Living in a War Zone

Remembering our mothers on Mother's Day

2009-05-08T17:26:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday May 8 , 2009
Time 4:10

I would like to wish the Mother's all over the world a Happy Mother's Day.

Mother's and Grandmother's are a tireless breed. They suffer and sacrifice for their kids. All parents want their children to be healthy and happy and to have the best changes in like they can give them.

Parents please. Make your young men pull up their pants. Put restriction on your kids.

I still see young kids out in the street without adult supervision. Parents in order to keep your kids safe, you mush know were they are and what they are doing. You know what would make my Mother's Day happier, is to not see more of our children getting killed.

Thank You
Carmen

Helping fight neighborhood crime

2009-04-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday April 21,2009 Time6:42

On December 24, 2006 My friends brother, Timothy E Hart and three friends were walking down 3100 block of 63th when two unknown offender approached them, and grabbed his girlfriends purse.

Timothy struggled with the two offender and one of them shot him and his girl friend. Timothy, my friends baby brother was killed. her family was crushed. My friends name is Stacy Hart and if you have any information you can call her at 708-990-4845

Their were two offenders African American 5"9 to 5" 10 about 180lbs and the other offender was 6' ft, about 200 lbs wearing a do rag. If you think you know who is responsible for this Hannis crime please call this number 312-747-8380 or 708-990-4845.

If you see any crime or gangs or young people hanging around on the corner call 312-747-8380 They don't need your name. Please call We are trying to keep our children's from getting killed.

Curfew will be strictly in forced.

If your kids are caught out side after curfew, you will be fined.If you see a crime don't attempt to apprehend Call 312-747-8380. it's important that we all get envoled.

Thank You
Carmen

Public officers abuse public's rights

2009-04-20T17:27:00.001-07:00

Today is Monday April 20, 2009 Time 6:56

We need to be very careful, when we the people but a public servant in office and he starts doing things we know is not right Like torching prisoners, tapping American phones,and telling lies to get a war started doest,t history tell us anything?

Why did it take so long to voted Bush out of office. We new all the things he was doing wrong and we let him do it. Tell me what good can out of it.

Bush was responsible for looking out after the store. But he was looking out after himself and now he can fade into the sunset, with a big pension.

Tax payer have a rights to protest when you have a President or Mayor that will not take care of the people that but them in office People are really upset about all the pot holds in Chicago in the City and the way the Mayor uses our money,to do what he wants.

The corruption in Chicago has got to stop and has we look back in history we know we can make a change

Thank You
Carmen

Why Olympics when the people suffer?

2009-04-03T03:13:00.001-07:00

Today is Thursday 2, 2009 Time 10:53

I was so glade to hear that the police department union are protesting budget cuts and no one is happy with superintend Jody Weis. The Mayor stands by superintendent Weis because he is doing what the mayor wants him to do, nothing. The Mayor has to get as much money as he can for the Olympics. And the people of Chicago suffer. That is why he went to china to see how they do things. With the cameras, and meter its always about money. He does what ever he can to sell the people out. More and more people are unhappy with this corrupt city.

It makes me sick to thing what the summer might bring.

The summer of 2008 was the worst of my life. Shooting in the streets, scare all the time,is that's the ways life is going to be from now on,

The government said they want to protect us from outside terrorist. But who protects us from the terrorist that live next door.

Bush was a bad President and Mayor Daley is a bad Mayor.But remenber we put these people in office.
Bush is out. Now it's time to get rid of Daley.

Get mad and vote him out of office.

Thank You
Carmen

Police Supt. Jody Weis sets bad example for city

2009-03-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday March 17, 2009
Time 5:17

I thought Jodie Weis would be a better police superintendent. How can the mayor and the superintend of police try to protect police officers that break the law. How can we the people give these politicians power and trust, when the superintendent of police is helping the criminals. I think they forget who pays them. When we find the Superintend of Police would rather go to jail than turn in police officers that have been breaking the law. It let me know he is not the right person for that job It shows you what the people in power are about. All the things that the city wants, the city gets. When the people in the city wants, there is never enough money.This is not the city's money. It's ours. And we are not forcing the city to do what the people want. We go along with what is happening in Chicago.

Summer is right around the corner and summer brings crime.

Mayor Daley if you want the Olympics to come to Chicago you need to stop complaining about the crime in the City and start doing something about it. Stop protecting your police officers when they break the law. It doesn't make you look good.

When are we going to learn that if Chicago is not working, we need to stop putting the same people back in office.

Thank You
Carmen

Businesses in trouble today were the cause of their problems yesterday

2009-03-09T18:14:00.000-07:00

Today is Monday 9, 2009 Time 7: 13

For the last ten years prices have been going up. Gas prices went sky high. Then real estate went up. All the propriety owner were very happy that their houses were worth so much money. But to me it seems unreal that things were happening so fast.

These companies knew what they were doing. They manipulated the American people and drove the prices up to fill their pockets.

They said the c.e.o's of these companies were not being watched. Well I want to know why? The people that are supposed to watch out for the American people are looking the other way.

Most Americans want a change. The President said he wants to make a change and we the American people need to believe that a change is coming. We need hope. But has our world become so corrupted that we won't let there be change? I don't know the answer to that question.

Let me know if you think their will be positive change or not? Remember this is about out Children future

Thank You
Carmen

Calls for Burris to resign grow

2009-02-18T03:22:00.000-08:00

Today is Tuesday February 17, 2009 Time 10:29

Senator Burris we the people of Illinois are very disappointed with you .We thought you were a stand up guy. The Senate job can not be that important that you should lie to get it. Now you look stupid . You said there was nothing to tell the senate committee. Now you come up with, Oh! I did not tell you I was approached by several of Blagojevich people .

Because, you knew the Senate committee wanted to know if you were approached and you held this information from the senate . You should be ashamed! It seems that politicians lie all the time to get what they want. Senator Burris people are watching, and we can't have a good relationship with you. It's seems you and Blagojevich are sleeping in the same bed.
Senator Burris we tried to give you the benefit of doubt. Now we know you are just another deceptive Politician.

Please resign.

Thank You
Carmen

What we say says more about ourselves

2009-02-15T15:48:00.000-08:00

Today is Sunday 15, February, 2009 Time10:00

I was surprised to hear that Etta James would make a statement like that about Beyonce.
That's what's wrong with the world. People, you say these, hurtful things about people but you know who it hurts the most? It hurts you. Because we the public use to look up to you
until we find out you let your jealousy hurt other people.

Etta James, Jesse Jackson, Athena Franklin you had your turn in the spot light.
Now people all over the world know that you are jealous. That's not good. The one thing I hate the most is African Americans putting each other down. Wake up people. You are here to contribute what you can and leave the rest to the next generation. It's to bad you don't realize that the only one you have hurt is yourself. I found out that happy people live longer. they love people and people love them and that's what I want my life to be about

I do thank Athena Franklin Jesse Jackson and Etta james for their great contribution. too bad they can't do the same.

Thank YouCarmen

Dear Mr. President ...

2009-01-29T14:01:00.000-08:00

Today is Thursday 29 , 2009 Time 3:27

Mr. President:

I heard the President say on television that if any one had an answer to the economic problem he would like to hear it. So here it is.

