Dear Editor (Colorado Springs Gazette):
I strongly oppose the vote in Teller County to expand gambling in Cripple Creek. The limits on gambling were placed there for good reason: gambling destroys families.
For one example, just look at what happened in Woodland Park (Teller County, CO) where a long-time finance department worker embezzled $582,922 for gambling from the school district's general fund, and that happened with the current limits on gambling.
Family members told arresting officers their mother "had attempted suicide" and left a note admitting her guilt. Just imagine what affect this tragedy will have on the family unit, husband and two sons.
I urge all of my friends at the Family Forum to call all of their friends in Teller County and urge them to defeat this family ruining measure.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Dewey Lee Fletcher to be named Chief of Staff in 4th CD
Unusually reliable sources report that Louisiana Ouachita Parish public relations executive Lee Fletcher will be named Chief of Staff by newly elected Louisiana 4th District Congressman John. Sweeny. Fletcher worked for 5th CD Congressman John Cooksey for about two years until he was allegedly eased out. Before that Fletcher worked for 5th CD Congressman Jim McCrery. Fletcher ran for 5th CD Congressman against Rodney Alexander and was defeated when his votes were diluted by Religious Right candidate Jack Wright. Word is Fletcher will be the real Congressman in the Shreveport until Dr. Sweeny, like Dr. Cooksey before him, figures Fletcher out.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Mr. Jindal AWOL
Dear Editor:
To Mr. Shexnayder, Ph.D. (The NewsStar, December 5) instead of the wunderkind you defend, what you see is definitely not what we get.
Instead of doing his job in Louisiana when all the paper mills are closing, he's in Iowa campaigning for president. He arrives in his helicopter after the International Paper company announces the loss of 540 jobs in Bastrop to offer his “condolences”. He announces a "secret meeting" of his handlers with "officials" at Smurfit-Stone in Hodge after they have already closed the plant.
He goes to Philadelphia to meet the president-elect, but won't answer phone calls from the press asking how he traveled there in the face of the stink about the three car companies privately flying to D.C. for a bailout.
He goes to Florida for the republic governor’s conference and the Beacon Hill Institute’s Competitiveness Report announces that Louisiana is next to last in attracting and retaining businesses that contribute to economic growth He ran the state health department and the American Public Health Association announces Louisiana is the unhealthiest state in the United States.
Mr. Jindal was AWOL when he ran the health department, AWOL when he ran higher education, and he's AWOL now as governor.
To Mr. Shexnayder, Ph.D. (The NewsStar, December 5) instead of the wunderkind you defend, what you see is definitely not what we get.
Instead of doing his job in Louisiana when all the paper mills are closing, he's in Iowa campaigning for president. He arrives in his helicopter after the International Paper company announces the loss of 540 jobs in Bastrop to offer his “condolences”. He announces a "secret meeting" of his handlers with "officials" at Smurfit-Stone in Hodge after they have already closed the plant.
He goes to Philadelphia to meet the president-elect, but won't answer phone calls from the press asking how he traveled there in the face of the stink about the three car companies privately flying to D.C. for a bailout.
He goes to Florida for the republic governor’s conference and the Beacon Hill Institute’s Competitiveness Report announces that Louisiana is next to last in attracting and retaining businesses that contribute to economic growth He ran the state health department and the American Public Health Association announces Louisiana is the unhealthiest state in the United States.
Mr. Jindal was AWOL when he ran the health department, AWOL when he ran higher education, and he's AWOL now as governor.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
SECOND CASINO PULLS OUT OF KANSAS
HARRAH’S FOLLOWS PENN NATIONAL OUT OF KANSAS Posted: November 24, 2008
How quickly things can change in just a few months. Harrah’s Entertainment became the second developer to say “thanks, but no thanks” to Kansas, dropping its plans to develop and operate a state-owned casino in Sumner County. Citing the "current economic conditions and the unprecedented disruption in the financial markets," the company will not build the proposed $535 million resort the south-central part of the state, according to a statement. The statement said it "was impossible" to finance the project now. Back in August, the Kansas Lottery Gaming Facility Review Board awarded a Harrah’s Entertainment-led partnership, Sumner Resorts-Harrah’s, one of fourth licenses to develop the new casinos in the state. Penn National was also awarded one of the contracts, but pulled out of the deal, claiming a tribal casino that opened this summer posed too much competition in a small marketplace. Cherokee County, where Penn National won its contract, has since sued the Pennsylvania-based operator for more than $52 million in damages and has won a temporary order from a local judge attaching a lien to a $25 million state gambling “privilege fee” that was due to be refunded to the company.
