St. Jude's
We've noticed, as have a large number of our readers, an upsurge in comments advocating a boycott of the St. Jude's march. We've allowed these comments for the same reason that we allow most of the other comments - we don't censor out of hand and it's important to keep readers aware that these sentiments exist. We were also hoping someone would write something eloquent and heartfelt to counter the anti-march feelings.
- In reference to anonymous: regarding the St. Jude Tribute March. Today is April 10th, and 54years ago today, a very special person was born into this world. This very special persons' name is Chicago Police Officer Donald J. Marquez. My brother Don's End of Watch was March 19, 2002.
- To the few officers' who say let's boycott the St. Jude March, to make a statement to the new Supt.: please let me explain that this St. Jude March is not about the new Supt. It is not about the Mayor, nor any other politician. It is a very special day for us, the Chicago Police Departments' Gold Star Families. It is one day out of the whole year when about 8,000 or more officers come together and show honor, respect, support, and love to our families. They march to let us know that our loved ones who paid the ultimate sacrifice, will never be forgotten. There are partners and co-workers who worked with our heroes, and they too still come out to show us their support.
- My phone just rang, it's about 11:30pm, I said, "who would be calling me this late?" It was my brother Don's close friend, Officer Fernando Alonzo. He called me to tell me he and his family have been thinking about my brother Don all throughout the day. I told him, you would not believe what I am doing, I told him I am on the police blog trying to explain what the St. Jude March is all about, what are the chances that he would call me at this exact moment. He shared how he and his family miss my brother. If my brother was alive today, he would be having a celebration with his buddy and pal Alonzo right now. So you see Officers, we need to see you in unity out there on Sun. morning May 4th. You make us feel so proud that we are still a part of the police family. We look forward to seeing the officers march in loving memory of our fallen heroes. Some Gold Star Families come from across the United States to be a part of this special march. Sgt. Mark Golosinski (16th) and a few other officers' who commented and said, "the only people you would be hurting are the families of our fallen officers". They are absolutely correct. Today my brother Don would have turned 54 years old. He served and protected this city for 20 years, he had just become a brand new grandfather for the first time. Just as he was so proud to be a brand new grandfather, he was also so proud to be a Chicago Police Officer. His life was taken from us, from a 77 year old who opened fire on my brother as he was serving a warrant. Officers, you never want your family to ever become a Gold Star Member. It is so true when someone said, "this is one organization you wouldn't want to belong to". This pain in our hearts is real, it never goes away, how could it, we loved them, we miss them and til the day we reunite in heaven with our loved ones, we will never, ever forget why they died, they died doing something they loved, and that was serving and protecting their city.
- I encourage you to look beyond all the changes that are happening, just for one day. We lost our heroes in the line of duty. You see, when we lost our officer and our loved one, all of our lives changed. I tried not to cry today, but I miss him so much. I wish I could just call him one more time and hear his voice, and tell him Happy Birthday. If you knew my brother Don, you were so blessed, he was the greatest brother that ever lived. I would like to personally say thank you to each one of you for coming out and showing your respect and support. You are a very big part of our healing process. We appreciate you and we honor you the living. We are extremely proud to be part of the greatest police department in the world. Believe me, we never stop praying for you and every officer. Go home to your families tonight, tell them how much you love them while there is still time left.
Donna Marquez
President of The Gold Star Families
any comments please feel free to email me at donnamarquez8620@yahoo.com
Long time readers of the blog will remember we took a number of people to task for advocating a boycott a few years ago over the Hampton sign controversy. Our opinion then, and our opinion as it remains to this day, is that the march is for our dead. We don't march for the mayor, the superintendent, the brass, the media or the citizenry. We march for the men and women who can't march anymore and we remember the sacrifices they made.
A boycott of St. Jude's is a lazy boycott. People are attempting to take a well known event that honors our dead and twist it into something it should never be instead of creating their own event, developing a following, and making a statement there.
A boycott of St. Jude's is a lazy boycott. People are attempting to take a well known event that honors our dead and twist it into something it should never be instead of creating their own event, developing a following, and making a statement there.
Labels: general
posted by SCC at 12:05 AM
157 Comments:
ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION
VERY IMPORTANT
No need to boycott St Jude's.
It would hurt the City 10000% more if you just don't write parkers or movers when avoidable.
PS And if you only write curfews after the old curfew time and not the earlier time, it will really screw up their stats and make their new earlier curfew look stupid.
As my dad use to say, when you hit a man's wallet you do more damage than you know!
No CPD officer is going to get in trouble for not writing tickets. Between the amount of calls each car gets each day and all the paperwork and case reports, officers can easily justify a greatly reduced number of tickets written except when it has to be written.
RE:
SCC said...
SCC contest?????
Where are the prizes from the other contests????
Big rip off!!
I'll see you in court S.C.C.!
We don't believe we offered prizes. But if you insist, we'll give away a free lifetime subscription to the blog. Try finding a prize better than that.
4/11/2008 11:00:00 PM
______________________________
Why you cheap ass! You can't make it a family free subscription? What do you think we are stupid? With your prize, sure I get free use of the blog but my family doesn't. I know that trick!
if you skip st. jude's b/c of anything other than having to work, or a major illness, i hope you're not in the car with me.
and may a higher power curse you with hemorrhoids on your face...sorry, that's where a st. jude's skipper would have them anyway...i forgot.
I agree, the march is not about our politicians, brass or media, its about the fallen officers. I lost several friends, who were killed in the line of duty. I due this with pride and honor for them.
God Bless you Donna I will be there. I would never want any family to feel the pain that yours has.
Off topic...................How come no one on this blog talks about J-fed's involvemnt in the Airheart shooting. Maybe the media should look into this!
They left him lay there for a couple of hours before our guys went in to help him.
I was at the St. Jude's march the year that pictures of our fallen brothers and sisters were held on the side as we approached the grand stand.
I looked at all the photos posted but stared hard at Don's and thought about his early days in the 010th district.
As I look away and at the grand stand I looked into the face of Don's father and I saluted as tears welled up in my eyes.
It was the best march in my recollection.
I may not march this year but that does not mean I will think of "Donny" any less.
Amen!
I hope this commentary gives everyone something to think about. We as Chicago Police Officers are bigger than what is going on. I am retired 5 years now. My partner was killed nearly 30 years ago. Fortunately for all of us, his family, the Chicago Police Department, and all respectable citizens the offender never had a chance to get charged and go before a "sympathetic judge". Remember as police officers all you have is each other. St. Jude's may be a blowhard event so the exempt look good but in reality it is not about them. It is about us, about the person we worked last night or last year or the person we were in the academy with. Remember, just because you are in 016, 022, you are no different than the guy in 002 or 025. All we have Chicago Policemen is each other. For thirty five years people have complained how this job sucked. I can't tell you how many guys left to sell insurance, teach school or some other job because the grass was always greener on the other side. Most of them came back. Youi know why. They missed being the police. I know things seems bad right now but in 1971 when you couldn't take a fin anymore because Jim Thompson as the US Atty was everywhere it really was a wake up call.
All I can say is. Stick together because all you have now is each other. If no one will support you when things happen on the street then you better hope that we will support each other.
DON'T MAKE ST. JUDE'S THE ISSUE. DO IT IN SPITE OF THEM. DO IT FOR EACH OTHER.
A retired copper
Don't boycott St. Jude. That is the dumbest idea I have heard yet.
First off Jody was never the police, so he probably doesn't even know what the St. Jude march stands for, so to him it wouldn't matter if there was one officer marching or all "13,500" officers supposedly under his command. By not going you aren't hurting Jody's feelings you are just missing the whole point of the march.
Secondly, the mayor does not care and has never cared about the general rank-and-file, non-clouted members of the Chicago Police Department.
We are merely an essential evil for his administration and the only reason he looks in our direction is because his political career requires him to do so. We are and always will be lowly scum in the mayor's eyes.
You are not sending a message to Richie. He would rather us not march, he doesn't want you to think, act or say anything that might tarnish his reputation (he didn't get the memo, that it is already ruined). Richie wants you to come to work, do what your told and agree mindlessly to all the City's demands. You are not going to send him a message cause he could care less.
I concurre.
Thank You.
If some of you have seen the Memorial Park & St. Jude 07 slide shows, I would like to make another one this year as well.
My daughter and I took over 1500 pictures at last years St. Jude march. I would like to focus this year on Police Officers paying tribute with their units/partners as well as focus very close on Police Officers that are marching with their kids. I already have 3 songs picked out and what I do is search for the pics to take that will match the music.
I will be down there early probably around 0600ish to start shooting pics. I will walk around to each district taking as many pics as I can. I need every Coppers help. PLEASE if you are marching with your kids, PLEASE line up on the LEFT END. I will be taking pics on the left side before the stage. The stage should be on your left.
If you want a specific group picture taken please come up to me. I will be wearing a black jacket with Musical Memories In Motion on the back. This years theme will be about us the Men and Women of blue and their families who march to show support for the Gold Star Families.
I had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know many of the Gold Star Families over the past couple of years. I met Donna Marquez last November at The Michael Gordon benefit. She is a sweetheart of a lady and loves to see us every year at the St Jude march.
I got to meet Shawn Lee as well as many of the Gordon family, and the Perez family.
We as Chicago Police Officers are the strength that the Gold Star Families need to push on. Please lets stop this boycott nonsense.
St Jude is for our fallen and their famlies. St Jude is for us the men and Women in blue to show respect and compassion.
