LIE`S ABOUT UNIONS ! GET THE REAL FACTS !

Berman/Who ? Back with New Lies About Unions
by Mike Hall, Feb 7, 2012

Dr. Evil is back. Better get the facts.

http://www.inthesetimes.com/ittlist/entry/8049/dr._evil_is_baaaack_unionfacts.coms_new_anti-union_campaign_repeats_secret_/

Sort of like that periodic rash that you can’t scratch in public, Richard Berman is back. Berman is best known to us in the union movement for his so-called “Center on Union Facts” that is to facts what Bernie Madoff is to secure investments.
Now, Berman has launched a $10 million campaign, writes the National Journal, to help push new federal anti-union legislation under the 180-degree-from-the-truth title the Employee Rights Act. Part of that $10 million helped buy a 30-second spot in selected markets—during the Super Bowl that earned three “Pinocchios” from the Washington Post’s Fact Checker on campaigning and advocacy ads for using “nonsense” facts to make its claim. A trio of long-nosed wooden Italian puppets means that add contains “Significant factual error and/or obvious contradictions.” BTW, there was bit more fantasy in the ad. Super corporate insider Berman played a mechanic in the ad. Now there’s some acting, playing someone who gives an honest day’s work. Berman also runs corporate financed “astro-turf” campaigns that masquerade as grassroots movements against consumer, safety, health, environmental, corporate and financial regulations. Berman’s anti-union phony front group does not reveal its donors. But according to The Republic Report, it has been reported that the group coordinates with the Big Business-backed U.S. Chamber of Commerce. In the past, Berman has taken money from corporations—including from Wendy’s, Phillip Morris, Tyson Foods, Cargill, and Coco-Cola—to orchestrate “fake grass-roots websites and movements.”With the 2012 election year heating up, don’t be surprised if you see more of Berman’s ads’ popping on the air or in print. But the next time you need to scrape some of his “union facts” off your shoes, click here to visit Berman Exposed from Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW).

Editorial : There will always be Berman`s. You just must find the facts. As far as the Chamber of Commerce is concerned, they are one of the largest UNIONS in the Country ! They just represent those of Business. Again, get the real facts."Free Democratic Trade Unions are the purest form of Democracy in the USA" ! Let no none tell you otherwise.

Fiat Lux

END the BUSH TAX CUTS !

Put The Bush Tax Cuts Back in Place !

Sign Here > http://pol.moveon.org/vetobushtaxcuts/?r_by=35509-10206651-FPzluDx&rc=vetobushtaxcuts.confemail.g1

Most of us think that the presidential election will be the major battle in 2012 between President Obama and the Republicans. But another huge fight will happen after the elections are over, when Congress will vote whether or not to end the Bush tax cuts for the 1%. President Obama can end this fight before it begins by committing to veto any deal that extends the Bush tax cuts for the 1% today. I signed a petition urging the President to veto any legislation that extends the Bush tax cuts. Will you join me at the link below ? The President stated it best in his State of the Union speech.

"Do we want to keep these tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans? Or do we want to keep our investments in everything else—- like education and medical research; a strong military and care for our veterans? Because if we're serious about paying down our debt, we can't do both...we need to change our tax code so that people like me, and an awful lot of members of Congress, pay our fair share of taxes".

http://pol.moveon.org/vetobushtaxcuts/?r_by=35509-10206651-FPzluDx&rc=vetobushtaxcuts.confemail.g1

Thanks for all you do,

Underdog = Don Jones

Fiat Lux

JIM CROW~Racism Still Rearing its Ugly Head ! You Bet`Cha !

Jim Crow Has Written Me...I`m Sad to Report !

by Underdog = Don Jones...2/05/12

More Jim Crow Facts Here > http://www.ferris.edu/jimcrow/what.htm

Martin Luther King Facts > http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King,_Jr.

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The following was written to me via comments on my, This blog...UNDERDOG ! I did not publish. And you can read why. Racism is still a part of our make-up, I`m sad to say. The person that wrote this venom, writes comments all of the time on my blog. I do not now, read them. I just delete. To this anonymous person. I`m so sorry for you ! I will pray for you.

I vote Democrat. I always have, and am very glad to be a Democrat. I like all of the things the Democrats give me so I don't have to work. I could have gone to college, but I got pregnant instead. Now, I get food stamps, WIC, money for my house, welfare, money for my electric bill and water bill. I know as long as I vote for Democrats that I can get all the money I need and don't have to do a thing for it. I think it's funny that all of those white men get mad about paying taxes. I don't have to pay taxes! But if I lose my welfare, I will have to pay, so I always vote for Democrats. I want to say thank you Obama, for getting me more money for food stamps, because I can't afford those big steaks and now I can buy beer with the EBT card I have. I just laugh at all of those people who start yelling about paying taxes. All they got to do is quit work like me, and they can get welfare just like me!I want Obamacare cause my Medicaid don't pay for much. Since I got 4 kids they cost a lot. I just got a big screen tv the other day on my welfare check, but my auntie helped me out by giving me some of her welfare check. I am so thankful that we don't have a Republican as a president, because then I would have to go to work, and I don't want to work! Then I would lose my house, my Medicaid, my EBT, my WIC, all that stuff. I am so glad to see that someone else out there agrees with me and wants Obama to stay in office and tax the rich!!! Thank you Obama for all you have given me.