How quickly things can change in just a few months. Harrah’s Entertainment became the second developer to say “thanks, but no thanks” to Kansas, dropping its plans to develop and operate a state-owned casino in Sumner County. Citing the "current economic conditions and the unprecedented disruption in the financial markets," the company will not build the proposed $535 million resort the south-central part of the state, according to a statement. The statement said it "was impossible" to finance the project now. Back in August, the Kansas Lottery Gaming Facility Review Board awarded a Harrah’s Entertainment-led partnership, Sumner Resorts-Harrah’s, one of fourth licenses to develop the new casinos in the state. Penn National was also awarded one of the contracts, but pulled out of the deal, claiming a tribal casino that opened this summer posed too much competition in a small marketplace. Cherokee County, where Penn National won its contract, has since sued the Pennsylvania-based operator for more than $52 million in damages and has won a temporary order from a local judge attaching a lien to a $25 million state gambling “privilege fee” that was due to be refunded to the company.
Friday, October 24, 2008
from a very gifted writer i know
Just this evening I went to Central Market to get some chicken and vegetable kabobs for grilling. I'm wearing an Obama t-shirt that says "VOTE NOV 4th" on it and I'm just passed the bokchoy and Chinese eggplant, when a nebbish man in his late 40's approaches me.
"I just voted!" he says in fortissimo. An "I VOTED!" sticker on his shirt confirmed this.
"Great, I voted on Monday", I responded, now passing the hot house cucumbers.
"...but I didn't vote for that guy" he continues, pointing to my shirt. Editor's Note: (the post thought scenario has me slapping him like Sidney Poitier in In The Heat of the Night at this point)
"How long have you hated America?", I asked curtly.
He is clearly taken aback by my jab, but his retort is undecipherable.. drowned out by the guffaws of my fellow Austinites (arrugula eating liberals, whose ears had perked from beyond the pummelos and blood oranges). His lips kept moving, but I was relentless with scathing commentary that crescendoed at "Javoll, mein führer! Javol, mein führer!'.
...And that's when he reached for the onion.
It was the size of a baseball, and his thumb rubbed the dry skin like a pitcher waiting on a sign. He must've thought he was an "old guard" Texas gun fighter until the snickering made his blood boil right there in front of the comice pears. In the end it was less like Sergio Leone in the produce aisle and more like a grade school stand off. After he threw the onion back into the pile (knocking several to the floor), both parties walked away upset. I felt a little like a bully, partly because the crowd was on my side. But don't bullies always start the fights? I didn't start this fight, but I didn't stop it either. I wanted it. Palpable catharsis. Revenge. For 8 years of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Guilty and shamed by my soiled reputation as a citizen of this world. So... I let Joe the Plumber have it. I stuck the knife in and twisted off the handle, deepening the social divide I so despise (and have repudiated) in an unconscionable attempt to assuage my anger. But still "the blood dries slowly" Kafka said...and old wounds die hardly.
I hope he doesn't beat his wife.
Just this evening I went to Central Market to get some chicken and vegetable kabobs for grilling. I'm wearing an Obama t-shirt that says "VOTE NOV 4th" on it and I'm just passed the bokchoy and Chinese eggplant, when a nebbish man in his late 40's approaches me.
"I just voted!" he says in fortissimo. An "I VOTED!" sticker on his shirt confirmed this.
"Great, I voted on Monday", I responded, now passing the hot house cucumbers.