When the government gives money to these Companies they need to say in your Reconstruction you can not lay off any of your workers. Because the problem is, as soon as these companies get the money they start laying people off. .

We can't get loans or credit without having perfect credit. So how is this helping in the bail out for the American people.

If it takes the American people to spend money to bring the economy back, give us the money and we will start the money to flowing .

By Giving the American People the money, you will bail the American people out and put money back into the economy. This way every one wins and the people will spend the money . Do You know how I know. Because we need food, we need to pay the rent, we need to fix the car and we need money to look for a job. We need some hope.Something to keep us holding on.

A man killed his wife, kids and his self because he and his wife loss there job.
this is deep!

The Public should have a voice in this decision,

I would like to know what you think.

Thank You
Carmen

A new senator and a new president

2009-01-20T17:42:00.000-08:00

Today is Tuesday January 29,2009 Time 7:20

I was happy to see Roland Burris stand up for his rights.

He said you can't find any dirt on me. And that he took the senate seat in good faith. If you find he is part of some kind of corruption, now is the time to do something and if not. Let the senator from Illinois along. We can not let the government make new rules when ever they want to. Now Senator Burris is in office, let him do his job. We have bigger problems to deal with.

I was ver proud today we have a new President. I wish the very best. to the President and his family.

Now we have a new Prisdent in office We the American people are waiting for our bail out. We are waiting for the stimulus package and we hope it comes soon.

Thank You
Carmen

Miracles do happen ... no gun fire this new year's eve

2009-01-10T04:34:00.000-08:00

Today is Friday January 9,2009 Time 6:34

New Years Eve 2008-2009, we always sit on the floor as soon as the shooting starts. We were waiting for the first shot but it never happened. We did not hear any shooting. I was so shocked. I could not believe it. Does this mean things are changing. I was told that last year they arrested lots of people for New Year Eve shooting. So if the City want to stop crime in Chicago they can. It does not look good that the mayor of a big City like Chicago would not want to clean up
his city. So the people that come to the Olympics can feel safe. I am hoping this summer will bring about some positive changes. Our President would be settled in office. Hopefully this will be the new beginning we all have been looking for. We need to be patent and give our President time.

I find out that miracle happen every day. Some people don't believe that but it's not enough to look. You must see.

Thank You
Carmen

Innocent until proven guilty

2009-01-06T16:59:00.000-08:00

Today is Tuesday January 6, 2009 Time 4:53

I can not see why they want to impeach or take away Blagojevich's power without charging him with a crime.They could have had a special election for the Senate seat. I don't want favors for any politicians, But impeachment without charges seams like putting the cart before the horse.If he is proven guilty of something send him to jail. I love to see criminal go to jail.

It seams every one is trying to get Blagojevich out of office before he goes to trial. I know there much be something else behind this move .

The governor has the right to pick Roland Burris and I don't think Mr. Burris would have taken that appointment if there was any impropriety on his part.

If he did nothing wrong why shouldn't he take the appointment? And he is qualified. I will be glade to see Blagojevich charged so all this mess can come out in court. In Chicago there is one scandal after another because most politician are crooks. That's sad.

I'm sure this trial will be interesting.

Thank You
Carmen

Hope for the New year

2008-12-30T16:17:00.001-08:00

Today is Tuesday December 30,2008 Time 5:45

There is a story I would like to share for the new year 2009. Hopefully this will give you hope about mankind. We went to visit my Aunt for Christmas, and she said she had lived in her apartment for 20 years and her rent was never raised so she raised the rent. She went and told her landlord she was going to pay him more money because he had never raised their rent. Tell me! Who does things like that? Well she did and I love her for it.

In 2009 make sure you find people that love and respect you like you do them no matter what your circumstances are, know that it will get better if you keep trying . Bad things happen two all of us and if we live though it, We become stronger. Being close to your family is so important. Even though close family has problems just like every one else. They pull together and make it though the tough times.

Thank You
Carmen

People afraid to spend money because of job losses

2008-12-20T15:37:00.000-08:00

Today is Saturday December 20, 2008 Time 4:26

People are afraid to spend money, because they have lost their jobs, lost money in the market or they just don't have any money. But their is a solution, if the government wants the American people to spend money, give the billions of dollars to the American people they are the ones that need a bail out. If they had money, some of them could save their homes, buy food, or buy a cars. And if they spend money, the economy would spring back. But we can't spend what we don't have.

The government tells us so many things and we don't believe them any more. The American people did not cause this to happen but again we are the ones paying the price . When these companies get bailed out they will still layoff people. They have money. They did not lose their homes. They have food. Their children still go to Private schools.

Government show some compassion to the American people.We need a bail out. Give us some big money and we will spend it. Then maybe we can start trusting again.

Thank You
Carmen

Politicians gone mad with power

2008-12-11T03:12:00.000-08:00

Today is Wednesday December 10 2008 Time 11:59

Politicians are mad with power.

It's time for a change and I think the young generation is ready. To take their place in a new society. If you have not being paying attention to what the vote can do. This is the change we have been waiting for. Get rid of the corruption. Evey thing that happen that concern the American people should be voted on. Like if we want a thousand dollar Ice sculpture that malts in to days. These are pretty things but ,what good is that if you don't have food? Shouldn't that money be put in the school system? All these expensive things the city buys that we have no say so over. We need health care, jobs, good schools and a safe place to live.

The first thing to do is to get rid of the corruption in Government and send them to jail.Then the massage will be "you do wrong you go to jail". We can not have our senators bagging to let criminals out of jail early. Dick Durbin shame, on you. The message you are sending you think you and you friends are better than The American people. "We pay you don't we?" We're tired of that kind of government. When you do the best for the American people you are doing the best for yourself .

We have the power to have it our way. I hope you know that.

Thank You
Carmen

Stop the hating ... we need love

2008-12-09T15:02:00.000-08:00

Today is Tuesday December 9,2008 Time 5:00

First I would like to wish every one a Happy Holiday and please have a safe and and Blessed New Year.

People stop hating.

How can people go to church and pray and come home and hate? When you hate others for no reason, you don't like who you are. You hate because some one has a better job than you, because some one has a bigger house than yours, because some kid is smarter than your kids. Hating takes lots of energy. What do you gain from hating? Unhappiness, and loneliness. when you look in the mirror, what do you see? A hater looking back at you.

Haters hurt everyone. Their always putting other people down because they think their better than everyone else. While they are hating they don't get to smell the roses. their is no beauty in the world for them. Love and kindness doesn't mean anything to them.

I'm glad I love Roses.

My husband and I are still in love and I am very happy

Thank You
Carmen

Have a better tomorrow, Sat Nov 22, 2008

2008-11-22T05:07:00.000-08:00

Today is Saturday 22, November , 2008 Time 1:35

I had a great day today. I think I understand how to have a great day. When I am out I speak to every one, and If some one open a door or gives me something, I always say thank you. When I am driving I always try to let other drivers in because that is what you are suppose to do. Why Be in a hurry? It just makes you old before your time.Try to do something you like every day. Try not to let little things control you by getting you upset. Control your anger and walk away. When you control your anger then you control the outcome. We proved we have power now all we need to do is start using it. You don't have to be a hater. No one can take your Desire to be happy. I live in a war zone. But because I love my family so much, I know There is a way . I just haven thought of it yet.

