P.O. Clifton Lewis (30 Dec 2011)

The Chicago Police Lieutenants Association offers our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of P.O. Clifton Lewis. Clifton will always remain in our hearts and prayers.

NEW PRESIDENT TAKES OFFICE
(29 December 2011)

On January 1st I will be stepping down as the President of the CPLA. I want to thank the entire membership for allowing me to the privilege of leading the CPLA. It has been a lot of work but it has been very satisfying.

Please welcome Mike Ryan as the new President of the CPLA. Work with him and support his efforts. Do not allow the City or the CPD to turn us against ourselves. Work together to ensure a satisfactory new contract in the upcoming negotiations. Do not let petty issues come between you. Go to the Membership meetings and become an active voice. Working together we are strong.

I look forward to seeing everyone at future General Membership meetings

Bob Weisskopf

Sgt at Arms Election (8 December 2011)

There will not be a run off election for the Sergeant at Arms position. Ken Stoppa has notified me he is withdrawing from the race. Bob Lajewski will assume the postion of Sgt at Arms on January 1, 2012.

After discussions with many members of the executive board I have offered Ken Stoppa the postion of At Large Representative. Ken has graciously accepted. The board will meet next Tuesday to vote on the nomination and to make it official. This position will help ensure that all our membership is properly represented after the department finishes it upcoming gerrymandering of the units and districts. This position is in accordance with our by laws and will greatly enhance our ability to ensure that all our members are well represented.

ELECTION RESULTS (3 December 2011)

Ballots in the CPLA Elections were counted this morning at the 016 th District. It was as close a race as is possible. 170 ballots were received. There were no spoiled ballots.

In the race for Vice President of the CPLA, 85 votes were cast for Dean Stone, 83 votes were cast for Michael Stiscak. There were two ballots returned with no choice made for the Vice President race. Congratulations Dean and thank you Mike.

In the race for Sergeant at Arms between Ken Stoppa and Bob Lajewski the final count was 84 to 84 with two ballots returned with no choice made for Sergeant at Arms. Therefore we will have a run off election to determine the race. We will be letting you know further details as soon as we work them out.

78% of our eligible voting membership took the time to cast their vote and should be congratulated.

Sentinel Newsletter Corrections
(28 November 2011)

Mike Dejanovich the Headquarters Representative and John Gibbons the Sergeant at Arms were inadvertently left off the last page of the December 2011 Sentinel. They are still serving on our board. Sorry for the omission.

Participation is not a Spectator Sport (28 November 2011)

How many of us have watched a Bears game on Sunday afternoon and criticized the coaches and their play-calling for a bad outcome on the score board? I would venture to guess that most of us have been guilty of that particular action on at least a few occasions. As we are all aware, contract negotiations are looming right around the corner and they promise to be the most contentious in recent memory. With that in mind, I urge all members of the Lieutenant's Association to get involved and let their voices be heard.

At the time of this writing, the contested positions on the Lieutenant Association Board of Directors have not been finalized. Regardless of the outcome, we must pledge to work together for the greater good of our Association. This is the time for action, for collaboration and for reaping the benefits of an Association that operates as a unified front and not a fractured family. I call upon all of our members to let your voices be heard. Talk to your Association representatives; tell them what is most important to you. Offer suggestions for contract language clarification; think about priorities regarding contractual protections. Don't wait until it's too late to bring up that great idea…the contract protections we enjoy—or lack—may depend upon it.

Eve Gushes
Secretary

Newly Retired Members
(16 November 2011)

Congratulations to all of our members who retire this fall. We wish you the longes and happiest retirement and thank you for your years of service. Please remember to go to the Member Update section and update your information. Make sure we have a new email address for you so that we can stay in touch. Good Luck to you all.

Election and Ballot Count
(16 November 2011)

Please remember to get your election ballot into the mail. We stamped the envelope for you so all you need to do is make your pick and drop it in the mail. We will be counting ballots on December 3rd at 10AM in the 016th District Community room. Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend.

Election (18 October 2011)

The time period for submitting a letter of intent to run for office has ended. There are two contested positions and there will be a election for these two positions. Ken Stoppa and Robert Lajewski are both running for the office of Sgt at Arms. Dean Stone and Mike Stiscak are running for the office of Vice President. You will receive ballots for this election at your home address around November 01, 2011. Completed ballots must be received by the election committee by 9:00AM on December 01, 2011. Ballots will be counted on December 3, 2011. The time and location will be announced later but will be open to any member who wishes to attend.

The following people have submitted a letter of intent for positions that are uncontested:
President: Mike Ryan
Treasurer: Bob Stasch
Secretary: Eve Gushes
These positions are uncontested and therefore in accordance with our bylaws they will take office for a two year term on January 01, 2012.

Congratulations to them.

Time to Update Your Mailing Address (18 October 2011)

Ballots for the upcoming election will be mailed to your home address. To ensure you receive a ballot please to to the section above marked Membership Update and complete an update. This must be completed immediately so that we can get everything to the printer.

Unit Bids (21 September 2011)

Keep an eye out for unit bids to be opened on Friday the 23rd. There should be three open bids; 013, 018, & 020. Remember it is up to you to ensure that the bid is properly prepared and delivered to MLAS. Make sure you follow closely the instructions on the notification. If you make a bid please drop me an email at and let me know. It can take days for department mail to make it to me.

CPLA Executive Board Elections
(Sept. 7, 2011)

Terms for the President, Vice President, Secretary Treasurer and Sergeant at Arms will end on December 31 2011. Elections for these positions will be held during the month of November. If you are interested in running for one of these positions you must submit a letter of intent to CPLA Secretary Eve Gushes no later than October 17, 2011 to be placed on the ballot. To run for a postion you need to be an active member in good standing. Sorry retirees and exempt members are not eligible.

September 2011 Newsletter
(Sept. 8, 2011)

The September Newsletter is now available here on our website for your convenience.

