Underdog

Monday, August 29, 2011

Rick Perry for President..."I Think NOT" !


Rick Perry,Presidential Candidate: Social Security is a 'Monstrous lie'
By Meghashyam Mali - 08/28/11


Republican presidential contender and Texas Gov. Rick Perry continued his criticisms of Social Security calling the program a "monstrous lie" reports the Houston Chronicle.

"It is a Ponzi scheme for these young people. The idea that they're working and paying into Social Security today, that the current program is going to be there for them, is a lie," Perry said at a campaign stop in Ottumwa, Iowa. "It is a monstrous lie on this generation, and we can't do that to them. "In his anti-Washington book "Fed Up!" published in 2011 Perry had harsh words for Social Security, criticisms he has reiterated on the campaign trail. Campaigning in Iowa Perry also suggested a willingness to means-test Social Security benefits. "Does Warren Buffett need to get Social Security? Maybe not," said Perry. At a second appearance in Des Moines, Iowa, Perry continued to hammer at the president's economic record. "Instead of eliminating our economic crisis, he worsened it. ... Instead of addressing the debt, he exploded it," Perry said according to reports from the Associated Press. The president's policies Perry claimed have created "economic misery." Perry has sought to contrast the president’s performance on jobs with his own record as Texas governor. Perry spoke at the annual Polk County GOP picnic Saturday. The event was also attended by rival candidates Reps. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.) and Ron Paul (R-Texas) but Perry managed to garner most of the attention. A Gallup poll released Wednesday had the Texas governor assuming front-runner status in the race for the GOP presidential nomination, eclipsing former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney. The poll found that 29 percent of Republicans and GOP-leaning independents preferred Perry to be the party's nominee.

Editorial : The only thing Presidential candidates need to say about Social Security, is how they are going to strengthen it ! If it is a ponzi scheme, FIX IT ! DUH ! It seems that the candidates are making it easy for us to decide who to vote for. Republicans want to end Social Security, as we know it. Democrats want to preserve and strengthen Social Security. Thus, a no brain` er.

USW The Fighting Spirit of a Great People


The struggle continues ! Unions are the greatest democracy on earth.

Sunday, August 28, 2011

Be A Part of the Progressive Movement...The Life You Save...Could be Yours !








Dear Reader`s,

Signatures matter. If you want proof, look no further than Richard Trumka.

First, tens of thousands of progressives signed our petition to Democrats on the deficit super committee, then it started gaining support like a snowball rolling downhill. Now Trumka, the president of the enormous AFL-CIO labor federation, is making news by supporting Progressives United's principles -- principles like making sure millionaires, billionaires, and big corporations pay their fair share of debt reduction or else Democrats walk away. The super committee could fundamentally reshape our country's values, and the pressure on them is growing -- and it all started with individual progressives like you signing a petition. If you haven't signed our petition yet, sign it today and increase the pressure on super committee Democrats. This debate needs your voice. I hope you'll take action now.
http://www.progressivesunited.org/action/lets-fight?utm_source=sp4081490&utm_medium=e&sc=sp4081490&refcode=sp4081490


Thanks for uniting as a progressive,
Underdog = Don Jones

Saturday, August 27, 2011

Mitt Romney on Social Security ! Not Good !

New Hampshire Seniors Takes on Mitt Romney(R)




Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney told a group of New Hampshire seniors, including members of the Alliance, that he supports raising the retirement age or cutting benefits, as opposed to asking all taxpayers to pay a fair share to strengthen Social Security. Currently, all workers pay the Social Security payroll tax on the first $106,800 of their earnings; anything over that amount is exempt from the Social Security payroll tax. That means a grocery clerk or warehouse worker pays a bigger chunk of their income to Social Security than a hedge fund manager. In a meeting in Lebanon, N.H., Alliance State President Charlie Balban asked Romney if he would support raising the Social Security payroll tax beyond its current $106,800 cap to help strengthen Social Security. One member of the audience told Romney, “We’re just asking that everybody pay at the same rate.” Romney said he was opposed to having the wealthy pay Social Security payroll taxes on more or all of their income. He said he instead would support raising the retirement age or cutting benefits by changing the way the Consumer Price Index (CPI) is calculated. CPI is used to determine cost of living adjustments for Special Security recipients. Romney is referring to a proposed new inflation formula known as “chained CPI,” which, if implemented, would mean that a worker in 2011 at age 65 will see his or her Social Security benefits slashed by $6,000 over 15 years. Referring to all of the Republican candidates for President, Terry Lochhead, Senior Field Organizer for the Alliance's Northeast Region, told The Boston Globe, “All of their plans to reduce the deficit by cutting programs that benefit retirees, instead of raising taxes on the super-wealthy or cutting out corporate loopholes, have really brought them right into our focus.” To see a video of Mr. Balban’s exchange with Romney, go to> http://bit.ly/mQDjJw . For all the recent news articles that mention the Alliance, go to> http://bit.ly/okA6wc. Also, to see more on former Governor Romney’s position on Social Security, which includes means testing, go to> http://bit.ly/puel6P.


Social Security Disability Insurance Program Draws Attention

An Associated Press story earlier this week [ http://wapo.st/ne0uRO ] described how the Social Security disability insurance program is projected to experience a funding shortfall as early as 2017, meaning that benefits could not be paid in full and on time to those eligible to receive them. While the story struck a frightening tone, the basic financial soundness of Social Security has not changed. Benefits can be fully paid for approximately the next 25 years.

