Congressman Fleming Announces Grant for Bossier Parish Schools

Washington, DC – Congressman John Fleming announced today that Bossier Parish Schools has been selected to receive a $459,325 grant under the Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Program. This grant will be for the period 08/01/2009 through 01/31/2011 and is anticipated to last for a total of 2 years.



Grants awarded through the Readiness and Emergency Management for Schools Program are given to strengthen and improve emergency response and crisis management plans.



“This grant will allow Bossier Parish Schools to develop improved plans that address all four phases of emergency management: Prevention-Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery,” said Congressman John Fleming. “It will also allow for collaboration with local law enforcement, local government and local health officials to ensure these plans are fully developed and ready to be implemented in the event of a disaster situation. It will also allow for additional emergency training and for the purchase of needed supplies.”



Plans must include training for school staff, a plan to sustain local partnerships after the period of Federal assistance, and a plan for communicating emergency management policies and reunification procedures to parents. Grant recipients must also agree to support the implementation of the National Incident Management System and commit to developing plans that take into consideration special needs populations within the school district. Lastly, recipients must agree to develop a written food defense plan and an infectious disease plan designed to prepare the school district for possible infectious disease outbreak.



Congressman John Fleming represents the 4th District of Louisiana and is a member of the Armed Services and Natural Resources Committees.

From the Desk of U.S. Senator David Vitter

Dear Friend,

I wanted to share some good news with you about new federal funding that will soon be heading to northwest Louisiana.

This week I secured $23.6 million for the J. Bennett Johnston Waterway.

The JBJ Waterway is a critical component of the economy of northwest Louisiana, and this funding helps sustain continued economic growth in this area, especially at the Port of Shreveport-Bossier.

These funds will be used to continue acquisition of mitigation lands, construction of revetment and reinforcements, and for dredging and lock maintenance of the Waterway to adequately keep the river system operational for inland navigation.

These funds were included in the U.S. Senate’s Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, which passed through the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee this week and will soon go the Senate floor for consideration.

Sincerely,

David Vitter
U.S. Senator

Women's Republican Club of Shreveport is hosting a "Constitution Revolution" luncheon at LSU-Shreveport July 15

Although the emphasis for this event is on youth, all ages are invited and will enjoy this event!!! Call 865-5938 for reservations.

CONSTITUTION “REVOLUTION” COMING TO LSU-S

The Women’s Republican Club of Shreveport is sponsoring a “Constitution Revolution” luncheon for teens and college students, from 11:30 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2009, at the LSUS University Center. The luncheon and program will be a celebration and examination of the U. S. Constitution, critical thinking, and conservatism. WRC president Libby Gleason said, “This luncheon event is a conservative primer for high school and college students and seeks to promote activism among young conservatives.”

Shannon F. Reeves, National Director of State and Local Development for the Republican National Committee, will be the keynote speaker. Reeves is a 1991 graduate of Grambling State University, a past president of the California branch of the NAACP and former secretary of the California Republican Party. Reeves has served in eleven different capacities, and in fourteen states during his twenty-three years of service to the NAACP.

Nationally known attorney Mike Johnson, of Shreveport, will also be featured on the program. Johnson serves as Senior Legal Counsel for the Alliance Defense Fund in Louisiana. He has litigated and won high profile religious liberty cases nationwide and is frequently interviewed and featured on radio and television including Fox News, CNN, ABC, CBS, MSNBC as well as major newspapers and magazines across the country.

Shreveport city councilman Bryan Wooley will serve as master of ceremonies and special guests at the luncheon include Matt Parker, Executive Director of the Louisiana Republican party and Royal Alexander representing the TEA party. Tickets are $10 for students and $15 for adults.

Although the emphasis for this event is on youth, all ages are invited and will enjoy this event!!!

Call 865-5938 for reservations.

Louisiana Lowers the Bar in Education: A Simple Solution

Now that the dust has begun to settle from the 2009 Louisiana Legislative session one thing is abundantly clear: Legislators' creative critical thinking skills are left wanting when it comes to Education. Click here to read my brief analysis and simple solution to the two tracked diploma fiasco

Analysis of the 2009 session of the Louisiana Legislature

While the cloud of dust has yet to settle, analysis of this Louisiana Legislative session has just begun. The tidal surge of Barbara Norton's introduction of Shreveport's Hurricane Chris is just starting to hit from a pretty wide area of the worldwide web and only the future can tell if any real damage will be done to Louisiana's reputation from Hurricane Chris' performance on the Legislative floor. Who knows, maybe it will bring volunteers, charitable contributions, and federal government support like other "real" hurricanes have in the past. I suspect that, like "real" hurricanes, Hurricane Chris may cause a surge of refugees to leave the state to possibly never return and may hurt tourism. Maybe, somehow, it will work the other way around. Only time will tell.