FROM THE PENSION BOARD
(30 Aug 2011)

The Board of Trustees for The Policemen’s Annuity and Benefit Fund of Chicago has an election coming up. Notices will be out soon but we kindly ask that you notify your members that the Lieutenants and Above position on the Board of Trustees is up for election on October 27, 2011. Starting September 1, 2011, petitions for candidacy may be picked up, by the prospective candidates only, and must be signed by 25 Lieutenants and Above and returned to the Fund office by October 3, 2011 C.O.B. to be eligible for the ballot. This election is for a three year term effective December 1, 2011 until November 30, 2014.

OKTOBERFEST (26 Aug 2011)

Our annual OKTOBERFEST Celebration and September General Membership Meeting will be held on 20 September 2011, at the Mirabelle Restaurant, 3454 W. Addison. The meeting will begin at 6:00 PM with dinner to follow. If you are going to attend please RSVP to so we can be sure to have enough for everyone.

FIRSTRESPONDERPENSIONFACTS.COM
(26 July 2011)

The new web site, firstresponderspensionfacts.com, designed to keep members informed of upcoming events regarding securing our pension is up and running. Please visit the site and comment if you like. The new site is connected to sites under the same name on Twitter and Facebook.

Keep in mind that the Sergeants and Lieutenants are planning a drive-in to Springfield for the Veto session in late October, busses will be provided.

Legislators review Twitter and Facebook when considering votes so please go to these sites and "Like" them or follow them. Your pension is at risk.

Recognized Vacancy Announcement (01 July 2011)

Today the Department announce Unit bid vacancies for Lieutenants. There is one Unit bid available in 009 and one in 016. If you decide to bid it must be submitted to MLAS withing 96 hours of the time the announcement is posted in your unit. It is your responsibility to ensure that the PAR formset is properly completed, signed, and distributed. Do not trust someone else to do this for you! Make sure you follow the directions carefully.

In the section that requires you to list the Facsmile number the correct number is referrence # 200270. You can fax a copy to MLAS at 312-745-6961 if plan on trusting the department mail to deliver the formset. You may also wish to verify that they have received your bid by contacting MLAS at 312-745-5806.

Our Friends the CPSA (02 June 2011)

The CPSA is hosting their annual golf outing, for more information just click here.

General Membership Meeting
(02 June 2011)

Our next General Membership meeting will be held on 14 June 2011 at 6:00PM. It will be held at the CPSA office, 1616 W. Pershing Rd. Everyone is invited to attend. Pizza and refreshments will follow the meeting.

Reflection on Promises (5 May 2011)

By Sean M. Smoot, Director, Police Benevolent & Protective Association of Illinois. Read the article.

Legal Representation (12 April 2011)

Effective 11 April 2011 Attorney Joe FitzSimmons is no longer employed by the law firm that represents our members. If you have a pending grievence or CR investigation there will be no problem as the law firm will be assigning another attorney to your case. If you have any questions please feel free to contact the CPLA. If you have a new need for a CPLA attorney please contact the law firm of Robert Kuzas as always at 312-629-1400 to make arrangements.

WE ARE ONE (7 April 2011)

On Tuesday I sent out information about the "We Are One" rally to be held this weekend. It has been brought to our attention that some unknown persons are trying to discredit this rally by falsely accusing it of being run by the Chicago Socialist Party. This could not be further from the trueth. This is being organized by the Chicago Federation of Labor.

Please don't listen to the gossip. Do your homework and learn the truth. Think about just who would stand to benefit by seeing this rally fail. Who would benefit by seeing union benefits and pensions eliminated? Who is trying to convince the people of Chicago that the public employee is nothing more than over paid and underworked.

The labor unions and this includes the PBPA and your CPLA support this rally because the truth is that we are hardworking employees who have been paying our share to the pensions and earn our wages through blood and tears.

The Professional Development Program (7 April 2011)

AMFN Message 111092 was sent out on 6 April 2011. It announces the first opportunity for Lieutenants to participate in two details. Please read over the message closely and if you are interested make sure you get your application in no later than 1700 hours on 15 April 2011.

A New Opportunity For Professional Growth (1 April 2011)

Sometime in the next few days the department will be announcing, via the Daily Bulletin, a new initiative for professional growth. Two spots will be identified that will be open to application by lieutenants for a 60 day detail during the 5th & 6th periods. One position will be in the Bureau of Investigative Services and one in the Bureau of Patrol Administration.

As previous updates in the Sentinel have explained, the higher ups in the Department have been looking for a mechanism to expose lieutenants to areas of supervision that they may have never had the opportunity to experience in the past. At the same time, it would allow for the bosses in these bureaus to see some of the currently untapped fine work and talent that our members possess. If successful, it is hoped that the lieutenants who avail themselves of this opportunity will expand their experiences and possibly showcase their abilities to maybe be used at a later date.

The application process will be delineated in the announcement, but it will include the submission of a resume, a letter of recommendation as well as a look at your disciplinary and medical history. Deputy Superintendent Cuello has stressed to the other deputies that is not to be an opportunity to bring back an old friend to a unit, but to bring in someone who has never been in the unit or at least not anytime in the recent past. Rest assured, the Board will be watching this closely to ensure that there is no bypassing of our members contractual rights. We have also been assured by MLAS Commander O’Neill that should a bid lieutenant apply and be selected, this detail will in no way impact their unit bid.

This is the first time such an initiative has been attempted. Should it prove successful, it will be expanded to include more lieutenants in future details as well as to begin a similar program for sergeants. When the announcement comes out and identifies specifically which positions are open, take a look and see if it would be something you would like to try for 60 days and if it is, throw your name in for consideration.

SB 1874 (17 March 2011)

On March 16th, I attended the Senate Committee on Pensions and Investments regarding Senate bill 1874 proposed by Senator Iris Martinez at the behest of outgoing FOP President Mark Donohue. As you remember this bill would essentially remove the Sergeants and the Lieutenants representatives from the pension board by making all elections for representatives “at-large” giving the FOP which has a vast superior number of voting members control of the Pension board. The hearing on the bill was called and testimony was given by Captain Marc Buslik and our PB&PA Chief Legal counsel Sean Smoot. The Committee voted to put the bill on hold until at which time all parties involved could come to an agreement. I wish to thank Captain Buslik, Sergeant Jim Ade, Sean Smoot who attended the committee hearing and all those that made phone calls to Senator Martinez’s office voicing your opposition to this bill; your phone calls definitely had an impact.