Please help me make this years slide show tribute a success. I cant do it without my brothers and sisters in blue! I look forward to seeing you there!
I heard (and dont cast this in stone) that the St Jude march location isnt exactly known yet for sure. No matter what...I will be on the left side just before the stage!
Thanks...Greg Giuliani 017
I'm a retired Chicago Police Officer. Nearly 30 years ago I lost a partner. Fortunately for his family, for us and the rest of the respectable world the offender never got a chance to see a sympathetic judge who would care why the misguided soul would shoot police officers.
The St. Jude March is not about Richie Daley or the new police Supt. It is about us coppers. It is for the guy you went to the academy with or worked with a year ago and some unbelievably bad things happened to. Whether you believe it or not you could be walking out of your favorite 7-11 and the next thing you know the shit hits the fan. Whether you work in 16 or 22, 7 or 15 you are still the police whether you like it or not. I can't believe how you guys bash each other. Believe me, I know how it feels to be shit on and not get promoted. You know what you do? Make the job work for you instead of you working for it. Have some pride in who you are and what you do. Know that what is important is that you go home safe and the people around you do the same thing.
LET THEM KNKOW THAT SAINT JUDE'S IS ABOUT THOSE OF US WHO HAVE MADE THE SACRIFICE.
Be Safe
and
God Bless
The city already changed the route to get us out of the public's eye as much as possible, so a boycott plays perfectly into their hands.
How about the inverse. Let us officers, we brothers and sisters, set a new record for officers in attendance this year. That might actually garner some attention from the appropriate people, and strongly demonstrate the unity that would scare the shit out of those same people.
Regarding the St. Jude's ceremony...Let me just say I have only missed St. Jude's one time. Literally, I was physically unable to attend. My excuse? I was fighting in the Afghanistan war! Barring serious health problems and or death, I vow to never miss St. Jude's again. Why?
Being a third generation Chicago police officer I firmly believe in the Thin Blue Line and CPD tradition. If need be, I will die for what the Thin Blue Line represents. It is a Goddamn honor for me to walk remembering the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. Come hell or high water I will be in that massive formation standing tall.
Before you bash me or try to convince me that boycotting is the way to go...save your breath!
I make it a top priority to attend each and every OEF/OIF (KIA) serviceman's funeral in the Chicagoland area and suburbs. If I am unable to attend, then I send a representative in my place. Again, it is a Goddamn honor to remember the fallen.
Whether you like it or not, as CPD officers, we all have a duty to respect those who perished in uniform. Think of this duty as an unwritten rule if you will. Now I know you may not like the City's politicians or the new CPD superintendent or your bosses, but the parade is not for them. It's for the families, co-workers and friends of the deceased.
I am certain if you have at least a few years on, then you will know of a police officer who was killed in the line of duty?
March in St. Jude's for that CPD officer you are now thinking about...Just as we veterans march on Memorial Day to remember our fallen...CPD officers march in St. Jude's to remember our fallen as well. Cherish the moment. Nobody should ever take that away from us.
Carpe Diem!
This may come off bad but here it goes. How many people actually look at St. Jude's as a march for our fallen officers and not a march to get out of bringing in your shit to work for inspection? Most people either feel pressure to go because they are in a unit and they don't want to make their commander look bad for fear of getting dumped, or they don't want to bring in their uniform for stand-up inspection. Since its a march to pay respect for our fallen heroes, then we should keep it that way. There should not be an alternate motive for PO's to show up. Show up to pay respect and that's it. Do spring inspection some time afterwards at your unit of assignment.
To Donna Marquez and ALL the Gold Star Family Members,
I agree that the proposal to boycott the St. Jude March is NOT the way to voice our annoyance over the many conditions that presently affect morale.
I hope that the proposal was merely an act of frustration on the part of well intended ‘brothers in blue’ to voice displeasure over the way our members have been treated in general and/or portrayed by many members of the media..
Similar to the military, we ‘volunteered’ service for a dirty job with the best of intentions to do the right thing. However, like so many of our returning Viet Nam vets experienced, many people fail to understand or appreciate our job, never having to walk a mile in our shoes. Helpless others are merely blinded by their liberal views and tainted personal opinions.
But history has proven that we will not retreat merely because we are confronted by the enemy. Conversely, we grow stronger. WE ARE what separates good from evil, justice from anarchy. It’s called the, “Thin Blue Line.”
And, on May 4th 2008, as we have shown over the many decades, we will again march proudly and professionally as a show of support to all our departed brothers and sisters. Our participation is a show of support to those department members who made the ‘Ultimate Sacrifice’ of our commitment to, “Never Let Them Walk Alone.”
So please continue to respect this tradition in the manner for which it was intended and continue to remain strong and committed.
“All Gave Some Because Some Gave All”
Ol' Vet
My father died on this job, and I took this job and his star number...I remeber going to watch him march, and my sons will be there when I march...if you use a boycott to excuse your inablilty to wake up in the moring and proudly put on the uniform that men have died for then you dont deserve to wear the badge of honor that so many have sacraficed for. To those those who march, GOD BLESS!!! to those who dont may God have pitty on you, and if you dont take pride enough to march you might want to look into another line of work.
Go to St Jude, go to Mette's busride, DON'T go writing revenue tickes, PARKERS, MOVERS, BURGLAR ALARMS, ANOVs.
Mayor would laugh if St Jude was a no show. Mayor would cry if you take away his revenue.
Makes sense?
I think that was very well written. Time to make sure I know where everything is and that it all still fits.
Holy what to do about nothing Batman!!!
Historically, does anyone know how this March came about? Who decided that we show our respect in this manner.
Who decided we walk down Michigan Avenue and then change it to an isolated road where no one can see us...so we are closer to the Memorial but not so visible to the public?
We have a Memorial now to honor the dead 24/7/365. We honor the living with a March. We honor each other and their families of the fallen with a March.
Do we really demonstrate solidarity with a March? We might very well show more solidarity without marching? Could we honor the fallen another way?
Does the mayor go to this event on a Sunday? I haven't seen him. We know how he shows his respect to the police daily and on this Sunday. You would think that he would attend and go to church? Secretly, I think he'd like to be one of us, his resentment tells me this, that is why he micro manages the Dept. That is why as an organization we fail to succeed because of his interference and who he places in key positions. J-Fed will fail as well because he continues to empower the wrong people just like the mayor does. J-Fed needs to demonstrate to us that he is a leader. J-Fed! Show us your independence- create a fair promotional process that prevents inbreeding and political favoritism!
Our Department and it’s culture have lacked leadership and communication up/down/across as long as I can remember. Somebody wants it that way. Who? Divide and Conquer. We need to step up to the plate and take the Mayor’s job from him. We need to step up and take every alderman’s spot. We need to take the County and State too.
As for the March on Sunday morning, I will go because I am a creature of habit and I'd like to see old faces. I will be there to respect the memories and families of the fallen. I will be there to respect my fellow officers. I will also be there to help anyone who wants to run for election...
St.Jude's is no longer about the fallen it is about the clout bosses who want to sport their fake wannabe military medals and try to feel that they are inmportant. Just look at the asshats that use to walk around on Michigan ave with all their regalia on Medals and all other sorts of BS Stuff. Yes it needs to be about the fallen but like most things on this dept it has lost its meaning!!!
Police shoot person on Southwest Side
April 12, 2008Recommend
FROM STNG WIRE REPORTS
Police wounded a person in a shooting early Saturday on the Southwest Side’s Little Village neighborhood.
Police shot a person in the 2600 block of South Kedzie Avenue about 2 a.m., police said. Police observed a person firing a weapon, and then fired shots.
The wounded person was taken to the hospital in good condition. Fire Media Affairs Cmdr. Will Knight said there is no report of a person being transported from the site of the shooting.
An Ogden District officer said no officer was shot, citing preliminary information.
The Independent Police Review Authority is investigating the shooting.
Mr Marquez: God bless you,your family and ALL Gold Star Families.
I'm a retired PO, 8 years now, and I haven’t missed a St. Judes since 1967. Remember, it’s not about the bosses, although they’d like to think it is; it’s about those Officers in the Star Case. Officers like my boyhood friend Jimmy Alfano, fellow 3rd District warriors like Frank Rappaport and Jack Gilhooly, and my good friend and neighbor Tommy Kelly, KIA's from the late 60’s and early 70’s. Most of you don’t know any of the folks in the Star Case. They where just like you, dog asses who just went to work and didn't come home. Honor them - praise them - don't let their sacrifice go unheralded.
I know you guys are sore at this new FIB jerk, but don't dishonor those who went before you because of him. I suggest when the command of “eyes right or left” is given stare straight ahead. God it will gall me this year to see him up there wearing the uniform. Carpetbagger – plain and simple.
One last thing, we know the Mayor resides in the area just to the west of the Memorial. Make sure the single finger salute is given in that direction when you enter LSD to go home.
Semper Fi!!!
Are they going to move St. Judes back to Michigan Ave. or still march on a jogging path by the lake?
well said ms. Marquez, God bless you and we'll see you at St Judes!
To boycott St. Judes's will not make a statement. You want to make a statement............BOYCOTT POLICE WORK!!!!!!! NO PARKERS, NO MOVERS, NO TRAFFIC STOPS, NO STREET STOPS. Let the homicide rate go even higher. Do your paper and answer your jobs. Thats it!!! They would laugh at us if we boycotted St. Jude's, and its one of the most ridiculous ideas I have ever heard.
Sorry, I am not going!!!