Other than the headline grabbing performance of Hurricane Chris, the Louisiana legislative session has been describe as a "short session, short on ideas" (Click here to see the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana's Analysis of the Louisiana Legislative Session) and was given an overall report card grade of a "D" by one political analyst (Click here to see C.B. Forgotston's "Report Card on the 2009 Session").

The only other thing that I can recall is that Northwest Louisiana Senator Adley introduced legislation to increase tax incentives for the movie industry to film/produce films in Louisiana while at the same time lessening tax incentives for the movie industry to hire Louisiana residents for their projects.
From my reading of Adley's bill it looked like the aim of the bill was mostly to increase movie filming/production in Louisiana.

Still, the dust is settling on the 2009 Louisiana Legislative session and I suspect things will become much clearer very soon.

Congressman Fleming’s Statement Regarding GM Announcement

Washington, DC – Congressman John Fleming released the following statement today following GM’s announcement regarding its future plans for the Shreveport plant:

“I spoke with Mayor Glover this afternoon. We will continue to work with GM to try and find new ways for them to maximize the existing infrastructure in North Louisiana. We will also aggressively work with Tengzhong, the Chinese buyer of the Hummer brand, to show the benefits of not only keeping the existing Hummer manufacturing at this plant, but also the possibilities for expanding their US operations at this facility.

“I will also work with Louisiana Economic Development to begin exploring other economic opportunities for Northwest Louisiana, utilizing our very capable workforce in the 4th District. Louisiana is a business friendly state and, as a business entrepreneur myself, I will do all I can to them attract them to our community.”

U.S. Senator David Vitter's e-update

This month I met with President Obama’s nominee for the Supreme Court, Judge Sonia Sotomayor. The Judge had some trouble getting around following an injury to her ankle, but her sense of humor remained unharmed as she appreciated me offering her a bag of ice and a pillow.

FIGHTING INTERNATIONAL BAILOUTS

A few weeks ago, President Obama met with member countries of the G20 to discuss the state of the global economy. Following that meeting, Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner proposed a ten-fold expansion of an emergency international fund that loans money to bail out troubled countries like Sudan. The current program can issue a loan of up to $50 billion, but Geithner wants to expand that to $500 billion. We would have to borrow another $100 billion from China to bail out these foreign countries, and this makes no sense when we are already facing record debt and millions of Americans continue to struggle with employment here at home.

The International Monetary Fund provides loans to countries that are “troubled” or struggling to stay afloat financially. If the Obama administration’s plan passes, our tax money could be loaned to countries like Pakistan, Ukraine and Takijistan, as well as other countries with questionable allegiances to the United States. We shouldn’t be asked to put the rest of the world’s struggling economies on our backs while we face our own economic challenges here at home. American taxpayers already see a generous amount of their hard earned money being lent to foreign entities each year in the form of other foreign aid like that which goes to the United Nations. I intend to keep working with other concerned senators to help keep your hard-earned taxdollars at home, where they belong.

REWARDING INDIVIDUAL EMPLOYEES FOR THEIR HARD WORK

This month, I introduced the Rewarding Achievement and Incentivizing Successful Employees (RAISE) Act, to allow employers to give merit-based bonuses or other increases in compensation to employees above and beyond any collective bargaining agreement in place. Currently, the National Labor Relations Board can strike down bonuses and merit pay that have not been negotiated by the unions.

The RAISE Act would allow unionized companies to award raises and bonuses to high performing employees, rewarding those individuals who make the extra effort to achieve in the workplace. This bill embodies one of the most important principles of our nation – that those who work hard are rewarded for their efforts. Under current federal law, however, that principle is rendered obsolete, and even the most lackluster employees receive the same compensation as their hard-working colleagues. The RAISE Act would change that and allow employers to award appropriate merit raises and bonuses beyond those negotiated by the unions and their bosses.

FIGHTING TO GET FEMA TO APPROVE V-ZONE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

FEMA has finally decided to allow construction projects in Grand Isle, Cameron Parish and other high-risk flood areas of the state to move forward. This announcement signals real progress for folks across the state, and this is a huge breakthrough for our ongoing recovery process.

