McHenry County Blog

Well, not that you can notice in the legislative arena.

But, the platform is being modified a bit.

And, although I don't follow national politics closely, I heard that the pro-life son of former Pennsylvania Governor Robert Casey, a pro-lifer who was not allowed to address the 1992 national Democratic Party convention, is going to be permitted to speak this year.

Locally, we have McHenry County Democratic Party coroner candidate Dave Bachmann, who has made no secret of his pro-life views, even showing up at the pro-life political action committee's pig roast.

It must have been intimidating to see the McHenry County Republican Party's elephant float and all the GOP signs out front of Resurrection Center.

And former Republican Dundee Township Republican Central Committee Chairman and GOP Kane County Board member is running as a pro-life Democrat for circuit court judge.

So far, there seems to be a semblance of tolerance for both among local abortion supporting Democrats.

Labels: Abortion, Dave Bachmann, John Noverini, McHenry County Coroner, Pro-Choice, Pro-Life

Saturday, I outlined the first outrageous rumor about a candidate which the candidate, Dave Bachmann, was willing to allow McHenry County Blog to debunk.

It was about the Crystal Lake funeral home Bachmann started some time before my mother was killed in a 1987 truck-car crash at the intersection of Dean Street and Route 14 (the trucker was coming down the hill doing 60 MPH) and sold in 1991 to Jim Skaja.

The "let's set the record straight" idea came to me when I reflected on the rumor supporters of my 1966 GOP opponents for McHenry County Treasurer spread about me.

The anonymous “EllenM” had a second rumor the Northwest Herald allowed her to float about Democratic Party candidate for McHenry County Coroner Dave Bachmann on behalf of incumbent McHenry County Coroner Marlene Lantz’ campaign for re-election.

"EllenM" quotes Bachmann's son, who posts as "bufordpusser," on Jul 21, 2008 9:16 AM:

"As far as your 'unemployment' statement. dave has worked in a position over the years, that resulted in many white collar convictions of those he investigated. This is all that can be said. In the process, he had received grave injuries, 6 spinal operations, gun shot, stabbing, a total of 17 major surgeries.”

EllenM then adds,

”A possible druggie who didn't want to pay his bill? What did you expect? 17 major surgeries, are you sure you are suitable to work as Coroner? Stop the BS David, you are killing me (not literally of course).”

The reply from Bachmann’s son on the comment board follows:

bufordpusser wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:33 AM:

"We enjoy the opportunity to address all nonsence: dave bachmann is willing to present, in person, to the chief editor of the NW Herald, to provide factual proof, physical evidence of said injuries. As soon as he returns to the area in August. if mr krug cannot see the evidence, bachmann will drop out of this race. We put our money where our mouth is...”

A subsequent commenter, "skepticall," wrote:

on Jul 21, 2008 9:44 AM:

"ellenm, This has gone way beyond concerned voter. You sound like you have a real ax to grind,

'possible druggie who did't pay his bill'.

"That is way over the top."

Over the top does not begin to describe a charge that a political candidate is a "druggie."

I cannot fathom why the Northwest Herald would open itself to a libel suit.

I talked to Bachmann about the challenge (his son delivered) to show his scars to the Northwest Herald’s Chris Krug. He told me Krug had not taken him up on the offer, then, suggested I take a look.

As you can see, this guy has scars over the trunk of his body. It would astound me if he had been able to recover from the operations without pain killers. Trim, too, but I guess that might be expected of a former Crystal Lake Babe Ruth pitcher.

The most visible scar, shaped like a frown, is from Bachmann’s cancer operation.

I saw a scar from a bullet on the left side of his stomach. Here it is:

I saw a scar from a knife wound a bit farther to his left side. It’s below:

Both shoulders have operation scars. Click to enlarge any of the photographs for a better view of the scar or scars.













There are scars on his back, including two down his spinal cord (close-up picture included; click on it to enlarge it). The upper midline scar is on what is called the "Thoracic Spine;" the lower would be "Lumbar Spine":

Intestinal scars?

I saw two gut scars, one horizontal, one rising to the right:

So, wouldn’t you like to know the stories behind all of these scars?




Here's a before-the-scars-healed photo of his bilateral total reconstruction from 2000:

Had any resulted in Bachmann's arrest, I assume that Lantz supporters would have made them public by now.

Maybe Bachmann will write an autobiography. Looks as if it might make interesting reading.

The cancer part of Bachmann’s life story is related in the following articles:

Part 1 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

Part 2 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

Part 3 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

Part 4 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

Part 5 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

Labels: Bulllet Wound, Dave Bachmann, Dirty politics, Jim Skaja, Knife Wound, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner, Scars

In the first Mud Puddle article, I outlined some ancient history from my 1966 campaign for McHenry County Treasurer. In the primary election, my Republican opponents’ supporters hinted not to subtly that I was a homosexual.

Recently, a most efficient way of spreading negative political comments is the comment board under Northwest Herald articles and letters.

The Crystal Lake paper is a relative newcomer to handling anonymous commentary.

It has not learned the lesson that led Elgin’s Daily Courier News to ban anonymous political call-ins which, in its case, were transcribed and printed on the editorial page.

The Courier News decided that people wanting to praise or bad mouth a candidate had to write a letter to the editor.

Now, I know adopting a similar policy at the Northwest Herald would cost it internet “hits.”

But it would help McHenry County return to relative civility in political campaigns which has been lacking since

A supporter of Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Republican Party candidate for and incumbent McHenry County Coroner, calling herself “EllenM” on the Northwest Herald comment board left the following comments under a letter supporting Lantz’ Democratic Party opponent Dave Bachmann.

"Here is what 'EllenM' said about me, Bachmann emailed me:

"ellenm wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:11 AM:

"I suspect there is a non-compete scenario with Bachmann Skaja. That could explain why David is out of a job and looking to the County to support him. Three pieces of silver to sell the family practice. Was it all worth it?"