I love my family and I really want them to have a better future than what I have. Man will always struggle but hopefully the struggle will be for a better tomorrow.

If you want a better tomorrow, start today.

Thank You
Carmen

Jon Burge and the need for punishment Mon 11-10-08

2008-11-11T03:16:00.000-08:00

Today is Monday November 10, 2008 Time 8:28

You know what I see for the future, The youth coming forward to claim their destiny It's time for the old political machine to fade away. The youth has to reach back in the past to make things right. Like former Police lieutenant Jon Burge and others, torturing people to make them confess to crimes they did not commit. They new Burge was doing wrong. They fired him without making him pay for his crimes and not letting the people he tortured out of jail and like Edward vrdolyak who is being charged with receiving kick backs and bribery he has done lots of wrong now it's catching up with him and governor George Ryan convicted of corruption.The new generation are the ones bringing all these criminal to justice. The old machine was always there to help their friends stay out of jail.

You commit a crime and you are allowed to walk away with your pension. We have no sympathy.

I would like to thank all the people responsible for bringing these criminals to justice.

Thank youCarmen

Daley brushes off blame and puts it on families, Sun Nov. 9, 2008

2008-11-10T03:30:00.000-08:00

Today is Sunday November 9, 2008 Time 12:43

I heard a speech on T.V.

That every one wants to blame the police and the Mayor for the violence in Chicago but they are not blaming themselves. Well part of that I agreed with.

We are all to blame. We want the City to do every thing about the violence in Chicago. But we don't want the police to arrest our kids when they are caught doing wrong.When they get our of hand at home we want the City to take them. We want the teachers to teach them discipline. and take care of their problems.

But you know what? those are your kids and that is your job.

If the mayor the teachers and the police do every thing,then what are you going to do.

The City and the parents should be working together. because we need each other.

You know the old saying it takes a village to raise a child.

If you are unhappy about the way things are going speak out let me hear your opinion.

Thank You
Carmen

Obama wins in Illinois Wed Nov. 5, 2008

2008-11-05T04:10:00.001-08:00

Today is Wednesday November 5, 2008 Time 11:36

To day was a very proud day for me.So many people came out to vote. I had never seen so many people before and I have been voting for many many years. But today I saw mothers with their adult children.I saw many young adults and people that were voting for the first time. It made me feel so good. I guest the people feel that they have someone that would give them hope for the future

It took me about 45 minute to vote but that's all good.

I want to thank all the people that voted yesterday.Because this is our future and we all should be a part of it.We will have a new President soon. But with change, comes patient. So give it time. Their is no such thing as perfect.

But hopefully our new President will do the best job that he can.

I specially would like to thank some first time voter. That called to let me know they voted. My two nieces and my son.

People give your self a hand!

Thank You
Carmen

Election Day -- Please Vote. Tues Nov. 4

2008-11-03T17:27:00.001-08:00

Today is Tuesday November 4, 2008
Time 7:00

Today is Election day and we know how important it is to vote. People died to give some of us that right. Don't throw that away. Know matter who you want to be your President John Mccain or Barack Obama please vote. This Presidency will go down in history.

Hopefully our new president will bring about positive changes for all of us.This has been a long battle to get to this point, and it will be a longer battle to make the changes we need.I do not know what the future will bring. But I hope whoever becomes our President is the right
man for this job.

Thank You
Carmen

Daley worries about Olympics, not enough about street gangs, Thurs 10-30-08

2008-10-30T03:31:00.000-07:00

Today is Thursday October 30, 2008
Time 12:58 am

The Mayor is so worried about the Olympics coming to Chicago. What about all the violence. People all over the world know about Chicago's crime rate. Who wants to come here. If I did not live here, I wouldn't want to come. It's like the days of Al Capone and his gang, killings every day. It's embarrassing to me that my friends and family won't come to Chicago. Mayor, it should be embarrassing to you to know people think Chicago is the crime Capital of the world, and you are the head of this City, and you let things get out of hand .Mayor Daley you have made Chicago a beautiful City but with all the crime and corruption the people of Chicago can't enjoy it. Being the Mayor is a very hard job but this is your City and I just don't want to get shot down going to the store.

You can make the difference!

Thank You
Carmen

Questions abotu Sarah Palin, 10-28-08

2008-10-27T19:13:00.001-07:00

Today is tuesday October 28, 2008 Time 8:05

Governor Palin, I used to think you were a nice person, but the ways you run your campaign shows that you are not. You have been slinging mud from the very beginning and now your dirty laundry is being shown. You are saying they keep telling lies on me. Well right or wrong now you know how it feels. You started the mud slinging so deal with it.

If you were the right person ruining to be the vice President, you would be talking about health care, the economy and what we can do to get out of thismess. But all you do is sling mud at Senator Obama. The American people don't want to hear that. We are intelligent enough to judge for our selves.

What it shows is the kind of person you are and I would not want you to be my Vice President or my President.

Governor Palin, you get what you give!

Thank You
Carmen

Tragedy for Jennifer Hudson's family, Mon 10-27-08

2008-10-27T19:12:00.000-07:00

Today is Monday October 27, 2008 Time 7:27

To the family of Jennifer Hudson, We are deeply sorry for the loss of your Mother, brother, and nephew. It hurts my heart to think someone could be so uncaring about human life. The killers that did this horrible crime. The death penalty is waiting . I hate to hear of the violence that plagues our City. In Chicago there has been over 4 hundred deaths in less than a year. Has this become a way of life? When will it stop?

Please stoping the killing.

Thank You
Carmen

Managing money Fri Oct 24, 2008

2008-10-24T03:21:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday October 24, 2008 Time 1:09

Do you think money would change you?

I ask this question because I feel most people would say no. Money would not change them. But that's not really true. Because money controls.

If You lived in public housing and you won four million dollars on the lottery, What would you do? Maybe buy a new house, new clothes, new car put your kids in the best schools. Well what about your old neighborhood and your old friends? They did not win the lottery. So they can not do the things you can. Like go on trips, hang with movie stars, or all ways have money.

So now I ask you the question again would money change you? Do you know that about 2% of all the rich people have 80% of all the money more or less.And they live real good. They have no idea how you live. We know that all the athletes get paid big bucks. Because we pay the money to go see them. All the movie stars get big bucks because we pay money to go to the movies.The point I was tring to make is the reason we do not have any money is because we give our money to the rich people.The other rich People just take our money.

You know who I am talking about.

Thank You
Carmen

Teen parents, Wed Oct 22, 2008

2008-10-22T03:08:00.001-07:00

Today is Wednesday October 22, 2008 Time 1:30am

Parents of teens that are out of control. The discipline starts at home as soon as a child starts to walk and talk. You start letting them know spitting on people, kicking people, not coming when you call them, saying inappropriate words is unacceptable. Some time parents do not see, some of the things their little one does may not be so cute.

You need to gain respect as soon as possible and let your child know when you tell them to do something you mean it. As soon as possible set rules. Let your child know when they disobey there are consequences.