According to the Strengthen Social Security campaign, a coalition of 320 national and state organizations, including the Alliance, a few basic facts about Social Security help explain the implications of the AP story. Social Security is comprised of two programs with their own trust funds – Old Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) and Disability Insurance (DI). OASI is fully funded through 2037, according to the Social Security Trustees; DI is fully funded through 2017, according to the Trustees. Combined, both programs are fully funded through 2037, according to the Congressional Budget Office, and through 2035, according to the Trustees. In the past, when one of the two trust funds had insufficient income, Congress quietly and quickly reallocated the income to the two funds to ensure that they were on the same financial footing. It has six years to do so once again. “The Social Security Disability Insurance program could be made solvent - with no additional spending - for approximately 25 years, if Congress passes a simple transfer of funds,” Ole Mitt has guts, he tells you he`s gonna put it to you and will !

District#8~Tennessee News ? I Think Not !



More Propaganda from our Lawbreaker/Lawmaker Congressman Stephen Fincher(R), District#8-Tennessee


Washington, DC 1118 Longworth HOB
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-4714
Fax: (202) 225-1765

Dickson
Phone: (615) 446-5085

Dyersburg
100 South Main
Dyersburg, TN 38024
Phone: (731) 285-0910
Fax: (731) 285-5008

Jackson
109 South Highland, Room #B-7
Jackson, TN 38301
Phone: (731) 423-4848
Fax: (731) 427-1537

Martin


406 Lindell Street, The Reed Center
Martin, TN 38237
Phone: (731) 588-5190

CONNECT



> http://www.fincher.house.gov/office/washington-dc <




Dear Friend,

As the summer winds down, many of our children head back to school and Americans across the country will return to work, but millions more will continue the job search. As Congress prepares to return to session, it is those millions searching for a job that must be the number one priority.

Over the past few days, I had the opportunity to meet with people across the Eighth District of Tennessee and listen to their ideas about ways Congress can improve our economy and create jobs. I spoke with small business owners and workers alike, and heard stories about their struggles and successes in today’s economic environment. Throughout my meetings, one of the most common concerns I heard was how there is too much regulation coming from Washington. Different agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency, the United States Department of Agriculture, and others have placed an increased amount of regulation on businesses across the country, which drive up production costs and deter investment and hiring. In order to streamline and create a more efficient regulatory process, I introduced the Expedited Agriculture through Science Act and the Regulatory Balance Act. These bills would streamline the regulatory process and require a cost-benefit analysis for regulations that have a significant economic impact, respectively. It is my goal to see these bills, and other similar efforts, reduce the burden of regulations passed and implemented in order to create a more certain economic environment that allows small businesses to invest and grow. Eliminating burdensome regulations is only one way to begin turning our economy around – there are several other steps we can take to help create jobs, including creating a more stable economic environment. Over the past few years, Washington’s mounting debt, increased spending, and constant threat of tax hikes have created much instability in the economy and discouraged loans and investment. We have made significant gains in ending the culture of spending in Washington, but more work must be done. Many of the businesses owners I met with this week said they can begin to invest and grow their own businesses when Washington gets serious about responsible spending, reducing our debt, and creating a more stable economic environment. Congress cannot balance its budget on the backs of hard working men and women, however. Many job creators fear that the liberals in Washington will raise taxes the first chance they get – in turn causing layoffs and reduced hiring. Congress must work to reform the tax code and ensure small business owners and hard working Americans will not be punished. Over the next several days, I will continue to meet and listen to constituents throughout Tennessee and hear about their experiences and ideas. I intend to take these ideas and concerns back to Congress and fight to make sure the workers of Tennessee can get back on their feet. We can turn this economy around for all of America. I have every confidence our brighter days are ahead.

Sincerely,

Cong. $tephen Fincher (R) District#8~Tennessee

Editorial : Better read between the lines, at what Mr. Fincher is really saying. He met with business owners who say, we are over regulated. False. Translation is, get rid of safety rules that protect the workers, as this costs money. Mr. Fincher has introduced a bill/law that will affect Agriculture ? Ya think, he`s a millionaire farmer ? More tax-payer $ub$idizing ? You Bet`Cha ! He talks of constant tax hikes, what he means is no tax-hikes on him and his wealthy friends. There is that word again "LIBERALS" Everyone that does not agree with him, The Tea party Candidate fits right in to the Washington scene. He use`s it in almost every communication he does. Working Tennesseans better wake up ! He is everything, he said he was`nt during his campaign.

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Tennesseans ~ Alert ~ Republicans on the March !



Tennesseans Need to Know !



In Tennessee, the dog days of summer are providing plenty of heat for Tennessee Republicans just home from Washington. Their out-of-touch plans to end Medicare, raise taxes on more than 100,000,000 working and middle class Americans and give tax breaks for the rich and big corporations have drawn protests across the state.

Check out some of the coverage below:

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20110824/NEWS02/308240106/Protesters-urge-U-S-Rep-Diane-Black-focus-jobs?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CNews
Rep. Diane Black (R-TN06)
Protesters urge U.S. Rep. Diane Black to focus on jobs (Gannett)
A crowd of pickets marched and chanted Tuesday in front of U.S. Rep. Diane Black’s office, calling for more focus on jobs and less emphasis on social spending cuts. The protest, which numbered 20-25 people shortly after 4 p.m., was initiated by Tennessee Citizen Action, a public interest and consumer rights organization, but also was attended by local Democratic Party and union members.

Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN03)

Groups plan Fleischmann protest (Chattanooga Times Free-Press/Carroll)

http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2011/aug/24/groups-plan-fleischmann-protest/?local

U.S. Rep. Charles J. Fleischmann might regret his nickname today. Two nonprofit organizations are staging “The Trial of Chucky,” playing off the legendary “Child’s Play” movie villain of the same name and “charging” the Republican congressman with “murdering jobs, impersonating the working class and endangering the economy.”
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2011/aug/24/protest-group-chattanooga-finds-fleischmann-guilty/?print

Social justice group plans “trial” protest against Fleischmann (Nooga)
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2011/aug/24/protest-group-chattanooga-finds-fleischmann-guilty/?print

For the first time, members of Chattanooga Organized for Action are staging public protest against the voting record of Rep. Chuck Fleischmann. The demonstration, billed as “The Trial of Chucky,” is scheduled to take place outside the Chattanooga Convention Center on Wednesday morning, while Fleischmann attends a keynote meeting hosted by the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce that will feature a speech by Gov. Bill Haslam.

Chattanooga protest group finds Fleischmann guilty of job murder (Chattanooga Times Free Press/Cliff Hightower)
http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/2011/aug/24/protest-group-chattanooga-finds-fleischmann-guilty/?print


Chattanooga Organized for Action tried U.S. Rep. Charles “Chuck” Fleischmann today and found him guilty of murdering jobs. The advocacy group, about 30 strong, marched from the Chattanooga Convention Center to the federal building to give Fleischmann the verdict. Chattanooga Organized for Action, along with the Service Employees International Union, organized the protest, which coincided with Fleischmann and Gov. Bill Haslam speaking at the Convention Center.

Rep. Scott DesJarlais (R-TN04)

FACEBOOK: Rep. Scott Desjarlais Listening Session
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=137860126307145
Congressman DesJarlais will hold a public listening session at the White County Courthouse from 3:45-4:30pm CST as part of his "Listening to Tennessee" tour. He listens, we ask questions - about jobs, cuts to much-needed public services like Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security, fair revenue generation, and education.

Sen. Bob Corker (R-TN)

Union to focus on economy in protest at Corker's local office (Nashville City Paper/Williams)
http://nashvillecitypaper.com/print/535939

Service Employees International Union Local 205, which represents many of Metro’s public workers, is helping organize a rally and protest outside U.S. Sen. Bob Coker’s Nashville office. Dubbed “Jobs Not Cuts,” the protest/rally is set for Thursday, Aug. 25, at 5:15 p.m. outside Corker’s 3322 West End Ave. office. According to an SEIU press release, the demonstration is “part of a growing number of protests against members of congress this month by Americans who are fed up with politicians who side with CEOs and Wall Street bankers over middle class families and have failed to create jobs.” The release says protests will be aimed at ending tax breaks and loopholes for CEOs, hedge fund managers and others, while calling for corporations to “pay their share of taxes.”

Editorial : The above mentioned Politicians are NOT for Middle Class Tennesseans ! Try to learn about your candidates, not just a (R) by their name. Republicans are not your Friends !










Pulmonary Hypertension Patient & Family Resources



PHA Family & Patient Resources

One of the things that is most important at PHA is finding better ways to communicate valuable information to the patients, family members and medical professionals who are the reason for our work.

An example of that goal has just been released for caregivers…

Resources for Family and Friends is a free information packet > >http://www.phassociation.org/CaregiverPacket <
designed especially for family members and friends of PH patients. It offers a range of opportunities to help caregivers plan their next steps, find important resources and connect with other caregivers. It follows the also free Envelope of Hope packet which we created almost two years ago for patients http://www.phassociation.org/page.aspx?pid=969 …and which we are constantly upgrading. Both packets can now be ordered online. Medical professionals are able to help patients and caregivers get these packets by giving out referral postcards which can be ordered in quantity at no cost. The packets are particularly valuable for new patients and their families. I’m particularly pleased that PHA is now focusing hard on building new ways to support PH caregivers. Lian Latham, a nurse who has treated many PH patients, says it well. “The families of patients are the true backbone support of PAH. They stand by the patients every day, providing solace and care to those who are in need. Often, they sacrifice themselves in many ways to make sure their loved ones get what they need. They are like the battlefield medics for PAH.”
PHA is glad to be able to help. Like PH patients, caregivers are not alone with this disease.
Labels: caregiver, Envelope of Hope, Lian Latham, Resources
for family and friends> http://www.phassociation.org/Page.aspx?pid=844 <


Editorial : I think it should be noted, That Vanderbilt and Dr.`s Hemnes and Robbins of Pulmonary are my PAH Dr.`s ! Although they say they are not sure, if I have PAH or not ? I learned this from Dr. Hemnes. Some patients might be upset or amazed at no diagnosis ? I appreciate their honesty and candor ! I just asked them not to give up on me ! Although At Vanderbilt, I`m not sure that "Give Up" is in their vocabulary. Kudos, for Heart-Transplant, Dr. Mark Wigger and the team !

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Tennessee Millionaires Representing, WHO ?


50 Riche$t Member$ of Congre$$


According to Roll Call’s annual survey of Member wealth, Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas) is now the richest Member of Congress, with a fortune worth at least $294 million, a vast increase over last year that was apparently the result of large transfers from his in-laws. The Texas lawmaker topples Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.) from the No. 1 position, who reported a minimum net worth of $193 million on his most recent financial disclosure report and is now the third richest Member of Congress. McCaul also leapfrogged Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), who remains the second richest Member of Congress, with a reported fortune of more than $220 million.

See the chart listing the 50 richest Members of Congress Click below...Hey Tennesseans, see anyone you know ? You Bet`Cha ! (top left) Congresswoman Diane Black - (top center) Our Governor Bill Haslam, (top center) SenatorLamar Alexander (top right) Senator Bob Corker !
















Monday, August 22, 2011

Tax Millionaire$ $ Billionaire$...You Bet`Cha !