Bachmann’s reply, when I asked him about it:

“My son wrote this, after I told him to....

bufordpusser wrote on Jul 21, 2008 9:33 AM:

"…you can call Jim Skaja, there was a 5 year non compete agreement, expired in 1996. Daves dad never owned any part of daves funeral home. These are the facts. keep it coming."

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner, Northwest Herald

The second fan campaign gimmick in one week.

First there was McHenry County Board member Mary Donner’s fold-up patriotic fan.

Then, last night at the Algonquin Township Republican Central Committee meeting at the Cary Country Club, there were Marlene Lantz fans on the tables. The kind that used to be used in southern churches during the hot summer.

Except they probably weren't shaped like an elephant with the message,


McHenry County Board member Yvonne Barnes posed with one. Lantz is running for McHenry County Coroner against Democrat Dave Bachmann.

Labels: Algonquin Township Republican Central Committee, Dave Bachmann, Fan, Marlene Lantz, Mary Donner, McHenry County Coroner

Another press release from the Democratic Party’s candidate for McHenry County Coroner.

You have to go all the way to the end to find out why he includes a close-up photo of Air Force One.

LOCAL CORONER CANDIDATE
STANDS ON SOLID GROUND

David J. Bachmann, Democratic Candidate for McHenry County Coroner, is again, taking a hard line on his strong beliefs.

On August 1, 2008 Dave Bachmann produced a letter that was posted on McHenry County Blog. He expressed his Faith Based belief that ALL life should be valued and "protected." This may be view here.

Today, Bachmann released another firm belief, having to do with the value of "True Friendships." Bachmann states, "In life, and even more so in Politics, it's all about ‘integrity’ and taking a firm stand. Never wavering! Say it, mean it, back it up!”

Therefore, "Bachmann for Coroner," an “Educational” based campaign, announces its Campaign motto,

"You Find Out Who Your Friends Are"

We believe the lyrics of the Tracy Lawrence song as attached, clearly states how we feel about our friends and family. Especially now, as we begin the 90 day countdown to election day.

Bachmann states:

“I am a man of Conviction. I want my campaign to reflect this. Voters will decide. Call me wrong, Call me right?

"We ask ALL our friends to join us now. The contact information is listed on our web site.

"Campaign Theme Song may be viewed here. "

Just as Importantly Bachmann states:

“Our Campaign greatly appreciates, and invites all our college student voters and supporters to get involved as so many have already. ‘Bachmann for Coroner’ Embraces and provides for its ‘Youth Movement’ web links, to Yahoo Music Videos. We feel for the first time in this Nation's history, our ‘youth’ are Politically engaged as never before. We know this to be true, via the amounts of emails our campaign receives each day, from our web site.

“I have linked a highly popular web-site Yahoo to my web page. This way, my visitors can listen to ‘tunes’ while they visit our site, for education on ‘What a Coroner Really Does.’ A most popular group, ‘Nickelback’ is featured with ‘Photograph.’

“Click on this link here for a sample.“

Dave Bachmann has also provided a campaign video. In this video he shares his platform for the future of the McHenry County Coroner's office. This may be view here.

All of these links and video's are also listed on the official campaign web site. Each sight may be navigated to from our home site.

Also, Dave Bachmann has now provided a site entitled, "Counter Intelligence."

Photographs of “Air Force One” may be viewed from Dave's Personal Photo Collection as he boarded this aircraft at the invitation of President George H. W. Bush.

Bachmann concludes: “This election cycle, we will prove, ‘TODAY’ is the future of Campaigning! On-Line............ “

Labels: Air Force One, Dave Bachmann, George W. Bush, McHenry County Coroner

McHenry County Democratic Party candidates have sent our a press release announcing their appearance on You-Tub:

LOCAL CANDIDATES UNLEASH THE POWER OF THE INTERNET

WOODSTOCK Il. – From YouTube videos to campaign websites, local Democratic Candidates have unleashed the power of the internet. This week, Citizens for Cynor and others have made available a number of videotaped interviews on their campaign websites and the popular video sharing site – YouTube.

"It's time traditional campaigns re-examined their methods," said Citizens for Cynor Field Director, Laura Asbury. "By utilizing available technology we are able to reach out to an entirely new generation of voters. YouTube estimates that there are more than 100 million videos being watched every day. We, of course, only need capture a very small percentage of that viewership to be highly effective."

Overall, the candidates seem extremely pleased with the YouTube interviews.

"There is no substitute for the personal videotaped interview when a candidate is attempting to convey a message" said Thomas Cynor, McHenry county candidate for State's Attorney. "This technology is a cost effective and efficient way for our campaign to connect with the voters and get that message out." A link to Thomas J. Cynor's video interview can be found at the Citizens for Cynor website at www.CitizensforCynor.com.

Other candidates participating in the YouTube video interview enterprise include: Bill Gentes (26th Illinois Senate), Richard Garling (52nd Illinois Representative), Robert Kaempfe (64th Illinois Representative), Kerry Julian (McHenry County Auditor), David Bachmann (McHenry County Coroner) and Dr. James McTague (McHenry County Board, District One).

Video footage and interview was provided by Grant Crowell, Project Director of Grantastic Designs located in Crystal Lake, Illinois.

Labels: Bill Gentes, Dave Bachmann, Grant Crowell, Grantastic Designs, James McTague, Kerry Julian, Laura Asbury, McHenry County Democrats, Richard Garling, Robert Kaempfe, Thomas Cynor

After reading my piece on Phyllis Schlafly's talk at the Family PAC cruise Monday night, McHenry County Democratic Party candidate for coroner Dave Bachmann issued the following statement:

"David J. Bachmann, Democratic Candidate for McHenry County Coroner has issued the following statement regarding Cal Skinner's report of July 29th, regarding Mrs. Phylis Schlafly and her campaign of years ago. Mrs. Schlafly, stood on the belief that all life, from the moment of conception, should be protected.

