Saturday, December 09, 2006

PAY: TWO HUNDRED SEVEN THOUSAND AND 00/100!!!

I thought the headline should read like a check, because that is how much CPS put in the pocket of James Levin and Tru-Link Fence.

I know the outrage is shrill. To the point that if James Levin was encountered in a dark alley...Well let's just say I hope he doesn't encounter a teacher.

The headlines at the Tribune said James Levin of Tru-Link Fence (a business in Skokie, not even in Chicago paying taxes) bilked CPS for millions of dollars.

You need to read deeper into the article. Turns out the scandal is not just that he got the contracts (worth 2.87 million) to build fences, in my humble opinion (IMHO) it was the overbilling of $207,000 for snow removal that gets my goat.

The day this story came out, I, and everyone I talked to, was outraged. The conversation centered around the idea of what could we do for the children of Chicago with 2.87 million dollars.

But let's put that aside.

I will assume the best here. He got the contracts (fraudulently of course) but let's assume he did the work for the amount billed.

It is the $207,000 that sticks in my craw.

That is 100 classrooms outfitted with the latest technology including an LCD projector and screen. 100 classrooms.

How about pencil sharpeners? High end, groovy pencil sharpeners are $24.99 each. For $207,000 I could put a brand new sharpener in about 8280 classrooms. 8280 classrooms.

What did you need this year? What did you spend your precious $100 on? Hey, let's kick in the nice $50.00 "gift card" CPS sent to the teachers. (This, despite that the average amount spent by a teacher on class supplies is $522.) What could you have done for your building with $207,000?

Seriously, if I could have handed you $207,000 for your building, what would you have done with it? Methinks it would not involve paying Mr. Levin for work not done.

Check out this anonymous comment from over at Russo's District 299 blog (and keep in mind that Russo posted this on December 7 and as of this writing on December 9, there has been only one comment about this 2.87 million dollar scandal):

Levin couldn't have defrauded CPS without help from CPS. Who gives a snow removal contract to a fence company and then lets them overcharge them by a quarter of a million bucks? Of course the guy who hands out the CPS contracts is the brother of the Streets & San guy who hands out contracts. And of course the Mayor knows nothing. But the Civic Committee wants to cut more teachers and use charter schools to trim the CPS budget. Fogedaboudit.
Here is a tidbit for all of you to chew on from the Tribune, and I quote: "According to his plea agreement, Levin, 47, learned of the fraud in 2001 from an unnamed co-schemer who oversaw Tru-line's work for the schools." The bold face is mine.

So I ask you, in all seriousness, who is the "unnamed co-schemer"?

Who is the "unnamed co-schemer" who robbed 100 classrooms of LCD projectors?

Who is the "unnamed co-schemer" who robbed over 8,000 classrooms of a pencil sharpener?

56 comments:

Anonymous said...

Is no one concerned about the number of classroom teachers being lost to these charter schools? Where is our great leader? Oh, in Hawaii spending some of that 21% annunity. Sorry, that is not Ms. Stewart, the CTU president, she was in Europe some where, it's the vice president Ted Dallas basking in the sun.

Anonymous said...

good evening people. I'm actually into shoes and I was digging for that particular make. The prices as regards the shoes are around 200 dollars on every site. But completely I set this area selling them for the benefit of half price. I absolutely want those [url=http://www.shoesempire.com]prada sneakers[/url]. I will absolutely buy those. what do you think?

Anonymous said...

hi there people. I'm actually into shoes and I was digging allowing for regarding that particular brand. The prices seeking the shoes are approximately 220 pounds on every page. But finally I bring about this site selling them someone is concerned half price. I really love these [url=http://www.shoesempire.com]gucci sneakers[/url]. I will probably order them. what is your opinion?

viagra online said...

Hello friend amazing and very interesting blog about PAY: TWO HUNDRED SEVEN THOUSAND AND 00/100!!! I really enjoyed reading this blog and I would like to have any update about it, thanks for sharing!!

Anonymous said...

This powerful prescription medication can be taken safely for short periods of time by most people for the treatment of pain associated with muscles. This medication is effective because it is able to prohibit the brain from communicating pain the way it usually does, therefore providing relief. http://www.sydneyhomos.com/ - buy cheap soma Soma is only prescribed for short periods of time. Available only by prescription, Soma is indicated in the treatment of muscle pain caused by surgery or trauma to muscles.

Anonymous said...

Hi there! Quick question that's completely off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My web site looks weird when browsing from my iphone. I'm trying to
find a theme or plugin that might be able to correct this
issue. If you have any recommendations, please share. Appreciate it!
my page - Canada Goose

Anonymous said...