Tax Millionaire$ $ Billionaire$


Wow ! We were going for 200,000 signatures on this petition standing behind Warren Buffett's call to tax the rich fairly—and we've busted through to 285,000! But before we deliver it to every single member of Congress, we want to get over 350,000 Americans signed on. Can you add your name today ?

Click here to stand with Warren Buffett and demand higher taxes on the rich.
http://civ.moveon.org/standwithwarren/?id=30127-10206651-AIGSfPx&t=5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Underdog Reader ,

Click here to sign your name:
"I stand with Warren Buffett. It's time for Congress to stop coddling the super-rich and make them pay their fair share."


Sign the Petition !

Multi-billionaire investor Warren Buffett just published a powerful op-ed in The New York Times with a simple message: Tax me !

Buffett said openly what all of us have been thinking—Washington needs to "stop coddling the super-rich."

The op-ed is already making a huge splash, but we need to make sure Congress can't ignore it. So we're joining with Rebuild the Dream on this petition. We're aiming to get 200,000 people to go on record saying that they stand with Warren Buffett and want the richest Americans to pay their fair share.

If we can get 200,000 signers, we'll deliver the Buffett op-ed, along with your signature, to every member of Congress.

Click here to stand with Warren Buffett and demand higher taxes on the rich.



Here's what the petition says: "I stand with Warren Buffett. It's time for Congress to stop coddling the super-rich and make them pay their fair share."

If you haven't already read it, here's an excerpt from Buffett's op-ed:

Our leaders have asked for "shared sacrifice." But when they did the asking, they spared me. I checked with my mega-rich friends to learn what pain they were expecting. They, too, were left untouched.

While the poor and middle class fight for us in Afghanistan, and while most Americans struggle to make ends meet, we mega-rich continue to get our extraordinary tax breaks. Some of us are investment managers who earn billions from our daily labors but are allowed to classify our income as "carried interest," thereby getting a bargain 15 percent tax rate. Others own stock index futures for 10 minutes and have 60 percent of their gain taxed at 15 percent, as if they'd been long-term investors. These and other blessings are showered upon us by legislators in Washington who feel compelled to protect us, much as if we were spotted owls or some other endangered species.
It's nice to have friends in high places.
Pretty powerful stuff, right? Click below to add your name and stand with Warren Buffett:
http://www.civ.moveon.org/standwithwarren/?id=30127-10206651-AIGSfPx&t=5

http://civ.moveon.org/standwithwarren/?id=30127-10206651-AIGSfPx&t=5

Thanks for all you do.

USWA ~ The Fighting Spirit



Democracy At Work ! You Bet`Cha ! When our Union was strong...OUR UNION/Nation WAS STRONG...Think About IT !

Sunday, August 21, 2011

A Working Mans View on Jobs & Trade !




WE NEED CHANGE...JOBS & TRADE !
By : David Whorley...8/21/11


http://wwwsecondchance.blogspot.com/2011/03/social-security-answers-youve-always.html


David Whorley is my friend and brother, we both worked at Goodyear Union City Tennessee, before retirement. He says our views are not the same ? Are You sure ?


I have not seen any info in your Underdog > http://wwwsecondchance.blogspot.com/ < about Biden going to China to sell us out and pat them on the back. When State Rep. 77th. District Tennessee, Bill Sanderson went to China, I noticed you had it front and center. That’s why I watch Fox news instead of all the liberal stations that back Barack Obama. CBS, NBC, ABC, MSNBC (totally out of line), and others. I listen in on them now and then and get sick real fast then go on over to Fox and get a “Fair and Balanced” news cast with both Democrats and Republicans meeting face to face to air differences. I see where Coca-Cola is going to invest 4 billion in China to increase market share and “cut operating costs.” This means we’ll be drinking Chinese made cola before long. GE just announced that they were going to move their 106 year old x-ray division to China. This is one of Obama’s pet companies that pay no taxes and they’re still leaving. What in heck is going on in this country. Has union labor pushed us out of the market ? I think some pay is on the high side but not extremely out of range. Is our health care pushing these companies away? Instead of building relations with a country that pays 3 and 4 dollar an hour wages and has one of the worst human rights records of any country, I think instead that we should be going the other way from China. This country of ours is falling down fast, especially the last three years. When is this individual going to make good on just ONE of his campaign promises from the first election let alone what he is sooth saying trying to get elected again. I sure wished that some Democrat would have ran against him. I rather have a billy goat in office than him. No leadership ability at all and never once has he accepted any of this as his. Always blames someone else or something else. I don’t think the country can stand another term under his lack of leadership. And what gets me is ALL of the other liberals think he is a god or something. Reid, Pelosi, Feinstein, Boxer, Clinton, and all the anti Constitution team side with him on everything, no questions asked. Now he and Clinton are trying their best to let the darn United Nations set gun policy for the US. If this bull crap passes then we will be disarmed and have no way to fight back at all. Just like Britain is going through right now. Jefferson said once that one of the main reasons for the right to keep and bear arms is to protect ourselves from a government turned to tyranny. Why does`nt Obama lower the tax burden on businesses and let them be assured of a low tax structure for a long period of time so they can expand, re-build, re-tool, and get this nation back to work. If business is successful then the people will benefit from it. I know you don’t like to hear the “trickle down” effect, but when corporations make money the workers make money too. They have job security, and wages that they can depend on to be there for them. Dang Don.....I did not mean to get so far away from my “hit” line, I wanted to send you. Sorry. Just wanted you to know that the Dems are as far in bed with China as the GOP is.