"...but I didn't vote for that guy" he continues, pointing to my shirt. Editor's Note: (the post thought scenario has me slapping him like Sidney Poitier in In The Heat of the Night at this point)
"How long have you hated America?", I asked curtly.
He is clearly taken aback by my jab, but his retort is undecipherable.. drowned out by the guffaws of my fellow Austinites (arrugula eating liberals, whose ears had perked from beyond the pummelos and blood oranges). His lips kept moving, but I was relentless with scathing commentary that crescendoed at "Javoll, mein führer! Javol, mein führer!'.
...And that's when he reached for the onion.
It was the size of a baseball, and his thumb rubbed the dry skin like a pitcher waiting on a sign. He must've thought he was an "old guard" Texas gun fighter until the snickering made his blood boil right there in front of the comice pears. In the end it was less like Sergio Leone in the produce aisle and more like a grade school stand off. After he threw the onion back into the pile (knocking several to the floor), both parties walked away upset. I felt a little like a bully, partly because the crowd was on my side. But don't bullies always start the fights? I didn't start this fight, but I didn't stop it either. I wanted it. Palpable catharsis. Revenge. For 8 years of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Guilty and shamed by my soiled reputation as a citizen of this world. So... I let Joe the Plumber have it. I stuck the knife in and twisted off the handle, deepening the social divide I so despise (and have repudiated) in an unconscionable attempt to assuage my anger. But still "the blood dries slowly" Kafka said...and old wounds die hardly.
I hope he doesn't beat his wife.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Ruth Ulrich Elected As Louisiana's Republicn National Committee Woman
Breaking News
According to non-country club republican sources, the Honorable Kay Kellogg Katz has been replaced as Louisiana’s National Republican Woman’s Representative. By a vote of 144-27 (84% of the votes cast) Ms. Ruth Ulrich (www.ruthulrich.com) of Monroe was elected and will represent Louisiana at the National Convention in Minnesota. As I recall some $122,259.58 (Campaign Finance Report Dated 10/03/2007) was raised to return Ms. Katz to office last Fall precisely because she was a member of the National Republican Committee. Makes a grown person wonder.
According to non-country club republican sources, the Honorable Kay Kellogg Katz has been replaced as Louisiana’s National Republican Woman’s Representative. By a vote of 144-27 (84% of the votes cast) Ms. Ruth Ulrich (www.ruthulrich.com) of Monroe was elected and will represent Louisiana at the National Convention in Minnesota. As I recall some $122,259.58 (Campaign Finance Report Dated 10/03/2007) was raised to return Ms. Katz to office last Fall precisely because she was a member of the National Republican Committee. Makes a grown person wonder.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Dean of College of Pharmacy Resigns Suddenly
Breaking news
Dean Lamar Pritchard of the ULM College of Pharmacy e-mailed his faculty on Friday, August 22, 2008, to announce that he was resigning his position. There was a mad scramble by the administration to cta's. Here's the skinny. During the 2008 legislative session the Dean was in Baton Rouge visiting with the northeast Louisiana Delegation and asking for money for the School of Pharmacy. The legislators responded, "We gave you money last year. Why are you asking for more?" The Dean's response was, "We didn't get the money you gave us last year!" The legislators, all men and women of courage, called the administration asking/demanding an explanation of the Dean's remarks in Baton Rouge. Again, ever adroit at cta's, the administration said there must be some mistake. Yeah, the mistake was the Dean talked to the legislators! There's more involving the accreditation process, promises made but unfunded by the administration, but that's inside pool.
Dean Lamar Pritchard of the ULM College of Pharmacy e-mailed his faculty on Friday, August 22, 2008, to announce that he was resigning his position. There was a mad scramble by the administration to cta's. Here's the skinny. During the 2008 legislative session the Dean was in Baton Rouge visiting with the northeast Louisiana Delegation and asking for money for the School of Pharmacy. The legislators responded, "We gave you money last year. Why are you asking for more?" The Dean's response was, "We didn't get the money you gave us last year!" The legislators, all men and women of courage, called the administration asking/demanding an explanation of the Dean's remarks in Baton Rouge. Again, ever adroit at cta's, the administration said there must be some mistake. Yeah, the mistake was the Dean talked to the legislators! There's more involving the accreditation process, promises made but unfunded by the administration, but that's inside pool.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Will The Pall Never Lift From The Side Of Monroe North Of Forsythe?