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Below is second letter, same commenter wrote. I deleted it also ! So sad. I would answer your questions below, however, I feel it would be superfluous. Wasted Time ! I will pray for you !

How many "African" Americans do you know? I am willing to bet "none..." Unless they lived part of their life in Africa, then they are Americans, not African-Americans. Too often we split ourselves into groups that want to mask our real identities. By the way, how is our hero Obama doing for the black community? Unemployment at record highs... Gee, we need four more years of this, right ? Well, look at that ! Free photo identification cards ! I guess that old "legal voter" thing wasn't such a big deal after all !I am looking forward to referring to the pander bear Cohen as "former" Congressman !

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In third letter below from same writer "Anonymous" There is no explanation, other than complete and unabated RACISM ! The only thing, I can guarantee is, you won`t see any more letters from "ANONYMOUS RACIST"So sad ! This individual is sick."God is Love"! And I love you also !

"In his speech, President Obama emphasized the importance of his Christian beliefs in his politics and personal life, arguing that his efforts to raise taxes on the wealthiest Americans, promote health insurance reform, help families with college tuition and send troops to prevent human rights abuses in Uganda were grounded in his faith"1. The wealthiest Americans already pay a lion's share of the taxes in this country. However, tens of millions of people are unproductive, and have no intention of doing anything that will cause them to be productive. This is a never-ending money pit that is destroying the nation. There is no "fair share" when some are paying NOTHING.2. Government intervention into the health insurance industry will turn out just the same as its intervention into everything else: FAILURE!!! FAILURE!!! FAILURE!!! The government DESTROYS everything it touches! Get it out of the way, and health insurance will become affordable for millions.3. There is nothing in the Constitution that mentions wealth redistribution for health care. It is not a right. You do not have a right to someone else's services, no matter how "entitled" you feel. Your own laziness, poor life choices, dependency on the government's thievery of others is the reason that you think you are "entitled" to the belongings of others. 4. People need to take care of their own college tuition, not have GOVERNMENT intervention. Gee, like I DID. How did I manage that? Gee, I'm not black, I'm not poor, and I'm not on some government program, yet I have taken out loans, paid them off WITH INTEREST and EARLY. How did I do that without government's help? I also didn't need Affirmative Action, either. Gee, HOW DID I MAKE IT ? 5. We've been sending troops everywhere in the world for decades to prevent human rights abuses. It's funny how when a Republican does this, it's all hell break loose, but when a Democrat does it, it's for humanitarian reasons. I have no problem with it, but the LEFT and all its minions need to be consistent in its criticism. Gee, a bill to recognize civil rights activists with a gold medal... Yeah, that's a pressing issue, isn't it ? How many Tennesseans got off of welfare thanks to that idea? How much did we pay down our state debt with that move? But, you DID get some brownie points, didn't you??? It's good to PANDER to your constituents!!! Did you name another Post Office at the same time?Oh, you leftist libtards just can't get enough of licking Obama's boots ! He is such a hero!!! Unemployment at an all-time high, deficits as far as the eye can see, and the national debt ballooning 50% over what you previously termed "unpatriotic..." What does this make you, IDIOT OBAMA ? The sooner we are DELIVERED from Jimmy Carter II the better off we will be ! By the way, Obama, MY FAITH CALLS ME TO DO ALL I CAN TO GET YOUR IGNORANT A** OUT OF OFFICE AND PUT AN END TO YOUR ENDLESS FOOD STAMP CRUSADE!!! WE ARE THROWING YOUR SOCIALIST IDEAS AS WELL AS YOUR GOVERNMENT DEPENDENCY IDEAS OUT THE DOOR !

Editorial : Again, So Sad ! I`m not sure how to deal with ignorance ? Just Pray ! I hope you can read Dr. King`s quote at top.

Fiat Lux

UNIONS for a STRONGER AMERICA ! You Bet`Cha !

Bills that are Not Clear, are Dangerous !

For months, House Republicans have been trying to use the reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a way to attack labor unions.

And until recently, Senate Democrats along with their colleagues from the House and the White House, have been standing strong and fighting back. But now, Senate Democratic leadership is poised to cave to the rightwing and anti-worker Republicans in the House, and allow what should be a bill about aviation safety and security to become one that unilaterally changes labor law to the detriment of working people. Tell Senate Democrats: Stand with unions. Don't cave to Republicans. Click here to automatically sign the petition. It might not surprise you that this fight began with the House Republicans following their tried and true tactic of holding a vital bill hostage to their extremist demands. In August, House Republicans even caused a temporary shutdown of the FAA after inserting a poison pill provision that attacked labor rights into the FAA reauthorization bill, and then skipped town for the August recess. Members of the Senate Democratic leadership are acting as though they've won something because the current deal on the table does not include that specific anti-labor provision that caused the FAA shutdown. But our friends in the labor movement aren't buying it. And neither are we. What appears to be happening is this:In exchange for Republicans giving up the poison pill, Senate Democrats have agreed to significant changes to the rules that govern unionization in the rail and airline industries — changes that have not been vetted through the legislative committee process and that will make it easier for corporations to engage in union busting.The labor movement stands with progressives on civil rights, immigrants rights, women's rights and a host of other issues. Progressives need to stand with labor and tell Senate Democrats to reject anti-worker provisions in the FAA reauthorization bill.

