.ElectJudgeMitchell.com.

John Patrick Callahan, Jr.

John Patrick "Jack" Callahan, Jr. was born and raised on the southwest side of Chicago. Jack is a graduate of Marquette University ('85) and Chicago-Kent College of Law ('88). Upon graduating from law school, Jack worked for Price Waterhouse as a Tax Consultant. Jack then joined the Cook County State's Attorney's Office and between 1989 and 1996 served in the Felony Trial Division, the Public Integrity Unit, and the Gang Crimes Unit. Between 1996 and 2009 Jack worked in private practice handling civil litigation, corporate transactions, criminal law, and real estate.

On September 8, 2009 Judge Callahan was appointed by the Illinois Supreme Court to the Judge Daniel J. Kelley vacancy. Prior to appointment, Jack was screened by the Illinois Supreme Court, the Chicago Bar Association and the ten member Alliance of Bar Associations and was found either "Qualified" or "Recommended" by every evaluating bar association. The Chicago Bar Association recently stated that "Judge Callahan possesses an outstanding temperament and is well respected for his knowledge of civil and criminal law". Jack has also been endorsed by the Chicago Tribune, the IVI-IPO, the Chicago Federation of Labor and many other groups. You can learn more at www.judgecallahan.org.

Jack and his wife Joanne have two high school age children. Joanne works as an occupational therapist. They are very active in several organizations raising funds for spinal cord injury research and that support sports activities for children with a primary physical or visual disability. Judge Callahan would be honored to continue to serve the citizens of Cook County and seeks your support for the Kelley vacancy. Please Punch 166!

Daniel J. Gallagher

Daniel J. Gallagher has been an attorney with the Cook County Public Defender's Office for over 13 years where he has tried over 40 felony jury trials to verdict, including more than 15 Homicide juries, and hundreds of felony bench trials. Dan is lead counsel certified by the Illinois Capital Trial Bar. Dan has been found "Qualified" or "Recommended" for the judiciary by all the area Bar Associations. The Chicago Bar Association said, "Mr. Gallagher is highly regarded by his peers for his legal knowledge and ability" and the Chicago Council of Lawyers said, "Mr. Gallagher is reported to be a diligent, fair, and zealous advocate. He is praised as being well prepared with a professional demeanor." Dan is endorsed by the Chicago Federation of Labor and the Chicago Fraternal Order of Police. Dan is a graduate of Duke University (B.A. 1989) and Notre Dame Law School (J.D. 1993). For more information please check www.dangallagherforjudge.com.

Thomas V. Lyons

Dear 49th Ward Voter,

As a former resident of the 49th Ward, I am honored to have the support and endorsement of your Committeeman, David Fagus, and your Alderman, Joe Moore in my candidacy to be elected Judge of the circuit Court of cook County. In August of 2008, the Illinois Supreme Court selected me to fill a vacancy on the bench, and I have been endorsed by the Cook County Democratic Party, IVI-IPO, and the Chicago Federation of Labor to fill the O'Malley vacancy. I was raised on the Northwest side of Chicago, have been married to my wife Margo (Loftus) for 18 years, and we have 3 children. I received my undergraduate degree from Northwestern University, and my Law Degree from Loyola University. Upon graduating from Law School, I worked as an Assistant State's Attorney and then at a private law firm. I have been the lead trial attorney in over 50 jury trials in both State and Federal Court. Prior to my appointment as a Judge, I went through a thorough screening process and was found Qualified, Recommended, or Highly Recommended by every Bar Association. To learn more about my candidacy, you can visit my website at www.electjudgelyons.com. I hope that I have earned your vote, and I pledge to you that I will continue to treat every citizen that appears before me with dignity and respect, and decide cases fairly based on the facts and the law. I ask you to support me by punching 181 to Elect Judge Lyons, and I thank you in advance.
www.electjudgelyons.com

Tracey J. Stokes

Friends,

Thank you to the 49th Ward Democratic Party for endorsing me for Judge. I have been a lawyer for 24 years, 22 as in-house counsel defending homeowners and small business in civil cases including personal injury claims. I am past-president of the Women's Bar Association of Illinois.

I am one of only seven "Highly Qualified" candidates by the Chicago Bar Association in all county races, and the only woman in the Riley race with positive ratings from all reviewing bar associations. The Illinois Committee for Honest Government and Italian-American Police Association of Illinois also have endorsed me.

Punch 189!

Tracey J. Stokes

www.stokesforjudge.com

Abbey Fishman Romanek

WISDOM COURAGE COMPASSION

Abbey Fishman Romanek is the daughter of Rabbi Morris Fishman and Lala Fishman, a survivor of the Holocaust. Because of her background, Abbey will ensure that all parties that come before her are treated with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Abbey successfully balances her many responsibilities to her family, career and community. This discipline is also required to run an efficient courtroom that is respectful of County time and resources.

Abbey's significant legal expertise includes numerous trials of both criminal and multi-million dollar civil cases.