Will the pall never lift from the side of Monroe north of Forsythe? They woke up Wednesday morning to an above-the-fold 8 X 10 of school board member Mrs. Brenda Shelling hugging, have you, the neck of the new superintendent of the Monroe City School System--the fired-twice old superintendent of the Monroe City School System!
What is a body on the side of Monroe north of Forsythe to do? It surely shakes their faith in old man Machiavelli who, of course, currently resides among the-powers-that-be on the side of Monroe north of Forsythe.
You see, Ms. Shelling was quite literally wined and dined at the fashionable Sage Restaurant by the side of Monroe north of Forsythe to get her vote to fire the superintendent, and she did it once, along with the Rev. Rodney McFarland, 5-2 Then Rev. McFarland reversed his vote on a second vote, but Ms. Shelling stuck with the side of Monroe north of Forsythe, 4-3. Moving forward, you say?
So let’s get a gaggle of people—some who don’t even live in Monroe-- to spend a lot of time searching for a new superintendent, pay the interview expenses of a bunch of gullible candidates, and pay an old member of the school board (OldMSB) from the side of Monroe north of Forsythe an annualized salary of $112,000 to jerk their collective chains. A formula for success, you say?
Then Wednesday night forsaking the advisory committee’s time, the search expenses, the jerk your chain OldMSB’s expenses, all of her gifts, favors and gift-givers, Mrs. Shelling votes to keep the superintendent she voted twice to fire. As the Sage once said, “The best laid plans of mice and men (and Machiavelli) often go awry".
What is a body on the side of Monroe north of Forsythe to do? It surely shakes their faith in old man Machiavelli who, of course, currently resides among the-powers-that-be on the side of Monroe north of Forsythe.
You see, Ms. Shelling was quite literally wined and dined at the fashionable Sage Restaurant by the side of Monroe north of Forsythe to get her vote to fire the superintendent, and she did it once, along with the Rev. Rodney McFarland, 5-2 Then Rev. McFarland reversed his vote on a second vote, but Ms. Shelling stuck with the side of Monroe north of Forsythe, 4-3. Moving forward, you say?
So let’s get a gaggle of people—some who don’t even live in Monroe-- to spend a lot of time searching for a new superintendent, pay the interview expenses of a bunch of gullible candidates, and pay an old member of the school board (OldMSB) from the side of Monroe north of Forsythe an annualized salary of $112,000 to jerk their collective chains. A formula for success, you say?
Then Wednesday night forsaking the advisory committee’s time, the search expenses, the jerk your chain OldMSB’s expenses, all of her gifts, favors and gift-givers, Mrs. Shelling votes to keep the superintendent she voted twice to fire. As the Sage once said, “The best laid plans of mice and men (and Machiavelli) often go awry".
Monday, August 11, 2008
Did the ULS Board Approve International Travel for Two Of President Cofer's Employees
July 31, 2008
President Randy Moffett
University of Louisiana System
1201 N 3rd St.
Suite 7-300
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Dear President Moffett:
I have enclosed an article from the Monroe News Star which states that the University of Louisiana-Monroe will pay for the travel expenses of two of its employees to China for the opening of the Olympics. If my memory serves me correctly, international travel must be approved by the Board of the Louisiana System. Since the article indicates this trip was thrown together at the last minute, I just wonder if board approval has been granted for the trip by two of Dr. Cofer’s employees. I would appreciate it very much if you would check into this and let me know if Board approval was granted for this trip.