I’ve been working closely with FEMA on the V-Zone issue since January and have repeatedly called on officials to allow these projects to move forward. Last month, I held up the nomination of Craig Fugate, President Obama’s selection to head up FEMA, over concerns with FEMA’s position on V­Zone issues. After meeting with Fugate and receiving a letter of good faith from FEMA that stated their intent to reach a timely decision on the V­Zone issue, I agreed to lift the hold. I’ve been working with FEMA closely to help them reach the right conclusion, and they finally did just that. These communities have waited long enough, and I know that they are anxious to get on with the rebuilding process.

GETTING READY FOR HURRICANE SEASON

June 1 marked the beginning of hurricane season, and it’s important that we prepare ourselves for the hurricane season by taking appropriate steps to ensure that our families are ready to face the challenges of hurricane season. As Louisianans, we are acutely aware of how dangerous and damaging these storms can be. Since it is impossible to predict when disaster will strike, making preparations early is the best way to help ensure the safety of our families. Waiting until the last minute during the most active part of the season can have disastrous results.

The National Hurricane Center recommends that you create a plan for your family, to include locating a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard, making a plan for your pets and taking first aid, CPR or disaster preparedness classes. These are just a few of examples of how you can best prepare for the hurricane season. Hurricanes are part of life every year in Louisiana, but advance preparations can help reduce their impact on your family. I urge you to take hurricane watches and warnings seriously. Please plan ahead for your family’s safety and encourage your neighbors to do the same.

For any other questions or concerns visit my Web site at: www.vitter.senate.gov.

(Note: The introduction and a picture of Senator Vitter offering nominee for the Supreme Court, Judge Sonia Sotomayor a bag of ice were omitted.)

From the LA GOP

Good morning and greetings from the LA GOP –

The House convened at 10am with the Senate to follow at 1pm. You can find a full list of committees meeting today here.

TAX HIKE DEFEATED: Yesterday, the Louisiana House of Representative effectively defeated a $118 million dollar tax hike by sending it to conference committee. True to form, liberals did all they could to convince their colleagues it was not actually an increase; but the majority of members knew better. A delay in promised tax relief is a tax hike. Along with the internet tax and the cigarette tax, it appears this tax hike has finally been defeated. How did you representative vote? Find out here.

Stories we’re following…

La. House rejects tax break delay

“Louisiana House members have rejected a Senate proposal aimed at easing higher education budget cuts by postponing a scheduled tax break for three years. The House rejected a bill by Rep. Karen Carter Peterson that would delay a 2007 law that allows individual taxpayers to deduct all of their excess itemized deductions compared with the current 65%. The change is scheduled to take effect for 2009 tax forms, but the Senate wants to delay that change until taxpayers fill out their 2012 forms.” – Associated Press

Louisiana Abortion-Conscience Bill Strengthened, Senate OKs Pro-Life Measure

“The Louisiana state Senate gave pro-life doctors and other medical professionals a big victory on Monday when it approved a conscience bill on abortion. The legislature also strengthened the bill to cover both public and private medical professions, which had been weakened earlier in the process. The bill will now allow all health care professionals to opt out of involvement in abortions or practices like human cloning, euthanasia or embryonic stem cell research.” – Life News

Saints' lease deal on its way to Gov. Bobby Jindal

“With no debate, the House gave final approval today to a bill that would authorize the state to lease 320,000 square feet of office space from Saints owner Tom Benson, a major element of a deal to keep the team in New Orleans through 2025.” – Times-Picayune

Welcome, Global Strike Command

“Nobody wanted to count the warbirds til they hatched. And so a collective sigh of relief almost was audible across Shreveport-Bossier City on Thursday with the Air Force's official word that Barksdale indeed would house the new Global Strike Command. … As home to the storied 8th Air Force, Barksdale's sprawling campus has served the nation well, and with the arrival of Global Strike Command, its story will continue well into the 21st century.” – Shreveport Times

Governor to address Shreveport business community

“Gov. Bobby Jindal will be in Shreveport on July 13 to the area’s business community. The meeting will be held at 11:30 a.m. at the University Club, 400 Market St., 15th floor.” – Shreveport Times

Payments to Jefferson caused CEO to wonder

“Whether former Rep. William J. Jefferson, Louisiana Democrat, is found guilty of federal corruption charges will depend largely on whether a jury thinks an imprisoned businessman bribed the nine-term congressman or was simply paying legitimate consulting fees. Vernon Jackson, former CEO of iGate, finished testifying Tuesday after five days on the stand during Mr. Jefferson's trial in U.S. District Court in Alexandria. Jackson is serving a seven-year prison sentence since he pleaded guilty in 2006 to bribery for giving Mr. Jefferson more than $400,000 in exchange for Mr. Jefferson promoting his company in Africa.” – Washington Times