"The Bachmann for Coroner Campaign, knowing full well of the hard line, yet ethical, and dignified controversial stance taken by Mrs. Schlafly back in the 1970's regarding her belief that ALL life is to be protected and valued, from the moment of conception, has provided McHenry County Blog with the following press statement:

"Dave Bachmann and his campaign, 'Bachmann for Coroner,' proudly stand in like mind with Mrs. Schlafly, and Mrs. Irene Napier of McHenry County Pro-Life PAC. Bachmann states, 'For 30 years I have held death in my hands.' Life is a precious gift, provided directly by my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

"My own life had been spared since 2002 as a cancer survivor. I myself experienced first hand a death experience while on the operating table during a 12-hour life saving operation. I saw the 'diamonds' and experienced the sounds, and feelings, of 'Rushing thru the tunnel' from death back to life.

"This was a life altering experience of which I promised my God, that I will never allow to go unspoken when provided the opportunity.

"Mr. Skinner's blog has just provided this opportunity to allow his readers to know... God DOES exist....

"I have been in the 'Presence of the Holy Spirit.' His written word is true.

"Thank you Irene Napier and Mrs. Schlafly for your work and for having the courage to stand with 'integrity' on LIFE. I can tell you first hand, there is a Reward.

"Protect God's greatest work. The human life.

"David J. Bachmann"

= = = = =
The photos are of Mrs. Irene Napier and Mrs. Phyllis Schlafly, both were taken at the Family PAC cruise.

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Family PAC, McHenry County Coroner, Phyllis Schlafly

Based on narcotics being left in the house after his mother died, Dave Bachmann, Democratic Party candidate for McHenry County Coroner. came up with the idea that deputy coroners could pick up unused pills after people passed away. (Some are outright illegal to possess after a patient’s death.)

He floated this idea on McHenry County Blog last September.

Since then, the Fox Rive Grove Police have started the practice and the Chicago Tribune had an article by Ray Hood on the idea last Thursday.

The headline:

To avoid water contamination, officials hold medicine-collection drives
Flushing old pills no longer considered safe

“On Saturday, Cook County will hold its first medicine collection drive in the south suburb of Midlothian, joining Will, Kendall and other counties in the Chicago region in providing a safe way for residents to toss out their old prescription drugs,” the story said.

Continuing,

“Chicago officials reacted swiftly in April after testing performed for the Chicago Tribune showed trace amounts of many common household medicines in the water supply, which serves 7 million people in the city and suburbs.”

The Illinois EPA is encouraging such efforts.

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Drugs, McHenry County Coroner

McHenry County’s Democratic candidate for Coroner has issued the following press release:


Marlene Lantz states on her blog page that her office handles 1100 "cases."

Here is how it really works.

These are the "cases" she is including in her numbers.

1) Funeral Directors walk into her office, show her an already signed death certificate by a doctor, she looks at it to verify it has been signed, then, takes the cremation permit that also is already filled out by the funeral home, and signs her name to approve the cremation. This will account for at least 600 of her "cases; " this takes about 2 minutes. Based on a 20 percent cremation rate of a county our size, this is a minimal estimate.

2) Hospice deaths at home: The hospice nurse must call the Coroner to inform the office of the death, most of which, if not all, are now pre-registered anyway with the Coroner's office. Its a basic telephone verification and no deputies even go out of the office. They give a telephone release. Again, Lantz calls this a "case." Again, all of 5 minutes to complete this "case." I'm sure there are a few hundred more of these.

3) This leaves the real truth. Of the 1100 she claims as "cases" only a small fraction of these cases actually are "actionable" cases. Ms. Lantz needs to provide the rest of the story on these "cases." Many Coroners use this ploy, to pump up their office numbers to seek more money from the county board. The entire truth is as stated above.

The real question is:

How many bodies are actually brought in the front door of the morgue and autopsied or studied for toxicology?

By swearing in as a deputy a "full time" secretary, she would be able to sign all the cremation permits, as she is there everyday anyway.

Thus, the field deputies can concentrate less on paper work, and more on working "hands on" cases.

So far this year, as of mid-July, we have had ZERO murders, as is the case MOST years, and maybe a dozen accidents resulting in death. (I do not have the exact number at hand, but its a relatively low number.)

By making a secretary a sworn deputy, this also frees up the field deputies for "personal time" off so they are fresh and professionally happy.

Also, this provides an extra officer without hiring another full time officer. Both physical and emotion health will be my focus for my deputies.

Although I'm sure they are apprehensive about the possibility of having a new Coroner soon, they need not worry. I have their well being planned for.

I will myself, work night calls and in the field, which will help build a "team" atmosphere and provide rest and family time for the staff.

Keeping in mind, our profession runs 24-7. I will be seeking a secretary who will work full time, 5 days a week. This will provide continuity of office operations. This would bring the staffing down to a level that I find acceptable. Down from six to five employees, plus my full time willingness to work in the field.

Prior to my launching my own personal investigation into the management of the Coroner's office as it relates to our protection of local nursing home residents, I had intended to actually dismiss one full time deputy. However, you may now read at my blog spot the most disturbing results of my investigation, I will now plan to enact, a first of its kind,

"Coroner's Elder Care Protection Task Team."

I will dedicate one deputy specifically to this duty. A daily log will be kept. This log will follow each on call deputy home each and every night. This way, we can keep a close check on numbers of deaths for each individual nursing home. We will check the daily obituaries and compare its content to the names of the nursing homes who have reported deaths in this time frame. This will serve as a checks and balances protection plan.