President Randy Moffett
University of Louisiana System
1201 N 3rd St.
Suite 7-300
Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Dear President Moffett:
I have enclosed an article from the Monroe News Star which states that the University of Louisiana-Monroe will pay for the travel expenses of two of its employees to China for the opening of the Olympics. If my memory serves me correctly, international travel must be approved by the Board of the Louisiana System. Since the article indicates this trip was thrown together at the last minute, I just wonder if board approval has been granted for the trip by two of Dr. Cofer’s employees. I would appreciate it very much if you would check into this and let me know if Board approval was granted for this trip.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Show Trial of the 21st Century Begins in Monroe
Show Trial of the 21st Century Begins in Monroe, LA
The ghost of Huey P. Long was surely present this morning to witness the preliminary hearing for the Friends of Francis (Thompson) show trial in U. S. District Court in Monroe. Magistrate Karen Hays was presiding.
But there was no Senator Francis Thompson.
Present were a slice, dare I say all, of Richland Parish landed gentry. All the wives, ex-wives, girl friends, ex-girlfriends, servants, fully three generations of Thompsons and their political cronies were part of a standing room only crowd in the court room.
Starting with Mr. Coenen and his notorious attorney Mike Small of Alexandria, each defendant was called to the bar to be sworn in and Mirandized. Magistrate Hays read a description of the charges and the potential sentences and fines to each defendant and asked them if they understood the charges and penalties. In each case they answered in the affirmative. In each case their attorneys entered a plea of not guilty on all charges. The United States is represented by Ms. Mignon Griffin.
It would not be a stretch to say that these normally jovial and back-slapping politically powerful folks were deadly serious today. I am sure some sphincter muscles were seriously puckered up under those imported Brooks Brothers suits.
Could this be the “last hurrah” for the Thompson clan? Will they soon join their political buddy Edwin Edwards in the Marksville Federal Pen? Stay on-line for more information.
The ghost of Huey P. Long was surely present this morning to witness the preliminary hearing for the Friends of Francis (Thompson) show trial in U. S. District Court in Monroe. Magistrate Karen Hays was presiding.
But there was no Senator Francis Thompson.
Present were a slice, dare I say all, of Richland Parish landed gentry. All the wives, ex-wives, girl friends, ex-girlfriends, servants, fully three generations of Thompsons and their political cronies were part of a standing room only crowd in the court room.
Starting with Mr. Coenen and his notorious attorney Mike Small of Alexandria, each defendant was called to the bar to be sworn in and Mirandized. Magistrate Hays read a description of the charges and the potential sentences and fines to each defendant and asked them if they understood the charges and penalties. In each case they answered in the affirmative. In each case their attorneys entered a plea of not guilty on all charges. The United States is represented by Ms. Mignon Griffin.
It would not be a stretch to say that these normally jovial and back-slapping politically powerful folks were deadly serious today. I am sure some sphincter muscles were seriously puckered up under those imported Brooks Brothers suits.
Could this be the “last hurrah” for the Thompson clan? Will they soon join their political buddy Edwin Edwards in the Marksville Federal Pen? Stay on-line for more information.
Monday, August 4, 2008
University of Louisiana Monroe in the News
Remember that report about Northeast University not paying $347,989.04 in payroll taxes (Tax Lien with UCC, Bk 2694, pg. 278 in The Ouachita Parish edition of the Legal Recorder, Inc. dated July 8, 2008)? Well it turns out not paying payroll taxes to the IRS is a federal crime. For example, the Department of Justice July 30, 2008) just announced the sentencing of a former Fort Worth nursing home executive to 10 years in federal prison for among other things not paying payroll taxes. President Cofer may be doing the perp walk very soon!
Oh my, the August 1, 2008, The Morning Paper, the best investigative newspaper in Louisiana, reports that Northeast University only received $2,000,000 from this year’s capital outlay budget. Here’s the complete list: McNeese State $34.99 million, ULL $24.62 million, Louisiana Tech $21.96 million, Grambling $14.13 million, Northwestern State $17.25 million, Southeastern Louisiana $10.1 million. In a year when the Louisiana budget was bursting with dollars, northeast got $15 million less than the average awarded to all the members of the University of Louisiana System. Rumor has it that, just like before President Swearingen got the ax from Sally Clausen, the Louisiana legislature is cutting off the money to President Cofer before he gets the ax from President Moffett!