I have been a retiree for the past 13 years, and I have never missed a St. Jude's March. This is he time when we remember the fallen men and women of the Chicago Police. In my career I have lost, Terry Loftus, Fred Eckles, and Lee Seward. These were P.O.'s that were doing their job and paid the ultimate price. It is for them, their memory, their service, and their friendship that I still attend. Please leave this talk about boycott somewhere else. NEVER FORGET THE FALLEN.
please, don't jump on me for these comments i'm just telling it like i see it. i understand what st jude is for.
honestly, most of us go there and leave ASAP. to me the whole thing seems like a pain in the ass for everyone and no one wants to be there in the first place.
just an honest observation
Well said Donna. God Bless!
To those who are planning to boycott the St. Judes march because of J-Feds policies- you probably weren't planning to attend anyway. Please don't use that as an excuse. You've still got time to spend some of that uniform money on a new pair of pants...
I am ashamed of ALL of you that ever thought of boycotting Saint Jude to "show J-Fed" or "show the mayor" - and that stupid talke forced this brave lady to step up.
Do you not think it is hard enough for her? For the Knight family? The Perez family? The Camp family? The Ceriale family? The Gordon family? I could on with the list of families, and I mean no disrespect to the countless other families that have lost a loved one, but I hope the selfish ones out there understand. I also hope that you are the minority on this topic, and maybe it is just a couple of you that like to talk/type a lot. One can only hope so.
Ms. Donna Marquez I WILL be there, just like I have been for the past 12 years I have been on this job. It will not to get out of inspection, or to get some CU, or to go to brunch after - no, it will be because of people like you!
I am sorry that you had to answer up to such immature thoughts, but I am so glad that you did, and you did it with such heart. If these negative people can not bring themselves to Saint Jude after what you said - they are just lost souls who do not deserve the honor of being on the CPD, and they do not reserve the respect of any fellow officer.
Thanks...Greg Giuliani 017
4/12/2008 01:15:00 AM
NO, THANK YOU!!
What you did last year was the most awesome photo show I ever saw. It moved me to tears thinking about the friends I lost on this job.
I sent it to all of my friends, police and civilians. Those that knew nothing about Saint Jude thought it was the greatest thing. All because of your photo show. Several of them plan on being at this years parade, with their kids, to show up and see us, and in some way support the families of the fallen - even if they are not the police.
So Greg, again I say THANK YOU!
5th District P/O
I agree with going to St. Jude's, hell a number of times the mayor doesn't even show anyway. I still say when we walk by them that we need to turn our heads and face away from them I think it would embarass the brass and send a message.
Ladies and Gentlemen we need to lay down and stop generating revenue. I wish everyone could agree on this issue but i'm sure it will never happen. Please find it in your hearts to go to St. Jude's but also stop writing mivers and parkers.
For all those who think skipping St. Jude's is worth proving your point against this department remember one simple thing. We are not marching for the department, the mayor (who could not care less about the march and it purpose), or the new regime. It is about those of us who can not march because they gave their all. We march for them and their families. If you want to prove a point the next time you are given an award, don't go. Skip that ceremony to prove your point. If P.O's stop attending the awards ceremony people will take notice. Just stop preaching about this St. Jude boycott and let us remeber those much more worthy than the exempt station we pass...
Always been at St. Jude's (except when working the beat car) no matter what bs is going on with the city politics. I'm marching for my deceased brothers and sisters and their family. Please let's all keep that in mind.
tell the politicians, brass or media, to stay home..its about the 8000 police officers,and the fallen.
If you really want to hurt the 5th floor (either building) report everything. It’s not very complicated, pull a RD for everything and watch the crime stats soar. The detective division will grind to a halt and when the stats are released to the public they will show sky rocking violent and property crimes. You can still write tickets and make arrests, even go to court. Nobody will get in trouble for reporting crime & the stuttering prick cannot defend the increase by blaming the police unless he reveals that crime has been underreported in the past.
St. Jude's is our day. I agree with the boycott of the movers and parkers, but don't let J-Fed or Daley have our day. There are a lot of people who come out and support us too. Let us show we care about them and not this dumb city.
I'm not one to advocate boycotting, but I don't think I'll be saluting the Grand Stand as I walk by this year. Let's be real, if J-Fed is wearing the uniform, then I'd be a hippocrate, right?
Problem is, this department is lacking the culture that it once had where no matter where you work in the city you were still respected as being one in the same. A police officer. There are too many punks and bleeding hearts getting on the job now that just don't care about their fellow officer. Its all about them. CPD is not alone is this. All dept across the land are feeling the same hit. Being the police is now a term of the past, it is now just a job. Coppers arresting and ticketing other coppers at the rate they are is disgusting also. I can't wait to retire so I no longer have to work with, what you call, the hair gel police.
Be safe and take care of each other.
Yes, attend the St. Jude March and honor our fallen, but line up with the FOP, not your unit. Stand together.
No CPD officer is going to get in trouble for not writing tickets. Between the amount of calls each car gets each day and all the paperwork and case reports, officers can easily justify a greatly reduced number of tickets written except when it has to be written.
4/12/2008 12:06:00 AM
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You know we keep saying this over and over but I believe the City has already made up for our lack of writing tix.
The cameras at intersections, the meter maids, the sreets and san people write them now, TMA's, and now I hear the plate reader trucks are generating revenue by checking not only for "hot cars" but for updated City sticker violators somehow.
The City is WAY ahead of OUR thinking and ready for any slowdown that they anticipate.
Keep driving the plate reader around and looking for meainigless HOT CARS!
That thing does the work of 100 plus meter maids and coppers in minutes and can check and verify a lot iof important information and then a letter or invoice can be generated after that to the cars owner then the City can put a lien on someone too so when they go to renew a license it can be brought out against them.
SO,
Why not just have a memorial service for St. Jude at the Memorial. All of us can be there what is the difference if you walk or just particicpate in a prayer service on that morning.
WE ARE STILL THERE FOR THE RIGHT REASONS AND NOBODY IS BOYCOTTING ATTENDING JUST THE WALK!!!!
Q: Has Mayor Daley EVER been to St Jude?
I don't think he has, stating that "Sundays are for his family" what about all the fallen police officers who are no longer with us? Don't you think their family would like one more Sunday with them?
Mr Mayor your an ass!
Let's take a deep breath boys and girls and say what we really mean.
With the sweeping changes occurring and the general not knowing about things to come, it has left us all, including bosses wondering what is next. That's not a very comfortable feeling, especially for police officers. Stay the course. Do your job the best way you can.
There are many ways to make yourself heard. Please don't boycott St. Judes. This is a time that we use to remember those that have given all to this job including their lives. This is a time when we show solidarity for the Gold Star Families who never stop giving. Their loss is EVERY day.
Finally,..stand proud this day. You are police officers,...members of an honorable profession. That is a feeling our naysayers will NEVER have.
They will never know our pride and our sacrifice. That is THEIR loss!
St. Judes march is what we are. No questions,... no debates. You know we have to do this. Be there.
Supt Weis,Pete Brust,Bea Cuello and Mike Shields all attended both midnight roll calls in 025 last night...Interesting comments...The Supt stressed how he is behind us 200% and that he has asked IAD NOT to strip coppers so fast as that ruins a mans life,career etc...He said that he will order 165 Chevy Tahoe's all marked and for the patrol division as they are "the backbone of the dept" He also said that they will order more Impalas as well as Crown Vics.He spoke about Integrity and being drunk on/off duty...he stated that if you need a ride home call "Him or Peter Brust" and he said go ahead and laugh but "I'm serious,I'd rather have you get home safe"He talked about being in shape and how he "Has no control over what Fran Speilman writes in the paper" He believes that a fit officer can recover faster from injuries and survive shootings better.He spoke about changing the work days weather it's "A 12 hour,10hour or 8 hour schedule"He spoke about computers in the cars stating that "They are looking into Dell to see if they are compatable with the current systemIe:Panasonic Toughbooks)". D/S Cuello spoke about creating Burglary / Robbery teams and having officers cross trained as detectives for a short period of time as to better enhance their investigative ability on the street. ADS Shields spoke about getting more officers on the street and the possibility of realigning the districts...specifically 008 and 025 as they are "Both huge districts" The Sup went on and on about how he is there for us and how he "Expects every commander to be available to every police officer and to be there to serve them better" The Sup also said that if you send him an e mail he promises that he will answer you personally and consider any ideas or suggestions.
Thank You SCC,
That is what is great about this country America we live in free speech.
I believe this site is the best way to express your feelings and be able to bring things to light.
I was just expressing my feelings about St. Jude Parade and I for one will not be attending the parade I will be praying for my fallen brothers and sisters like i do everyday.
Thank you for this great site.
stay safe.
Yesss, it is happening and you don't even know it, we are uniting as one for a good cause, if we stick together we could never be stopped. all that call for boycotting Saint Jude are probably the same people who did not turn in their fop ballot and refuse to go to a fop meeting. get involved in the union. me must all start coming together as 1.
Windy City Vets? Ol' Vet? What is wrong with these two ASSHATS???
Both of them sound like they forgot to take their meds! Ain't no way I'd ever die for the thin blue line. Somebody brain washed that mofo. For fuck's sake it's just a pansy-assed parade to impress the brass. These two need to get a life.
Relax Francis!!!
