CALUMET CITY | Third Ward Alderman Thaddeus M. Jones has announced his plans to take a leave of absence from his employment at Thornton Township to focus on his bid to replace outgoing state Rep. David Miller.

Miller, D-Lynwood, is running for Illinois Comptroller in the Feb. 2 primary election.

"I want to remind voters of my rich history in the 29th district, and work to ensure that my message of fighting crime and bringing employment to the 29th district is heard by all voters," Jones said.

Jones, D-Calumet City, who has won the endorsement of many locals mayors and Democratic Committeeman Frank M. Zuccarelli, also received the endorsement of the Illinois Federation of Teachers.

"The 29th district is at a defining moment with our economy in peril. The teachers' union recognizes that I have stood up for teachers' rights my entire career and will do so as state representative. We need steady leadership that will hit the ground running in Springfield. We need a leader who can work with all of the locals mayors and community groups, and I will provide that leadership," Jones said.

His platform for the district is to create a "weed-and-seed" program to weed out drug dealers and create employment opportunities for residents in the district, and to create a solid after-school program for kids.

For more information, call (708) 868-4663 or visit www.citizensforjones.com.