Additionally, in the past month, my Prescription Drug Plan that I had proposed last September has now gotten statewide attention. I will implement this plan within days of taking office. The Coroner has the law enforcement powers to do this without it yet being state law. I will dedicate a deputy to this "Narcotic Prescription Drug Retrieval" task force. This deputy will work along side law enforcement officers to assist them with this project.

I now ask you to read, the results of a most disturbing turn of events as they relate to our current sitting coroner of 28 years. This my friends, "Must NEVER be allowed to happen again!

David J. Bachmann
Democratic Candidate for McHenry County Coroner
www.bachreview.blogspot.com

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner

The most interesting political development at the Resurrection Center Pro-Life Victory PAC Pig Roast was the appearance of Dave Bachmann, Democratic Party candidate for McHenry County Coroner.

Bachmann was even allowed to give a speech like the other statewide (actual and potential), legislative and countywide candidates.

The others were all Republicans.

Bachmann's was the last speech and a lot of people had left, but my impression was that it was well received.

Bachmann repeated the personal story that was first published here on McHenry County Blog.

For those of you who have not followed the details of Bachmann's campaign, here are articles (most of which contain content from his keyboard):

October 20, 2007 Dave Bachmann Running for County Coroner as a Democrat

October 21, 2007 Dave Bachmann, Democratic Party Candidate for Coroner, Gives Personal Background, Goals for Office

October 31, 2007 Dave Backmann Files to Oppose Coroner Marlene Lantzz

February 07, 2008 Republican Marlene Lantz Got Less Primary Votes Than Democrat Dave Bachmann

February 08, 2008 Something Marlene Lantz Does Not Understand

February 20, 2008 Part 1 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

February 21, 2008 Part 2 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

February 22, 2008 Part 3 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

February 24, 2008 Part 4 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

February 24, 2008 Part 5 - Democrat Coroner Candidate and Cancer Survivor Dave Bachmann Bases Campaign on Cancer Awareness

April 12, 2008 So What Does a Coroner Do?

April 13, 2008 Dem Coroner Candidate Dave Bachmann Questions Incumbent Marlene Lantz Lack of Role in “Angel of Death” Nursing Home Deaths and More Prosaic Questions

April 14, 2008 Democrat Dave Bachmann Questions Marlene Lantz' Role in Woodstock Residence Nursing Home Death Probe

April 20, 2008 Marlene Lantz Called in “Angel of Death” Case

May 01, 2008 McHenry County Coroner Marlene Lantz Employees Want a Union

May 11, 2008 Part 1 - Some Internet Campaigning for McHenry County Coroner

May 12, 2008 Part 2 - Some Internet Campaigning for McHenry County Coroner

May 13, 2008 Part 3 - Some Internet Campaigning for McHenry County Coroner

May 30, 2008 Dave Bachmann Issues Statement in Coroner's Race Against Marlene Lantz

June 12, 2008 Dave Bachmann Re-Emphasizes Early Plank in Coroner's Run

28-year GOP incumbent coroner Marlene Lantz did not attend the pro-life event.

As I have stated periodically, McHenry County Blog will publish any candidate's press release or statement.

That's what the Crystal Lake Herald, Woodstock Sentinel, McHenry Plain Dealer, Marengo Republican, Harvard Herald, River Valley Clarion, Richardson's Publications, etc., did in the past.

My goal is to allow candidates to speak directly to voters...the way they used to be able to in newspapers.
= = = = =
In the photograph on top, Dave Bachmann can be seen conversing with McHenry County State's Attorney Lou Bianchi, McHenry County pro-life godmother Irene Napier and Lake County's 59th district GOP candidate for state representative, Dan Sugrue.

The head shot is of Dave Bachmann speaking.

The next group shot is similar to the one on top, except from a different angle. From front left to right around the circle are Bonnie Quirke, Dan Sugrue, Lou Bianchi, Dave Bachmann, Fred Wickham, Lynn Wickham and, with her back to the camera, Irene Napier.

Dave Bachmann met Paul Weyna, a high school classmate from Crystal Lake Community High School, who was taking pictures, too. Paul's father, Phil, was there, too.

As the Republican speakers gave their pitches, Bachmann sat listening, as can be seen in the next photo.

Dr. Steve Sauerberg, the GOP candidate for U.S. Senate against Dick Durbin spoke, as did Joe Birkett, the man in the next photograph. He is thinking about running for statewide office for a third time.

State Rep. McHenry County Republican County Chairman Mike Tryon spoke, as did McHenry County State's Attorney Lou Bianchi and 8th congressional district candidate Steve Greenberg. You can see Greenberg pointing proudly to his family, who appear at the bottom of this explanation of the pictures.

Next is Dan Duffy, who is running for an open state senate seat being vacated by State Senator Bill Peterson.

Finally, Dan Sugrue can be seen with his daughter Vivian at his side. I missed getting a photo of a great leg hug.

All photographs can be enlarged by clicking on them.

Labels: Dan Duffy, Dan Sugrue, Dave Bachmann, Irene Napier, Joe Birkett, Lou Bianchi, Steve Greenberg, Steve Sauerberg

When he first announced Democratic Party candidate for McHenry County Coroner announced that he planned to start gathering left over drugs from people who died at home, especially those in Hospice care who had been using heavy narcotics. He wanted to make sure they did not end up in the illicit trade.

Now, the story about the Fox River Grove Police collected unneeded drugs to protect the ground water supply has spurred Bachmann to issue the following press release.

CORONER CANDIDATE
BACKS SAFE RX DISPOSAL

HEBRON—David Bahmann, Democratic candidate for McHenry County Coroner, applauds the Fox River Grove Police Department’s efforts to collect unused medications. Now he would like to expand the effort county-wide and have the Coroner’s office play a key role in collecting prescriptions left by the deceased.