Dean Stone
Vice-President

Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner / General Membership Meeting
(16 February 2011)

Our annual Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner / General Membership meeting will be held on 08 March 2011 at the Irish American Heritage Center , 4626 N. Knox at 6PM. We want to make sure we have enough for everyone so please RSVP to if you are going to attend.

If you have recently retired and would like to receive your CPLA retirement star at the Dinner please let us know when you RSVP.

The March 2011 Sentinel (16 February 2011)

The March 2011 Sentinel is now available for you on line.

UNIT BIDS (14 January 2011)

The Department posted the Unit Bidding for Lieutenants this morning. AMFN Message 110123. You only have 96 hours to get your bid submitted. Please read the instructions and follow them carefully. It is your responsibility to ensure that the bid is submitted properly and received by MLAS. Do not rely on anyone to do this for you or you may be disappointed. Good luck.

CFD Loss (22 Dec 2010)

The members of the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association sadly offer our most sincere condolences to the families, friends, and fellow Firefighters of the Chicago Fire Department members who lost their lives today. We also wish our best to the many other Firefighters who were injured at the same time. You will always remain in our prayers and thoughts.

Christmas Blue Light
(15 December 2010)

Recently Lt. Maureen Ziegenhorn sent this email to the Superintendent:

Dear Superintendent Weis,

Over twenty years ago when I was a new police officer, I remember that we were all requested to put a "Blue Light" in our window during the holiday season in honor of our fallen brothers and sisters from the current year and years past. I have not heard of anyone doing this for many years.

We have suffered many losses this year and I think it is time to bring back this tradition. Would you please assist me in this mission and somehow get the message out to all our members, family and friends.
Please let the "Blue Light" shine during this holiday season and all the holiday seasons to come.

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Maureen E. Ziegenhorn
Lieutenant
19th District

This is a great idea and we feel that it is a great way to show our respect for and to honor fallen officers. All it takes is a blue light in your porch light or a blue light in your window. Let your neighbors know too.

Area Representative Election Results
(4 December 2010)

Ballots were counted this morning for the Area 5 and Headquarters Representative positions.

Area 5 Rep- 25 Ballots were returned
Bob Kero 15 votes (winner)
Mike Stevens 10 votes

Headquarters Rep- 31 Ballots returned
Michael Dejonovich 18 votes (winner)
Karen Konow 13 votes

Congratulations to Bob Kero and Michael Dejonovich. We look forward to working with them. Our thanks to Mike Stevens and Karen Konow. Your service has been a great help and we plan seeking your input in the future.

These representatives will begin their two year term 1 January 2011.

E.T. Michael R. Flisk #6962
(29 November 2010)

The Chicago Police Lieutenants Association offers our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of E.T. Michael R. Flisk. Michael will always remain in our hearts and prayers.

An account has been set up to assist the children of slain Evidence Technician Michael Flisk at the Chicago Patrolman's Federal Credit Union (CPFCU) Donations can be sent to the CPFCU at 1407 W. Washington Street, Chicago, Ill 60607, or at the south or north side branches.

December Newsletter (24 November 2010)

The December 2010 Newsletter is now available online. Make sure you check out this issue for information on the O'Neill & Nolan Scholarship on page 4.

Christmas Dinner and General Membership Meeting (24 November 2010)

We will be hosting the annual Christmas Dinner and General Membership meeting on December 14, 2010 at the Home Run Inn. For more information please check the December 2010 Newsletter.

2011 Challenge Coin (24 November 2010)

We just received the 2011 CPLA Challenge Coin. The donations received from this coin help fund our flower fund. We will have them available at our meeting. If you can not attend the meeting please contact Bob Weisskopf at to make arrangements. The coins are available for a $10 donation, each, plus $2 postage if we mail it via USPS. We have a very limited number of 2010 coins left available if you still do not have one for your collection.

O'Neill & Nolan Scholarship
(24 November 2010)

Applications for the O'Neill & Nolan Scholarship are available online in the December 2010 Newsletter on page 4. Print out a copy and send it in as soon as possible so that you do not forget.

Radio Zone Watch Commander Plan
(15 Nov 2010)

This morning the CPLA Executive Board sent a letter to Supt. Weis and Cmdr. O'Neil of MLAS. This letter expressed our concerns and disappointment with the proposed plan.

We see this proposed plan to be in direct conflict with several sections of our contract. We currently have a pending grievence dealing with paying premium time to a Lieutenant who is the acting Watch Commander in one district and is now covering a second district as well. This problem will be repeated often if this plan goes city wide. We also see many situations where a Lieutenant will be required to step into the W/C roll. Provided you act in the roll of watch commander for more than two hours the department is contractually obligated to pay you for the tour of duty as a Watch Commander. We are working on simplifying the grievence procedure for you should this happen.

DUES INCREASE (10 November 2010)

At yesterday’s CPLA Executive Board meeting our Treasurer Bob Stasch presented a budget proposal for 2011. It was obvious that we needed to make some financial changes to ensure we maintain sufficient funds in our accounts to provide for operational needs and to ensure that we would be able to manage any unforeseen problems that may arise in the next year.

Over this past year we reduced our expenditures by cutting back on the costs of our meetings and dinners. We eliminated the printing of the Newsletter and postage costs associated with it. We have cut back on every area that we really can and developed the challenge coin to offset the cost of our flower fund. Unfortunately our membership diminished and with it the amount collected as dues. The PBPA raised their dues which they had not done in ten years and badly need to do as well. Our investment accounts are earning very little because interest rates are ridiculously low. Simply said our income is down and our expenses are up. Our accounting firm suggested we raise dues to $33 per pay check. We felt that was too much. So in accordance with our Article IV Section 1 of our by-laws a motion was made to raise our dues to $30 / pay check effective 01 January 2011. This motion was seconded and then voted on by the Board of Directors of the CPLA. The vote was unanimous. Effective 01 January 2011, the dues for all CPLA active members as well as exempt members will be raised to $30 per pay check. Our upcoming December 2010 issue of the Newsletter will go into this in more detail and we will be happy to discuss this with everyone at our December 14 General Membership meeting at the Home Run Inn.