Nagin: I didn't mislead the public over crime-camera repairs

“The latest questions looming over the New Orleans crime-camera program are less about electronics and more about semantics. During the Mayor's final state of the city speech on May 20, he proclaimed, ‘as promised last year, all 242 crime cameras were repaired.’ But a report issued by his own administration about two weeks earlier on May 4 said only 109 cameras were working. And the most up to date report, released on June 5, put the number of operational cameras at 190.” - WWL

From the LA GOP

Good morning and greetings from the LA GOP –

The House and Senate convened at 9am. You can find a full list of committees meeting today here.

ANTI GROWTH LEGISLATION DEFEATED: Yesterday afternoon the full Senate referred House Bill 841 sponsored by Rep. Avon Honey to accept federal unemployment insurance dollars with strings attached to the Senate Labor and Industrial Relations Committee. The Committee then voted to defer bill by 4 to 2 margin which according to today’s Advocate means “the bill likely is dead.” The strings attached to acceptance would have resulted in higher taxes on our state’s jobs creators and discouraged new economic investment. We’d like to thank Senators Sherri Cheek, (R-Keithville); Danny Martiny, (R-Metairie); Mike Walsworth, (R-West Monroe); and Neil Riser, (R-Columbia) for supporting Louisiana workers and small businesses by rejecting this anti-growth legislation.

TAX HIKE TUESDAY: With the 2008 Regular Session wrapping up this week, liberals in Baton Rouge still have tax increases on the agenda. Of course they don’t call it a tax increase, but how could a bill that raises revenue and requires individuals to pay more state taxes than they were supposed to pay not be a tax increase? A delay in promised tax relief is no different than a tax hike and that’s exactly what Senate Floor Amendment #3447 does. As Louisiana families and small businesses tighten their belts, so must government. Call your Representative today at 225-342-6945 and tell them to reject House Bill 889 and kill the tax increase amendment in conference committee because your taxed enough already.

CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATOR: The end of the 2009 Regular Session is quickly approaching and we encourage activists to contact their state representatives and state senators to make their voice heard on important issues. Find contact information for your members here.

Stories we’re following…

FastStart key in securing plant

“V Vehicle Co.'s top executives said a key component in choosing Ouachita Parish for the company's first assembly plant was a new state training program that could deliver a turnkey work force to the former Guide Corp. facility.” – Monroe News-Star

Community shows excitement over new plant

“Louisiana's Economic Development Department staff had planned for as many as 200 people to attend V Vehicle Co.'s announcement that it was bringing 1,400 jobs to Ouachita Parish to assemble a new American car at the former Guide Corp. plant. They underestimated the community's excitement. At least 350 people showed up, and there may have been as many as 400, but it was hard to tell because many couldn't fit into the room. ‘You think people in northeastern Louisiana don't care about jobs?’ 5th District U.S. Rep. Rodney Alexander, R-Quitman, said as the parking lot began to fill. ‘That parking lot is a field of dreams for our community.’” – Monroe News-Star

French company picks Iberville Parish site

“A French chemical company has chosen Iberville Parish to be home to a $362 million plant expected to employ more than 500 workers at an average salary of $57,400. Flanked by state and local government and company officials at the Iberville Parish Courthouse on Friday, Gov. Bobby Jindal announced SNF Floerger SAS had chosen Louisiana — specifically, an 800-acre site off of La. 405 just south of Plaquemine — over locations in three other states.” – The Advocate

A workable agreement

“A state-brokered deal to give Louisiana State University ownership of a proposed New Orleans teaching hospital and to give Tulane and other local universities seats on its governing body is a good compromise to advance the project. The Tulane Board of Trustees ratified the deal Friday. Their LSU counterparts are to consider it today, and they also should endorse it. … Having the two medical schools involved with the hospital would undoubtedly make it better -- but that requires the cooperation this agreement brings. Gov. Bobby Jindal and Health and Hospitals Secretary Alan Levine deserve credit for their roles in the negotiations, which also included LSU System President John Lombardi, Tulane President Scott Cowen and board members from LSU and Tulane.” – Times-Picayune

Louisiana First Lady makes special visit to Tchefuncte Middle

“‘Did you know that when you add the lemonade powder to water, you’re causing a scientific reaction?’ asked Supriya Jindal. A combined group of campers from Pontchartrain Elementary School and Tchefuncte Middle School had a visit from Louisiana’s First Lady last week, as she presented a program on the importance of reading and developing math and science skills.” – St. Tammany News