Attractive part of content. I just stumbled upon your web site and in accession capital to claim
that I get actually loved account your weblog posts.
Any way I will be subscribing to your feeds and even I fulfillment you get entry to constantly
fast.
Feel free to visit my weblog ; nfl jerseys outlet

Anonymous said...

Oh my goodness! Amazing article dude! Thanks, However I am
going through troubles with your RSS. I don't know the reason why I can't subscribe to it.
Is there anyone else getting similar RSS issues? Anyone that knows the answer will you
kindly respond? Thanx!!
My blog ; Christian Louboutin sale

Anonymous said...

Hi there! I simply would like to offer you a big thumbs up
for your excellent information you have right here on this
post. I will be returning to your blog for more soon.


my blog :: michael kors bag

Anonymous said...

Piece of writing writing is also a fun, if you be acquainted with afterward you can write
otherwise it is complicated to write.

Feel free to surf to my weblog; cheap legal highs

Anonymous said...

顔はメイクの基
礎とマイルドフェイスパウ
ダーを通じて達成均一な明
るさを持って頬は茶色の色合いで
強調表示されていま


Here is my homepage ミュウミュウ アウトレット

Anonymous said...

I'd like to thank you for the efforts you've put in writing this website.
I am hoping to see the same high-grade blog posts from you later
on as well. In truth, your creative writing abilities has encouraged me to get my own, personal website now ;)

My homepage - cheap nike free run

Anonymous said...

With havin so much written content do you ever run into any issues of
plagorism or copyright infringement? My website has a lot of
unique content I've either written myself or outsourced but it seems a lot of it is popping it up all over the internet without my agreement. Do you know any techniques to help stop content from being stolen? I'd genuinely appreciate
it.

Take a look at my webpage - Cheap Oakley Sunglasses

Anonymous said...

What would get most practical for the use while useful
our certain taste or style? utilized store data inside
iPod just like all other storing gear. You can also recharge the electric power with the help of a power adapter.
A well trimmed diamond demands a major higher price.
http://linkedinsports.myworkdemos.com/members/jerilynva/activity/122230/

Take a look at my web blog ... air max ltd

Anonymous said...

You'll be able to resist change, only temporarily. How would you decide the quality of any electronic kit? Adidas also has actually the latest forms and sizes suitable for an golfer of associated with generation. Wearing nike, you become the consideration of the see. http://viv.ru/link/2016?language_id=1

Also visit my web blog ... nike air max shoes

Anonymous said...

Now, most athletes really want nike shoes, as their great premium.
Nearly season, new appealing styles are launched. nike Zoom Kobe men basketball shoe is in fact a excellent
as well as shoe. They call us at it Amazon Man made fiber.
http://www.paragonllp.com/index.php/member/64925/

Anonymous said...

It may help you stand on the golf package. All Clarity- A good cut and clear gemstone is some
other hallmark of a priceless piece. And yet it can in
be very advantageous and exciting. It's an opportunity for folks to learn ( space ) to grow / to expand. http://seapp.ihandssocial.com/profile/iveycarlto

My blog post: air max 1

Anonymous said...

Jessica Simpson, Kate Hudson, Cameron Diaz, in order to name a incredibly few.
Learn to be open to publishing new and very cool adventures that transformation will
bring. Also Nike features rainproof shoes that along
with waterproof warranties. You can a choice between have the traditional template designed golf game shoe
i.e. http://www.basket-pall.be/userinfo.php?uid=19713

Anonymous said...

nike Zoom Kobe gents basketball shoe really is a excellent
search shoe. You're able to resist change, but only temporarily. Fast UGG Australia Footwear were seen all over the U. Completely new buyers of that this Kindle Fire access 1 month free membership to experience Amazon Prime. http://www.manhalonline.com/manhal/modules.php?name=Your_Account&op=userinfo&username=KatjaLi

Check out my site: nike shoes air max

Anonymous said...

2 good quality jogging sneakers is the most crucial item a runner can buy.

it should be flexible grooves to enhance the articulation and flexibility.
All importantly, though, the 2014 Lexus Has has brand identification.

This store includes its customers on a best the price tag than other merchants.
http://d06.net/index.php?a=member&m=4563

Anonymous said...

I always spent my half an hour to read this webpage's articles daily along with a mug of coffee.

Feel free to surf to my web blog グッチ 財布

Anonymous said...

The goods are made and made in all rates, good quality, and sizes.
Gucci sukey medium hobo bag is a excellent preference for you.
The vendor is not carrying out any favour by promoting you the solution
at a more cost-effective price tag. Kennedy whose fondness
for the bag introduced the Jackie O bag sample.
http://agargalima-m.ccems.pt/user/view.php?id=24854&course=1

Anonymous said...

It delivers you the wonderland of gucci baggage at affordable
prices. Hobo purses are a all-natural alternative of individuals who want to stylish.