“Safe disposal of medication has been number one on my platform from the beginning of the campaign,” Bachmann said. “A systematic program would legally protect care givers, Hospice nurses and others from liability should the drugs fall into the wrong hands. It would also preserve the water supply by preventing drugs from being flushed for disposal.”

“When my mother passed away under Hospice care, I noted that there was no oversight of the prescriptions she left behind,” Bachmann said.

Bachmann proposes that the Coroner’s office advise police departments at the time of death of death so that they can visit the home and retrieve narcotics. The police would also have a document in which the final care giver can sign off on medications

“Often at the time of death there are medications such as Vicodine, Oxycontin, Morphine and Fntynol left on the bedroom dresser or nightstand with no oversight,” Bachmann asserted. “I promise to enact this prescription drug retrieval and disposal program on day one of my administration of the Coroner’s office.”

Bachmann also urged state lawmakers to enact legislation to make the program a regular part of the duties of county coroners and local police authorities.

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Drugs, Fox River Grove

The following statement has been received from Dave Bachmann, the Democratic Party candidate for McHenry County Coroner against Republican incumbent Marlene Lantz:

"While out canvasing and talking to the folks, I am asked a fairly consistent question regarding the coroners office. After twenty eight years of a Lantz reign without Union representation, nor any previous inquirers into having such, voters are wondering why now, all of a sudden?

"My response can only be as follows:

"Ms. Lantz's behavior during this election cycle obviously shows her fear of not having her cushy position and having it 'her way' any longer. Spending 'at will' to the detriment of our citizenry as I have previously outlined in my assessment of the Coroners office as it operates today.

"As many know, I have made my professional assessment (utilizing my 30 years of business and professional experience internationally) of her office management and staffing.

"I stand by my assessment and nothing Ms. Lantz plans to do will deter me from implementing tax dollar saving programs.

"Nothing!

"I am not a career politician, but clearly understand economics and a fiduciary duty to those who might place me in office come November.

"Ms Lantz is

• either holding the hard working tax payers of McHenry County to Economic 'Blackmail,' as punishment for the results of the Feb. Primary,
• OR, she is 'Pandering' after twenty eight years of ignoring Democratic based Unions, to make herself appear that she has seen the light of a Democratic cause.... all of a sudden.

"The hard working tax payers of McHenry County have paved the way for Ms. Lantz to earn a very nice living, and, in addition, have provided for her future with a well funded pension. We will not be fooled nor swayed by this political stunt.

"She should be ashamed that she has abandoned her base for the sake of an election.

"I will not be swayed by any such moves by Ms. Lantz should I win the office of Coroner.

"Rather, I will stay my course as outlined as a principled and dedicated public servant. I will act accordingly without the fear of threat to uphold my duty to the citizens of McHenry County.

"This will be my official stance on this issue. "Courage and Strength" undeterred by any faction that might try to impede my ability to do what is right for our county residents.

"David J. Bachmann
"Democratic Candidate for McHenry County Coroner"

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner

A man named Rhino made a comment about one of my articles about the McHenry County Coroner's employees wanting to unionize. He obviously is a supporter of incumbent Republican Marlene Lantz.

Democratic Party challenger Dave Bachmann sent a reply, which was published yesterday. Then, Bachmann sent a Post Script, which appears below:

PS Rhino.. About your comment on the 19th century:

About 20 years ago, the state of Colorado, completely threw out ALL rules and regulatory statues governing the Funeral Home industry in Colorado.

Nobody needs any license or education to work in a funeral home in Colorado. (Do you like snow, Rhino?)

Some, private individuals in Colorado, the "Wealthy" family owned funeral directors, have tried to get the state legislators to re-instate funeral home regulation(a ploy to keep out corporate funeral homes). At least 3 attempts have all failed. Do you know why Rhino?

Colorado, even though it has ZERO legal or educational requirements to operate a funeral home, has had, since it abolished funeral home regulation, the LOWEST number of consumer complaints in the NATION!

Both on the State and Federal FTC sides.

State legislators have taken, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" stance.

So if you think more is better, Vote for Lantz and get your check book out.

Your assertions again, are patently false and without merit.

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner

Democratic Party challenger Dave Bachmann sent this reply to McHenry County Blog comments from a guy who calls himself Rhino on an article about unionization of the McHenry County Coroner's office:

Dear Rhino:

Thank you for your comments to Mr. Skinner's story on the coroners office desire to unionize.

I am deeply sorry that you have misinterpreted any and all of my statements. I believe I made just one statement regarding the numbers of employees of the coroners office.

Via my vast experience in the death care industry, 30 years worth.. in several countries, inclusive of working with the Department of Justice Criminal Division in the 3rd largest city in the world, I made a simple and verifiable business calculation. I stand by my assessment.

I too have been a proud Union Member, and clearly, running as a Democrat, strongly support all workers rights to join a union. Work environment security is of high concern to my management style, and as you might have noticed in my statement, that I promised to

"Protect employees private time, as well as provide time off for emotional healing when necessary."

I also sighted the deplorable weekly hours I was forced to work as a young mortician. Eighty hour weeks were not at all unusual.

I searched my statements to back up your assertions. I could not find a single instance where I made any of the statements you had attached to my candidacy.

Your comment stated that the current deputies work "unbelievable hours."

That is a shame. Proper time management is essential, as well as having a boss who is also willing to roll up his sleeves and work, both day and night calls, in the office and in the field.

Hence, ONE position I believe can be eliminated to save tax payer dollars. My letter your commenting on, clearly states this.

I believe we have a fundamental disagreement with the duty of government and its responsibilities to its citizenry.

I am a fiscal conservative, and will work to help conserve tax dollars.

I am sorry you don't agree with this fact.

I'm not a tax and spend thinker. I look for ways to save money in business, as well as protect my workers.

It can be done, believe it or not.