Editorial : David Whorley is a Friend and Brother, we both worked at Goodyear Union City Tennessee. Fox News is not NEWS. It is Commentary/Opinion-Conservative ! Same for MSNBC-Liberal ! Want the real news, PBS-WLJT-TV Channel 11. Yes, Health Care is a high cost item on Manufacturing/Industry ! You are correct in your assessment of Unions, They are not the problem...low China wages and third world Country`s. And your estimate is too high...more like 0.48 per hour. The Vice-President in this writers opinion has and should travel the world as his country`s & Presidents Ambassador. A local state rep. NAW ! Just a nice trip at someones/ours/lobbyist/ expense. Dems and Republicans in same bed, you bet`cha !

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Medicare Open Bidding ~ A Start ! Prescription Drugs Next ?


Medicare says Competitive Pricing will $ave $28B
By Sam Baker - 08/19/11

Medicare is dramatically expanding a program that it says will save billions of dollars and serve as a model for other cost-cutting efforts.


The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on Friday announced the second round of a program that uses competitive bidding to set prices for certain medical products. Medicare now uses competitive bidding in nine cities and will expand to 91 areas, according to the Friday announcement. In its first six months, the nine-city competitive bidding program has saved roughly $130 million, CMS officials said. The agency expects to save $28 billion over the next 10 years, roughly a third of which would be savings to patients. “The president has clearly acknowledged the need for further savings to implement (in) the Medicare program, but I think we also need to take stock and take credit for what’s been achieved so far, and from a CMS perspective, DME competitive bidding is one that we’re proud of and one we believe is working,” CMS Deputy Administrator Jonathan Blum said. The competitive bidding program is limited to durable medical equipment — such products as wheelchairs, oxygen supplies and hospital beds. Blum said CMS is open to expanding competitive bidding outside of durable medical equipment in the future but is focused for now on expanding the existing program to more areas. Competitive bidding has faced criticism from the medical device industry. It is partially replacing a system in which Medicare simply set payment rates for medical products. CMS officials said the agency is paying 35 percent less for products covered by competitive bidding. The industry has also raised concerns that patients will lose access to important devices if bids are too low. Blum said that hasn’t happened in the initial phase of the bidding program, adding that CMS set up a system to monitor complaints and respond to any access problems. But none have been reported so far, he said, and “no one has disputed this information.” The laws directing CMS to expand the program also dictated how it picked the areas where the competitive pricing will become available, Blum said.


Super Committee Information Available from Social Security Works



Social Security Works, an umbrella group encompassing over 300 organizations – including the Alliance – all working to protect Social Security, has created a web page that provides information about the 12 members of the powerful Joint Select Committee on Budget Deficit Reduction, also known as the Super Committee. The webpage, at http://bit.ly/q3y2Oo , highlights the votes Super Committee members have taken on Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid and raising new revenues in 2011. Some of their personal statements about these issues are also provided.

Editorial : This is a great start. Now, on too Prescription Drug Coverage !


















Friday, August 19, 2011

Rep. Stephen Fincher(R)District#8~Tennessee-Recent Trip ?




Nice Trip, If You Can get it ? Lynn/Wife Go With You ?

Contact Rep. Fincher here > http://www.fincher.house.gov/office/washington-dc <


It did`nt take Congressman Fincher very long to get acclimated to his surroundings !



Dear Friend, > I think that`s me ?

This week, we welcome Tennessee’s children as they start another successful school year. We must provide our children with the best education in order to secure a stronger future. As we enter this new school year, we also approach an important time in Congress where we will begin work to update the outdated No Child Left Behind Act. I have spent much time listening to teachers, administrators and parents to discuss how we can better provide our nation’s educators with the necessary tools to educate our children. Our nation’s education system is in serious need of reform. For too long, political leaders have tried to micro-manage the system from the top down. The education system should primarily be under state and local control. Students and teachers in various schools have individual needs that cannot be determined by across- the- board federal regulations. Teachers should be the ones with control over their classroom, not bureaucrats in Washington. Our children deserve the very best education. I will work to return federal dollars to the states and provide parents and students with more options and opportunity, such as charter schools and school choice.
This week I also had the privilege of joining a Congressional delegation visiting Israel in order to further understand the important U.S.-Israeli relationship and the country’s critical role in our national security. Israel plays an essential role as one of America’s closest allies. Israel shares the values on which America was founded, such as democracy, freedom and basic human rights. This nation has been a reliable partner to the United States, and it is important that we return that same support. As a representative of the United States, I had the chance to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Shimon Peres and Israelis from all different walks of life in order to better understand the bond between our two countries. To better understand the dynamics of the region, I also met with high level Palestinian officials and heard their views regarding Israel and Palestine. By understanding the challenges and successes that have been made in Israel, we can develop a stronger alliance, a more peaceful Middle East, and a strong America.

Sincerely,

Stephen Fincher (R) DISTRICT#8~Tennessee


Editorial : As one of your constituents, I find it a very unnecessary (but nice)Trip ! Everything you reported on, This writer already knew ! I think most of your constituents knew ! Still a nice paid for trip ! It does`nt matter, if we tax-payers paid for your trip or a lobbying group ? You have become part of our Washington DC Problem ! Oh, by the way, How are the farm subsidies`s paying off lately ? And your campaign disclosure lawsuit ? Do not say one word about President Obama being on vacation.What happened to Jobs, Jobs, Jobs ? Charter Schools ? School of Choice, com`on, We cannot subsidize private schools nor should we ! Please do not be offended or insulted, there are other schools of thought. Welcome Home !