Tell Senate Democrats: Stand with Unions. Don't cave to Republicans.

Click below to automatically sign the petition:

http://act.credoaction.com/r/?r=5528028&id=34447-3026155-I5AeLFx&t=9

Thank you for all you do,

Underdog = Don Jones

Fiat Lux

Middle Class Being Eliminated ? You Bet`Cha !

UNDERDOG ~RANDOM THOUGHTS & WRITINGS !
by Underdog = Don Jones...2/02/12

As most of you know, I am a news junkie. I`m not sure, if that is good or bad ? But, somethings being espoused by some of our politicians are just not TRUE ! For instance, Republicans say raising the tax`s on Millionaire$/Billionaire$ would stifle the economy. That These ultra-rich people can`t create jobs, if we raise tax`s on them. Wrong ! If that were the case, we`d be covered up in jobs. The Bush Tax cuts for the ultra rich have been in place ten(10)years now, where are the jobs ? Oh there have been job creations alright, in CHINA and South America. Another thing being espoused is, Do away with Free Democratic Trade Unions, we don`t need them anymore. Wrong ! When these Unions are gone, there will be nothing but slaves remaining. When a worker has no voice in his workplace, not only is it wrong, it is dangerous. Better lookout. Depending on the state you live in, Republicans are passing "Right to Work" I call these laws "Right to Work for Less", Laws at an alarming rate. This is not only wrong, but dangerous. In this writers opinion, there have been three(3)great democratic/freedom uprisings/movements. (1.) The free-democratic organizing into Unions movement. (2.) The Feminist uprising/movement. The Civil Rights uprising/movement ! If you look closely, all three are freedom movements. I make no apology for that fact/statement. Republicans talk about getting government out of our lives. What they are really saying is get government off of BIG Business Back. When you hear a politician say, "Well we`re moving to a service oriented country/society, what he is really saying is "Lets move some more American jobs to CHINA" or another slave labor Country. Let`s take Tennessee for an example in tax`s. Our politicians and in Tennessee they are almost all Republicans. If you elect me, there will never be an income tax. Sounds great, right ? What they are really saying is, Not too much income in Tennessee. A ten 10% sales tax on everything is best. That way the poor working class pays as much if not more than the rich, and there is more of them. Our Governor Bill Haslam(R) Tennessee, is a billionaire. Do you think he understands going to the grocery and paying ten 10% on groceries`s ? NO ! Tennessee Republicans have now taken over the Public School system, Teachers no longer have input in regard to teaching. I bet this works out great. And pigs fly. Now before you ask, let me answer. Is it fair for millionaires/billionaires to pay more tax`s ? YES ! As Warren Buffett, billionaire says, I make more, I should pay more ! Correct ! Republicans are still fighting against Healthcare, or as they call it Obamacare. This could very well be the next freedom uprising/movement. By the way, I`m for Medicare for all Americans. If we do not fix this problem, soon only the wealthy will be able to afford health care. Has anyone ever figured out how your eyes and teeth do not figure into your healthcare ? Hey, I have an idea, why not end all of these wars/military actions and spend the money on all of the above ? Then, all middle class Americans will benefit, not just the rich. Uh...Oh, I`m beginning to sound like our President.The theory of the Ultra-Rich making more money is somehow beneficial to the working class, is NUTS ! TRICKLE DOWN DOES NOT WORK ! NEVER HAS ! Be careful we do not turn out like Mexico and have just a few family's control all of the wealth. Now have the Democrats done all things to my liking ? Absolutely not. But, compared to the Republicans, much better. Gun control, abortion and illegal aliens, just issues to keep the poor middle class in line. NON ISSUES ! Think about it. I have got some readers, who are just going to die, because of this blog.They do not handle facts very well. "So Mote it Be"!

Fiat Lux

Underdogs Blog...Re-Published July. 04, 2012

UNDERDOGS BLOG ~ RE-PUBLISHED...

7/04/12

By Underdog = Don Jones

Occasionally, I see a need to re-publish this particular blog ! One of those occasions is now. I have some readers, who do not agree with me. Hey, That's fine. However, they seem to get bent all out of shape. Perhaps they need to read again !
Your Friend, I hope ? Underdog = Don Jones ... I wrote this almost three years ago, my views have not changed !