As we all are acutely aware, today, more than ever, due to the current climate of unemployment, high fuel charges, many UN-insured workers just one pay check away from losing everything, I feel it to be my duty to be judicious with your money as I am sure you to are a tax payer.

If it helps you to understand who I am, I am a cancer survivor who at a critical time in my own life, was forced to lengths of going to pawn shops selling off personal property just to pay for airfare to go back and forth for my life saving medical treatments.

I know first hand, how life can throw you a curve ball at any given moment in time.

In truth, a savings here, and a savings there, can all add up.

Would you not agree that a reduced tax bill each year would be a nice bonus from your elected officials being trustworthy of your hard earned dollars?

I know the Coroner's job extremely well, sir.

Its mission is to NOT be a Medical Examiner's office, by statute.

Thus, I have a fiduciary responsibility to all McHenry County Tax payers, to protect their hard earned dollars.

This has nothing to do with winning an election. It would be my sworn duty to do so.

A coroner and a Medical Examiner are two totally different systems.

We have law enforcement specifically trained to handle certain cases involving death scenes, as well as the State of Illinois Crime Lab and specialists who are called in on an as needed basis vs. paying for thes

e people to sit around full time at a rate of pay that would break a county budget. Also, to pay at least 3 licensed pathologist to staff a Medical Examiner's office would be so costly, we could never pay the bill.

Are you aware that the coroner does not do any autopsies, Rhino?

This is why we contract them out and they come to our county facility.

It is for these very reasons, counties voted to keep the coroner's system instead of a medical examiners system.

Rhino, how many murders do we have in McHenry County each year? Many years, none. Other years, MAYBE, one or two.

MOST of the coroners calls are phone releases.

DO you want to pay a licensed pathologist over $200,000 per year each, to sit around day after day, taking phone releases?

You also mentioned, investigations that would be improperly handled.

This has already been done by our current coroner and her large staff in 2006, having missed as many as 17 deaths at the Woodstock Residence.

I had nothing to do with that sir or madame.

Ms. Lantz did.

Death rates NEVER more than double in any given year... Ms. Lantz and her staff had a duty to begin asking questions long before many allegedly had their lives taken prematurely.

But she did not...You failed to mention that in your comments, Rhino.

If you were educated in the death care industry, you would know death rates follow a 5 year pattern.

Three years are usually exact, one year will show a slight dip and another year would show a SLIGHT increase.

It would have been as simple as keeping a spiral notebook with each health care facilities name on it with its death count. Taken home each night, so each facility could be checked upon any death calls, and noted. Hence, this situation would have been caught sometime in May of 2006. Sometimes, Rhino, the simplest methods of facts are, as you state, 19th century, work very well. Obviously, it would have in this case.

As far as delayed burials, I don't understand your thinking on that issue as doctors are contracted with the county to come in and handle autopsies. These doctors, are in addition to the current staff. I used this as well in my factoring the numbers.

As a current licensed funeral director, this, too, will save tax payer dollars in that the state of Illinois mandates that a licensed funeral director MUST be in attendance when removing a remains from the county morgue or any other facility. I can serve as such, to save funeral home dollars, which in turn will also save tax payers money.

My 30 years having served THOUSANDS of grieving families in several countries and in many of our own states will serve our McHenry County citizens as well.

My resume has already been built and I will not be a burden upon the taxpayers to help build my resume. I am extremely well qualified, and by statute, actually over qualified for this position. I possess hundreds of letter of thanks from the many families I have comforted in great time of tragedy. So, I dismiss your assertion of my inexperience. However, it is the pattern of the old regimes here in the county. However, I will not stoop to this level, I don't have to. My professionalism is clear cut and well earned over 30 years.

If the Deputy Coroners choose to unionize after 28 years of not wanting union representation, I support and give my blessing. I only questioned the timing Rhino. However, you did not provide an answer to that on behalf of the person for whom you hide your name behind.

This being said, I will not engage my campaign, in negative rhetoric as Ms. Lantz had done in the primaries toward a gentleman whom I deeply admire and respect, Mr. Louis Bianchi.

I hope you can re-read Mr. Skinner's story, and you will see none of the assertions you have made are true under my name.

Thank you again.

David J. Bachmann

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner, Unionization

Someone named Rhino, obviously a supporter of incumbent Republican Marlene Lantz, found my article on the McHenry County Coroner's employees' wanting to unionize sent in a comment. I can't help but wonder if "Rhino" is a RINO, that is, a "Republican In Name Only."

Anyway, here is his comment:

It is funny that Beckman [Bachmann is the correct spelling] said that employees don’t need to fear him, but than he goes on to talk about layoffs.

I believe he doesn’t understand the job as a coroner and would just like to win an election.

There is no way possible that this man could do the job alone. The increase in population alone has grown to the point that 6 people may not be enough.

Unless you would want to wait to pro long a burial or if you want mistakes made in investigations.

As far as anyone wanting to join a union they are protected in Illinois under the strongest labor laws in the country. I have a friend who works in this department and they work unbelievable hours and have allot of respect for their boss.

Maybe they formed a union for other reasons than this election. When other unions organized in the sheriffs office no one said they did it because their boss was a bad guy, or Even the highway department or so on.

Proud to be Union tradesman and I believe we all should be union.

One final note! Government is not there to save money but to make life more efficient and better, Which means if you have to open different offices and bring on ore staff to serve the public than that is what you are suppose to do.

Not keep everything in the 19th Century!

Tomorrow, you can read Dave Bachmann's reply.

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner

I had been hearing rumors, but the Northwest Herald's Brandon Coutre nailed the story.

The coroner's office is the next to the smallest of any of the elected officials. Six employees.

And they want to join Democratic Party Governor Rod Blagojevich's most supportive union—the Service Employees International Union.