As we have done in the past should economic conditions improve we could reduce the dues should our needs be met.

BALLOTS ARE IN THE MAIL
(29 October 2010)

There are two contested races for area representatives, Area 5 Rep and Headquarters Rep. Lieutenants who are assigned to units in these two areas will begin to receive ballots for their respective election on Monday, 01 November 2010. If your unit of assignment is not in one of these two areas you will not receive a ballot. If you have a question or receive a damaged ballot please contact Bob Weisskopf as soon as possible.

Ballots must be received by the CPLA no later than 01 December 2010.

Ballots will be counted at 10:00 AM in the 016th District Community Meeting room on Saturday, 04 December 2010. Everyone is invited to attend the count.

Candidates for the Representative positions are:

AREA 5 REP
Mike Stevens & Bob Kero

HEADQUARTERS REP
Karen Konow & Michael Dejonovich

Good Luck to all the candidates.

We Applaud FOP Lodge 7’s Actions
(21 October 2010)

The Executive Board of the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association applauds and supports the actions of FOP Lodge 7 expressed in their press release dated October 20, 2010.

The actions taken by the Superintendent to strip these officers of their police powers was taken hastily, lacked due deliberation, and failed to consider each officer individually. This inappropriate action comes close to a violation of the FOP contract and showed a disregard and disrespect for the officers he is supposed to be leading.

Morale continues to spiral downward as the Superintendent continues to ignore the results of his ill advised actions. The Superintendent claims that since officers continue to do their job combating crime it is proof that morale is high and that there are no problems. The fact is these officers go out and do their duty because they signed on to serve and protect. They are good people who want to make a difference in the society in which they live. They still show up and go out to battle the elements of crime and disorder not because of the Superintendent but rather because that is the kind of people they are.

It is the Superintendent’s and the Department’s duty to take care of the officers in their charge. The Superintendent and the Department must be fair and promote the officers well being, and to work to improve morale because Police Officers are the backbone of the department. These officers have been harmed psychologically and in the culture of the police department and in the eyes of the citizens of Chicago their stars have been tarnished. This spills over to all officers whether directly associated with this incident or not.

Representative Election (18 October 2010)

Dean Stone, our Vice President and the acting Secretary of the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association, has received letters of intent for all the positions of Representatives.

Uncontested elections: Area 1: Edward Richards; Area 2: Michael Ryan; Area 3: Paul Kusinski; Area 4: Deborah Izzo and Central : Robert Lajewski.

Contested elections: Area 5 Representative - Robert Kero and Mike Stevens have submitted letters of Intent. Headquarters Representative - Karen Konow and Michael Dejanovich have submitted letters of intent.

Ballots will be sent out November 1st for the two contested Representative slots. Only those assigned to the contested areas will Receive ballots and be eligible to vote. Ballots must be received by 01 December 2010 to be counted. Ballots will be counted on 04 December 2010. No election is necessary if a position is uncontested. The President shall declare the single candidate a winner. This is in accordance with our by-laws. The term of office is two years from 01 January 2011 through 31 December 2012.

Membership Update (18 October 2010)

Please go to the Membership update section and complete a membership update. We need a current address and unit of assignment from you so that we can make sure you get mailed a ballot.

Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act Improvements (18 October 2010)

NAPO has secured a victory in the signing of The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act Improvements Act of 2010 (S. 1132) into public law. We are all members of NAPO through the PBPA.

On October, 12, 2010, President Obama signed into law S. 1132, The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act Improvements Act of 2010. NAPO’s President Tommy Nee and Executive Director Bill Johnson worked to get this bill passed and signed into law. NAPO President Tom Nee will be receiving the pen used by the President to sign the bill in recognition of NAPO’s work getting this bill passed and signed into public law.

Since 1992, NAPO has fought to ensure the ability of off duty and retired officers to carry their firearm when traveling across state lines. In 2002 and 2004, NAPO’s Executive Director Bill Johnson submitted testimony before both House and Senate committees on behalf of this legislation. Throughout the 110th and 111th Congresses NAPO worked hard for passage of this key legislation.

The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act Improvements reduces the number of years a retired or separated law enforcement officer has had to serve in order to qualify to carry, from 15 years to an aggregate of 10 years or more. S. 1132 also includes Amtrak Police Department, Federal Reserve, and law enforcement or police officers of the executive branch as qualified law enforcement officers eligible to carry concealed firearms. The Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act Improvements also designate new qualification procedures that will make the process easier for a retired or separated law enforcement officer to meet the requirements of firearms training. Firearms certification will be allowed to be in accordance with the standards of the officer’s former agency, the state where the officer resides and, if there are not state training standards, then the standards established by a law enforcement agency within the state or by a certified firearms instructor will suffice.

NAPO firmly believes that S. 1132 will help to ensure that all qualified off-duty and retired or separated officers across the nation will be able to carry firearms for the protection of themselves, their families and our nation’s communities. We will continue to work to protect law enforcement officers’ rights.

Secretary Position Appointed
(12 Oct 2010)

The board voted today to appoint Eve Gushes to the position of Secretary. Welcome aboard Eve and Congratulations.

ROUND TABLES (06 Oct 2010)

In the future when a Lieutenant is involved in a shooting the procedure will be somewhat changed. Most likely there will not be a round table. It will be at the discretion of the department. If the Lieutenant is the shooter he will be required to do a one on one walk through with the On-Call Incident Commander in the interest of public safety. Remember it has to be a one on one After that the Lieutenant is not required to make any statements until he has obtained legal representation. Call our 24 hour emergency number, 312-332-7432, immediately. We will make sure you have someone there to represent you as soon as possible. IPRA will want to interview you as soon as possible however you do not have to talk to them until you have your legal representation present, so don't.

Membership Update (05 Oct 2010)

A reminder to all our retiring members please go to the Membership update section and complete an update so that we have accurate mailing and email address for you. Also remember to keep checking the website for updates. As a retired member you will not have to pay dues.