This will not hurt your child. But help them to be a better adult, some one you can be proud of.

Most importantly make your child stay in school. Because school is one of the keys to success.

Motivate your child by finding out what they are good at or things they really like to do. Like math or sewing, maybe they like to fix things. Then push them in that direction.

All of us have natural abilities. Ambitious children are children that enjoy what they are doing.Letting them know they can be any thing they want, even the president and you will always be behind them.

Teen parents.

Sometimes you become a parent before you are ready and you know in your heart you can not handle this responsible. You have options. You can always give your child up for adoption.Give your child a good home with a loving family.

There are plenty of loving people waiting for a baby.

Thank You
Carmen

City starts new gang task force to stop crime in Chicago

2008-10-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday October 17, 2008 Time4:24

City has started a new gang task force to stop some of the crime in Chicago.

They had a task force once before but it was dispersed because the task force became the criminals. This time I hope they learn from the past and monitor the task force better. Because as much as I want the City to crack down on crime, we don't need any more criminals with guns and badges. If they get caught doing something wrong don't protect them, send them to jail.

We seem to think we can not do any thing about what is going on in our City. We need to start caring more about the things that happen in our city Like police brutality, mismanagement in office,or unsafe communitieswe should protest. and protest some more. It's our money and the politician should do what we want them to. Not fly all over the country, having parties or pick up prostitutes with tax payers money.

We need to stop the madness!

Thank You
Carmen

War draining our economy, harming neighborhoods and those in need

2008-10-14T03:43:00.000-07:00

Today is Monday October 13, 2008, Time 10:38

The more I hear about the things our leaders are doing, the more I believe the melt down we are having may not be able to be repaired. There has been so much mismanagement of the tax payers money. The war is draining the economy, and we the tax payers have nothing to say about it. We live from pay check to pay check. What has happening to the American dream.

Our leaders get on T.V to tell us every thing will be alright. Well we don't believe anything they say any more. We have watched the way they handled Katrina, we have watched the way they handled the war, we have watched the way they handled gas prices, we have watched the way they handled the economy, and now we are having a structural break down.

Do they really think the people don't know about the lies, greed, and manipulation that goes on in government? Everyone I talk to knows. I used to think they worked for us.

But I guess not. It seems we work for them!

Thank You
Carmen

Why I live where I do, Tues Oct 7, 2008

2008-10-07T17:33:00.001-07:00

Today is Tuesday October 7, 2008 Time6:46

Why I live in a war zone

Not because I am lazy and don't want anything, I have grass in front of my house, flowers in my back yard. I go out and clean the street, try to make improvements on my house but in my neighborhood the gangs destroy our property.they Break in our homes, garages and cars. I feel like a bug being exterminated.

Criminals know that in certain communities they can get away with this behavior. You can call the police all day and night and nothing will change until the city honesty tries to make a better. Police are afraid to come into our community because they may get killed. Not only are the people not being protected, but our Police are not being protected.

Instead of our leaders addressing the problems plaguing this city they choose to shift the problems from community to community. Then after the violence, destruction and loss of life, they shift the problem some place else.

Why not fix the problems through better education, and programs. We know that children having children is not a good thing, because it continues the cycle. We also know that education can change some of these problems and provide good jobs so people can support their families and live descent . If I know this why don't our leaders know this.

Half of our people are deprived, while the other half flourishes. This mentality has to stop. Because these are the people that get up and go to work every day. When the people are being deprived of good education, health care, decent jobs, and safe neighborhoods we all pay the price. can't you see that?

We also know gas prices, food prices, and taxes are up. The people that are deprived are struggling just to live. We need to make a change now!

Please leave a commit, let me know how you feel?

Thank You
Carmen

When a young person says they are sorry, Mon Oct. 6, 2008

2008-10-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

Today is Monday October 6, 2008 Time 4:01

A Ray Of Sunshine

I wanted to tell you this story because it gives me hope for the future. My husband and I were having breakfast at a restaurant. My husband went to pay the bill. I was standing at the door and a young man came in with a friend.

He said an inappropriate word and looked up and saw me. He said excuse me miss I did not mean to say that word in front of you. I was very surprised to hear him apologize for saying that word. I thanked him and said this is my ray of Sunshine. To know his parents raised him to respect older people.

I would like to thank him and is parents because this young man made my day.

When I was growing up children would never say words like that in front of adults. Now you hear it all the time. Teaching your children to give respect to others starts at home.

Thank You
Carmen

Learning lessons about public misconduct Tues Sept. 30, 2008

2008-10-01T03:34:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday , September 30, 2008 Time 9: 26

If you want to hear important news about the economy, how global warning is affecting us, Child predators and corrupted official, go to Mr. Hanania,column in the South West-News Herald. I love his column, it's very informative.

If you find that an official has committed a crime and that person goes to jail, please don't vote them back into office. The message you are sending is next time don't get caught.

If a person lies to congress about the reason for going to war and nothing happens,
and another person lies to congress about committing adultery and they want to impeach them,

What is wrong with this picture.

I would like to know? how many of you agree or disagree with the 700 Billion dollar bail out of these big companies with the tax payers money? I just do not understand why the tax payers should pay. Some of us are trying to live.

While the government throws our money away funding a war and bailing out rich people. We are left holding the bag. The C.E.O's new about this long before the public, they have their money
I don't need any one spending my money. I can do bad by myself.

I Know you have an opinion!. Please Let me hear from you?

Thank You
Carmen

Credit card companies are bad, Wed Sept. 24, 2008

2008-09-24T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today Is Wensday, September 24, 2008 Time 9:47

Why credit cards are a bad thing.

Credit cards companies Target college students, because again they have no experience.They know when a student gets a credit card, they will run it up into the thousands. They also have their names and information to sell. In order for you get get from under all your debt, you need to file bankrupt.They do not want you to file bankrupt, because then they will lose all the interest they have charged you. Credit card companies are fighting hard to get rid of the bankruptcy law.

Your information is not safe. Not only does the Government have all of your information, but so does every one else. Your life Is an open book.They know where you work, how much money you make, how much you spend, how many kids you have, how many cars you own, where you shop and when you leave the house. Not only do they have Camera's on you,
but they monitor your calls and Internet activity. even tho this is illegal.

Things are bad, I mean real bad.

We have a war draining our economy. The big companies in Iraq are getting three times as much as our soldiers. Our service men and women do not make enough money to support their families. We need to bring our soldiers home.

If you think there is some one out their to help you, think again. It's all about the Dollar. If you are not keeping up with the corruption in the world you need to start.

I hope you know most tax payers will not be getting social security when they retire. The money you thought was being put away for your retirement, is being spend.

They are using your money to bail out big companies.and no one in the company is held accountable.

When you ask for good schools, protection for your community or social program for your kids, they tell you we are broke! Then they give themselves a raise.

Wake up people!

Thank You
Carmen

Out of town friends fear visits, Fri Sept. 18, 2008

2008-09-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday September 18, 2008 Time:7:23

My Daughter's came to visit. They asked If their cars would be safe parked in front of my house. This never happened before. My friends from out of town do not want to visit me because they are afraid to come to Chicago. As bad as I want my family and friends to visit me I cannot tell them to come, because something might happen to them. When it gets dark all the adults are in the house, only kids are out in the street.I though we had a 10:o'clock curfew Law.