Only the 4-person auditor's office is smaller

So, what's this all about?

One observer thought that it might be because Coroner Marlene Lantz was seeking her deputy coroners' assistance in her campaign against Democrat Dave Bachmann.

Another through it might be because some feared the loss of their jobs should Bachmann defeat Lantz. He did, after all, get more votes in the primary election than she did.

Bachmann thinks that the scurry to join a union results from this McHenry County Blog article, which suggests that six employees are too many for a county the size of McHenry.

Bachmann says Lantz “has overstaffed her office.” Bachmann promises to go out on calls.

Let's see.

If the boss does more of the work, there might not be a need for as many assistants.

“These workers have no reason to fear my coming in, should I win the election and abusing their hours and or work load,” Bachmann said. “I remember too well the 100 hour weeks I was forced to work in an industry that, in years past, was never challenged by labor unions. I will protect their private time and allow time off for emotional healing when needed."

A union, however, cannot force an employer to keep people on the payroll, if there are layoffs. It might determine who gets laid off, of course, if that is in the contract.

So, what do you think?

Is this an attempt by insecure employees trying to keep their jobs?

Of is it an attempt by pressured employees to avoid doing political work to keep their boss in office?

Or is it a combination of both?

In any event, the Northwest Herald apparently thinks this might be an issue in the campaign.

Maybe it will find others.

Labels: Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner

Last weekend, Democratic Party candidate for McHenry County Coroner Dave Bachmann asked some tough questions here and here about the role or lack thereof played by opponent incumbent Republican Coroner Marlene Lantz in the Woodstock Residence patient death cases.

The story of Chicago Tribune reporters Carolyn Starks and Jeff Long touched on the role of the McHenry County Coroner:

“Sam Amirante, the attorney for Marty Himebaugh, a licensed practical nurse who worked at the home, said the death certificates of the four residents in the indictment indicate they had natural deaths (saying) the next step...is to ask a judge to dismiss the indictment...

“State's Atty. Louis Bianchi said Thursday that the death certificates are irrelevant to...'the charges that these two women were negligent in their care of the elderly.'”

Lantz was subpoenaed and appeared before Judge Joseph Condon.

When she spoke in court, she said, in what was described to me as an angry voice,

“The State's Attorney's office will not give me anything, nor will the Illinois State Police.”

Labels: Angel of Death, Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, Woodstock Residence

Against the backdrop of the indictments concerning deaths at the Woodstock Residence by McHenry County State's Attorney Lou Bianchi, the Democratic Party candidate for Coroner has issued the following press release:

Democratic Party coroner candidate David Bachmann wants to know what involvement, if any, Republican incumbent Marlene Lantz had in the Woodstock Residence nursing home deaths.

“With McHenry County State's Attorney Lou Bianchi having just announced the indictments of two nurses at the nursing home, I believe it is reasonable to ask what Lantz did and when she did it?” Bachmann said.

“There are really only 2 questions to be answered regarding the nursing home issue,” he continued.

“Did the nursing home notify Lantz upon each death as required? If so, why didn't she catch the spike in death rates and, at minimum, get toxicology?”

“If the nursing home bi-passed her, then she did no wrong...but in the obituaries, they always state place of death... so it could have been caught there as well...BUT THATS JUST ME... I SEE TOO MUCH... 30 years worth! I know what I see and don't see.. and as a tax payer, Im bothered..as a professional, I'm mystified!

“The president of the Illinois Coroners Association and the State Inspector told me that MOST counties require the nursing home to call the coroner for permission to move the body from a nursing home.. UNLESS the doctor is bedside at time of death..( which is extremely rare.)

“Had I been coroner, I would have began investigating each death when the death total at a nursing home exceeded the preceding 3 years total within the first 9 months of the year in question. This obviously was NOT done by Coroner Lantz in the Woodstock Nursing home case.

“From 18 deaths in 2005 to 34 deaths by September of 2006?

“I would have personally gone to the nursing home on each death after the 18th death to research the records of each patient.

“Also, did the deaths seemingly occur on a particular shift? If so, this would have certainly added to my concern.

“Had Coroner Lantz taken charge of these bodies from the Woodstock nursing home after the 18th death, she should have at least preserved "toxicology" on each body.. which would have shown any drugs in the body and the amounts of any drugs.

“Potentially, deaths could have been prevented if the charges and allegations are proved true.

“Once the body was released and embalmed, it was too late."

An Illinois coroner I know from another county told me, “The proper procedure for notification is that the coroner be notified at the time the doctor of that patient is notified before a funeral home is notified.

“Either the doctor or the coroner will release the body to the funeral home.

“My nursing homes as a general rule will call coroner first on the list. There is a need to know of any problems that have occurred or contributed to the death. I hope this has answered your question.

“Yes the nursing home must call the coroner before a body can be released to a funeral home. If any of your nursing homes are not complying to this, a phone call or a visit is in order.”

(These quotes are direct quotes from several Illinois County Coroners that I have contacted.)

“I have to make the statement that I am not privy to any of the investigations regarding the Woodstock Residence cases,” Bachmann stated. “My comments are on the operations and management of the McHenry County Coroner's office, given the information provided in the NW Herald and the Public News Conference held by the McHenry County States Attorney's office.”

I wrote a related article reflecting on how the Lake County Coroner in the 1970's discovered foul play in nursing home deaths in Zion.

Labels: Angel of Death, Coroner, Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz, McHenry County Coroner, Nursing Homes, Woodstock Residence

Yesterday, McHenry County Blog printed information from McHenry County Democratic Party Coroner Candidate Dave Bachmann on how the Indiana State Coroners Training Board answers these questions:

• When is a death a coroner's case?
• What are the requirements to become a coroner?

Today, the only countywide Democratic Party candidate to face primary voters puts his views of when a coroner should get involved in a death in writing and critiques incumbent Republican Party Coroner Marlene Lantz' performance in office.