All newly promoted Lieutenants need to go to the Membership update section as well and do a complete update. We need your home address and email address.

PETITION (30 Sep 2010)

The petition we circulated and most of our membership signed was delivered to Superintendent Weis yesterday. Attached was a cover letter explaining our feelings and positition. This cover letter along with a copy of the petition was sent as a press release to all major news media sources in the Chicago area. Additionally, this week the Superintendent will be receiving the signed petitions collected by the other police labor unions. Lets hope he takes the advice of his Lieutenants as well as so many other sworn members and ceases retaliatory disciplinary action against the people who are trying to help.

Area Representatives Elections
(27 Sep 2010)

In accordance with our by-laws, elections for Area Representatives will take place this November with the elected taking office on January 1st 2011. The term of office is two years.

If you wish to seek the position of Area Representative you must notify the board in writing no later than 15 October 2010. Please send your written notification to Dean Stone who currently is the acting Secretary.

All current incumbents who wish to retain their position must also submit a letter of intent as well.

The Area Representative positions are Areas 1,2,3,4,5, Headquarters, and Central Control Group. For more information go to http://www.cpdlts.com/bylaws.html, Article V.

Please get those letters of intent in as soon as possible.

CLEMENCY HEARING (27 Sep 2010)

Inmate Ronnie "Mad Dog" Carrasquillo has requested a clemency hearing which will be held on Friday, October 8, 2010. At this hearing, Carrasquillo's attorney and other supporters will appeal to Governor Quinn for his immediate release.

Clemency hearing details:

James R. Thompson Center
100 W. Randolph Street
Friday, October 8, 2010
0900 hours
Room 9-034

The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation (CPMF) is asking uniformed Chicago Police personnel to attend this hearing in support of PO Terrence Loftus, who was shot and killed by Carasquillo in October 1976. Carrasquillo, a member of the Imperial Spanish Gangsters street gang, has gained support in recent years from several politicians, including Rep. Luis Gutierrez, who was tentatively scheduled to attend the hearing on behalf of the inmate. Until the CPMF, FOP Lodge 7 and uniformed Chicago Police officers began attending en banc parole hearings in 2008, Carrasquillo was very close to receiving enough votes from the Illinois Prisoner Review Board (IPRB) for release.

Please come out in support of this brave officer. If you are unable to attend the hearing, consider writing clemency denial letters to Governor Quinn, Rep. Gutierrez or the Chairman of the IPRB, Adam Monreal.

We believe Judge Wilson's message was clear when he handed Carrasquillo a 200-600 year sentence.

Unit Bids and Management Moves
(24 Sep 2010)

Today the Department will be releasing an order regarding District bids for Lieutenants. This is as required by our Contract. I believe they will be opening the Traffic unit bid this time as well. If you are interested make sure you complete the PAR for and disperse it as directed. It is your responsibility to ensure it reaches the proper desks not your district’s.

Additionally the Department will be assigning the new Lieutenants in the very near future. Some people may be moved around to new districts to accommodate this. If you would like to be considered for a management reassignment to a new district this is your chance. Prepare a PAR form listing the district you would like to be reassigned to. It is a good idea to talk to the Commander of the District you would like to go to and ask him or her to request you.

There are no promises that the department will honor your request. If you live on the one side of the city and are currently assigned on the other this may be the best opportunity for you to move back near home.

PAR requests for Management move must be approved by a watch commander or higher other than yourself. Send the original copy to Commander O’Neil, Management and Labor Affairs and a copy to Bob Weisskopf at PBPA Unit 546. Please do this as soon as possible to make sure your PAR is considered.

Committee (16 Sep 2010)

When the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association was originally founded it was strictly as a fraternal organization. As time went on and conditions changed the CPLA stepped in to become the bargaining unit and legal representative of the Chicago Police Lieutenants in addition to its fraternal duties. That being said the CPLA’s duties and responsibilities are to negotiate contracts, provide legal representation for its members and to ensure the City is held to the contract we negotiate.

The responsibility of managing and leading the Chicago Police Department belongs to the Superintendent of Police and his appointees, not us. After all, the Superintendent was hired by the City to do just that and is paid more than $300,000.00 a year to perform his duties as well as provide the leadership that the department needs.

Recognizing a lack of leadership in the CPD the CPLA is forced to step in and help provide leadership where none is present. To do this we have created a committee of Lieutenants, both board members and the rank and file, who will prepare a report with suggestions and proposals to be presented to the Superintendent. These proposals are to be a realistic plan that works within the current economical conditions the department is forced to work in. We can not expect a proposal that requires the hiring of two thousand officers to be acted upon at this time. We can however expect the department to be able to realign the manpower assignments to better utilize the officers we now have.

The committee’s report will be presented to the Superintendent as well as the media and citizens of Chicago. If the Superintendent chooses to disregard the advice and help of his well trained and experienced Lieutenants he will have to answer to the media and the people of Chicago.

For this to be effective we need a committee composed of Lieutenants from all areas of the department who are willing to devote some of their time to identify problems and develop a solution. If you are interested or have any questions please contact either or as soon as possible so that we may begin work immediately.

Vacant Board Positions (16 Sep 2010)

Michelle Engstrom has had to step down from her position as Board Secretary. Anyone interested in applying for the postition please contact Bob Weisskopf as soon as possible.

New Headquarters Representative
(16 Sep 2010)

Karen Konow has been nominated and approved by the CPLA Board of Directors as the Headquarters Representative effective immediately. She can be reached at . Good luck Karen.

Joel Brunsvold PB&PA Lobbiest
(7 September 2010)

The CPLA joins the PB&PA of Illinois in mourning the passing of our dear friend Joel Brunsvold age 68. Joel died late last night after having suffered a major stroke Saturday night. Joel served as a State Representative for 20 years, representing the 71st District from 1983 to 2003. He then was appointed Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. He retired from that position in 2005.

Joel was an exemplary legislator known for his independence, building strong coalitions, and bi-partisan statesmanship. He always advocated for working people especially police officers.

He became our lobbyist in 2006. A friend to all that knew him - he was a great partner for us to have at the State Capitol.