I totally agree. I believe a boycott of St.Jude's is a dishonor to all those fallen brothers and sisters. St. Jude is not about Supt. Weiss it's about US the P.O.'s and the one's that came before us and will come after us. St. Jude was never ever about the city, mayor, the bosses, or the Supt. St. Jude was always for the P.O's. A march to honor our fallen brothers and sisters. Who ever though about boycotting St. Jude is a disgrace for dishonoring the memory of those same fallen officers. To take away the meaning of what St. Jude is all about and to make a political statement is ashame. I am a 10 year veteran and I never missed a St. Jude parade. It's an honor to go to St. Jude and walk amongst my fellow police officers and especially the ones that ones that have fallen. Shame on those who boycott St.Jude because of their unhappiness with the department. The only thing you are doing is disgracing yourself. SHAME ON YOU! To our fallen hereos - "You will never be forgotten"
We should not boycot St. Jude. It would be nice to come up with an appropriate form of protest. The idea of J-Fed and the other "Civilians" wearing the uniform they didn't earn, the uniform those men and women who were killed in the line of duty wore. I don't know if I can stand it though. For them to wear the uniform that those I knew wore, who were killed. It's not right.
Pallidin
anonymous said...
This may come off bad but here it goes. How many people actually look at St. Jude's as a march for our fallen officers and not a march to get out of bringing in your shit to work for inspection? Most people either feel pressure to go because they are in a unit and they don't want to make their commander look bad for fear of getting dumped, or they don't want to bring in their uniform for stand-up inspection. Since its a march to pay respect for our fallen heroes, then we should keep it that way. There should not be an alternate motive for PO's to show up. Show up to pay respect and that's it. Do spring inspection some time afterwards at your unit of assignment.
4/12/2008 02:21:00 AM
I completely agree! Get so tired of hearing coppers bitch about traffic, parking, being tired etc... clearly they are there for the inspection and that's it. Sad, but true. Then half of these fellows tisk tisk those that couldn't make it because they were out of town or had a legitimate reason....
There is going to be a huge boycott at the parade. Have fun walking with your so-called honor ASSHATS! The REAL POLICE will be honoring the fallen elsewhere. You'll see....
SCC, you are wrong. I have 40 years on this job. I think St. Jude is a nice gesture for public display. It is very nice to honor the Officers that have fallen in the line of duty, but you say this is not for the mayor, superintendant or the brass. That is just who this march is for, it is to make them look good.
I honor the officers who have fallen in the line of duty my own way not the way of gangbangers placing wet dirty teddy bears at the scene of a driveby shooting or repeated candle vigals on a college campus.
We had a superintandant who started his own business, retired and put himself in charge of his fund at a hansome salary.
How many business men were shaken down to get money for Gold Star Pakk. It started with raising a few bucks and has grown into a 5 million dollar operation with a full staff of CPD officers working on fundraising.
Selling bricks at this park, hell you could honor people who aren't dead yet. It is nice to honor them but lets wait until they die.
Now I am going to make a statement here and I will have every sob sister calling me names blut is a statement I beleive is true. I did not know Don Marquez. He was probably a great guy but he was killed doing the bidding of the ward bosses in order to get an old man out of his house so polititians could make some money. This was not his wife's fault, she has done the most suffering here, this was not the old man's fault who paid the ultimate price for defending his property in the middle of the night.
Everyone should either go to or not to the St. Jude's march I am not boycotting it because of Daley or Weis they mean nothing to me and both are new comers to this game. Make your own decesion, I've made mine.
Please attend the St. Judes Parade. I'll be there and should you.
Don't boycott the parade. If you want to send a msg, If and when you walk past our Dickhead Mayor and puppet Weis (don't look at them, don't acknowledge them, don't say hi and please don't salute them).
More officers should try to attend the Springfield memorial and the Washington memorial. It's almost embarrasing to know how big our department is and how small the tourn out is at both memorials.
Apparently you want us to honor and respect fallen policemen by marching down Michigan Ave, but I wonder what happened with respect on the previous blog. We go from slamming other policemen to pretending we are honoring them. That is about as two faced as it gets.
Sorry I will be at St.Jude I do it for our deceased not for anyone else! hurt daley he gives a shit anyway he disrespects us by never going to the parade fuck him! Go for our fallen!!
I had just moved back to Chicago, when i heard the news. The place I had to go to was in my neighborhood, only a few blocks away. As I got closer to the building, it felt as if I had walked 50 miles. My legs felt heavier and heavier.
The officers were outside in their dress uniforms and white gloves, and I could not look any of them in the eyes.
Once I was inside, I went to his mother and handed her a card and item I had put together. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see him lying in the casket: looking extremely young and in his uniform. I was trying not to lose it but you couldn't help but feel the shock of it all. Damn, he was so young.
I left and saw what seemed to be hid little cousins all sitting together outside the viewing room, very wide-eyed and confused.
That officer was PO Eric Solorio.
To this day I'll walk by that funeral home and think about him.
P.s. Thanks Greg...
Chicago police shot a man on the South Side when he allegedly refused to put down his gun after firing shots into a vehicle early Saturday, authorities said.
The man was taken to Mt. Sinai Hospital in Chicago and is listed in good condition.
The incident unfolded about 2 a.m. Saturday in the 2600 block of South Kedzie Avenue in Little Village, said Marcel Bright, a Chicago police officer.
Authorities were patrolling the area when they saw a man firing into a vehicle, he said. The man did not drop his weapon when officers announced their presence, he said.
The Independent Police Review Authority, which investigates police-involved shootings, is investigating the matter, Bright said.
what kind of asshole would boycott st. jude?
There are plenty of other ways to "send a message." If god forbid you should die on this job, would you want people boycotting a march that honors you and the ultimate sacrafice you made?
Difficult time for the Chicago P.D.
By Fr. Tom Nangle
We are living through one more very tough time at the Chicago Police Department. It’s “beat-down” time for our agency and the punches and kicks are coming from the media, clergy, and politicians, as well as some folks who just don’t like authority figures. After the usual disclaimer about bad apples in the barrel, where does this beat-down leave the men and women of the Chicago Police Department who stand for roll call and go out and hit the streets to serve and protect this city.....www.apbweb.com/content/view/588/31/
God Bless James Camp.
Very well said Donna, and God bless you and all the families.
A "Lazy Boycott" is just that!!!!
If anyone of us wants to show we still have some stones, lets not "not do something", what a cop out!
Want to make a point?, embarrass the Supt and the turn the media on the Mayor with questions of "What’s wrong, why have you lost the support of our men in blue" ????....
Not, doing things isn’t going to get that done; Not showing up at St Jude’s, Not making arrests, Not writing tic's.... all that shows is we are lazy!... . That’s only a BS excuse to a small bunch of dog ass coppers to justify doing nothing!
If we are really men in blue ( and even some in white) that have not totally lost our balls, rally on the street at the FOP hall ( I know they are not going to allow us in the door for such an event or they would have suggested it) or Daley Plaza ..in front of City Hall or on the steps of 35th street ...
Don't just type words on the computer, stay in bed, be a no show, hit the medical , don't get out of the car, dog your jobs, write on bathroom walls ... be a man! ....stand up!
I must agree that to boycott St Jude march is not going to make Weis feel bad or Daley. I suggest that we continue to do our job and stay out of trouble. If you want to send a message than only write State Violations on traffic and cut out all parkers unless you are assigned to investigate a parking complaint, and do all you can to locate and warn the owner to move. If we all stick to this formula then daley will sit up and take notice. He will for Weis who will tell him he is not available right now and Richie will blow up and fire Weis on the spot. This is how you protest and it will be fun to watch them all squirm.
Show Unity by MACHING.
Go to St. Jude's and honor your fellow CDP officers. Salute the Gold stars, when you get to Daley and plastic face (J Fed) look foward. this would be the upmost disrespect for those two pricks
Thank you Donna Marquez for bringing to the members who just don't understand what a the St. Jude march represents.
Not only should our current and retired officers reflect on those who have been killed in the line of duty, but also to those say a prayer for those officers who have suffered catastrophic injuries from performing their duties while serving their agencies throughout our country.
Let's keep the politics, who we want to "look good" or "discredit" and ego's out of the mix. St. Jude is an event where we can shine with pride.
Stay Safe
Mike Lappe 016/120
Are you nuts!?! Boycotting St. Jude's is a slap to what honor I serve. Yes there are some big things that are messed up about the Department and society ..... but I march for those who sacrificed, wether alone or together with my other brethren, not for the bastards that sit in gold and white, or the cigar smelling politicians who corrupt .... its for those who gave their lives, I march in hopes that maybe I can make a little change in somebodies life ......
if its about the check get a F-in contrators job or something.
I agree 100%, any copper that DOES NOT march is a sellout to all of us in blue. We can send a message to the city, supt and mayor in sooo many other ways, but i will be sure that it is not by boycotting the march. if anything lets shoot for a record turnout to show everyone that we stand UNITED with each other. That not only lets the gold Star families realize we respect them but it may just send that clear message to all that need to hear
what is JFED and all the brass going to do about the increase in violent crime?????
JFED should have all the answers, afterall he was FBI.
I believe that we are all doomed.
Flee to the suburbs before its too late
Any copper that doesnt march is a pussy plain and simple. We should be bitching because we were moved to an obscure location where not one person even knows about it. As great as the memorial wall is we need to be back on Michigan ave where the general public has to deal with street closures for a few hrs and realize that hundreds of police officers died serving THEM. Too often the public doesnt care, but the fact remains without us, what would this city be like?
God Bless the Marquez Family and R.I.P. Donald J. Marquez.