I do not leave my house very often because I am afraid some one might break in.

If I go out of town for a funeral, I get a House sitter. I had my front door kicked in while I was home. If I hear a gun shot I turn off all the lights and sit on the floor. I used to sit in my back yard during the summer and listen to music. I can't sit in my back yard any more. It's not the same. Living like this is like being in jail. People ask me all the time how do you live like that? I tell them I have no choice. I have no choice. I have no choice.

I found it surprising to know my friends that do not live in my community were shocked
to fine out. I live in a war zone. It's happening to me now. But it will filter down to you.

Thank You
Carmen

Work with your children, Wed Sept. 17, 2008

2008-09-17T16:51:00.000-07:00

Today is Wednesday September 17, 2008 Time 6:32

Why do kids kill people for no reason? Do you see the signs?. Children are so innocent and fragile, they need to feel good about themselves . When their parents fight they feel guilty. If a parent or a silbling dies they become confused. Talk to them and let them know that natural death is not a bad thing. Hugging your kids is very important. Remember when they were in the wonb they felt safe. When you hug them they feel safe. Let them know you are proud of them and you will always be there for them, no matter what. Teach them values. Let them know that all living things are precious and we as human being should take care of them.

Let them know when they get angry come and talk to you or some one they trust.

When kids become teenagers their bodies change. hormone's controll their mind and body.

Pear pressure is very strong because your kids want to fit in.

Being over weight or having some physical problem may get them picked on at school. They become mad at the world.

When they talk about their feelings It helps them to cope.

Signs of depression. signs of drugs use, and signs of abuse. Parents you must keep you heart and your eyes open.

Thank You
Carmen

Who am I? Fri Sept. 12

2008-09-12T16:17:00.000-07:00

Today is Friday, Sept. 12, 2008 Time 3: 47

Who AM I

I have always believed that things happen for a reason. And even though I did not want to see violence happening in Chicago. It starting me to writing. Maybe this is what I was meant to do.

I see things clearer now. I think I have grown as a person. Now I know how powerful the pen really is. Not only can I write about crime, but injustices, poverty and hope. If giving the public a look at my personal experiences can help to make people think about who they are, I have succeeded. I want my life to count for something. I am not rich with monetary gain, but I am rich with love. I have good kids that love me and tread me like their hero. I have a good husband that treats me like a queen. And I love them for always being there to support me. I am truly Blessed. This experance has taught me no matter how old you are you never stop learning and growing. I would like to write a book. I am sure it would be a best seller

It's one thing that I want you to know! You get what you give.

If you give hate you get hate. But if you give love you get paradise.

Who AM I? I hope this is who I am.

Carmen

Who's watching your children? Thurs 9-11-08

2008-09-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today Thursday September 11, 2008 Time 1: 22

Who's watching your Children? the predator next door or the one across the street? They watch for an opportunity to abduct you children. Children are getting molested younger and younger every day. You should know where your kids are at all times. Your children should not be allowed in peoples homes you don't know. They should not be allowed to go to the store, or on the next block without telling you. Don't assume your kids are OK if you have not seem them in three hours. The predators are always watching.

Young children are very trusting. Teach them never to talk to, or take anything from strangers. If some one tries to pull them away,tell them to scream as loud as they can for help.

Please don't move a boy friend into your home. This is not a good decision. You will never know until it's too late. Sexual predator can be a man or woman. The woman sometimes lures the Young person away to be molested. Never send your child to school late alone. When your child comes home and cannot get in have a safe place for them to go and call you. If your child is a teenager and uses the Internet put your computer in a place so you can see who they are chatting with.

It's very sad when these things happen because there are so many good people in the world who love kids. But you must always beware.

Parents, I have some information on how to find registered sex offenders in your community.The web sight for sex offenders is (sexoffender.chicagopolice.org ) In case your child is missing and you have checked your home and out side and you still can not fine them, act immediately. Call the police.Then call the National Center For Missing & Exploited Children( 1-800-843-5678) The first 24 house are important.

Being informed is one way to keep you and your family safe. Let me know your thoughts.

Thank You
Carmen

Do unto others ... Tuesday Sept. 9, 2008

2008-09-09T10:36:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday September 9, 2008 Time 6:31

I remember back in the day when being honest was important.People would come up and pat you on the back Not now. If you see your boss doing something illegal and you told on him, you would lose your job.

If you see some one stealing from a store and you tell on them, you may get beat up.

If you see gangs members hurting someone and you try to help you may get killed. Not only do you become a victim but you have no support from the public. What happened to our moral values? When I was a young woman, I thought in time things would get better. But They never will. Until society treats every one the same. We know people with money and power do not live under the same rules. If They commit the same crime you did, you go to jail and they get probation. But we allow this with our silence. We all live in fear.

I do understand. People are afraid to do the right thing.

It's depressing to feel you cannot do the right thing , knowing you may lose you job, your family or you life.

Life is no longer important. Killing another human being is like drinking a soda.

All over the world working people are being mistreated. And without these people there would be no world.

How much do we really care? Please get involved.

Thank You
Carmen

Destiny defines our lives but we can fashion it ourselves, Mon Sept. 8, 2008

2008-09-09T10:35:00.001-07:00

Monday September 8, 2008 Time 9:03

Have you ever though how much destiny plays in your life. We all have a destiny. You raise you kids, teach them right from wrong, they have the best of every thing, but they still don't turn out the way you wanted. When they become 21 the law says they are adults. So you tell them go out into the world and live their lives. But that is the beginning and not the end. Because they have no experience. Even though your kids will tell you Mom, Dad, don't worry I know what I am doing, they don't have a clue.

They don't know how cruel and scary the world is. Ever though experimentation is a normal part of growing up, it can be dangerous. They don't know being in the wrong place at the wrong time could get them killed, raped or they could go to jail. They only know that you have kept them safe. So what I am telling you is they don't really grow up until they get some experience under their belt. About 35 or 40 years of age. Some kids might grow up a little earlier and some a little later. So you never stop worrying about your kids.

I remember when my mom had cancer and before she died she said she was worried who was going to watch out for her children, and I was 50.

I am letting you know that once you bring a child into this world, worrying about them becomes your job forever.

Thank You
Carmen

Calm broken by new gun violence Tues Aug 26, 2008

2008-08-26T21:23:00.000-07:00

If you remember yesterday I told you the violence had stopped in my block.

Well, around 9: 0 clock last night. I heard shooting. and 5 minutes later, there were 20 police cars on my block. Police cars had blocked off the street. They had lights flashing up and down the street. I new some one had gotten hurt. But I was not leaving my house to see.

Today I went down the block to see if any one had been hurt. I was told that a gang of boys came to this boys house and shot him. Then, they ran before the police could catch them. I do not know if the police made any arrest. But this time the police came in force and sealed off the hold block.

They were on our block about 4 hours, combing the neighborhoods for the suspects. The boy was taken to the hospital. I hope he will be alright.

Thank You Chicago police.