He will be deeply missed. Please keep Joel and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

WE SHARE THE FRUSTRATIONS
(2 Sept 2010)

The Chicago Police Lieutenants Association the bargaining unit for Lieutenants of the Chicago Police Department wish to offer their support to the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 in its informational picketing scheduled for Wednesday, September 15, 2010.

The Chicago Police Lieutenants Association is well aware of the low manpower within the Chicago Police Department. We are well aware how dangerous this is for both the members of the Chicago Police Department and for the citizens of the City of Chicago.

Chicago’s strength has long been its work force. The city of big shoulders would never have been built had it not been for its organized labor. The men and woman of all police ranks are part of that work force. We share the frustrations which generate the need for this informational picketing. We share the sincerity of the members of the F.O.P. We also share the common goal of better serving the people and making Chicago a safer place to raise your family.

We encourage all citizens of this great city to respect this exercise in free speech.

Constitutional Rights Petition
(25 Aug 2010)

I am sure you have all heard, a fellow Lieutenant, John Andrews, has had the CPD take action against him for expressing his opinion regarding the actions and conditions in the Chicago Police Department. Most of you probably agree with him in spirit. but whether you agree or not a real problem exists here and that problem is the CPD's attempt to violate John Andrews' constitutional rights to free speech.

One of the basic foundations our country was built on was the right to free speech. The right to speak out and not be persecuted for what you say is something many Americans have fought and died for over the years. Additionally it is the right and perhaps even the duty of a sworn police officer to take action when something arises threatening the safety and security of the city we have all sworn to serve and protect.

With this in mind I ask you to read the attached petition, and if you agree, please sign it and send it the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association. We will collect the signed petitions and then present them to the Department. Retirees are welcome to send in a petition as well

You can get a copy of the petition for your signature here.

You can send your signed petition via department mail to:

Chicago Police Lieutenants Association
Unit 546

Or by US Mail to:

Chicago Police Lieutenants Association
1616 W. Pershing Road
Chicago, IL 60609

Please do this immediately so that we can present the package to the department as soon as possible.

Pre-age 55 Staggered Payout Option
(24 Aug 2010)

The department has agreed to allow a Lieutenant who is under the age of 55 and is retiring the option of receiving his compensatory time payout in a staggered payout plan. The payout would be under the same payout terms as outlined in our contract in the Memorandum of Understanding regarding Retiree Health Care Benefits Section C-2 Non FLSA Compensatory Time. While the retiree will still be responsible for their own health care insurance they will now have the option to spread their cashout of comp time over several years. This may be a substantial tax savings for some of our members. Please remember this is an option and not mandatory.

Our Next General Membership Meeting
(24 Aug 2010)

Our next General Membership Meeting will our Oktoberfest celebration on Wednesday 15 September 2010 at Mirabell's Restaurant located at 3454 W. Addison (Just east of the Kennedy Expressway). The meeting will begin at 6:00 PM with dinner to follow. If you plan on attending you must RSVP at or call 312-307-3303. We hope to see you there.

Firefighter Christopher Wheatley, CFD
(10 August 2010)

The Chicago Police Lieutenants Associtiation offers our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family, friends, and fellow firefighters of Christopher Wheatley who was killed in the performance of his duties on Monday 9 August 2010. Our prayers will always be with you.

Candlelight Vigil (5 August 2010)

The Annual Candlelight Vigil to honor Chicago Police Department Members who have made the ultimate sacrifice will be held on Tuesday, 14 September 2010 at 1915 hours at Gold Star Families Memorial and Park. This year’s program will open with a dedication of the new monument honoring the living sacrifices of members of the department. We will also honor our fallen officers from the past year whose name will be inscribed on the memorial wall. All department members and their extended families are encouraged to attend this year’s vigil.

During the ceremony, we will read aloud the names of our fallen officers to let the world know that they will never be forgotten. Volunteers are being sought to read the officers names aloud. We will make every effort to accommodate special requests for those who wish to read specific names of fallen officers, with special consideration to family members and department members. To volunteer please contact Commander Frank Gross of the Special Events and Liaison Section via e-mail at before 01 September 2010. Information should include your name, email address, telephone number and the name of the fallen officer you would like to read.

The Committee for the Annual Candlelight Vigil is seeking volunteer singers for 14 September 2010 at 1915 hours. Singer (or singers) can perform the National Anthem and/or a song befitting of this solemn ceremony. If interested please send an audio recording of your performance to Special Events and Liaison Section-Unit 136, 3510 S. Michigan, Attn: Commander Frank Gross no later than 19 August 2010. Include your name, star, unit of assignment, e-mail address, and phone number with each submission. There is no compensation for this performance. If selected, singers must also audition before the Committee on 26 August 2010 at CPD Headquarters. Extended family and friends of the Chicago Police Department are also encouraged to submit for this event.

PLANNING TO RETIRE THIS YEAR?
(3 August 2010)

To take advantage of the free medical benefits for age 55 to 60 you must file for retirement by submitting your PAR no later than 01 October 2010. That means your PAR form must have been submitted and approved by that date - no later. You must then retire between 01 November 2010 and 31 December 2010. If you fail to do so you will not be eligible to take advantage of the health care benefit until next year. Don't wait till it is too late.

Services for Lt. Sullivan (30 July 2010)

A wake will be held for Lt. Ken Sullivan on Sunday 01 August 2010 from 4:00 to 9:00 PM at Nelson Funeral Home, located at 820 Talcott, Park Ridge, Il. Funeral services will be held on Monday 02 August 2010 at 10:30 AM at St. John Cantius Church, 825 N. Carpenter, Chicago, Il. Internment will follow at All Saints Cemetary in Des Plaines, Ill.

Lt. Ken Sullivan (30 July 2010)

We just learned this morning that Ken Sullivan passed away during the night. Ken had been fighting cancer for the last several years. Ken served as our past President, and before that as Vice President and as many other postitions on the CPLA Board of Directors. Ken was instrumental in negotiating our previous contract. His assistance, guidance and friendship will be sorely missed by both the CPLA and all who knew him. We will post further details as we learn them.