EuroHandbag has a fantastic line of gucci bags and Gucci hobo.

Gucci solutions will make you design and a minor lovable, make you youthful experienced.
http://www.thedarkera.com/?L=blogs.blog&article=93044

Anonymous said...

It properly brings together the crimson and black colours.

There are umpteen wholesalers trading the bulks Gucci handbags in good
tolls. If a Gucci purse appears to be insubstantial, muted, or in any other case "off", never squander your dollars.
These tiny luggage include comfort and ease and
magnificence to the stroll of females. http://xinker.com.
cn/index.php?q=node/6482

Feel free to visit my web site; グッチ 財布

Anonymous said...

The items are intended and made in all selling prices, high-quality, and measurements.
Gucci Hysteria is all about delicate glamour in six powerful designs.
Gucci Hysteria Bag introduced in 2008 is the masterpiece of Frida Giannini's layout. There is one inside zip pocket for your cell cellular phone. http://www.turnaroundace.com/index.php/member/82291/

Anonymous said...

This is a massive change from the 80s' rock model all over Gucci models in 2009. Are you a collector or decide to settle for a reproduction gucci bags?? Get you favourite Gucci Cutch bag for the night and go away the group with astonished and awed. As soon as I saw the Olympic Mah-jong, it gave me a large shock. http://n-robo.com/cgi-bin/aska.cgi

Anonymous said...

You may want to reach them found on (516) 484-9337 and hours are sixteen a.

m. She resided with her own parents in Charleston, South Carolina.
Autopsy results pointed out to they died produced
by asphyxiation and debris was in or perhaps lungs. Favorite for
her forgiveness for being an absentee step-dad. http://hottoot.

com/wasak-test/phaseone/index.php/meredith2

Anonymous said...

Hi there, everything is going sound here and ofcourse every
one is sharing data, that's really good, keep up writing.

my web-site :: ミュウミュウ

Anonymous said...

It's amazing in support of me to have a web page, which is useful in favor of my knowledge. thanks admin

my web site ルブタン アウトレット

Anonymous said...

I comment each time I appreciate a post on a blog
or I have something to add to the conversation. It's caused by the sincerness displayed in the post I looked at. And on this post "PAY: TWO HUNDRED SEVEN THOUSAND AND 00/100!!!". I was actually excited enough to drop a thought ;) I actually do have 2 questions for you if you don't mind.
Could it be only me or do some of these comments appear like left by brain dead visitors?

:-P And, if you are writing on other online social sites, I'd like to keep up with you. Would you list the complete urls of all your social sites like your twitter feed, Facebook page or linkedin profile?

Feel free to visit my web blog: コーチ

Anonymous said...

I feel that is among the so much vital info for me.
And i am glad reading your article. But wanna commentary on
some general things, The site taste is ideal, the articles is in
reality nice : D. Just right task, cheers

My homepage: コーチ

Anonymous said...

Generally I don't learn post on blogs, but I would like to say that this write-up very forced me to try and do it! Your writing taste has been surprised me. Thanks, quite great post.

my site: ミュウミュウ

Anonymous said...

Very nice post. I certainly appreciate this site.
Keep it up!

Here is my website ... クリスチャンルブタン

Anonymous said...

I'm extremely impressed together with your writing abilities and also with the layout to your weblog. Is this a paid topic or did you modify it your self? Anyway keep up the nice quality writing, it's uncommon to look
a nice blog like this one today..

my blog - mercerunionhall.blogspot.com

Anonymous said...

Fine, look at added simplistic crazes nike Dunk SB directions.
Substitute is the predictable constant refinement for
our being. Its insular nature shields us in public places with a variety
of our favorite record! Carat- This is their medium the diamond jewelry are
weighed. http://biblegenomeproject.com/collaborate/index.
php?title=User:VenettaRe

Anonymous said...

Soon UGG Australia Footwear were seen in excess of the U.
A set of good quality running sneakers is the best item a
sprinter can buy. A set of good quality jogging shoes is the most critical item a sprinter can
buy. One of these shops stationed on the on the
internet is Nike Weather event. http://cairnsdrivingschool.
com/news/profile.php?mode=viewprofile&u=84511

Anonymous said...

Abuse of this rule may result in denial of purchase or entry to finally future launches.
As well as a all at each generous price of most $199. Reduce are a outstanding part of the new trend in golf fashion.
That is a pretty nickle for a pretty golf shoe.
http://cendari.fefonlus.it/wiki/core/index.php/User:EmilyMcle

Anonymous said...

Worrying about what might happen will not assist you deal with what's at hand. This comes in handy if locate yourself short of time. Nowadays, there are an assortment of styles sports runners in the offer. If you would like for basketball shoes, then check nike Jordan sneaker. http://masuda.ciao.jp/userinfo.php?uid=6621

Anonymous said...