I publish this blog, called Underdog almost daily. I write about things, I think, I know about ? For instance, I write about Organ/Transplantation. I write about Unions. I write about healthcare. I write a little about Pulmonary Hypertension. At times I am very opinionated. I do not ask that you agree with me, I do ask that when you disagree with me, that your comments on my blog be without curse words/profanity. I do not use them in my blog. I must insist that your comments be curse free. If they are not without curse words, that`s your prerogative. However, that particular comment will be deleted. That's my rule ! If you choose to write your comments anonymously that too is fine, however I may not publish. I am a Democrat most of the time. Although, I have voted Republican. I am a voter of platforms and programs. Thus, the platform of the Democrats, usually fit my needs. I feel that if you are a Republican voter, you are mostly with and not without. You are white collar not blue collar. I feel if you are opposed to health care reform, you are both with and have great insurance ! I`m a Democrat who opposes gun control. I am a Democrat who opposes abortion. If you want to carry a gun, and I do ! Get licensed. I am ! You don't want or believe in abortion, don`t have one ! As for myself and my family, I view it as our decision, not your`s ! I believe in Free Democratic Trade Unions ! I belong to one. In my state of Tennessee, we have a law called (Right to Work) I call it, "Right to Work for Less"! You are not required by law to join a union. If you do not wish to join, don`t ! You must understand, that I do not agree with that law, but, I am a law abiding citizen, thus I do abide by it ! I believe we should have term limits for our politicians. Congress was never intended to be a life-time occupation. We have them for our President and in Tennessee we have them for our Governor. Why not Congress and the Senate ? I once had a politician tell me, he could`nt be bought, but, he could be rented for a little while. I had a problem with that statement. I am a practicing Christian. I believe in separation of church and state. I have seen my church lose members over the years, because they turned into a political action committee(PAC). Let your conviction be tempered by your love for your fellow man. Let your example be that of Love, Hope and Charity ! I am a Freemason, Do not ever give up on our democracy. Vote ! Demand that your voice be heard and that you stay in touch/contact with your elected Representative`s. When you do disagree with someone, disagree with kindness, not hate or disgust. My e-mail address is on my blog. You can contact me via e-mail. donjones90@gmail.com/ . You can make comments on my blog, I encourage you to do so. Just be agreeable or disagreeable, not ugly ! If you have items of interest you would like to see published, just forward them to this writer. Now, understand, I am the publisher, I will decide what is published and what is not ! If you wish to save my web-address for my blog, just click on the title or the following link. http://wwwsecondchance.blogspot.com/

Democracy...is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch.
Liberty...is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote.

Dear Don, 2/02/12

Read the blog. You just seem reasonable to me. Evidently our system doesn't work on that plain.

Steve Sauter, Hersey MI.

Save blog > http://wwwsecondchance.blogspot.com/
and put it in your favorites.With warmest regard, I remain Stick a Fork in Me, I`m Done ! UNDERDOG = Don Jones !

P.S. I hope this gives you a better insight as to my thinking and the positions I take on certain subjects 

Fiat Lux

Rep. Bill Sanderson(R) 77th. District Tennessee

Rep. Bill Sanderson(R)~Tennessee`s 77th. District

by Underdog = Don Jones...1/31/12

Web-page here > http://www.capitol.tn.gov/house/members/h77.html

e-mail here > rep.bill.sanderson@capitol.tn.gov

This morning I was listening to my local radio (WCMT) station. It seems the President & General manager Paul Tinkle, was invited to Nashville for Governor Haslam`s state of the state address (nothing wrong with that). During his visit, he interviewed Rep. Sanderson 77th. District(upper left). We continually hear about bipartisan politics, we just see, very little of it. My best advice to Rep. Sanderson is to be quiet, (at least stay off the radio) if you have nothing to say. So far you have had very little to say ! When asked about State Senator Roy Herron, not running again. He said "I can`t wait to get his newly formed district to a RED District"! Blue, Red. It does`nt matter Mr. Sanderson, or with you, it does. Not a word about Senator Herron`s service to our state. Kinda sounds like ole Bedroom Bill is very non-bipartisan. Perhaps you should follow your fellow state rep. Andy Holt`s 77th. District example on this. Just be quiet. Can`t we all just get along ? Apparently not if your RED ! Rep. Sanderson, did you ever notice the Tennessee State Flag ? I suggest you take a good look.

Fiat Lux

OUTSOURCING ~ NO MORE Tax-Payer REWARDS for IT !

Right on Mr. President !
1/28/12

Here's something that President Obama laid out in his State of the Union that I think deserves special attention:

Won`t You Help ? > http://my.barackobama.com/Keep-Jobs-at-Home

Under current law, American companies can actually get a tax deduction for outsourcing jobs.That's the opposite of how it should work. President Obama is proposing to end tax deductions for outsourcing, create a new tax credit for bringing jobs home, and lower tax rates for companies that manufacture and create jobs in the United States. If you think this should be a priority during this campaign, it's up to you to speak out. Support the President and spread the word: http://my.barackobama.com/Keep-Jobs-at-Home This could be a defining issue of 2012. We heard a great plan from President Obama this week -- and we need to make sure everyone knows about this contrast. In his own words, "It's time to stop rewarding businesses that ship jobs overseas, and start rewarding companies that create jobs right here in America. ... Our workers are the most productive on Earth, and if the playing field is level, I promise you -- America will always win."!

Here's the quote from the State of the Union:

"Think about the America within our reach: A country that leads the world in educating its people. An America that attracts a new generation of high-tech manufacturing and high-paying jobs. A future where we're in control of our own energy, and our security and prosperity aren't so tied to unstable parts of the world. ...What's happening in Detroit can happen in other industries. It can happen in Cleveland and Pittsburgh and Raleigh. We can't bring back every job that's left our shores. But right now, it's getting more expensive to do business in places like China. Meanwhile, America is more productive. A few weeks ago, the CEO of Master Lock told me that it now makes business sense for him to bring jobs back home. Today, for the first time in fifteen years, Master Lock's unionized plant in Milwaukee is running at full capacity. So we have a huge opportunity, at this moment, to bring manufacturing back. But we have to seize it. ...My message is simple. It's time to stop rewarding businesses that ship jobs overseas, and start rewarding companies that create jobs right here in America. Send me these tax reforms, and I'll sign them right away."