Elect Abbey Fishman Romanek to the bench on February 2, 2010.
www.advocatesforabbey.com

Steven James "Steve" Bernstein

I believe that people deserve fairness and respect – always, but especially in a courtroom. My 38 years of legal experience and 18 years as Evanston's Township Assessor and 4th Ward Alderman have prepared me to be a judge. I pledge to deliver justice with diligent consideration of the facts and the law, and to render decisions with the utmost respect for the impact that my decisions will have on the lives of real people. I'm honored to have the 49th Ward Democrats' endorsement, and I'd be honored to have your vote. Thank you.
www.bernsteinforjudge.com

The following candidates are running unopposed in this primary election and enjoy our support as well:

Carol Ronen - State Central Committeewoman – 9^th District

William Marovitz - State Central Committeeman – 9^th District

Harry Osterman - State Representative - 14th District

Lou Lang - State Representative - 16th District

Maria Pappas - Cook County Treasurer

Bridget Gainer - Cook County Commissioner - 10th District

49th Ward Circuit and Appellate Endorsements

All candidates for 1rst Appellate District races and the Cook County Circuit Court Judge races were reviewed, debated, discussed and voted on by the members of our Board on Thursday evening, January 14, 2010.  In spite of our being a political organization, politics plays a small part in our decision making process.  

Our generally accepted minimum standard for judicial candidates endorsed by a vote of the Board of Directors is to have a "Qualified" evaluation from either the Chicago Bar Association or the Chicago Council of Lawyers.  There were many candidates who met this standard and exceeded it, including some who we were not able to endorse.  While the CBA/CCL standard is something we work hard to maintain, we are always looking for that one candidate that we feel the CBA and CCL missed.  That was not the case this year in the County-wide or Appellate races, but was the case in one of our other judicial races.  The members saw things a little differently than the CBA and the CCL.

You should note that all of the candidates that were endorsed tonight have excellent legal skills and qualifications.  In some races the choice was clear quickly.  In other races, determining who was best took a great deal of discussion.   A complete look at the ratings from the 11 reviewing bar associations in conjunction with information provided by the candidates in writing and personal conversations with the candidates provided us with a tremendous slate of judicial candidates.

They are as follows:

1ST APPELLATE - McNULTY VACANCY

EPSTEIN, JAMES R.

1ST APPELLATE - O'MALLEY VACANCY

SAMPEN, DON R.

1ST APPELLATE - SOUTH VACANCY

PATTI, SEBASTIAN T.

COOK CIRCUIT- BERLAND VACANCY

HOOKS, WILLIAM H.

COOK CIRCUIT- BRONSTEIN VACANCY

MacCARTHY, TERRY

COOK CIRCUIT- DOLAN VACANCY

PAUEL, LINDA J.

COOK CIRCUIT- HAYES VACANCY

MITCHELL, RAYMOND W.

COOK CIRCUIT- KELLEY VACANCY

CALLAHAN, JR., JOHN PATRICK

COOK CIRCUIT- McCARTHY VACANCY

GALLAGHER, DANIEL J.

COOK CIRCUIT- O'MALLEY VACANCY

LYONS, THOMAS V.

COOK CIRCUIT- RILEY VACANCY

STOKES, TRACEY J.

First Preckwinkle Commercial is Up

Please take a moment to watch the first TV ad for our endorsed candidate for Cook County Board President.

Early voting has started already and runs through January 28. The hours are from 9:00 am to 5:00pm Monday through Saturday. You can vote now at Pottawatomie Park Field House, Warren Park Field House or at many other locations across the city.  A complete list of early voting locations can be found at the Chicago Board of Elections website.

The Last Day to Register to Vote is January 5

Regardless of your party or your beliefs, one of the most fundamental rights in our country is the right to vote.  Most are anticipating a low turnout this election cycle, but even though we will not be electing a President of the United States we will be electing a United States Senator, a Governor of the State of Illinois, a President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners and many other state, county and local elected positions.

You need to be registered to vote, and you must be registered at the address you currently live at.  A common misconception is that you only have to register once.  Your registration DOES NOT move with you when you move.  Every time you move you must re-register.

You can register or re-register in the neighborhood at the Alderman's office which is located at 7356 N. Greenview, (corner of Jarvis and Greenview), when the office reopens from its furlough closing on Monday or on Tuesday between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.

You can register at the Chicago Board of Elections at 69 W. Washington, 6th Flr. in downtown Chicago on Sunday from 8:00am to 4:00pm, on Monday from 9:00pm to 5:00pm or on Tuesday from 8:00am to 12:00 midnight.  It is best to have something with your current address, (a bill, a lease or a drivers license) and a photo ID, but it is not mandatory to register.

If you have any questions the best information about requirements and registering downtown is available from the Chicago Board of Elections at (312) 269-7900.  Questions about registering at the local office of Ald. Moore can be directed to (773) 338-5796.  Any questions about candidates or political matters must be directed to the Democratic Party of the 49th Ward at info@49thward.com or by calling (773) 973-4949.