Thursday, August 18, 2011

New Goodyear North American Tire President



Goodyear Names New NA Tire President
Associated Press, 08.18.11

AKRON, Ohio --


Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has named company veteran Stephen McClellan (upper left) as President of its North American tire business unit. McClellan, 45, replaces
Curt Andersson (upper right), who plans to pursue other professional interests, the Akron, Ohio, tire company said. McClellan joined Goodyear in 1988 and was named to his current position as president of Goodyear's North American consumer tire business in 2008. He will continue to lead that business until a replacement is named, Goodyear said. In early trading, Goodyear shares fell $1.26, or 9.5 percent, to $12.08.


Editorial : This writer has it on the QT that, Mr. Andersson was opposed to Closing Union City Tennessee Plant. Trouble in Akron ? Ya Think ? Goodluck Mr. Andersson !

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Osborne Brothers - Rocky Top



The Way Rocky Top Was Meant to be Sung ! You Bet`Cha !

Congressman Stephen Fincher, District#8 Tennessee ~ Lawbreaker ? !


Herron Taking on Washington Corruption that Gave Fincher “Get out of Jail Free Card” !

Contact Fincher > http://www.fincher.house.gov/office/washington-dc <


NASHVILLE Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman Chip Forrester issued a statement in support of state Senator Roy Herron’s lawsuit against the Federal Election Commission filed last Friday.


In a recent investigation, six FEC commissioners unanimously agreed that U.S. Rep. Stephen Fincher had broken the law in reporting a $250,000 loan used during his political campaign. However, three Republican commissioners disregarded the FEC counsel’s recommendation and voted to block punishment for Mr. Fincher's violations. That essentially gave Fincher a “get out of jail free” card, Forrester said. “It is wrong to find Mr. Stephen Fincher guilty of breaking the law, and then refuse to hold him accountable. Our elections must have integrity, and if Washington politicians like Stephen Fincher won’t follow the law and are not held accountable by the FEC, we are glad a statesman like Roy Herron is willing to take on the corruption.” The FEC has 60 days to respond to the lawsuit. A year ago, Mr. Fincher lied when he told everyone who would listen that the FEC approved the shady $250,000 bank loan he used to finance his political campaign,” Forrester said. “Since then we have learned the truth. The FEC has found him guilty of breaking the law, but due to Washington politics, won't hold him accountable. “Mr. Fincher has adamantly refused to admit any wrongdoing and has clearly failed the most critical tests of leadership: telling the truth and leading by example,” Forrester said. “Mr. Fincher and the Washington, D.C. politicians sadly appear to share a common goal in their willful disregard for accountability. “Handing out ‘get out of jail free’ cards to Washington, D.C. politicians who break the law is not justice. Tennesseans deserve better, and if Roy Herron has to take on the entire Federal Election Commission to make Washington work for Tennesseans again, we will support him all the way.”

ONLINE: http://tndp.org/blog/2011/08/16/forrester-herron-taking-on-washington-corruption-that-gave-fincher-“get-out-of-jail-free-card”/


BACKGROUND: FINCHER LIED TO REPORTERS DURING THE 2010 CAMPAIGN SAYING THE FEC OK'd LOAN

Decision 2010: FEC investigating $250K bank loan made to Fincher
WMC TV, October 21
http://www.wmctv.com/Global/story.asp?S=13367582#
Fincher: "The FEC said it's OK. The bank said it's OK. The bank's lawyer said it's OK, and I say it's OK. It's a legal loan."

Fincher refuses to release tax returns: Republican blasts 'witch hunt'; Herron spokesman says 'sketchy finances are legitimate issue The Jackson Sun, October 1
http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20101001/NEWS01/10010310/Fincher-refuses-to-release-tax-returns

Stephen Fincher said Thursday he will not release his ta x returns, saying he has not done anything illegal and the allegations his Democratic opponent Roy Herron has made against him are a "witch hunt." ...

Fincher said the bank, the bank's attorney, and the FEC have all cleared the loan... Speaking in an interview after his address in Martin, Fincher said the loan is legitimate in every sense.

Biggest controversy in the 8th District race, a loan taken out by Republican Fincher
WKNO, NPR Memphis, October 22
http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wkno/news.newsmain/article/0/0/1716467/Mid-South.News/Biggest.Controversy.In.8th.District.Race.A.Loan.Taken.Out.By.Republican.Fincher
When questioned directly about the loan at a public forum at Union University Fincher said, "The FEC said the loan is okay." The FEC hasn't explicitly okayed the loan. Fincher also restated his refusal to disclose the terms of the loan, or his tax returns... This week the FEC responded. The Commercial Appeal reported Wednesday that the Gates Bank and Trust and Fincher's campaign treasurer had received letters from the FEC, but it is unclear when more action may happen.

Ciaramitaro said Fincher's campaign might not respond to all the FEC's requests until after the election.

Rulings needed on Fincher finances
Editorial - The Jackson Sun, October 19
http://www.jacksonsun.com/article/20101019/OPINION01/10190303

Fincher has said he filled out the forms in good faith. "Nothing has been done that is unethical or intentionally inaccurate," he said in an interview last month. Read those comments carefully. Fincher leaves the door wide open to the forms being wrong. After he spoke, his handlers quickly added that any mistakes on the forms would be corrected after the campaign. That's not soon enough. If Fincher made a mistake, he should admit it now. The people he seeks to represent deserve no less.


Editorial : Hey Tennesseans, How do you like Mr. Fincher now ? He is everything, he says he`s not ? Another Washington DC Politician ! You Bet`Cha !

Monday, August 15, 2011

Strengthen Social Security... Don't Cut It



What part of this do you not understand ? Republican$ want your/my money !