Please put the St. Jude March back on Chicago's most prestigious Avenue where it belongs. It should be showcased on Michigan Ave. and it should end at Holy Name Cathedral with the deceased members eternally remembered every year in a Mass.
I would never advocate not attending the St. Jude March and do so proudly every year.
Stay Safe All!
Something still bothering me since last year's march. I attend each and every year I've been on this job(13 years). The only time I missed is because I was out of town with my daughter. This parade, as many have said, is not about our Superintendent or our Mayor. It's about people like Donnie Marquez, Eric Lee, Michael Ceriale and Michael Gordon. People like James Camp. Do most of you know that the scumbag who killed James Camp didn't even get convicted of 1st Degree Murder. It's also for people like James O'Connor who worked in the 023rd district who was murdered trying to take police action while he was off. These people. That's who this parade is for. I've been to many funerals for fallen coppers and I've been to Washington D.C.(on my own expense) to pay my respects and to share fond memories with those who have lost partners from all over this country. So when I hear that there are people who would actually think of boycotting this parade just because they're upset with our leadership, I have only one thing to say to you: try standing over the bedside of a copper who has been shot and has been in a medically induced coma for a week in an attempt to save his life, and then waking up the next morning and finding out he has passed away. Anybody remember who that was. That was Michael Ceriale. I remember the coppers who stood in a line all the way around the old Cook County Hospital to give blood to Mike. I gave twice. The parade is for those like Mike who were taken from us way too soon. So please, show up and when you are there remember it's not a class reunion, it's a march to honor our fallen. So act with dignity. By that I mean don't stand in line and crack jokes with your fellow front office people and embarras the shit out of people like me. Anyway stay safe.
Drod-023
off subject, but has anyone noticed that Lt. McMahon, not the inspector was kicked out of the airport. When she was the lt. in loop traffic it was her secretary and one of her foot men who are accused of the dui scam. She worked as the lt. on the special program many times. They put her in charge of enforcement also. She managed to demoralize both loop traffic and enforcement. they were happy to see her go. She winds up at the airport and guess what?? There is an overtime scam over there. She demoralized the troops at the airport. So now what do they do?? They transfer her to the detective division, Major Accidents, where she is alread demoralizing the troops and she is back to working the roadsides and saturations. Her model is do as I say, not as I do. Never been a detective or has done an investigation, but now she is trying to prove that she can. It must be nice to have political clout so you are not held accountable for your actions.
http://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=EJra65U-TOY
SCC, you are so fucking full of yourself. Though I'm happy to see you are not supporting a boycott of Jude's, do you honestly think you have the power to get the masses of P.O.s to not show up if you were to support the idea?? No fucking way in hell. Your ego is starting to get the best of you. Yes, people read the blog. Mainly to spread and exchange rumors, maybe brag about this or that, maybe to find out about a serious incident, and then there is the 3% who actually add something worth reading (this not included).
You and your cronies have done absolutely NOTHING but spread negativity over the last couple years. If you think for one second that you have the power to sway the masses of blue shirts to do ANYTHING, you are SADLY mistaken.
DON'T MAKE ST. JUDE'S THE ISSUE. DO IT IN SPITE OF THEM. DO IT FOR EACH OTHER.
-------------------------------------
Never better said.
I agree, hit the Mayor's pocket book not the memorial to fallen officers.
DON'T MAKE ST. JUDE'S THE ISSUE. DO IT IN SPITE OF THEM. DO IT FOR EACH OTHER.
A retired copper
4/12/2008 01:00:00 AM
Godspeed brother. Thanks. Enjoy your pension because we won't have one.
UP THE WRITING OF CURFEWS AND TRUANTS, IT doesn't generate revenue, just wasted paper. STOP writing all city violations for traffic, ONLY WRITE STATE CHARGES = STATE GETS THE MONEY NOT CITY!!!
As for Supt. Weiss, he was sworn law enforcement for 20 years with the Feds, just cause he didn't attend our bullshit police academy doesn't make him less law enforcement than us. Look around your station! There are plenty of people wearing the UNIFORM that never were the "POLICE" just employee's of the Police Dept.
I would go thru a door or fight an offender on the street with J-fed next to me anytime in comparison to alot of PO'S out there!!!
He just needs some training in the Old Chicago way of Policing!
(Just a cop with a bit of time)
ANOV piss bum drinkers and whores. THEY NEVER PAY!!!
HAHAHHAHA,
LETS HAVE A PISS BUM DRINKING ON PUBLIC WAY ANOV CONTEST!
1. mOst issued to same piss bum
2. most issued at same location
3. stinkiest
4. ugliest
5. most issued to same whore
6. same whore location
7. same as above
DONT forget the PISSERS!
same criteria!!!! Same offenders!!
Write case reports on everything you can..If it is a burglary make it a burglary and not downgrade it to a damage to property.. Lets make the index shyrocket and get the mayors in anuproar. Maybe we can force J-FRAUD out early.
off topic, does anyone know when they will be having the Bike blessing
This is the 1st year that I have thought about not going to the parade. Not because of Daley or J-Fraud. Last year it was embarassing how we were stuck out on Lake Shore DR. At least on Michigan Ave. there were a few early risers, joggers or tourist telling you thanks for doing your job. Who thought about moving this out of the public view? This is what I am mad about. Every day I drive to work and I see the cross/spot where Mike Gordon was killed at Jackson/Sacramento. Maybe some of the families could shed some light and what they feel. I remember years ago at Brian Strouse's funeral (hope I spelled it right)when his mom embarassed Daley (for a minute) when she said that we should be given a contract during the service. Maybe they can leave some comments. I really hate the thought that I will have to go out here again, out of the public view and walk past J-Fraud.
We should go and when you are marching and have to pass our imposter super. you should turn your back to him all of us turn our backs to the command stage, what a loud message that would leave! They would know that we are one and that we are sick of this bullshit second guessing, walking on egg shells. police the feeb as turned us into. How stupid would they look to the media and the mayor.
I 2nd the motion.
If we want to hurt this city...stop generating revenue for it...boycott movers and parkers. I have people in my district that write 30 parker a tour and I always wonder why. You should be working for the Dept of Rev. Just a two week shut down of revenue would warrant action from the city.
If you really feel something for the St. Jude march, fine. But they tell you it's to honor the fallen to help convince you to go. It is nothing more than a photo op, and for bosses to throw it in other bosses faces that I had more officers show up than you did. It's been like that for decades. They feed you bullshit to get what they want. Screw the march, give the widows and children the money due to them. I remember when families has to sue to get their money. Believe the dept. bull if you want, not me!
SCC,
Every year you jump all over those of us who advocate a boycott of St. Jude's. While I commend your commitment to the fallen officers and their families, I disagree with your position this year, as an important statement against the Department and it's new Superintendent needs to be made by the rank-and-file officers.
The most effective way to make an effective public statement of displeasure is through a boycott of the St. Jude march. As far as the Gold Star families are concerned, I'm confident they understand the position we are in and know that such a boycott is in no way aimed at them. Moreover, it is my opinion that these families will willingly support us by boycotting the march as well.
Unfortunately, you have fallen victim to the Department's perpetual brainwashing that the march is for the fallen officer's families. While this may be what was intended when St. Jude's was started, it has not been this for a very, very long time. Rather, the march has become a popularity contest for district and unit commanders. The one with the most officers wins! Sorry, but it really is as simple as that.
I don't know if you are aware, but the Department used to give off-duty officers three (3) hours comp time for attending St. Jude. This was not done to motivate officers to attend, but as a small token of recognition. Unfortunately, the Department ended this small perk in an effort to save money. Instead, they coerced annual attendance by playing both the guilt tripp and retribution game. If an officer in any sort of unit misses the march without permission, they will be dealt with harshly.
In closing, I think you and others should reconsider your point of view on this matter. A significant statement needs to be made in regard to how the Department is being run and how officers are being treated without mercy (Cozzi et al). I can think of no better way to make this point that by being a no-show at St. Judes. Thus, I will not be in attendance this year.
-A supervisor who knows and cares about the Department and the way it is headed
SCC, you are so fucking full of yourself. Though I'm happy to see you are not supporting a boycott of Jude's, do you honestly think you have the power to get the masses of P.O.s to not show up if you were to support the idea?? No fucking way in hell. Your ego is starting to get the best of you. Yes, people read the blog. Mainly to spread and exchange rumors, maybe brag about this or that, maybe to find out about a serious incident, and then there is the 3% who actually add something worth reading (this not included).
You and your cronies have done absolutely NOTHING but spread negativity over the last couple years. If you think for one second that you have the power to sway the masses of blue shirts to do ANYTHING, you are SADLY mistaken.
Ok asshat. Where have we ever been full of ourselves? Can you give examples? We strive to remain neutral in our postings except when attacked and then we strike back hard. We advocate a middle of the road approach to just about everything. We urge calmness when moderation is called for and we urge action when we feel it's appropriate.
When have we ever attempted to rally the masses for anything except to get rid of a street memorial to a cop hater, sign a petition for a railroaded PO or to think critically about some boneheaded policy or reverend or whatever?
Your drinking from the urinals again if you've read anything that we've posted as attempting to rally the masses to our side.
We've done nothing? We've spread negativity? Bwahahaha. Right. Ok Mighty Mouth, what have you accomplished in the past three years? Besides graduating the academy and coming off probation last week? Fuck off junior, you have no clue.