Living here is like living in a war zone!

Thank You
Carmen

A pause in the neighborhood violence, Mon Aug 25, 2008

2008-08-25T18:16:00.000-07:00

We have not seen any violence in my block lately. But it's still happening in my community. School is starting and I am so happy. Maybe it will help to keep the kids from hanging out all night.

I see the police coming around more offen. Hopefully this means they are trying to do more to keep the community safe. I do not want to move from My home, I have lived here 18 years and I love my home. Keeping the community safe is not going to work unless the community and the police work together. When I see a crime being commited I call the police and I am so happy they show up.

I know police officers have a hard job. They are out numbed when it comes to fighting crime.

They have families and don't want to get killed. Just like with any other job there are good police officers and bad police officers. The good ones take their jobs seriously and I praise them for putting their life on the line. The bad ones think they are above the law. They drink on the job and kill people and think they should get away with it. Police commissioner, get rid of these bad apples and stop protecting them. When we see video's of police officers beating up helpless female citizen, how can the police protect this kind of person? There are organizations in our neighborhood that are trying to make a difference.

If we all work together we will make a difference

Thank You
Carmen

It all starts with respect Sun Aug 24, 2008

2008-08-24T18:05:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you a story. A couple of years ago my husband and I went to Texas for my grandson's birthday. We stayed at a hotel that was nice but not expensive and not too far from stores and restaurants. Every place we went the people were so nice. Anything we asked them to do, they were happy to do it. They treated us like royalty.

Yesterday I went to buy some earings at Ford City. I asked the lady who was talking to her friend if they had "hoop earings." She said yes, and pointed "over there." She could not stop talking to her friend to help me. This is called customer service. So I walked away. I went to another store and the young man was glad to help me. I bought too pairs of earings.

I went to the Jewel in my neighborhood a year ago and complained about a problem at the deli counter. I talked to the manager not once, but twice and he promised to get the problem fixed.

To this day the problem still exist. I don't go there any more. If we want things to be nice, we need to stop accepting "any old thing."

When I spend my money, I want good service. I drive out of my neighborhood, though, to get the service I want. I went to the bank during my lunch and tried to get in the vault. No one ever came to help me. I had to take my money out of that bank.

If you don't get the service you expect you should spend your money else where.

Thank You
Carmen

Are we listening to our children? Sat Aug 23, 2008

2008-08-24T18:04:00.001-07:00

Did you know from the time your sweet little baby is born, he lets you know what he needs. He cries, to tell you he needs you to hold him and love him. He cries to let you know he needs you to feed him and change his diaper. As he starts to talk he say hold me, read to me. As he grows up and starts to walk, he says I need you to support me. I need your encouragement.

When your child starts to school he says help me to learn. Help me with math. All through your child's life he says give me, give me, give me and that is a good thing. This will be very important as your child grows in to man hood. He has the confidence he needs to be successful.

And when your child's becomes a teen he is saying be a good roll model, discipline me even thought he may act like he doesn't want you to.

And when you child becomes an adult, its your job to let go. Gently push him out the nest. Fly away. You can do it. Go out and see the world. Go to college, find you a mate. Get married and have babies so we can become grandparents. And then the circle starts all over again. With him!

Thank You
Carmen

Why do we vote? Fri Aug 22, 2008

2008-08-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Why do we vote? We vote because we want the candate we are voting for
to do the very best job they can, for all the people. When they run for office they Promise us they will do their best. But when we fine out that person is not doing the job they promised to do, We have the power to get rid of them.

We must understand that no one gives us anything. We work hard every day.Pay our taxes so we can have good schools, health care and safe community. We always hear them say they don't have enough money for the needs of the people. But they have enough money to give themselves raises. Why are these people still in office. This is the time to turn things around. Maybe they have forgotten what their job is. To service the people, not them selves. And our job is to make sure they do. They will do what we allow them to. We are all to blame for the way the world is today. We must let the politicians know that we are not going to allow them to do anything they want. And we can do that with our votes

Thank You
Carmen

Saggin pants and meaning used by gangs Thurs Aug 21, 2008

2008-08-22T18:38:00.001-07:00

Parents,are you aware of the history behind wearing saggin pants?

Centuries ago slave owner demoralized their blackmen, by forbidding them to wear a belts. and if you are busy holding up your pants it's harder for you to run. In addition, men in prison wore their pants low when they were spoken for. They also were not allowed to were belts to keep
them from committing suicide. So you see their is nothing good about saggin pants.

Parents these are our son's let them know this is not cool. Let them know this practice has roots to slavery and is connection to prison life. let them know that being a real man can be as easy as pulling up their pants. And as their parent you will not allow them to look like a slave.

Parent your kids learn right and wrong from you. They lean morals, dignity and leadership
from the most important people in their lives. You!

Most of our African American men are in jail or dead.

Thank You
Carmen

Reclaiming your neighborhood Aug 20, 2008

2008-08-21T05:06:00.000-07:00

Here is something you should know. Their is a Organization called Iman. It means Inner City Muslim Action Network. It is located at 2744 west 63 street. I wanted to fine out what they did. I was very surprised. They have a food pantry, they have health care. they teach career development. they teach Spanish classes and many other services free.They come in to a community fine out what the problems are and Try to come up with solutions. Even though I had never heard of Imans they have been around for 10 years.They work with the community.

They are having a rally at Navy pier September 6, 2008 if you would like to be apart
of the rally. Please call 773-434-4628 for more information.We would love to see you their. This could be the answer we have been waiting for.

Its about reclaiming the family and saving out kids

Thank You
Carmen

Gangs are our children, Tuesday August 19, 2008

2008-08-20T05:17:00.000-07:00

When we talk about gang bangers we are usually talking about boys. But what about our sweet little daughters.We would not think that our little girls are out there rolling around on the ground beating up other kids. Most fights between girls are because of a boy.

If a girl has a boy friend that is in a gang, Then she becomes a gang member too.This is how our kids learn to solve problems.

Maybe our world leaders are teaching our kids that if you don't like what some one is doing, have a war and kill other human beings. This is the way our leaders handle their problems. When parents have fights, what is that telling our kids? We are telling them this is the way to solve problems. Kids learn from what they see and hear.

Children are born into this world and they don't know anything. They learn from their parents. They learn from what they see and hear. No one said it would be easy raising
a child. Because it is a full time job.The most important thing you can do is to give them the best chance in life that you can.

Thank You
Carmen

Problems in the US and foreign countries Monday Aug 18, 2008

2008-08-19T04:41:00.001-07:00

I watch the specials on TV to see what is happening around the world and I felt ashamed that I am complaining about what is happening in Chicago. When in the Congo hundreds of women are being gang raped every day. As old as 75 and as young as 6. People in China are not allowed to complain about not having water for their crops, because water is needed for the Olympic. New Orleans where so many people died because no one would help them. I never though that could happen, but it did.

We put people in office but we do not hold them accountable .When we pay our taxes we expect all our children to have good schools. Do all the children have good schools?

No.

When we pay our taxes we expect all our people to have health care. Do all our people have health care?.

No.

What we have is sex, drugs and rock and roll.
Very slowly we are being controled and manipulated. Wake up!