Town Hall Queries

“U.S. Sen. David Vitter discussed his concerns over the growing federal deficit and vast government expansion Saturday, urging residents at a town hall meeting to stay informed and speak out on the overhaul of the health care system. … Vitter said health care comprises 16 percent of the economy, and added that a government option for health insurance would force private insurance companies out of business and thus force Americans to choose government-run insurance. ‘Do we really want government running our health care?’ he said. ‘You want the efficiency of the post office and the empathy of the IRS in your health care?’” – Daily Iberian

Senator David Vitter holds a town hall meeting in Jennings

“U.S. Senator, David Vitter, made a stop in Jennings, this morning, to hold a town hall meeting. Some of the topics that came up were healthcare and government spending. Vitter started by sharing some of his concerns and then asked others to share concerns of their own. ‘It is a great way to hear directly from folks; what's on their minds and what's on their hearts, and what they think I should be most focused on,’ said David Vitter.” - KPLC

Melancon eyes Senate out of weakness, not strength

“Louisiana’s Democrat Third District Rep. Charlie Melancon seems to be reevaluating his previous position not to challenge Republican Sen. David Vitter. In the end, it will come down just how risk he is willing to assume to have a longer political career.” – Between The Lines

Cassidy reacts to reforms

“U.S. Rep. Bill Cassidy made a national television appearance last week to lay out his position on President Barack Obama’s health-care reform plan. The gastroenterologist was interviewed by Fox Business in what the station called an ‘exclusive.’ The Baton Rouge Republican is a member of the American Medical Association that Obama addressed last week. Instead of a government-run insurance plan to cover 47 million uninsured Americans, Cassidy said he would like to see the government provide vouchers or tax credits to allow the uninsured to buy private insurance.” – The Advocate

Obama Approval Index Falls to Lowest Rating

“The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Sunday shows that 32% of the nation's voters now Strongly Approve of the way that Barack Obama is performing his role as President. Thirty-four percent (34%) Strongly Disapprove giving Obama a Presidential Approval Index rating of -2. That’s the President’s lowest rating to date and the first time the Presidential Approval Index has fallen below zero for Obama.” – Rasmussen Reports

Jefferson trial likely to be long

“Before they rest their case in the bribery trial of former U.S. Rep. William Jefferson, government prosecutors said they intend to call 49 witnesses. In addition, they plan to introduce 950 exhibits. And then there are hours of secretly recorded audio tapes. The trial begins its second week of testimony this morning The prosecutors said that it will take four weeks to present their side. Legal scholars tracking the case say the overwhelming amount of evidence is strategic.” – The Advocate

From the LA GOP

Good afternoon and happy Father’s Day from the LA GOP –

The Senate convenes at 4pm with the House to follow at 5pm. You can find a full list of today’s agenda here.

JOBS IN JEOPARDY: As most families spend the day at a BBQ, visiting family or just relaxing at home; the Louisiana State Senate is considering a devastating tax increase on Louisiana small businesses. In 2008, the Legislature worked hard to create a pro-growth business environment by eliminating onerous taxes and revitalizing workforce training and these efforts are already paying dividends. Today’s Times-Picayune reports that since Governor Jindal took office in January 2008, the administration with the support of the legislature have created “11,887 new jobs and have retained 12,179 jobs, representing capital investments of $4.3 billion…”

House Bill 841 puts Louisiana jobs in jeopardy. Passage of the bill would send a clear message to the business community that Louisiana is not the place to grow or expand their company. HB 841 will result in higher taxes and discourage current Louisiana employers from hiring new workers and new businesses from relocating here.

The best way out of our current budget deficit is not to raise taxes, but to maintain and improve a business climate that is outperforming nearly every other state in the country. We strongly encourage legislators vote against this anti-business tax. Whether you’re a small business owner or employed by business, make your voice heard by telling your Senator to reject this tax increase. Find contact information for your Senator here.

From the Desk of Congressman Dr. John Fleming: Barksdale Confirmed as Home for Global Strike Command

Barksdale Confirmed as Home for Global Strike Command

Activation of Mission Set for August 7, 2009

Washington, DC – Congressman John Fleming was informed this afternoon by the United States Air Force that the Environmental Impact Statement process (EIS) has been completed at Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City, LA resulting in a Finding of No Significant Impact. Barksdale has been green lighted to serve as the official home of Global Strike Command.