Congress Takes Care of Itself ! You Bet`Cha


It Just Dawned on ME !

http://www.contactingthecongress.org/


My dog sleeps about 20 hours a day. He has his food prepared for him. He can eat whenever he wants. His meals are provided at no cost to him. He visits the Dr. once a year for his checkup, and again during the year if any medical needs arise.
For this he pays nothing, and nothing is required of him. He lives in a nice neighborhood in a house that is much larger than he needs, but he is not required to do any upkeep. If he makes a mess, someone else cleans it up. He has his choice of luxurious places to sleep. He receives these accommodations absolutely free.
He is living like a King, and has absolutely no expenses whatsoever.
All of his costs are picked up by others who go out and earn a living every day.
I was just thinking about all this, and suddenly it hit me like a brick.





I think my dog is a member of Congress ! Republican or Democrat, does`nt matter !


Want to contact your Congressman/Woman ?


http://www.contactingthecongress.org/

Editorial : Thanks to Ralph Stamper for this one !

Universal Healthcare for All..You Bet`Cha !






Why the New Healthcare Law Should Have Been Based on Medicare (And What Democrats Should Have Learned By Now)
8/15/11
By : Robert Reich


Two appellate judges in Atlanta -- one appointed by President Bill Clinton and one by George H.W. Bush -- have just decided the Constitution doesn't allow the federal government to require individuals to buy health insurance.

The decision is a major defeat for the White House. The so-called "individual mandate" is a cornerstone of the Affordable Care Act, President Obama's 2010 health care reform law, scheduled to go into effect in 2014. The whole idea of the law is to pool heath risks. Only if everyone buys insurance can insurers afford to cover people with preexisting conditions, or pay the costs of catastrophic diseases. The issue is now headed for the Supreme Court (another appellate court has upheld the law's constitutionality) where the prognosis isn't good. The Court's Republican-appointed majority has not exactly distinguished itself by its progressive views. Chalk up another one for the GOP, outwitting and outflanking the president and the Democrats. Remember the health-care debate? Congressional Republicans refused to consider a single-payer system that would automatically pool risks. They wouldn't even consider giving people the option of buying into it. The president and the Democrats caved, as they have on almost everything. They came up with a compromise that kept health care in the hands of private insurance companies. The only way to spread the risk in such a system is to require everyone buy insurance. Which is exactly what the two appellate judges in Atlanta object to. The Constitution, in their view, doesn't allow the federal government to compel citizens to buy something. "Congress may regulate commercial actors," they write. "But what Congress cannot do under the Commerce Clause is mandate that individuals enter into contracts with private insurance companies for the purchase of an expensive product from the time they are born until the time they die." Most Americans seem to agree. According to polls, 60 percent of the public opposes the individual mandate. Many on the right believe it a threat to individual liberty. Many on the left object to being required to buy something from a private company. Had the president and the Democrats stuck to their guns during the health-care debate and insisted on Medicare for all, or at least a public option, they wouldn't now be facing the possible unraveling of the new health care law. After all, Social Security and Medicare -- the nation's two most popular safety nets -- require every working American to "buy" them. The purchase happens automatically in the form of a deduction from everyone's paychecks. But because Social Security and Medicare are government programs they don't feel like mandatory purchases. They're more like tax payments, which is what they are -- payroll taxes. There's no question payroll taxes are constitutional, because there's no doubt that the federal government can tax people in order to finance particular public benefits. Americans don't mind mandates in the form of payroll taxes for Social Security or Medicare. In fact, both programs are so popular even conservative Republicans were heard to shout "don't take away my Medicare!" at rallies opposed to the new health care law.
Requiring citizens to buy something from a private company is entirely different. If Congress can require citizens to buy health insurance from the private sector, reasoned the two appellate judges in Atlanta, what's to stop it from requiring citizens to buy anything else? If the law were to stand, "a future Congress similarly would be able to articulate a unique problem ... compelling Americans to purchase a certain product from a private company." Other federal judges in district courts -- one in Virginia and another in Florida -- have struck down the law on similar grounds. They said the federal government has no more constitutional authority requiring citizens to buy insurance than requiring them to buy broccoli or asparagus. (The Florida judge referred to broccoli; the Virginia judge to asparagus.) Social Security and Medicare aren't broccoli or asparagus. They're as American as hot dogs and apple pie. The Republican strategy should now be clear: Privatize anything that might otherwise be a public program financed by tax dollars. Then argue in the courts that any mandatory purchase of it is unconstitutional because it exceeds the government's authority. And rally the public against the requirement. Remember this next time you hear Republican candidates touting Paul Ryan's plan for turning Medicare into vouchers for seniors to buy private health insurance. So what do Obama and the Democrats do if the individual mandate in the new health care law gets struck down by the Supreme Court? Immediately propose what they should have proposed right from the start -- universal health care based on Medicare for all, financed by payroll taxes. The public will be behind them, as will the courts.

Robert Reich is the author of Aftershock: The Next Economy and America's Future, now in bookstores. This post originally appeared at RobertReich.org.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Social Security & Medicare ~ Important ? You Bet` Cha...




Social Security’s 76th Anniversary is this Sunday



On July 30, the Alliance celebrated the 46th Anniversary of the Medicare and Medicaid programs. This Sunday, August 14, we will be celebrating the 76th Anniversary of Social Security, and Alliance members have been working to educate other members and the public on the importance of these programs. Check out the latest and greatest photos from Medicare and Social Security anniversary events here: http://bit.ly/nLT71O , or to watch a slideshow, click here: http://bit.ly/qbLLtk ! Check out the Washington Alliance as they march through downtown Seattle with a band here: http://bit.ly/qu3DrT . More great coverage from their weekend rally is at http://bit.ly/nU9EM8 . This week, the Indiana, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio and Pennsylvania Alliance all hosted Social Security birthday celebrations. For the complete list of 27 Social Security events, including those still to come, go to http://bit.ly/nQTcEu .