RETRO CHECK UPDATE (28 July 2010)

According to the Department, Officers who have direct deposit will receive their Retro Pay by direct deposit on 06 August 2010. If you do not have direct deposit you will receive a live check on 09 August 2010. Retired members who are eligible for a retro check will be able to pick up their retro check in the lobby of Police Headquarters on 10, 11 & 12 August 2010 (from 0900 to 1400 hrs.). If your check is not picked up it will be mailed, via certified mail, to the last address of record for the retired officer.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE (27 July 2010)

Today Governor Pat Quinn signed SB 3022 – Military Buyback - into law. We are very pleased to announce this major victory for our veteran members. As most of you know this piece of legislation has been part of the PB&PA’s legislative agenda for several years. This new law demonstrates the value of the hard work and diligence of the PB&PA, and our legislative allies. Police officers that have prior military service will now be permitted to purchase up to 2 years of creditable service for pension purposes.

New Gun Registration Information
(26 July 2010)

Many of our members have had questions with the new rules regarding registering your guns. This Gun Registration link will provide you with both the forms and answer a lot of your questions

EXEMPT DUES DEDUCTIONS
(21 July 2010)

Yesterday we were informed by MLAS that the dues were finally being deducted from the Exempt members pay checks but unfortunately it was not being paid to the CPLA or CPCA. As a matter of fact they said that dues had been deducted from the last three checks.

Unfortunately until the CPLA actually receives these dues payments we cannot offer membership benefits and privileges to those exempts who are having the dues deducted. We have instructed our attorneys to file suit for breach of contract in this matter.

Perhaps if the Exempts who think they are paying dues were to put a little pressure on the Finance Division this might get taken care of sooner.

THE SUMMER OF BLOOD (20 July 2010)

An article by Bob Stasch, Treasurer, CPLA

P.O. Michael Bailey #13970 (18 July 2010)

Saddly the members of the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association offer our most sincere condolences and our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of P.O. Michael Bailey who was killed in the line of duty today. At a time when he and his family should have been looking forward to his retirement he is taken from them. Please remember them in your prayers and thoughts.

Unit Bids Open (16 July 2010)

As directed by our contract the Department has opened up Unit Bidding for the two available Unit Bid Spots, 005 and 008. You need to open the vacancy announcement and follow the procedure exactly. Because the Department waited to the end of the period you do not have time to wait on this. Good Luck

P.O. THOR SODERBERG #14767
( 7 July 2010)

All of the members of the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association offer our most sincere condolences and our deepest sympathies to the friends and family of P.O. Thor Soderberg who was killed in the line of duty today. Please know he will always be remembered by all of us who wear a star.

RETRO Pay Update (7 Jul 2010)

The Finance Section has a web page that may help answer many of your questions regarding your retro pay. Click http://167.165.254.163/RETRO_2010.htm for more information.

Planning to Retire this Year?
(3 June 2010)

If you plan to retire this year and take advantage of the age 55 health care benefit you need to start planning early. To take advantage of the benefit you must file for retirement by submitting your PAR no later than 01 October 2010. That means your PAR form must have been submitted and approved by that date - no later. You must also retire between 01 November 2010 and 31 December 2010. If you fail to do so you will not be able to take advantage of the health care benefit. Don't wait till it is too late or you will have to wait a full year.

Retro Checks (2 June 2010)

Retroactive pay checks should be out by August 15th. Should be is the key word here. It is however the Departments target date. If you are a retiree who is expecting a retroactive pay check please contact the CPD Human Resource Division and the CPD Finance Section and make sure they have a good address for you.

Administrative Lieutenant’s Grievance Status (20 May 2010)

Currently, the C.P.L.A. is filing an unprecedented increase of grievances as a result of detailing administrative lieutenants from their assignments to vacant Watch Commander assignments in District Law Enforcement. Vacancies, that only exist as a result of the city’s refusal to promote Captains and Lieutenants to fill these positions, in an effort to save money. This policy has resulted in our ranks depleting to a point where District Law Enforcement is unable to staff Watch Commander positions, in a growing number of districts on a daily basis, and it is only expected to get worse with summer furlough season just getting underway. The Department is currently filling these vacancies with administrative personnel and is refusing premium pay for the necessitated watch and day off changes to provide coverage in these essential positions. This is a monster that the city has created and only the city can resolve by either promoting, or by offering these vacant positions to lieutenants that are either R.D.O. or on furlough as a special employment opportunity. As we are all very much aware of, over the last several years, the lack of supervision has resulted in several high profile cases of police misconduct that has directly stemmed from a lack of supervision, yet the city has elected to pursue this course of action.

As a Union, we have elected to aggressively pursue this matter and are asking that each lieutenant affected by this policy, file a grievance. A separate grievance should be filed for each and every date where a lieutenant has been required to change their day off or watch to comply with this mandated policy. We realize that the Department is currently not returning overtime slips as “denied” and this will require you to check with your timekeeper to determine if the premium pay was approved or not. A statement by the timekeeper relating that they have a policy of not approving or paying the premium pay for the date is enough to file a grievance. Be sure to include the timekeepers name, date, and time that you were informed. After filing your grievance, scan it in and email it to either myself () or to C.P.L.A. President, and again after your first exempt commander’s response. We are then forwarding it to our attorneys who are demanding arbitration in each of these cases. Unfortunately, the grievance process is a slow process and resolution of this issue could take several months before an arbitrator issues a ruling.

Jack Gibbons
Grievance Committee Chairman

Pension Legislature (10 May 2010)

The spring legislation season is over in Sprinfield. The next session isn't till fall. No new legislation was passed. We dodged a few bullets but unfortunately we were unable to gain anything either. The attached press release sums up what happened in the last week of this session. This release is from the Public Safety Employee Coalition. We are a member of this coalition through the PBPA.

ME-TOO (20 April 2010)

Last Friday the FOP arbitration ruling was announced. Due to the Me-Too clause of our contract we will benefit from several of the primary issues in the ruling. As soon as the City ratifies the arbitrators ruling we will begin to benefit from the following:

Wages

Effective Date	Increase
7/1/07	1%
1/1/08	3%
1/1/09	2%
1/1/10	1%
1/1/11	2%
1/1/12	1%
Total	10%

Duty Availability Allowance

Effective Date	Increase Benefit	PerQuarter (Currently $730.00 / quarter)
1/1/11	$25	$755
1/1/12	$50	$805

Physical Fitness Incentive

Increase from $250 to $350 effective upon ratification.