“This is tremendous news for Barksdale and Northwest Louisiana. Today’s announcement confirms the importance of Barksdale to the United States military and means the creation of nearly 1,000 direct jobs along with thousands more that will be affected as ancillary service providers to the base and its workforce,” said Congressman Fleming. “This record of decision puts Global Strike Command on target to reach initial operating capacity by October 1, 2009 and will make Barksdale responsible for the Air Force’s nuclear deterrent mission, including all nuclear bombers and intercontinental ballistic missiles.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I look forward to working with General Klotz to secure any necessary resources to build out what is needed per Air Force requirements and ensure this mission’s success.”

Lt. Gen. Frank G. Klotz has received Senate confirmation to become commander. He currently serves as assistant vice chief of staff and Air Force staff director and will take charge of the new command upon its formal activation.

Global Strike Command will coordinate the Air Force’s nuclear and conventional global strike missions and will be the tenth major command of the U.S. Air Force. This organizational construct will clearly align Intercontinental Ballistic Missile and dual-mission capable bomber forces under a single command and demonstrate a visible commitment to the global strike mission. Air Force Global Strike Command will be responsible for organizing, training and equipping ICBM forces, B-2 and B-52 bomber forces, and other deterrence capabilities to conduct operations.

From the LA GOP

Good afternoon and greetings from the LA GOP –

The House and Senate convened at 1pm today. You can find a full list of committees meeting today here.

$118 MILLION TAX INCREASE: Yesterday, the Louisiana State Senate revived a proposed delay in promised tax relief – which is without a doubt a tax increase. Individuals who itemize their federal income tax deductions will pay more this year and in subsequent years than they were supposed to pay. No amount of clever spin will overcome the facts. The bill raises revenue that otherwise would not exist. That’s a tax increase.

We’d like to thank those Senators who stood up for taxpayers by voting against the amendment to increase taxes and now we need the House of Representatives to defeat this bill once and for all. Call your Representative at 225-342-6945 and tell them to reject HB 689 and kill the tax increase language in conference committee because you’re taxed enough already.

The bill faces tough opposition from the 55 members of the House who pledged to refuse this proposal the first time around, but we cannot rest until this tax increase is defeated. Call your Representative today.

DECEPTIVE MANUEVER GOING TO FULL SENATE: Rep. Avon Honey’s deceptive maneuver to accept federal stimulus dollars for unemployment insurance narrowly passed out of the Senate Finance committee yesterday and will be heard by the full Senate soon. We strongly encourage Senators to stand up for Louisiana’s small businesses and prevent the certain increase in taxes that will result from this bill. Call your Senator at 225-342-2040 and tell him or her to reject HB 841.

CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATOR: The end of the 2009 Regular Session is quickly approaching and we encourage activists to contact their state representatives and state senators to make their voice heard on important issues. Find contact information for your members here.

Stories we’re following…

Wages will average $40,000 at new Monroe-area auto plant

“The 1,400 jobs created by a new American auto manufacturer at the former Guide plant in Ouachita Parish will average $40,000 per year and create almost $20 billion in economic activity during the first 15 years of production, Louisiana's top economic development official said… The new company will manufacture high-mileage gas-powered cars, not electric or hybrids as some reports have suggested.” – Alexandria Town Talk

Lawmakers vote to toughen penalty for refusing Breathalyzer test

“Louisiana’s lawmakers have agreed to stiffen the penalty for drivers who refuse to submit to a Breathalyzer test when they are stopped on suspicion of drunken driving. Under current law, a suspect who refuses to take the test loses his driver’s license for six months. The bill headed to Gov. Bobby Jindal’s desk — with a unanimous House vote on Wednesday — would increase the suspension to one year.” – Associated Press

Supriya Jindal touts math and science in Mandeville

“A tour of Louisiana schools brought Supriya Jindal to Pontchartrain Elementary and Tchefuncte Middle schools in Mandeville on Wednesday, where she told students that ‘math and science is everywhere.’… The visit was part of a tour of eight schools across the state to get students excited about careers in math and science, and to distribute over 500 books donated to her office by Scholastic. About 20 books were given to the schools' shared library.” – Times-Picayune

Boustany presses Republican health-care plan

“U.S. Rep. Charles Boustany Jr. joined House Republican leaders Wednesday as they rolled out a congressional health care plan to counter Democratic proposals, which they criticized as costly and ineffective. ‘Today starts the beginning of an open and substantive debate on health care,’ Boustany, R-Lafayette, said.” – Lafayette Advertiser