Fiat Lux

Rep. Stephen Fincher~District#8~ Tennessee <> Keystone Pipeline Stance = Wrong Approach !

Letter From Stephen Fincher(R) District#8~Tennessee

1/28/12

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

The rhetoric in Washington and throughout the nation following the State of the Union on Tuesday has been an outcry for bipartisanship.


There are many things Republicans and Democrats disagree on, but there is one issue that many of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle can see eye to eye on: The construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.The Keystone XL Pipeline would carry oil from Canada to the Gulf Coast, providing more oil for America’s energy needs and employing tens of thousands of people immediately. By rejecting the Keystone, pipeline President Obama turned his back on jobs for unemployed Americans and ignored a way to take advantage of some of America’s own energy supplies. President Obama’s words in the State of the Union do not match his actions. If he was working hard on bringing jobs to America and creating energy independence, the Keystone pipeline is an answer. So what is the next step ? My colleague, Rep. Lee Terry (R-Neb.) is urging leadership to pass legislation that would give the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission control over the project instead of the White House and State Department. I am a co-sponsor of Representative Terry’s bill, (H.R. 3548), The North American Energy Access Act) and am working with Congressman Terry to see that this legislation is brought to the floor of the House of Representatives for a vote as soon as possible. Under H.R. 3548, President Obama would be cut out of the equation and the fate of this job-creating project would be left to expert individuals not influenced by special interest groups or re-election campaigns. I can assure you, I have not given up on this issue. We need the Keystone XL pipeline so we can get more Americans back to work.

Sincerely,

Stephen L. Fincher (R), Congressman

District#8~Tennessee

Editorial : Dear Rep. Fincher (R) District#8-Tennessee. As one of your constituents, I could not disagree you more with your letter ! Who gets this OIL ? Once it is shipped via an above ground pipeline from Canada to the Gulf Coast, are you sure it won`t be shipped to CHINA ? Your statement, If He was working on ? You are inferring that he is not. Where have you been ? Introducing a Bill (HR3548) Taking the President out of the picture ? NOT TOO SMART ! Not the way to influence and win people to your point of view. Who on earth are you listening too ? Surely not BIG OIL ? I urge you, DO NOT GIVE UP, JUST TRY A MORE compromising approach. Taking this kind of attitude and defiant approach is not conducive to West Tennesseans ! Nor the Country !

Fiat Lux

Rep. Bill Sanderson ~ Sells County Out !

Rep. Bill Sanderson(R) Sold County Out !

Contact > rep.bill.sanderson@capitol.tn.gov

House Members > http://www.capitol.tn.gov/house/members/

To The Editor:

Thanks for standing up for Obion County during the Goodyear plant closure and the nearly 1,000 direct jobs lost in Obion County.

While Goodyear announced its closure, state Rep. Bill Sanderson(R) was in China. Sanderson’s quote, “There is something to say for this (Chinese) economy and this government. Things run very smooth and efficient.” Obion County thanks you for your efforts in supporting the Chinese economy while we lose our jobs to China.Thanks for standing up for Obion County when Republicans in the Legislature divided our community into two State House Districts for the first time in anyone’s memory. It is appropriate for citizens to know exactly whom we have to thank for that — robbing our community of influence in Nashville. Last year, when the voters in District 77 elected Bill Sanderson to represent us, little did we know that a year later, we would be sold down the river in the redistricting process just passed. Rep. Bill Sanderson either sold us out and promoted the Republicans’ plan or was too weak to fight. Although I still live in and love Obion County, unfortunately, I have been cut out of it.Thanks to Rep. Sanderson and Obion County Republicans for doing nothing and calling that leadership. We should not just remember, but also never forget.

Robert M. Vanderford

South Fulton TN.

Published in The Messenger 1.25.12

Editorial : I`d like to say something, but it has been said so well and so factually. Nothing for me to say ! Oh yes, How do you like him now Tennessee District#77 ?

Roy Herron A Tennessee Treasure ~ Say`s No More !

HERRON CHOOSES TO SERVE THROUGH MCWHERTER CENTER

Will expand work on education and jobs

Dresden—Senator Roy Herron (D-Dresden) today announced plans not to run for office in 2012, but instead to lead the Ned McWherter Center for Rural Development in expanded efforts to help young people go to college and create jobs for Tennesseans.