Life Insurance

Increase from $25,000 to $75,000

Quarterly Differential

The quarterly differential shall be increased by the same percentage increase as the base salary.

Retro Pay

We will receive a check for all retro pay probably within 120 days of ratification.

Flower Fund Challenge Coins

The CPLA sends flowers whenever there is a death of a member either retired or active or in the event an immediate member of their family passes away. This can easily run over $3000 per year. If you would like to make a $10 donation to our flower fund please contact a member of the CPLA Board. For your $10 donation you will receive a limited edition Chicago Police Lieutenants Association (year 2010) Challenge Coin. Only three hundred coins have been minted. No more will be made for 2010.

The History of Challenge Coins and a photo of our coin can be found at this link.

Kid – this job ain’t what it used to be…

When we went through the police academy we all had someone tell us "kid – this job ain’t what it used to be." Well it ain't. No matter when you came on the job it is never the same as it used to be. However, some things do stay the same.

In 1968 after the Democratic Convention the Chicago Police were blasted by the media across the country as thugs and the enemy. The Chicago Police Officers at the convention were ordered there. They did not freely choose to be there like the demonstrators who attended the Battle on Michigan Avenue. The Officers were there doing their duty. Politicians and Officials called for federal indictments. Eight Chicago Police Officers were charged with civil rights violations, forty one officers were disciplined after an internal police investigation. Oh, by the way 119 Police Officers were injured during the convention.

In the last two years there have been a few incidents regarding Chicago Police Officers. Modern electronic and print media have sensationalized these events. Television stations have played over and over the same video clips. Newspapers have rehashed old stories. All this is in an attempt to raise ratings and sell ad space. What better way for someone who wants media coverage right now then to stand on the podium or pulpit and to slam the police, to call for indictments and investigations.

Don't let a little thing like due process stand in the way. To these people seeking media coverage little things like a statute of limitations mean nothing. Pleading guilty to a crime and serving your punishment is no longer protection from further prosecution. It is apparent that the bigger the city and the bigger the organization the more it is susceptible to political correctness and less concern it has for actual justice.

There is an old adage in criminal justice studies that says "Society gets the police it deserves."

Keeping this all in mind, we as Chicago Police Lieutenants have several responsibilities. First we need to ensure that the officers who are in our charge have the knowledge, training and leadership to help them make the proper decisions as they go about the performance of their duties. Give them the tools to help them make it through their off duty lives without jamming themselves up. Let them know that, truly, this job ain’t what it used to be. We need to show them the correct way to do things and we need to set the example for them to follow. We need to take care of our people! Those of us who are fortunate enough to rise further in rank need to remember this.

Second we need to ensure that we make the proper decisions ourselves both in our role as Lieutenant as well as when we are off duty. No longer can you rely on the city or police department to watch your back. You have to watch your own. We all have too much to loose. Society is no longer happy with a mere pound of flesh in retaliation for what it perceives to be a wrong by a police officer. Now they want to ruin that officer’s life completely and are not satisfied until that happens.

The podium and pulpit have not mentioned the fact that, in spite of, the recent media thrashings that Chicago Police have taken, when shots ring out in the neighborhoods and they are ducking for cover behind their podium and pulpit that it is the members of the Chicago Police Department that are racing to their aid. For some reason that poor slob of a police officer who races to the call is protecting the very same people who gave them dirty looks, called them fat and sloppy, called them thugs and enemy.

We had a Lieutenant back in the late 80's that always ended roll call with "run low and zig zag." Well kid - that ain’t changed. It isn't just the bad guys who are taking shots at you today. Be safe.

The Representatives and Executive Board of the Chicago Police Lieutenants Association

Police Related Shootings

If you are involved in a shooting, on or off duty, you should know that the CPLA will respond as soon as we are notified. Our Board of Directors work and reside throughout the city and have been provided with reference manuals to aid you during the investigation. We will have a union representative there as expeditiously as possible. In addition to a Board Member, a lawyer from our firm will also respond.

To best protect your rights it is important that you follow the department guide lines concerning police involved shootings. Familiarize yourself with these. Remember that you are required to provide the ranking member on the scene (one on one) with a synopsis of what happened. For instance, the following is a valid response to the boss prior to consulting with your union representative and attorney:

"I responded to the suspicious person call. I tried to stop the subject who refused to comply with me after I told him I was the police. He produced a gun. I was in fear for my life and I had no other choice so I shot several times at him and hit him. I shot in a southerly direction and there are no other suspects."

This type of response provides the investigators with the information that there are no other suspects and that if you missed with any shots they went in a direction that can be checked for evidence and/or someone else shot. You provided the required information that you identified yourself, the offender had a deadly weapon, you were in fear of death or great bodily harm and you exhausted the Use of Force Model. A more detailed report will be filed later once you have had a chance to consult with your union representative and your attorney.

Since the new IPRA now responds promptly to any shootings, stand your ground if they intend to query you in more detail. Tell them you wish to consult with the union and your attorney. They are required to abide by the department orders and our contract in providing you with your rights.

You should also know that a "U Number" will be obtained. This documents a referral number to an individual incident where Chicago Police Officers fire their weapons. A Log number will also be obtained and more than likely will be converted to a CR investigation down the line.

Your General Handbook has the 24hr. contact number (312-332-7432) you should call if you are involved in a shooting or are investigating a shooting where a fellow lieutenant is involved. Make this notification as soon as possible so we can get someone to assist you in this traumatic time.

If you respond to a police shooting as a field lieutenant or watch commander remember these same suggestions. You would not be out of line to tell an involved officer that the U Number, Log number and possibly a CR number will be obtained and that he has a right to representation by his union (no matter what rank is involved).

I hope that none of you ever has to use this advice or recommendations. Be Safe.

Robert H. Stasch
Treasurer