Witness: US Rep's bribes hidden as consulting fees

“A Kentucky businessman testified Wednesday he paid hundreds of thousands of dollars in ‘consulting fees’ to the wife of a former Louisiana congressman that were nothing but thinly veiled bribes. … [Vernon] Jackson is also one of the trial's most important witnesses. Out of numerous bribery schemes that prosecutors allege Jefferson orchestrated, the one involving Jackson was the most advanced and involved the largest payments.” – Associated Press

Ulrich appointed to RNC redistricting committee

“Monroe’s Ruth Ulrich, Republican national committeewoman for Louisiana, has been appointed to serve as a member of the Republican National Committee’s Redistricting Team. The team will work with states across the country helping them prepare for the redistricting efforts following the 2010 national census.” – Monroe News-Star

Help Stop Louisiana's Internet Tax

Will you take a few minutes, right now, and help us to stop Louisiana Legislators from taxing the Internet? That’s right – we said the Internet. If this tax passes every person who pays for Internet access will undoubtedly see an increase in their monthly bill.

House Bill 569 is scheduled to be heard in a legislative committee today and we urgently need your help to stop it!

The Internet Alliance, Institute for Policy Innovation, and Louisiana Broadband Advisory Council are already opposing this bill, stating that it violates federal law.

We’re taxed enough already and national groups are already saying that passage of this bill would make Louisiana “look like a uniquely backward state.”

Click here or call 225-342-6945 to contact your representative and ask him or her to stop trying to tax the internet.

Thank you.

From the LA GOP

The Senate convenes at 1pm today with the House to follow at 2pm. You can find a full list of committees meeting today here.

TOBACCO TAX DEFEATED: Yesterday the Louisiana House of Representatives defeated Speaker Pro-Tem Karen Carter Petersons regressive tax hike that would negatively affect Louisiana small businesses. In remarks prior to the vote, Rep. Joseph Lopinto (R-Metairie) said “… we are here to change the status quo, and I don't believe that should be to raise new taxes. My problem is, my citizens in my area voted for me to come up here and tighten our belts.’ Our members of the House who stood up for Louisiana families and small businesses by rejecting this tax increase. Read more about the vote here.

AGAINST THE INTERNET TAX: James Lakely, a research fellow at the Heartland Institute, has an op-ed in the Shreveport Times today in opposition to the proposed internet tax. He argues that preventing exploitation of children is a “worthy goal” but that the Attorney General’s office should fund those efforts without an exclusive funding mechanism. Lakely also points out that most perpetrators of child pornography operate across state lines putting the cases under federal jurisdiction and that the law will likely be struck down by legal challenge under federal law that prevents taxes on the internet. Read more of Lakely’s story here.

DONATIONS DRIVING LANDRIEU HEALTHCARE STAND?: Change Congress, a nonpartisan group run by an advisor to Barack Obama’s presidential campaign and Howard Dean’s former campaign manager, is suggesting that Mary Landrieu’s position on healthcare is influenced by the $1.6 million in campaign contributions she’s received from the healthcare and insurance industries. Read more about the groups charge here, and remember, this isn’t the first time Landrieu has been accused of putting political interests above policy considerations.

CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATOR: The end of the 2009 Regular Session is quickly approaching and we encourage activists to contact their state representatives and state senators to make their voice heard on important issues. Find contact information for your members here.

Stories we’re following…

Effort to have La. accept stimulus money for jobless benefits stalls

“An attempt to override Gov. Bobby Jindal's rejection of $98 million in federal stimulus money to expand unemployment benefits remains stalled in the Senate Finance Committee, which delayed discussion of the proposal today. … The proposal won approval from the House, but only because many of the House members didn't realize what they were approving. Honey quietly added the override language to a separate bill (House Bill 841) on the House floor in the final minutes of a long workday, and many lawmakers said later that they didn't understand what had been added. … Passage of the bill is a long-shot, with fierce opposition from Jindal, who said he will veto the bill if it reaches his desk.” – Associated Press

La. lawmaker: Autos to be built in Ouachita

“A well financed company is close to choosing a shuttered north Louisiana site to start a new automobile manufacturing facility, creating up to 1,500 jobs, according to two elected officials from the region. Rep. Jim Fannin would not identify the company but said the vehicles would be the company's first and would be built at a former Guide Corp. plant in Ouachita Parish. He said Gov. Bobby Jindal would make an announcement about the deal on Wednesday.” – Associated Press