The senator expressed both great gratitude to constituents and high hopes for students and workers. Herron stated:

“I am blessed to represent the most wonderful people on earth. The people who have let me work for them as their representative and senator are my teachers, friends, and many are like family. I’m excited about working with them and other Tennesseans to help more young people go to college and help our state grow and gain good-paying jobs.” Herron said after he finishes his state senate responsibilities this year, he will work actively as the president of the McWherter Center, a non-profit, non-partisan, charitable organization. The McWherter Center provides scholarships and educational opportunities for Tennessee students. The McWherter Center was founded in 2008 with the blessing of the former Governor who died last April. Herron explained, “Some of us blessed to learn so much from Governor McWherter wanted to continue his service, and he loved the idea of a Center that would help young people.” “Governor McWherter repeatedly taught,” Herron recalled, “’Schools plus roads equals jobs.’ And while he called himself a college drop-out, he helped his two children earn five (5) university degrees, and he recognized that in the 21st century his formula must be updated to say, ‘Colleges plus information highways equal jobs.’” Herron said, “Now the Center can use Governor McWherter’s wisdom and legacy to help enable our young people to continue their education beyond high school so they can become all that God’s grace and their gifts will let them become.” Herron said re-districting made the decision to leave the legislature hard, because he knows and loves so many people in the new 24th senate district.“The new senate district is four counties I’ve represented in the senate for 16 years (Obion, Weakley, Henry, and Benton), another county I represented in the House for 10 years (Carroll), and my late sister’s home county (Gibson) near our farm where I also know so many that I love so dearly.” “But Governor McWherter said his second term was ‘for the kids’ and I want my next stretch of public service to follow his lead in making a difference for our young people.” Senator Herron said the McWherter Center will be working with Tennesseans of both political parties as well as independents to expand college opportunities. He explained, “The rich can afford college, the very poor can get financial aid, but the middle class and working people are struggling as college costs soar. The ‘strong back jobs’ are gone overseas and the 21st century jobs are going to those who have a 21st century education. The McWherter Center can help students get 21st century educations and jobs.” “At a time when some in the General Assembly want to make college scholarships harder to attain, I don’t see Nashville moving in the right direction. But I believe many Tennesseans will work together to help the young people who want to study hard and improve their lives.”

LEGISLATIVE RECORD

Herron won then-Speaker McWherter’s seat representing Weakley and Carroll counties in the Tennessee House of Representatives in 1986 when McWherter ran for Governor. In 1996, Herron ran for the state senate where he initially represented Dyer and continues to represent Lake, Obion, Weakley, Henry, Stewart, Benton, Henderson, Decatur, and Perry counties. In 2010, he was the Democratic nominee for Congress. He remains in the state senate. In the General Assembly, Herron has held numerous leadership positions, including chairing the Select Committee on Children and Youth, the TennCare Oversight Committee, the Senate General Welfare, Health and Human Resources Committee, and the Senate Democratic Caucus. Herron has sponsored literally hundreds of bills that have become law and a state constitutional amendment. As an attorney who had served as a special prosecutor, Herron authored the Crime Victims Bill of Rights that for the first time in Tennessee history enshrined in the Tennessee Constitution a set of rights for victims of crime.

As a former minister and lawyer who graduated from and taught at Vanderbilt’s Divinity and Law Schools, Herron wrote the Student Religious Liberty Act to protect children’s rights to pray in public schools and the Bible in Schools Act which provides a constitutional way for children to learn about the Bible in public schools.

As the father of three sons, two of whose lives were saved in the womb and as newborns by exceptional healthcare professionals, Herron worked with Governor McWherter to expand access to healthcare for working families. He then fought to try to get the next administration to require better stewardship of taxpayer dollars by the managed care organizations.

As a country lawyer, Herron took the case of a natural gas company employee worried about unsafe and illegal practices endangering hundreds of West Tennesseans, then wrote Tennessee’s Whistleblower Law that protects citizens who refuse to break the law or report crimes to law enforcement. An avid hunter and sportsman, Herron often quipped that with a district including more rivers and lakes than any other, he represented “more ducks and geese, more bass and bream” than any other legislator. He authored and worked on numerous acts to protect Second Amendment rights and expand outdoor opportunities. Herron grew up fishing and duck hunting on Kentucky and Reelfoot Lakes with his father and raised his own sons doing the same. Working with Congressman John Tanner, Governor Phil Bredesen, and Representative Phillip Pinion, Herron helped obtain the new spillway at Reelfoot Lake. A fiscal conservative known for his pickup truck with almost half-a-million miles, Herron has spent the taxpayers’ dollars like his own. He helped balance Tennessee’s budget every single year in office, while keeping Tennessee one of the lowest-taxed states in the country.
Herron warned that many in Nashville today seem intent on bolstering private for-profit educational companies at the expense of taxpayers and to the harm of public schools. Herron said he will miss continuing to fight for public schools as a senator, but plans to continue his efforts for public school students through his work with the McWherter Center. As the son of a smoker who died of heart disease and the brother of a smoker who died of lung cancer, Herron sponsored the legislation that first banned smoking in state government buildings, then the legislation that banned smoking in most public places. That legislation has taken Tennessee from a third more citizens smoking five years ago to where we are today, saving taxpayers and insurance premium payers millions in reduced healthcare costs and which will ultimately save thousands of lives. A runner who has completed more than thirty marathons and three 140.6 mile Ironman Triathlons, Herron sponsored the legislation creating the Coordinated School Health Program that works across Tennessee to reduce childhood obesity and improve children’s health. As a businessman committed to economic growth, Herron helped create infrastructure improvements that have meant jobs and will mean more jobs in the future. Herron has played a significant role in the four-laning of Highways 22, 45E, 45W, 79, 412, and I-69, as well as new roads like 218 and numerous life-saving improvements such as the safety barriers between opposing lanes of interstate traffic. He fought for and helped secure funding for the Cate’s Landing Port and Industrial Park in Lake County, the West Tennessee Jobs Megasite in Haywood County, improvements to area airports, and the expansion of efforts by the Department of Economic Community Development to draw companies to Tennessee. As the parent of three sons, Herron worked to improve Tennessee’s schools, helping pass Governor McWherter’s and Governor Bredesen’s education initiatives, including the Better Education Program, pre-kindergarten for low-income children, and fairer funding for rural school systems.