Money and Power. It Controls what people watch, controlling what people know, controlling what people think, and making sure there is fear, to keep them from complaining.

We, the people should have the control.

Thank You
Carmen

Chicago Olympics -- How about fight crime? SUn Aug 17, 2008

2008-08-18T04:18:00.000-07:00

The City is making all kinds of preparation for the Olympic in 2016.D oes that mean the City will be cleaning up some of the crime in our city, or just hiring more police officers just to guard the people that come to the Olympic?

I was told that minors have certain rights. Minor don't pay bills, they don't work, What about the tax payers? minors should not be aloud to destroy property and not be held accountable ... When they break in to your garage, break your car window ,guess who has to pay?

Seniors live on a fixed income. Where do we get the money from? Maybe from the minors parents that cause the problems. If I hit a kid I am held responsible. If they hit me I am held responsible. Why ?

Pleases give us a brake.

Thank You
Carmen

Burying our heads in the sand, Sat Aug 16, 2008

2008-08-16T18:36:00.000-07:00

Some say, "as long as the gangs don't hurt me and my family."

We seem to be comfortable with violence,as long as it does not happen to me and my kids. It is not me and mine. Its us and ours.

All the kids are our kids. We are all in this together.

We tell our selves. I am one person, what can I do?.One person can't make a different. But one person can make a different. I live next door to an abandoned building I started cutting the grass and picking up paper on the abandoned property.I called the police and had the property boarded up, this took four years. Now my neighbors cut the grass and pickup paper to. Because we are all in this together.

If you take that first step ,some one else may make a step. And then their are two. Take another step, maybe some one else may make a step, then their are three.

When our kids leave the house. Do we know if they will come back safe, or will they kill or be killed.

Something to think about.

Thank You
Carmen

Safety at every level is needed Fri Aug 15, 2008

2008-08-15T19:16:00.001-07:00

Do you ever see people going though your garbage can, watching you leave and come home.

Watching kids go to school? Well these are professionals.

They go through your garbage and get your mail, they watch you when you leave home.

They know when your kids go to school. They know every thing about your life. Because they are professional criminals. They steal your identity, they break in your house, and they abduct your kids. Here are a few suggestion: Get security gates, keep your mail box locked, shred all you mail, Get security camera, make sure your kids go to school with other kids. Never let them go to school late by them selves. Remember the criminal are always watching for an opportunity.The professional criminals never take days off. They are always on the job. That is why they are so good at what they do.

This is a different world than the one you grew up in.

Being informed helps to keep you and your family safe.

Thank You
Carmen

Don't let fear stop your dreams, Thurs Aug 14, 2008

2008-08-15T03:49:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wondered why you did not become a great singer, or a great dancer. You know you sing as good as Beyonce, and dance as good as Micheal. What I came up with is fear. Most people have a fear of success. If we take a chance and go for our dream it might happen,then what? Fear sets in and we stop trying.

Life is strange that way.

When I started writing about Living in a war zone, I had that fear. I said I can't do this, my writing skills are not good at all, I don't know what to talk about, they might not like me. With the support of my family, and a very good friend, here I am.

I hope you do not let the fear of success keep you from living your dreams.

You might try something and fail, but keep trying and you will succeed.

Thank You
Carmen

Guns don't kill ... Wed August 12, 2008

2008-08-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

In one of my articles, I told you about my friend getting held up at the store where she works. I stopped by to see if she was OK. She said that one of the robbers had a gun to her side. He told her that if she moved, she would be shot in the face. Now every time she thinks about what happened she starts to cry. She said she cannot sleep at night.

Another friend called me to tell me her 50 year old brother was shot and killed by gun violence. I hear stories like this all the time.

In some communities their is very little violence. The police come when they are called.

The city of Chicago is good at telling us what to do about violence. Help the police. Go to the CAP meetings. March for gun control.

But, nothing changes.

Even though the city does not want to take responsibility for the violence in our community they are part to blame.

Why do we need to force the city to protect its citizens

I am all for gun control. But guns don't kill people. People kill people .

Criminals just don't turn in their guns.

Thank You
Carmen

Life was safer when I was growing up Tuesday August 11, 2008

2008-08-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was a kid, all the fun we had, we wouldn't get beat up, for being in the wrong neighborhood. We wouldn't get our clothes stolen at school, we wouldn't get shot down on the way home. What happened to the good old days.?

Do you think about going out of your way to help some one, visit some one sick, work in your neighborhood or church? But then talk your self out of it. Well I have done it several times.There are days I don't want to get out of bed. But It is important to me to accomplish something everyday.

I am so blessed to have this opportunity to express my opinions. It helps me to cope with all the things African Americans go through. It makes me have hope that I can make a different .
To all the people responsible for this great opportunity, Thank You from my heart.

Thank You
Carmen

Store gets hit by robbers Monday August 11, 2008

2008-08-11T16:47:00.000-07:00

It seems as though every time I leave the house I hear story's of gang violence.

I went to visit a friend , who lived on seventy ninth and Loomis, she was telling me about the gangs shooting up her neighborhood. On my way home I saw a police car on the side walk in front of a store at sixty third and Troy, where one of my friends worked.

I stopped to see if there was anything wrong. The store was closed. I asked the police officer if any one was hurt. He said the store was robbed, but no one was hurt.

When you complain they want to say you are a troublemaker. Just because you don't want to live in fear.

Thank You
Carmen

Educate your children, Sunday Aug. 10, 2008

2008-08-10T20:05:00.001-07:00

I was watching T.V and I saw this program called the baby borrower, it was very interesting. What it did, was let kids fine out the consequences of their actions this program helped kids to realize they were not ready to become parents. Their should be a work shop in all school.

Do you talk about sex with your kids?

If you don't you need to start, because they might know more than you. Sex is a natural part of life.Kids need to know the consequences and you should be the one to tell them. Make sure they know it only takes one time of unprotected sex to get pregnant. I wish kids would Wait until they were adults, that's not going to happen. but Its not impossible .

Thank You
Carmen

A breath of fresh air this week Saturday Aug 9, 2008

2008-08-09T20:01:00.000-07:00

Today I heard something I had not heard in two weeks.Since the four days of violence in my neighborhood stopped. There were children out side playing, jumping rope and playing ball .

School will be starting soon and some of our leaders think telling parents to keep their kids out of schools, is a way to get more funding. These leaders need to come up with a better solution. Our kids should not be put in the middle of a political battle.That's the problem now ,our kids have no education. They need to go to school all year round.

Education is one of the most important things in life. If a kid cannot read and write they have no future. They can't get a drivers license, they can't get a job, they can't pay bills.

Some education is better than no education at all.

Thank You

Carmen

Arson in a nearby alley Friday Aug. 8, 2008

2008-08-08T21:01:00.001-07:00

I had been in the house for a couple of days because of the heat. When I went out, I saw my neighbor and he started telling me that someone set a car on fire in the alley behind his house and part of his garage was burned.

Three weeks ago some one broke into his garage. A month ago his car was sitting in front of his house parked, and some one ran into his car and left the scene. My other neighbor told me some one jumped over his fence. And he happen to be coming out his back door, he asked the man what he wanted? and and the man jumped back over the fence.