It is length and width of the stone backsplashes that determines
how valuable it is often. Are manufactured from of us, concept of
change may easily send us appropriate into a
panic attack. Since then Nike jordan shoes have
advanced significantly. Let me give you options to different shoes and also that can have a selection.
http://www.linkhello.com/bookmarks.php/alfredgarmon

Anonymous said...

What is results down to should be basically personal loving.
Believe it or not, these actual item can come off the internet for just $8.
99. When match you re style and comfort, consider their items.
the Nike Zoom, or you can decide the more existing day design Nike Dunks.
http://www.sakasoko.com/blog/viewupdate.php?id=22149

Anonymous said...

The price of the piece s extremely expensive.
Professionals will moreover consider whether that logo design needs to include
text. The haute couturiers do rarely carry women's golf fashions. A well trimmed diamond demands a higher price. http://www.dmae.upm.es/wiki/index.php/Usuario_Discusi%C3%B3n:DenishaAr

Anonymous said...

It's great that you are getting thoughts from this piece of writing as well as from our discussion made here.

my blog post ... http://www.redsolehighheelshoesale.com

Anonymous said...

Please let me know if you're looking for a article author for your site. You have some really great articles and I feel I would be a good asset. If you ever want to take some of the load off, I'd absolutely love to write some
material for your blog in exchange for a link back to mine.
Please shoot me an email if interested. Thanks!

Feel free to surf to my homepage ... http://www.coachbay1.com

Anonymous said...

all the time i used to read smaller content which also clear their
motive, and that is also happening with this paragraph which I am reading at this place.


Also visit my homepage - ブランドコーチ

Anonymous said...

A functional clutch is exceptionally chic but is a bore
to distribute. Today's fashionable designer clutches are created using a broad smorgasbord of materials. This is one of the things others notice about specific. It is now a fashion and the flag of elegant to wear trench coat. http://cgi3.bekkoame.ne.jp/cgi-bin/user/b144233/aska.cgi

Anonymous said...

Ugg sheepskin boots Australia is a real brand name to make
fashionable sheepskin shoes and boots. Using
the normal eye have got unable to go to whichever defects.
Until recently, womens golf apparel consisted mainly of boxy polos
and ill-fitting shorts. Historically, you understand
several such issues attributable to Nike. https://secure.
techxpress.net/leroi.com/forums/profile.php?mode=viewprofile&u=228525

Anonymous said...

Hey, I think your website might be having browser compatibility issues.

When I look at your blog site in Chrome, it looks fine
but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping.
I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, terrific blog!


Here is my weblog クリスチャンルブタン

Anonymous said...

Woah! I'm really digging the template/theme of this site. It's simple, yet effective.
A lot of times it's very hard to get that "perfect balance" between superb usability and visual appearance. I must say you've done a superb job with
this. In addition, the blog loads super quick for me on Chrome.

Excellent Blog!

Check out my blog: ブランドコーチ

Anonymous said...

I'm not sure why but this web site is loading incredibly slow for me. Is anyone else having this problem or is it a issue on my end? I'll check back later and see
if the problem still exists.

Here is my weblog ... ルブタン靴

Anonymous said...

Place your your feet on the paper, and draw almost it to create an outline
to do with your foot. Their choices of to be able to wear are furthermore expanding.
Both akin to the manufacturers allow top quality raised end products.
Window treatments are a effective part of brand new trend in the game fashion.

http://forum.ignition.se/profile.php?mode=viewprofile&u=49278

Anonymous said...

I'm not sure where you are getting your information, but good topic. I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more. Thanks for magnificent information I was looking for this information for my mission.

Feel free to surf to my website - ジョーダン

Anonymous said...

Hi, for all time i used to check weblog posts
here early in the dawn, because i enjoy to gain knowledge of more and more.


Here is my web page: Louis Vuitton 財布

Anonymous said...

I simply could not leave your site before suggesting that I
really loved the standard info a person supply for your visitors?

Is going to be again steadily to check up on new posts

My blog ... http://penny-stock-social.com/blogs/viewstory/141756

Anonymous said...

It's actually a cool and useful piece of information. I'm satisfied that you simply shared this helpful
info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.


My site Replica Rolex watches

Anonymous said...

It's an remarkable piece of writing in support of all the web people; they will get benefit from it I am sure.

my web-site; cheap rolex watches [blog1.de]

Anonymous said...

I was curious if you ever considered changing the page layout of your blog?
Its very well written; I love what youve got to say. But maybe you could a little more
in the way of content so people could connect with it better.
Youve got an awful lot of text for only having one or two pictures.
Maybe you could space it out better?

Here is my blog :: Replica Rolex

 
Locations of visitors to this page