“I’ve seen great teachers do great work and the differences they’ve made in our sons’ lives,” Herron said. All three of Herron’s sons attended Weakley County public schools in Dresden. “I want all children to be blessed with great, loving teachers like our sons were blessed to have.”

As a graduate of and former teacher at the University of Tennessee at Martin and Vanderbilt University, Herron has advocated not only for public schools, but also for post-secondary education in the vocational and career centers and community colleges and universities.

Herron has been known in the Senate for his willingness to work. In more than a quarter century, he has 100% attendance except for the day his youngest son was being born. He missed the House session that day, but only that day, and he has yet to miss a Senate session.

Herron also has been known for his Listening Meetings. It is believed that he has conducted more public Listening Meetings than any other member of the General Assembly, a number he acknowledges is “somewhere well north of a thousand.”

In addition to the legislation that Herron has helped pass, he also is known as having modified bills that needed correcting and having helped stop bills he thought should not pass. When asked for examples of some of the bad legislation he has helped stop, Herron declined, saying, “I don’t want to give anybody any ideas about trying some of those bad ideas again. We’re doing too much harm to the people already.”

CONCLUSION :

Herron will serve out his term which ends with the new general election in November. The current session of the General Assembly is expected to adjourn by May.

Herron assured citizens, “I’m just as passionate about the issues and care just as much about our people. If I can help you now as senator or in the future in any way, please, let me know.”

Herron can be contacted at his senate office at 309 War Memorial Building, Nashville, 37243, or 1-800-449-8366, extension 1-4576. He may be contacted in West Tennessee at P.O. Box 5, Dresden 38225 or 731-364-5415.

Editorial : A Tennessee Treasure is getting out. Why ? Battle fatigue ~! To put it mildly, Senator Herron is tired of fighting Elephants with a switch. Make no mistake, Tennessee is now in the hands of the REPUBLICANS ! And it is not now or will it be in 2012 a middle class oriented representation. Having said that. Senator Roy Herron is the single cause of the Organ/Donor Bill in Tennessee. The live`s he has affected/saved in this bill alone is phenomenal ! Senator Roy B. Herron ~ THANK YOU ! You are/were a Great Representative along with Governor NED R. McWherter. God bless you and your wonderful family.

Fiat Lux

God Bless President Obama ~ He Has it Right !

God Bless The President of the United States ~ YES !

Last night, I watched President Obama deliver his third State of the Union address.

Loved when he laid out specifics about how to get our economy back on track : Made in America, Energy independence, and Entrepreneurship.
Now it’s time to rally around the President and show our support. The key is working together—every one of us—because that’s the only way we can turn things around. Can you take a minute to sign my letter to President Obama to let him know we’re with him ? Please Sign Kirsten Gillibrand`s letter below ! Or Title. Click here to sign my letter telling the President that we stand with him.
As the President said, it’s going to take a lot of hard work to rebuild our economy. But I know if we put in the time and effort, we’ll reap the rewards.
President Obama asks for creation of special unit of federal prosecutors to further investigate mortgage lending practices that led to the housing crisis.
President Obama announces creation of a trade enforcement unit to investigate "unfair trade practices in countries like China." In State of the Union address, Obama says the "defining issue of our time" is how to keep the American dream alive. "We can either settle for a country where a shrinking number of people do really well, while a growing number of Americans barely get by. Or we can restore an economy where everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules. "What’s at stake are not Democratic values or Republican values, but American values. We have to reclaim them."

MOGADISHU, Somalia — U.S. Navy SEALs parachuted into Somalia under cover of darkness early Wednesday and crept up to an outdoor camp where an American woman and Danish man were being held hostage. Soon, nine kidnappers were dead and both hostages were freed. President Barack Obama authorized the mission by SEAL Team 6 two days earlier, deploying the same unit that killed Osama bin Laden last year. Minutes after the president gave his State of the Union address to Congress he was on the phone with the American's father to tell him his daughter was safe.

President Obama is joining the call to ban insider trading by members of Congress.
In his State of the Union address, the president told lawmakers that he would immediately sign any bill prohibiting the practice, as well as preventing members from owning stock in industries they oversee.“Send me a bill that bans insider trading by Members of Congress, and I will sign it tomorrow,” he said, according to prepared remarks.

Editorial : Don`t Hold your breath ~ ! It Won`t Happen. congress takes care of CONGRESS !

Fiat Lux

Illustrating the Success of Health Care Reform...The Affordable Care Act.

Republican presidential campaign pyrotechnics can’t hide the record of a party that has turned its back on ordinary Americans.

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

It’s worth remembering how, a year ago, the Republican-majority House of Representatives tried to repeal the 2010 Affordable Care Act.