And why are you still coming here if you hate it so much? Are you some sort of masochist? Or are you yet another clout baby looking to see if your name is here as you and your ilk help the mayor destroy a great Department?
So much for your "free speech" on this blog. I guess if one does not agree with you there gone. I don't state any rumors and no lies when I write something. If your blog doesn't like the facts that doesn't make them false.
Well said SCC . Tell that ass again to Fuck off !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
99.999 % of the people enjoy this Blog The other .001 % are just like that jagoff you put in his place. Don't ever shut this Blog down .I would not enjoy my morning cup without it.
No CPD officer is going to get in trouble for not writing tickets. Between the amount of calls each car gets each day and all the paperwork and case reports, officers can easily justify a greatly reduced number of tickets written except when it has to be written.
YOU MUST NOT NO THE LAW! WHERE DOES IT STATE YOU HAVE TO WRITE A PARKER JUST BECAUSE YOU GOT THE JOB?????????? GET REAL... YOU MUST BE A SGT...
TO:
Thanks...Greg Giuliani 017
4/12/2008 01:15:00 AM
----- AND -----
4/12/2008 09:25:00 AM
Well said!!
FROM: A PO who will be there and who cares.
I have this to say, I agree we SHOULD NOT boycott the St. Jude march. It is ours, and always will be, perhaps however when all of us from our perspective Districts walk by the grand stand, where the superintendent and the mayor are standing. Instead of saluting them by turning our heads in respect towards them, I suggest we all just march right past them looking straight ahead. That way we will get our heartfelt feelings about the mayor, his administration and what we feel about that GOD DAMN FED brought into our department, who is wearing our uniform, but who never worked an honest day on a BEAT. God Bless and LONG LIVE THE CPD RANK AND FILE!!
I for one will definately be attending. Not for the mayor and definately not for J-Fed. I will be attending for those of us who went on ahead including my two friends James Camp and Eric Lee.
I am not boycotting the st. judes. Its the few times a year that I can wear my uniform and all my medals for all the unarmed people I shot!
You are all fuckin hypocrites.
You go to St. Jude's Parade and you thing that is enough on your part or you throw a couple bucks in the memorial fund and you think that is all well and good well it's not if you really gave a fuk you would call, write or stop by these fallen heroes homes and ask in them really need anything. So get off your high horse and boycott the parade to show the dick and the other cronies that like to change the parade route, not show up because that is family day for him, people that run out and buy "our" uniform and throw stars on them and want respect and probably hasn't even sat in on a full day at the academy. I'm sorry but this is the only way we can be taken seriously. boycott
Hey Boys and Girls, its the real Lt. Richie Scotchbreath here. And I can see somebody who scored 3,457 on the Detective's test (Hic-Up, Burp, Fart) attempted to pin my postings on another. All I got to say is that this "uniform p.o. for life" has about enough investigative skills to figure out how to pick his own nose. (Hic-Up, Burp, Fart)Listen kid, you'll never make detective with those investigative skills unless you are related to a very high up top boss like I was and then you'll get not only one but two merit promotions! Thank You Uncle Molloy! And may I say that shavedlongcock doesn't have a hair on his ass if he doesn't deny the credit for my wonderful humor and posts! But then again (Hic-Up, Burp, Fart) he probably doesn't have a hair on his ass or anywhere else!
Well I would like to chit-chat all night but I have to get up to TR'S Pub for the special tonight, its Pin The Tail On Lt. Jan Roche Contest. Well not really a contest, its like hitting the side of a barn! But it is nickle tap beer night!
Good Luck!
Lt. Richie Scotchbreath
Please attend the St. Judes Parade. I'll be there and should you.
Don't boycott the parade. If you want to send a msg, If and when you walk past our Dickhead Mayor and puppet Weis (don't look at them, don't acknowledge them, don't say hi and please don't salute them).
who ever wrote this comment is a ashol and has never been to a parade the mayor doesn't show up "its family day"
More cops would show up if they had a dress blue rental shop. I can't button anything on my original dress blues. Maybe J-Fed is right, time to work out and drop some weight.
sorry to go off topic... BUT!!
How interesting that the home going for the Dear R. Eugene Pinchem was at Trinity Church and was conducted by Rev. Wright. Hmmm? One race baiting cut up honoring another. How nice. Birds of a feather eh?
How about the FOP and the PBPA coming up with an alternate ceromony by which we can honor the fallen? Then we can boycott the St. Jude's Parade but still show our respects in another way.
Supt Weis,Pete Brust,Bea Cuello and Mike Shields all attended both midnight roll calls in 025 last night...Interesting comments...
Dis anyone asked why he screwed over a police officer, because he didn't like the police board ruling.
No less than 7 people were killed in motor vehicle accidents in Chicagoland in the last 36 hrs.
Bad few days. Please wear your seat belts and be careful driving. Between cell phones, lap tops, GPS displays and the speed people are going lately, its getting bad!
God Bless!
Supt Weis,Pete Brust,Bea Cuello and Mike Shields all attended both midnight roll calls in 025 last night...Interesting comments...The Supt stressed how he is behind us 200% and that he has asked IAD NOT to strip coppers so fast as that ruins a mans life,career etc...
I can personally attest to that it ruins a mans life, career and etc.... I have been stripped since 04 Oct 07 and have yet to be served with allegations from the department for a incident that I was never at.... There is a video that proves that I was not there and the fed's knew that I was not there ( hence the reason they did't even call me in for questioning in regards to the incident).My partner has told the feds and IAD that I was not there. I have also told IAD that I was not there when they questioned me for the first time for a witness statement in regards to this incident/cr# on 17 mar 08. This incident took place on 27 MAR 04 at 3748 w 63rd st Caballos bar( for those who would like to know the incident I am referring too)Those that know me, knew that I was close to being promoted to Detective--based off score and now I sit stripped. God only knows when this department will let me off the hook, and to be quite honest I don't know if I even want my job back. This is hard to say because this is a job I wanted to do my whole life.... I can see it now, when I finally get vindicated and placed back on the street I am sure I won't go back to the spot I worked so hard to get and maintain (CPD/SWAT). I will be placed back into a district where other officers will talk behind my back and say don't work with him, he is a thief or worse a snitch.Eventually the city will have to give me my promotion that I deserve, but in my fellow officers eyes they will say I only got my promotion because I snitched to IAD and not that I scored high enough to get promoted.I know what everyone is thinking---what about the union/FOP, of course they are representing me with a attorney for questioning but thats all they can do, we have no due process for being stripped. We need to get it in this contract that is currently being negoitated. Guidelines the department must follow as to when they can strip an officer. For example being charged with a crime, or your actions were a danger to society. also they need to serve you with allegations in a certain time frame after you have been stripped. Most officers are just looking for some closure for the violation they may have commited or not commited. I hope everyone sees what I mean on how this destroys and mans life and career. My wife, my parents and mostly my brothers are gonna get mad and upset at me for posting this and signing my name to it, but I think its important for everyone to know how it feels being in my shoes...this will be my first Saint Jude I will not be marching in since coming on the job 05sep95. If I can work up the courage maybe I will go and stand on the sidelines and support you and my fallen brothers. Greg Insley unit153/376.
-A supervisor who knows and cares about the Department and the way it is headed
4/12/2008 08:16:00 PM
I am sorry to say this, but I agree with your sentiments exactly.
Here is an idea...a silent protest at St. Jude. DO NOT WARE WHITE GLOVES! It sends the message, while also being able to honor our fallen memmbers.
The brass uses St. Judes to make a statement...right or wrong...that they are supported.
The families of the fallen count on it to honor their heroes.
If any of us have any balls...we all pick a violation of uniform...any violaton...and march bearng such violation...we honor our fallen brothers...we call JPW to task...spar one ..spar all. And we turn our backs on the review stand.
GO TO ST JUDE'S BUT AT THE END OF THE MARCH DON'T EYE'S LEFT AND SALUTE A SUPT WHO IS NOT SUPPOSE TOO BE IN A CHICAGO POLICE UNIFORM AND HAS NEVER ENTERED THE ACADEMY TO EARN TOO WEAR ONE THAT WOULD BRING SOME ATTETION
Windy City Vets? Ol' Vet? What is wrong with these two ASSHATS???
Both of them sound like they forgot to take their meds! Ain't no way I'd ever die for the thin blue line. Somebody brain washed that mofo. For fuck's sake it's just a pansy-assed parade to impress the brass. These two need to get a life.
Relax Francis!!!
4/12/2008 11:34:00 AM
Slow your roll liberal, I'm no veteran, no military, hell I'm probably too much of a coward to be out in the Middle East right now, but don't disrespect any vet, especially on this beautiful wesite SCC that has allowed us to see the light. Because of our "brainwashed" vets as u say. I'm able to type this right now and your able to speak your nonsense. Did it ever occur to you what some vets have seen on the battlefield that caused them to take meds their whole life? thank you veterans
all gave some
some gave all
I'm not going. I march downtown. Not by the lake so no one sees u. i'll be ready at 640 N Michigan to honor our dead. Please join me there.
I was ordered to direct traffic at St Judes last year. WHAT A CLUSTER. I don't blame anyone who decides not to march.
I kept laughing at the realization that these same assclown bosses who can't organize a parade are the "go to " guys in the event of a terrorist attack. Be afraid, be very afraid!