I told my neighbor please be carefully I don't want you to get hurt.This man and his wife are so nice, and he's eighty five years old.

We all pay taxes so why are we going through this?

Thank You
Carmen

Parents can do more for their children Thurs August 7, 2008

2008-08-07T18:02:00.000-07:00

Parents, I could just write about the violence in Chicago. Why things that should be done are not done. But kids are getting killed every day and that is very important concern for me.

Parents your kids look to you for everything. You are the parent and you should be the one in control. Who is the boss in your house? Sometimes loving too much can make you lose control.

When my son was seventeen he did not like me coming in this room, so one day he asked, "Mom, I need a lock on my bed room door." I ask him do you pay rent? He answered no. I said you know son this is my house and that is my room and I don't need a lock. Kids will try you to see if you will check them and they want to be checked. That shows you love them.

Preparing your kids to leave home is your job as parents. If they don't know how to cook, shop for food, and pay bills, how do you think they can make it in the real world? I have heard kids say many times I am grown. Well being grown means being on your own paying your own bills.

All my kids left home when they were eighteen.

Thank You
Carmen

Keeping our kids safe, Wed Aug 6, 2008

2008-08-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

I wish I had the answers to world hunger, global warming and terrorism, but I don't. I can only try, with your help to come up with a solutions on how to keep our kids safe.

We seem to think that life is suppose to be easy but it's not. From the beginning of time parents have struggle with their kids. My grandparents struggled, my Mother struggled. I struggled, and my kids are struggling. Parents will always need to work hard to come up with an answer.Do you know that you are smarter than your kids?

For examble, if you tell you kids they can not go out until they clean their rooms, and they go out any way what do you do? Fuss and cuss?Nooooooo. Beat them with the broom?Noooooooooo. First always let your kids know the consequence of his or her action. Then Hit them where it hurts. No money, No T.V., No Internet and stay in the house. That will really hurt them. Make them tell you where you can fine them if you need to.Make them check in with you every couple of hours.

As parents we work to feed our kids and give them a place to live. We must work just as hard to keep them from getting killed.

Thank You
Carmen

Tuesday August 5, 2008 9:20 PM: Daley should take Governor's help

2008-08-05T19:17:00.001-07:00

Governor Blagojevich, told Mayor Daley that the violence in Chicago is out of control, He would send in the national guard, if needed. The Mayor said , We don't need any help. If you watch the news in Chicago they talk about gun violence every day. Kids get killed sitting on their front porch, riding the bus, walking down the street. I see people on the South and west side marching against gang violence. I have a poster in my window that says please don't shoot me i want to grow up .

The Mayor lives here, why is he letting this go on in his City?

I was talking to a store owner yesterday. He told me some gangs were on the street fighting and he called the police. They never showed up. Hours later, after the fighting was over, he called back, and was told he could file a complaint. He did.

We need your help to stop the violence. Please vote if you don't fell safe in Chicago.

Thank You
Carmen

Monday August 4, 2008 10:45 PM: Parents need to learn more about their kids

2008-08-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

I find most people do not take the time to find out any thing about kids.

They might say they are just bad. But the Truth is they need, just like we dothey need love. they need education, they need physical fitness, and they need something constructive to do with all the energy they have. Kids need to know someone cares about them. They need education, some teens I know can't read. So when they become of age they drop out of school.

We want our kids to be leaders not followers. They need physical fitness to keep their bodies strong and healthy.because when children become obese they have low self esteem, which might cause them to be bullied or bully other. Kids have lots of energy. They need to have something positive to do with their time. That is what we all want. Well it just doesn't happen. We need to listen to our kids. They need us.

Please let me know if you have any constructive solutions.

Thank You
Carmen

Sunday, August 3, 10:30 PM: Some down time in gang violence

2008-08-04T03:44:00.000-07:00

Today is Sunday August 3, 2008
Time: 10:30 PM
For the past three days there has not been any shooting in my block.

But two blocks away a boy was sent to the hospital, because of gang violence.

I turned the TV on and saw that on the west side of Chicago one young man was killed
and a teen was shot in the head and killed. We are all asking the same questions what is the City doing about it?

Even though violence happens all over Chicago, it happens mostly on the South and West sides of Chicago because that is where most of the Section-8 People were relocated.

My children are very worried about me. But I can not sit back and hope it goes away. I want my grand kids to grow up.

Thank You
Carmen

Saturday August 2, 2008, 4:57 PM: We have to do something

2008-08-02T17:21:00.000-07:00

The reason I write these post evey day, is because of my concern.

The people I talk to are so angry about the crime and violent in Chicago.

They tell me no one cares about us, so we must protect our selves. I know that is not the answer. It's a shame people can not sit down and solve problem without becoming physical

We see out teens getting killed every day with gun violent we need to step up to the plate. Our kids are our most precious possession. Please vote.

Is your neighborhood safe?

Carmen

Friday August 1, 2008 7:57 PM: Sister decides not to visit me

2008-08-02T04:48:00.000-07:00

My sister and her family planned to visit from out of town this weekend, but they had to cancel their plans because of the violence in Chicago. That made me very sad. But the good news is we did not have any shootings last night. That make me very happy. Now, my family calls every day to check on us.

I would like to thank the people at the Southwest News-Herald who gave us this opportunity to have our voices heard. Remember, power lies in numbers. We can make a different. Let us know if your think your neighborhood is safe.

Thank You
Carmen

Thursday, July 31, 2008, 8:35 PM: I love this city, that's why I'm writing

2008-08-01T03:36:00.000-07:00

You know I love Chicago. I raised my four children in this neighborhood. Two of my daughters graduated from college and now work for the city. My youngest daughter graduated from high school and went in to sales. My son graduated from high school and went into the Navy. I am very proud of my children.

I am not proud of Chicago today. This was a great city. So what is happening to it?

Even though we have worked hard to get and keep our property, I would sell my house if I could. But you know the housing market is not good. The home owners I talked to are fed up with this everyday violence. Their families are being hurt. Their houses have been shot at and their car windows are being broken. We are being pushed into a corner.

I want to scream for somebody help us. But there is no one there.

Carmen

Wednesday July 30, 2008: We live in fear everyday in Chicago

2008-07-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hello Mr. Hanania

We live in fear every day.

I live at [near 63rd and Western Avenue in Chicago] and every day we have gang fighting. Sunday, July 27, 2008 we had gang fighting. Monday, July 28, we had gang fighting. Tuesday, July 29, we had gang fighting and a pregnant woman sitting on her porch was hit with a bat.

I would like the world to know i live in a war zone

I am a seventy year old woman and I lived in this neighborhood for 18 years but I never though I would live to see this violent happening in Chicago. We live in fear every day. Kids can not play out side. Seniors can not go to the store. They shoot windows out and kick your door down and come in. Every day there are gangs fighting and shooting.

I love Chicago and I hate to see my city go down the tube, but it seems that no one care . Some of my neighbor's have walked a way from their homes because they do not want to be killed. and i was thinking is my house worth dying for.

Taxpayers should not have to live like this. The Mayor and his family don't live this way. Why should we?

Please help us.

thank you
Carmen