What would have happened if they had succeeded ?

2.5 million young adults would have no health insurance.
2.65 million seniors would have paid $1.5 billion more for prescription drugs.
24.2 million seniors would pay for preventative services they are getting for free.
And that’s just the beginning. A short report from the White House highlights how the Affordable Care Act is making insurance more available and affordable for millions of Americans. It’s good reading at a time when the Affordable Care Act repeal is still a GOP battle cry, with all the presidential hopefuls and most Republicans in Congress vowing to overthrow the law—and trying to scare voters in the process. Check out the Center for American Progress’ animated video (above) explaining the benefits of reform. The video was developed by MIT economist Jon Gruber, an adviser on both the Affordable Care Act and the Massachusetts health care reform program.

Editorial : The Affordable Care Act, is called ObamaCare by those very same Republicans. Congressman Stephen Fincher(R)District#8-Tennessee is opposed to the Affordable Health Care Act. He Voted to repeal it ! He does`not vote on this Tennesseans behalf, how bout yours ? How you like him now Tennesseans ?

Tennessee District#8-Recent Votes

http://www.fincher.house.gov/office/washingto9n-dc

Recent House Votes

Debt limit disapproval - Vote Passed (239-176, 2 Present, 16 Not Voting)The House voted to block a $1.2 trillion increase in the $15.2 trillion debt ceiling. With the Senate unlikely to approve a similar measure, the increase will automatically take effect January 27, 2012. Rep. Stephen Fincher voted YES......send e-mail or see bio

Editorial : In this vote "YES" meant NO !

REPUBLICAN OPPOSE`S RIGHT to WORK for LESS

In Online Townhall, Mich. Gov. Snyder(R)Opposes Right To WORK for Less LAW ?...

Following the State of the State address last week, Michigan’s Gov. Rick Snyder(R) held an online town hall meeting. Participating on Twitter using the hash tag #Ask Gov Snyder, union workers, the Michigan State AFL-CIO and progressive allies kept the questions coming – on jobs, needed infrastructure investments and education.

Many of the #Ask Gov Snyder tweets reflected priorities outlined in the Michigan 2012 Jobs Plan, introduced by Michigan State AFL-CIO President Karla Swift. The Jobs Plan has the support of a broad coalition of affiliate unions of the Michigan AFL-CIO and allies, including the Michigan League for Human Services, Progress Michigan and We Are the People. Many of the same organizations – and individual union members – joined in the Twitter Town Hall. The diverse voices asking tough questions were noted by Michigan Public Radio. The Town Hall was also a great opportunity to educate the community on “right to work” for less. When Snyder answered a question by opposing “right to work,” workers and community groups spread the news far and wide. With extremist politicians in Michigan, as well as Indiana, New Hampshire and across the country pushing so-called “right to work,” educating the public about these unnecessary and divisive anti-worker laws couldn’t be more timely. Check out some of the #Ask Gov Snyder Tweets … and look for opportunities to #AskYourElectedOfficials about the issues that matter.

MIAFLCIO Michigan AFL-CIO: We’re waiting to hear more about reinvesting in schools, infrastructure, and public safety. Is this going to happen? How?

#AskGovSnyder
MIAFLCIO Michigan AFL-CIO: Gov. Snyder repeats: “Right to Work is not on my agenda.” Issue is divisive… let’s focus on job creation.

#AskGovSnyder
migov: We need to take the best practicies by these economic development organizations and share them to enable everyone to do well.

#AskGovSnyder
migov: Q5: Where is the support for northern Michigan? We need business building opportunities throughout the state

#AskGovSnyder
mitchellrivard: Gov. Snyder: Will you support Ruth Johnson’s voter disenfranchisement bills to make it harder for minorities to vote?

#AskGovSnyder
MIAFLCIO Michigan AFL-CIO: Don’t forget, tonight is Gov. Snyder’s online town hall. Starts at 6, hashtag is #AskGovSnyder. What questions would you like him to answer?

mitchellrivard: Gov. Snyder: Why have you repeatedly changed the way “progress” is measured on your dashboard to tilt data in your favor?

#AskGovSnyder
ProgressMich: #AskGovSnyder when will you start actually leading, instead of meekly saying things aren’t on your agenda before signing them anyway?

ProgressMich: #AskGovSnyder why won’t the Educational Achievement Authority be ready until fall? Its “chancellor” is making $400k ! Click here for more info : bit.ly/nog918

Theresthatbear Jille, Explain how Whirlpool fired 5000 employees but doubled its “earnings” in 2011 due to state & fed subsidies. Some job creator. They went to Mexico !

#AskGovSnyder
Mitchellrivard: Gov. Snyder: Why are you hijacking democracy in Michigan cities by appointing Emergency Managers who make six-figure salaries? #AskGovSnyder This one is a direct reference, in regard to Detroit !


Editorial : Gov. Snyder(R) Michigan, does`nt say he`s opposed to "Right to Work for Less" ! It just isn`t on his agenda. Actually, The Republican party may kick him out of the party for this non-action on RTW !.. For whatever reason, Gov. Snyder (R) Michigan. Thank You ! You are right on this one. Contact Gov. Snyder here > http://www.michigan.gov/

Fiat Lux