You do not boycot St. Jude,is not about people personal beleifs or complaints is about the other officers from past and present. Leave your complaints behind and attend St.Jude. Hey bosses who got dumped, shit happens stop writing in the blog and go away, you made patrol officers life miserable now you guys know how it feels to get screw go to Florida and dissapear, leave St, Jude alone and stop trying to start shit by writing on the blog, disguising as officers. Thank you Superintendent Wies for helping the troops and getting rid of the pmpeous asses, now get rid of the bosses that were put in power with no experience whatsoever the only reason they are in special units or supervisor positions is because they knew Cline kid or other bosses kid. Is not fair for the coppers that dont know anybody,these guys pal around together and worked in the 11th District Tact like they owned the streets, from Cline kid to De Lopez kid (crazy brutal bastard) to their buddies as Erik Rodriguez these guys got cake jobs never had to experience patrol How Lucky!
How about a few thousand(8)of us drive by the goofs house on the way home! Ya know, just a beep and a wave???????????????????
Hey (Greg Gilffinian), stop telling people not to go to St.Jude you little bitch, stop hiding in the bosses drawers you house mouse,work the streets dude, you have nothing to whine about. Are you scare of the streets?.
To Windy City Vets,
Hey man, I like your style! A person can tell you are prior service, because without a doubt...you have it!!!
See you standing tall at Jude's! Love the Afghanistan excuse...
"Better to be hated for who you are than loved for who you're not."
Thanks also for your service you fucking Beast!!!
-006th dist ranger
Anonymous said...
Here is an idea...a silent protest at St. Jude. DO NOT WARE WHITE GLOVES! It sends the message, while also being able to honor our fallen memmbers.
4/13/2008 12:59:00 AM
WOW. Some great ideas to protest. No white gloves, do not salute, do not turn your head. Maybe we should walk backwards? It is enough for the media to make fools of us. Now we need to provide more negative media by a "silent" protest? Be professional and honor the fallen officers and gold star families. They need our support not a silent protest. Give them one day to feel honored. J-FED uniform is a complete nonissue. The focus is gold star families and those that died in line of duty. Must we continue to draw negative publicity? 2 hours to honor the families then leave.
0425AM:
Right on.
Alternate St. Judes; Ohio/Michigan. We'll have to walk on the sidewalks and stop at crosswalks, but we all know the route.
Our fallen fell for all of us; not for this asshat mayor and his scummy crew. Hopefully goldstar families will agree with this.
Honor youself, Honor our fallen brothers and sisters, Go to St. Jude its once a year. But, Honor them and yourself everyday by wearing that uniform the way it should be worn. The same uniform so many have given their lives for. Wear the uniform with pride honor and respect. Wear it correctly.
4/12/2008 11:09:00 PM
You have balls Greg, unlike the bosses who are scared to do anything on this dept. You should be immediately be restored 100%, and promoted to your next spot! If you had clout this would never happen, but being a working copper they fucked you like they do a lot of us "non-clouted"!
hey 857 am, turn your shit in at 35th and get another job, we dont want or need you here!
Very simple solution, everyone goes to St. Jude as always and honor our fallen heroes. Towards the end of the march as we approach the stand containing the Deptartment and City "leaders" we lower our heads looking only at the ground as we pass by. Trust me, they will get the message.
I agree with a few of the posts that suggested walking by the stand and refusing to do the typical "eyes left" BS. That should be for people we respect and jfed and the bosses are not deserving. We should ALL MARCH and walk straight ahead with our eyes not looking at any bosses as we pass the stand. Send 2 messages, 1 that we care for our fallen brothers and 2 that we dont give a flying fuck about the shitty brass!
I RESPECT GREG INSLEY FOR POSTING HIS NAME. I WILL NOT. I BELIEVE THE POWERS THAT BE READ THIS AND MAY BE VINDICTIVE. I AM ALSO CURRENTLY STRIPPED. IT IS FOR AN INCIDENT WHICH I HAVE NEVER BEEN ABLE TO DEFEND MY ACTIONS NOR HAVE I BEEN GIVEN CHARGES. THE UNION SAYS AS DOES IAD"ITS NOT PUNITIVE YOU ARE BEING PAID. WELL THAT MAY BE TRUE BUT WHAT IT HAS DONE TO ME AND MY FAMILY IS UNFAIR. I HAVE GIVEN MY WHOLE LIFE TO THIS ORGANIZATION AND WHILE MOST OF THE PEOPLE I PERSONALLY KNOW SUPPORT ME, IT STILL HURTS. I COULD HAVE BEEN A DOG AND DONE NOTHING INSTEAD I CHOSE TO WORK FOR A LIVING. I GUESS THIS WAS A BIG MISTAKE. I WAS STRIPPED WITHOUT ANY EXPLANATION. IT SHOWS HOW EXPENDEABLE WE REALLY ARE. I DID NOTHING WRONG BUT NO ONE WANTS TO HEAR THAT. THE DEPARTMENT WAITS FOR THE GOVERNMENT TO FINISH THEIR INVESTIGATION THEN THYE CONDUCT THEIRS. IT IS A PROCESS THAT CAN TAKE YEARS. THEY DO NOT KNOW WHAT IT DOES TO A MAN AND HIS FAMILY. THE WHISPERS HIS WIFE HEARS. THE STUPID UNTHOUGHTFUL RUMORS ON HERE, THE FIGHTS AT HOME BECAUSE YOU FEEL EVERYTHING YOU WORKED FOR IS LOST AND YOU DON'T KNOW WHY. YOU KNOW IF GIVEN THE CHANCE TO EXPLAIN YOUR ACTIONS YOU WOULD BE FINE, BUT THE CHANCE JUST DOESNT COME. I KNOW THIS ONLY EFFECTS A FEW OFFICERS HOWEVER, WE NUST BAN TOGETHER TO STOP THIS INJUSTICE.
Here is my problem with all you useless coppers that are not going to st jude and are fucking dumb enough to suggest a boycott. you have heard from actual family memebers that it does make THEM feel better to see us all marching in honor of their loved ones. If you think its about bosses and the supt WHO CARES? The families feel better to see us out there. A real man can put the political BS aside for 1 day and make the families proud. Not 1 of us has to go suck the commanders ass or supts sack that day, just show up, march and go home pussy!
Those who would boycot St. Judes are acting like children in a snit. Go stamp your feet and have your tantrum someplace else. St. Judes is not the place for it. You are only hurting those who are already hurt to the max, families and friends of fallen officers.
I am a CCSPD Sergeant, and I have marched at St. Jude every year since 1989.
Can someone tell me what the route is going to be this year?
Are we starting on Michigan Ave by the river?
I understand that we will not be ending up in front of the church this year, rather the CPD Memorial.
We got the sign up list at the district last week along with a memo from the Chief stating that route info will be forthcoming. The curiousity got the better of me, so I thought I'd ask here.
I assume on-street parking is the same as in the past, or will your TMA be out there screwing with cops?
I enjoy the march. It is a measure of pride for me. I was on when our own Mike Ridges got killed up in Prospect Heights. Mike has a nice memorial at a park named after him off of RT83.
A couple of your tactical unit guys heard the ISPERN and grabbed the assholes that shot him somewhere in 016.
If those Officers are rading this. Thank you sirs for your help. I for one am grateful.
I was RDO when one of our other cops was killed in a 10-50 enroute to roll call.
I told my crew that this isn't a dick-measuring contest for Dart or your guy J-Fed. Screw them! It's for Mike, John and Jimmy from the county police and the hundreds of city policemen that you tearfully laid on the altar.
My whole watch will be there. I asked only once. My crew said yes.
Yes sir.
Signed,
Concerned County Police Sergeant
AFSCME Local 3953.
PS: Union meeting this Wednesday night at Sorrento's. All members are invited to attend.
ths st judes day is a day of remembrance. its a day wneh can all come together is solidarity and look at the brass in the fae as we march along and curse the f out of them. but also to let them know that we are here, and that we will never forget. i lost a couple of friends in the line of duty, and its makes me proud to march and believe that they are ther alongside of us. remeber, we now have our wall, and everyone knows that as soon as you walk by it, the choking begins because you wish that your brothers were there with you. lets not remember them because they died, lets remeber them because they still live.
good idea...no white gloves at st jude pass it along
Relax Francis!!!
4/12/2008 11:34:00 AM
Hey punk, didnt Mommy teach you, if you cant say anything nice, dont say anything? You wont die for the thin blue line? That is your prerogative but I would bet you will probably fall for anything, since you probably stand for nothing.
As for your comments about any veteran, especially those that have served this country, you really sound like such a class act.
Judging from your use of the catchphrases like, "Asshat" and "Francis," you must also be quite the grizzled veteran officer. You must really impress the "copper" groupies out there at the gin mill with your stories of bravery and daring-do.
Actually guys like you forget that guys like the ones that "forgot to take their meds" are made of the same fiber as your fellow officers that paid the ultimate price in the service of the Department.
I never served in combat and cant begin to speak for those who have. I have spoken to some who have served active duty and studied about those who have died serving in the Armed Forces and the one common thread is that they forged close loving bonds under difficult circumstances. Most speak of a love for those they served with that is unlike any relationship that they have experienced outside of combat and if the dead have given their lives for something, I think it was for those closest to them at that time.
I probably wasted my breath trying to give you another perspective but there you go, thats what real veteran officers do or should do.
You are pathetic.
Just cancel the parade and have a church service at a nearby church.
To 4/12/2008 02:40:00 PM
....traveling faster than the speed of sound?