Super Committee Named to Tackle National Debt


House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (CA) announced her appointments to the bipartisan congressional “super committee” on Thursday, tapping Democratic Reps. Chris Van Hollen (MD), Xavier Becerra (CA) and James Clyburn (SC) to join nine other lawmakers tasked with reducing the deficit by at least $1.2 trillion by Thanksgiving. Those selections round out the bipartisan, 12-person group. House Speaker John Boehner tapped House Republican Conference Chairman Jeb Hensarling (TX) to serve as co-chair of the committee. He also appointed House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Dave Camp (MI), and House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (MI) to the committee. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (KY) appointed Sens. Jon Kyl (AZ), Pat Toomey (PA) and Rob Portman (OH). Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (NV) named Sen. Patty Murray (WA) to co-chair the committee, and also appointed Sens. Max Baucus (MT) and John Kerry (MA). “Cuts to the Social Security and Medicare programs coming from the ‘super committee’ are major concerns for seniors”. According to Politico, the debt ceiling agreement could also jeopardize billions of dollars in initiatives from the health care reform law if the super committee can’t come up with required spending cuts. The funds for prevention programs and community health centers; grants to help states set up insurance exchanges and co-ops; and money to help states review insurance rates could be triggered across the board if the panel can’t find enough cuts this fall.



Tea Party Sees Chance to Cut Medicare

Since the passage of the debt ceiling deal, the tea party and its supporters have named Medicare their prime target, and they view the “super committee” as the means to slash it. While Medicare benefits cannot be touched by the committee, reshaping the program is very much on the table, and it is expected to be one of the most debated topics. Tea partiers support the approach outlined under the Paul Ryan Budget, which was released earlier this year. The Ryan budget turns Medicare into a voucher program by combining private insurance with government subsidies, ultimately raising costs for seniors. Recently, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) spoke in favor of it, saying, “Americans must come to grips with the fact that promises have been made that frankly are not going to be kept for many.” Widespread Republican support for the Ryan plan comes despite a special election upset by Democrats in New York in May and recent polls showing wide public support for taxing the wealthy over cutting programs. “If ending Medicare as we know it is what the tea party thinks America wants, then they are seriously misguided,”

Editorial : These Republican politicians , act like we "WE THE PEOPLE" don`t pay for the Social Security and Medicare Programs...DUH ? WE DO ! TEA Party ? Kinda remind this writer of The WASP party years ago ! Don`t know what the WASP party is ? Ask this writer. Put the Bush tax-breaks for the wealthy, back in place. Republicans call them raising tax`s. NOT SO ! Then concentrate on JOBS, good paying JOBS ! Problem solved. A word about the "SUPER COMMITTEE" A politicians way of passing the BUCK ! You Bet`Cha !

Friday, August 12, 2011

Senator Sherrod Brown(D)Ohio~Keeping Jobs on Shore ! You Bet`Cha !




Thanks to J. Michael Stanley for this !



Sen. Brown Announces New Resources for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. to Develop New, Fuel Efficient Tires, U.S. Department of Energy Research and Development Resources to Advance Energy Efficiency in Domestic Auto Industry

August 11, 2011


WASHINGTON, D.C. – New, energy-efficient tires will now be developed in Akron. U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) (upper left) today announced that Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Akron was awarded new federal resources to develop advanced, fuel efficient tires. The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy awarded $1,499,771 to support the Ohio-based research and development project, which is expected to help improve the fuel efficiency of the next generation of vehicles produced by the U.S. auto industry. “Building strong businesses and protecting the environment can go hand-in-hand. Fuel-efficient tires made in Ohio can help to create a new generation of energy efficient vehicles made right here in the United States,” Brown said. “By investing in American manufacturers, like Goodyear Tire, we can drive a new generation of smart economic growth and energy independence while creating new jobs throughout the manufacturing supply chain.” Goodyear Tire will use the resources to develop and demonstrate an in-tire system for automatically maintaining a set pressure in a commercial truck tire, according to the company. Brown has been an outspoken advocate for Ohio’s auto industry and a strong supporter of increased fuel economy (CAFE) standards to increase the competitiveness of American-made vehicles. In June 2009, Brown testified before the ITC in support of rubber tire workers in Findlay who were being undermined by a flood of Chinese imports dumped into the U.S. Following his testimony, the ITC ruled on behalf of tire workers, and President Obama announced that he would enforce "Section 421" trade safeguards that protect American manufacturers from excessive imports. After the ruling, Cooper Tire & Rubber Company announced plans to add capacity to its Findlay tire plant and hire up to 100 workers. According to a 2010 study by the Center for Automotive Research, more than 792,000 Ohio jobs depend on the auto industry; this figure includes 120,285 direct employment (people employed directly by auto industry: 39,685 by automakers and 80,600 by parts suppliers); 276,330 indirect employment (jobs indirectly employed by automakers or parts suppliers: 167,891 by automakers and 108,439 by parts suppliers); and 395,981 spin-off employment (expenditure-induced employment resulting from spending by direct and intermediate employees; 221,018 by automakers and 174,963 by suppliers). DUH ?


Editorial : Where were Senator`s Alexander & Corker of Tennessee(upper right), When Goodyear Union City TN. Closed ? Hey for that matter, where was Congressman Stephen Fincher ? or State Rep.`s Sanderson & Holt ? DUH ! Want to contact Tennessee Senators Alexander & Corker ? Click below or title of this article. Thanks Senator Sherrod Brown Ohio !


http:,//www.tennesseeanytime.org/topics/Elected+Officials