Jindal, lawmakers say 'no more games' in budget dilemma

“When the Louisiana House unexpectedly passed the state budget bill through last week, some lawmakers said it wasn't balanced. The bill's sponsor, state Rep. Jim Fannin, D-Jonesboro, disagrees. ‘HB1 as returned from the senate does not spend more money than is available,’ he said. However, the bill includes $278 million that is tied to other pieces of legislation. Monday, Governor Bobby Jindal announced he'll line-item veto that spending. Jindal said he's making the announcement now, so lawmakers will have time to find other ways to shore up the gap. ‘We don’t want to play games with the legislature,’ Jindal said. ‘We want to make it very clear about what we’re doing.’” - WWL

New Blog Challenges State Senate District 20 Candidate Damon Baldone On Taxes

“Voting FOR More Taxes and Fees… Did you know that during the 2003 Regular Session, Rep. Damon ‘Bad Vote’ Baldone voted IN FAVOR of higher state taxes 11 out of 12 times? … Have the taxpayers of Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes forked over enough of their hard-earned income to government? Obviously ‘Bad Vote’ Baldone doesn’t think so.” – Bad Vote Baldone

Governor’s office confirms millions in hurricane-recovery aid

“Gov. Bobby Jindal’s office has confirmed that local parishes will be receiving almost $170 million in federal aid for the 2008 storms, Gustav and Ike. Terrebonne will get a total of $133 million in federal tax dollars, $10 million of which has to go toward affordable housing programs. Lafourche will get a total of $36 million with $3 million of its share required to go to affordable housing. The entire state is getting about $1 billion for 2008 disaster recovery.” – Houma Today

Opening statements in William Jefferson's corruption trial set to be delivered today

“Prosecutors and defense attorneys should deliver opening statements today in the federal trial of former Rep. William Jefferson, who is facing 16 counts of corruption. It's possible prosecutors will also call their first witness this afternoon -- perhaps Vernon Jackson, the CEO of iGate Inc., who pleaded guilty to paying bribes to the nine-term New Orleans Democrat.” – Times-Picayune

Obama Puts $1T Price Tag On Health Reform

“A leading health care bill under consideration in Congress would cost the government an estimated $1 trillion over the next decade and reduce the ranks of the uninsured by about one-third, or 16 million individuals, congressional budget officials said Monday in a preliminary estimate.” – Associated Press

Congressman Fleming’s Statement Regarding His Opposition to the Final Version of the 2009 War Supplemental Act

Washington, DC – Congressman John Fleming made the following statement after voting against the final version of the H.R. 2346, commonly referred to as the 2009 War Supplemental Act.

“There is no one I hold in higher regard than the men and women on the front lines in this global war on terror, but this bill reduces funding for our troops by 22% while increasing funding for international assistance by 66%. We are trading defense funding that would ensure our troops have what is necessary to complete their mission to fund a global bailout.

This bill also removed critical language regarding the release of detainee photographs and the funding restrictions for the transfer or release of Guantanamo Bay detainees into the United States.

We are now willing to assist third world countries at the expense of the American taxpayer and on the backs of the brave men and women who are fighting the war on terror. American citizens and American soldiers deserve better.”

Congressman John Fleming represents the 4^th District of Louisiana and is a member of the House Armed Services and Natural Resources Committees.

"Hello North Louisiana" Video from YouTube

Abstract of Louisiana State Capital That I created using Paintshop Pro 10. I altered an old postcard.

Map of Louisiana's 4th Congressional District and Links to U.S. Congressional Districts

This image is used with written permission from http://www.govtrack.us . Written statements from this site clearly state that you can reuse their images for any purpose as long as source credit is given. This is an excellent source and clicking on this link http://www.govtrack.us or the one above will take you to this map and give you the opportunity to enlarge the map to see more detail.

The Louisiana Pelican and It's Christian Origins

"Physiologus says of the pelican that it of all birds loves its young the most, but when the chicks grow and begin to strike their parents in the face, the parents grow angry and strike back, killing their young. After three days the mother feels great remorse, and tearing open her own breast she bathes the dead chicks in her blood and restores them to life. The Saint Epiphanius version is the same, except that the mother pelican is said to kill her young by her excessive kisses. The interpretation is that we have struck our "parent" (God) with our sin, which has doomed us, but Christ's blood can revive us."
Source: Saint Epiphanius on the Physiologus published by Christopher Plantin Antwerp 1588

Look at the Louisiana State Flag, it is an updated version of the picture above.

Louisiana 4th Congressional District Map

This is a public domain image of Louisiana's 4th Congressional District. A race to replace U.S. Representative Jim McCrery is starting to heat up. Several candidates have declared their intentions to run for this office. Qualifying for the Louisiana 4th Congressional District is July 11.