The march is a bunch of Dept. horseshit. The idea that its supposed to be to remember fallen officers is by all means honorable and should be respected by all P.O.'s, citizens and even the low life politicians alike. But the supervisors and exempt have made it a personal showing of popularity and respect for them when they have a strong turn out. They make it a punishment if you don't go by forcing you to do stand up inspection or threaten you'll lose your current assignment be it a car or whatever else your so blessed to be doing. They have it in the wee hours of the morning so as not to disturb the shoppers or traffic of Michigan Av. If it really was about honoring and remembering the fallen officers they would do it in the middle of the day and the shit bag of a mayor we have would show up. It would be in the faces of all the public to force them to see it and realize the sacrafices we make. We should boycott it and have the FOP or the Gold Star Families organize one that is done with out the supervision of the brass. When and where we want it. The FOP organized a picket one year when we had no contract and they had busses and signs made up. So you know it could be done.
Rest in Peace...Jose Vasquez
Have everyone wear black gloves instead of white ones at St. Judes and ignore that jackass weiss in the stand,.....we should do something...there are 10000 of us and a few of them....we hold the cards...they don't
NO SALUTING J-FED AND HIS CRONIES.....THEY DIDN'T EARN THE RIGHT TO EVEN BE AT THAT PARADE SO DO NO SALUTE LOOOK ELSEWHERE.
I say boycott it, we as police will not have another chance to make as strong of a statement. Can you guys tell me how else we can make a statement?
Our fallen sisters and brothers would be proud to see us stand up and have our voices heard. We can honor them in prayer, in visiting the memorial, writing their family, helping out with the Goldstar family projects, or whatever you think would help.
We need to stand in unity. Also, maybe they (city, government, arbitrator, Jfed) will hear our message and see our strength. Remember, this is contract time and Presidental election time. We CAN make a difference and send a message.
The worst thing they did was move the ST.Jude parade. I worked as Traffic Control Aide for the police department until they cahanged us to OEMC. I thought it was really nice to see all the police officers together. If you are going to boycott it the reason should be to have it go back on Michigan Ave
Daley has NEVER attended a St Jude parade and it won't hurt him if we don't go....we just hurt ourselves
Anyone got a rich daddy? Rent some of those airplanes that drag the signs behind them. "Chicago Police don't have a contract." "Mike Mette is being held hostage by the state of Iowa." "Police can't afford chicago real estate taxes"
I agree with the dude telling them vets to "Relax Francis" and here's why?
Ole boys are brainwashed. No doubt about it. The way they talk on here is fucking scary. Definitely some truth to the meds.
They believe in an invisible line for crying out loud. I have been cpd for over 12 years now and I have never heard other officers talking about Thin Blue Line that they would die for.
It's always like hey man, don't snitch your boy in blue...type of Thin Blue line you know?
These two vets are out there and it shows.
They probably are the type to say "I was just folowing orders" too. No way man. These two guys are fucked in the head. Relax Francis is right.
I heard from someone who was there that J-Fed attended a roll call very recently with his entourage. He was giving a big back patting to the W/C about what a good job he was doing blah blah.
J-Fed had to be taken aside and told that he W/C he was praising was a commander the week before and had just been dumped by J-Fed. Oops, you would think someone would tell this guy something other than "promote my friends and relatives"
Change in Chicago just means a new set of thieves gets to run things. And since J-Fed doesn't know any of the players, how will he know when he is being lied to?
Answer: He won't
///
None of us should got to St. Jude because the CPD ain't on the real no more.
I am chilling at home that day. True nuff.
4:35
You, Ol Vet and Windy City Vets ALL need to on meds!
All that rambling for nothing. Here's a tip: Go down to your favorite watering hole...get nasty plowed drunk...and hopefully, someone will call on you and say you are intoxicated and J-fed can fire you!!!
To whoever posted about the Department giving 3 hours to attend St. Judes, that is false. Some district, unit or watch commanders granted 3 hours for attendance. The First Deputy, Townsend, got wind of that several years ago, and forbade the practice.
We are with you Donna Marquez. Thank you for your heartfelt words. I march for the partners who were killed, for their families.
I hope every officer can put his own valid concerns aside this one day, to honor those who have suffered greatly.
A Fellow Officer
Anyone got a rich daddy? Rent some of those airplanes that drag the signs behind them. "Chicago Police don't have a contract." "Mike Mette is being held hostage by the state of Iowa." "Police can't afford chicago real estate taxes"
=================================
How about...
"Why did we have to lose all these fallen Chicago Police Officers?"
This is about the fallen officers.Do this with pride and honor for them.
Some of you might remember John Knight who was killed by gunfire back in Jan 1999. John's son has a poem that is on the Poet's Choice website. If you could take the time and place a vote.
http://www.odmp.org/officer/15200-police-officer-john-c.-knight
http://www.poetry.com/voteforme/poemvote1.asp?PID=12921893
Here's an idea. Fuck those LITTLE BITCHES that keep calling for a boycott! They just don't and probably never will know what it is to be a Police Officer.
To make up for their boycott, how about inviting every retired Officer to come and march? They could march with their old unit or the F.O.P.
They put the active members to shame by the number of votes cast in the F.O.P. elections.
After the march they could have a reunion at the F.O.P. hall or the brunches sponsored by their units. Bigger than the Las Vagas reunion and cheaper!
It could be a great turn out and a reminder that they are still a part of the Police Family.
It would be a good show of unity and by their presence, prove that you can survive and retire despite all the BULLSHIT that we have to deal with from the department.
P.S. Let me beat you to it. This was written by an ASSHAT!
Please go to ST. Jude. Stand Tall and Be proud. Honor your fellow Police Officers, and let people Thank You for all you do. The beat officer is so important to this city. It is a great march and means a lot! Not only to the Police but to anyone who knows an Officer and all they sacrifice for the City. The Sea of Blue is an amazing sight that must ALWAY be seen on ST. Jude SUnday!!!
I AM THE PERSON WHO WROTE EARLIER WHO HAS BEEN STRIPPED THERE ARE SEVERAL THINGS I HATE ABOUT ST JUDE.
1. IT HAS BECOME A POPULARITY CONTEST FOR SUPERVISORS.
2. IT IS HELD EARLY SO THE PUBLIC CANT SEE US.
3.YOU ARE PUNISHED FOR NOT GOING.
HOWEVER, IF I WAS NOT STRIPPED I WOULD BE GOING. I CAN OVERLOOK WHAT IS BAD ABOUT IT, IF IT HELPS JUST ONE FRIEND OR RELATIVE DEAL WITH THEIR LOSS. I GLADLY SHOW MY REPORT FOR THOSE WHO GAVE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE.
I HATE WHAT ST JUDE HAS BECOME TO SOME. HOWEVER, I WOULD BE JUST AS GUILTY AS THESE ASSHOLES IF NOT MORE IF I STARTED USING SUCH AN OCCASION TO SHOW MY VIEWS OR DISAGREEMENT WITH CERTAIN POLICIES. THERE ARE BETTER FORUMS TO VENT MY ANGER, THIS IS NOT ONE OF THEM.
PLEASE GO TO SHOW THE FAMILIES YOU CARE. WE ALWASY TALK ABOUT A BROTHERHOOD, LETS SHOW IT.
WE ARE NOT THEIR TO SUPPORT OUR BOSSES BUT TO SUPPORT THE FAMILIES WHO STILL SUFFER.
To 4/15/08 @ 11:23:...Why does it have to be a "Friend or relative"?
I do it because they are "Police Officers" and eventhough I do not know them...they are part of my family..I am sick and tired of hearing the whining about doing work, no contract,boycotting St Jude,etc...if any of you had to work for a living you'd be in trouble!! Just come to work and do the job...and if you don't like it then leave. Where else are you going to find a job like this?? I understand some things may be bad,unfair etc but try digging a ditch in Feburary to fix a broken water main or running to catch that train so you can get to your downtown job on time...Give me a break..we have a good job and a lot of whiners. I have been on the job over 14 years and still come to work every day looking to lock someone up...why not?? That's my job...I get paid to do that. If this was any other corporation most of you would be fired for lack of effort...think about it...if you worked for IBM or Jewel and did nothing as you say...you would be out of a job right?? But not in the police department....you do nothing or the absolute bare minimum and what happens?? Nothing...you might get chewed out a little by the W/C or the Sgt but for the most part you will not loose your job right?? And....you complain about that too right?? Unreal...See you at St Jude.
To whoever posted about the Department giving 3 hours to attend St. Judes, that is false. Some district, unit or watch commanders granted 3 hours for attendance. The First Deputy, Townsend, got wind of that several years ago, and forbade the practice.
4/14/2008 02:12:00 PM
IN the 70's and early 80's you always got 3 hours for St. Judes, I can't remember when they stopped it., the commanders used to pop for breakfast too... (and the forbidden couple a drinks)...
They make it a punishment if you don't go by forcing you to do stand up inspection or threaten you'll lose your current assignment be it a car or
********************
YOU ARE CRAZY
first, you are supposed to stand SPRING uniform inspection, it is aPERK that if you go to St. Jude, in your spring dress uniform, you won't have to stand the regular inspection.
Second, NAME ONE PERSON WHO HAS BEEN THREATENED WITH LOSING what, their beat car? what ??? I would love to see it, your whole post is nothing but BS.., and CRAZY BS to boot.
Anyone who doesn't go to St. Judes due to this boycott bull is an asshat, the only excuse for not going is - can't walk (you could still attend) out of town, in hospital or dead.
Let me tell you, BOSSES ARE NOT COUNTING THE HEADS WHO SHOWS UP AND WHO DOESN'T...
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