(Let me repeat my offer to publish press releases from any local candidate. Replies to press releases like this certainly are included in that offer.)

Among his prosaic criticisms, Bachmann seems to be saying that the current office is overstaffed, suggesting the county board needs to concentrate on more fiscal oversight.

Bachmann also questions whether the continuing education taken by Lantz has been excessive.

Potentially most explosively, Bachmann asks,

“Where was Coroner Lantz when the nursing home in Woodstock had an 'angel of death' working within?

“A spike in deaths of over 100 percent in 9 months from the previous 5 year totals? The nursing homes have to call the coroners office when any death occurs to verify a doctor will sign the death certificate.

“This should have been noticed by the coroners office.”

His comments follow:

Let me put this into context for you.

When I was an embalmer in California, at the funeral home I worked, we handled 2,000 bodies per year.. THERE WERE ONLY 4 of us. We picked every body up, embalmed them, dressed them, casket-ed them, and had one secretary handle the death certificates. This included 24 hour shift work coverage for night calls.

When I operated a human remains shipping company out of south Florida, myself and only one other man, handled 500 bodies per year... that was A LOT of work... picking up the body, embalming and preparing for shipment, (many were autopsied bodies, which is twice the work to prepare) doing all the death certificate work, which included tracking down the doctor, waiting in his office for him to sign, doing the burial transit permits also requiring going to the local heath department, contacting the airlines for arrangements... and, driving the body to the airline cargo department. Plus, speaking to the family of the deceased. Again 24 hour on call work.

Our coroner (Marlene Lantz)says she has six employees... and given the numbers, I believe she may "handle" at most 350 cases per year.. and out of those 350, many are just phone call releases (going by a county population of 300,000). This county in Indiana, Marion County.. has 900,000 residents... They have 7 deputies, plus 2 secretaries.. and it's a major city.. Indy...

Plus, lets not forget.. in addition to the staff mentioned, there is also a doctor, a pathologist who actually comes in and does the work, the autopsy, along with his assistant. So the deputies and Lantz really never even work on a body, unlike what I was doing for years...

I have no idea how this has gotten by the county board?

I plan to lift the veil from this office, and tell our county board how it REALLY works.

Our tax payers have to rely upon their elected officers.

Ms. Lantz has stated she enjoys teaching and speaking at colleges? (See page 26 of The Town Crier's pre-primary voters' guide:

“I also enjoy teaching and have done several programs for Purdue University in LaFayette, as well as at St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, IN and at Concordia University in River Forest, IL. I assist in the field work at Dr. Neal Haskell’s yearly Entomology Workshop in Rensselaer and I also speak to the local high schools and colleges. About what? On the 24 continuing education hours required per year, what could she possibly be an expert on? Unless she has taken so many hours above and beyond the requirements of state law. The law says, "at least 24 hours.")

I bet that has really been stretched.. and the expenses that go with out of town seminars? I'd like the press to find out these numbers from the county Auditor. Although taking more than 24 hours is not illegal, it's "Resume Building" at tax payer expense. Then taking this resume out of county to give speeches at colleges?

People need to keep in mind, McHenry County is NOT under a Medical Examiners System. ANYBODY may run for coroner!

Where was Coroner Lantz when the nursing home in Woodstock had an "angel of death" working within? A spike in deaths of over 100 percent in 9 months from the previous 5 year totals? The nursing homes have to call the coroners office when any death occurs to verify a doctor will sign the death certificate. This should have been noticed by the coroners office.

MY friend is a 50 veteran of the funeral business in Coles County (where Eastern Illinois University is located). He asked his coroner, “How many hours of continuing ed have you taken?. He stated 400 hours last year.. PLUS all expenses... since I brought this up, he checked it out.

I've asked Illinois Coroners Association for a copy of its updated laws; they refuse to answer my request!

David J. Bachmann

Labels: Angel of Death, Dave Bachmann, Marlene Lantz

McHenry County Democratic Party Coroner's candidate Dave Bachmann has put his views of when a coroner should get involved in a death in writing. But, first, as background, he provides the following from the Indiana State Coroners Training Board:

When is a death a coroner's case?

Everyone would say homicide, and yes, that is correct. Suicides and all accidents are also to be investigated by the coroner. But by far the largest segment of the deaths to be investigated by the coroner is in the natural manner.

Most county health departments report a one percent death rate in each county per year. Of this total, the coroner investigates about 12 percent of the cases. So if you have 200,000 people in your county and one percent die this year, then you will have 2,000 deaths. The coroners will then investigate about 240 cases with 60-70 percent of these natural deaths.

Natural deaths include people who have no attending physician to sign the death certificate. It is also composed of those individuals who die suddenly and unexpectedly, even though they have been seen recently by a physician. They include individuals who have affected their health by the use of drugs or alcohol.

All deaths of inmates while incarcerated or when the eventual cause of death is found to have originated while the victim was incarcerated is another type of death that is investigated by the coroner. Deaths of individuals who die of a disease that might constitute a threat to public health are also reviewed.

Deaths of people whose bodies are to be cremated, buried at sea, transported out of state, or otherwise are unavailable for pathological study must be reviewed by the coroner. Deaths of transplant surgery donors that are the result of some type of trauma are also reviewed.

What are the requirements to become a coroner?

As with all other constitutionally elected officers, one need to be an elector of the county, and a resident for one year in order to be elected. The coroner does not perform autopsies (unless he or she is also a board-certified pathologist).

The coroner is an administrator above all else. By living locally and being elected, the corner is answerable to the people. The coroner has innumerable experts to call upon to help them render a decision. The Indiana State Coroners Training Board has been established and funded.

Tomorrow, Bachmann offers his comments on the office.

Labels: Dave Bachmann, McHenry County Coroner