Oh my, the August 1, 2008, The Morning Paper, the best investigative newspaper in Louisiana, reports that Northeast University only received $2,000,000 from this year’s capital outlay budget. Here’s the complete list: McNeese State $34.99 million, ULL $24.62 million, Louisiana Tech $21.96 million, Grambling $14.13 million, Northwestern State $17.25 million, Southeastern Louisiana $10.1 million. In a year when the Louisiana budget was bursting with dollars, northeast got $15 million less than the average awarded to all the members of the University of Louisiana System. Rumor has it that, just like before President Swearingen got the ax from Sally Clausen, the Louisiana legislature is cutting off the money to President Cofer before he gets the ax from President Moffett!
Monday, July 21, 2008
gambing in kansas
This letter to the editor was published in the Wichita Eagle Beacon, Friday, July 18. 2008.
Dear Editor:
This past weekend I visited family in Wichita and was appalled to see the amount of uncritical coverage your paper gave to gambling: three reporters and over 1,000 words.
It truly saddens me what has happened to Kansas since I left in 1969 with my graduate degree.
Gambling my Midwestern friends is not economic development. Gambling preys on those less fortunate folks who already cannot provide for themselves. Gambling destroys families Gambling buys local politicians like so many sacks of wheat. Gambling leaves a pittance behind temporarily and takes the lion's share of the profits to Las Vegas.
I urge all those who voted to keep organized gambling out of Wichita to join with their neighbors in Mulvane and Wellington to oppose gambling with every fiber of their bodies. For Gambling like a buzzard will suck the last morsel off the bones of a decaying and dying community. .Just come visit Louisiana last in everything good and first in everything bad if you don’t believe it.
Dear Editor:
This past weekend I visited family in Wichita and was appalled to see the amount of uncritical coverage your paper gave to gambling: three reporters and over 1,000 words.
It truly saddens me what has happened to Kansas since I left in 1969 with my graduate degree.
Gambling my Midwestern friends is not economic development. Gambling preys on those less fortunate folks who already cannot provide for themselves. Gambling destroys families Gambling buys local politicians like so many sacks of wheat. Gambling leaves a pittance behind temporarily and takes the lion's share of the profits to Las Vegas.
I urge all those who voted to keep organized gambling out of Wichita to join with their neighbors in Mulvane and Wellington to oppose gambling with every fiber of their bodies. For Gambling like a buzzard will suck the last morsel off the bones of a decaying and dying community. .Just come visit Louisiana last in everything good and first in everything bad if you don’t believe it.
Friday, July 18, 2008
RUMOR HAS IT
RUMOR HAS IT……..
Today is former Ouachita Parish police juror Kim Golden’s last day as administrative assistant to Monroe Mayor James Mayo. Her replacement is former Ouachita Parish police juror, the Rev. King Dawson.
James Cofer late of the race to become President of the University of Louisiana System is being sued by the Federal Government for $347,989.04 in unpaid payroll taxes for contract employees.
James Dupree currently terminated superintendent of the Monroe City School System has the four votes needed to return to his job for one more year.
Rumor has it that Monroe City Councilman and winner of a recent million dollar lottery will resign his position and cake walk into a 4th district court position. It’s possible that Mr. Johnson is legally blind, which by all accounts is a requirement for a district court position in Ouachita Parish.
Finally, rumor has it that Monroe City Councilman Jay Marx will be resigning his position because of an “ethical problem” involving his hardware store doing business with the City of Monroe. Of course, who knows what an “ethical problem” is anymore under the Jindal administration?
Today is former Ouachita Parish police juror Kim Golden’s last day as administrative assistant to Monroe Mayor James Mayo. Her replacement is former Ouachita Parish police juror, the Rev. King Dawson.
James Cofer late of the race to become President of the University of Louisiana System is being sued by the Federal Government for $347,989.04 in unpaid payroll taxes for contract employees.
James Dupree currently terminated superintendent of the Monroe City School System has the four votes needed to return to his job for one more year.
Rumor has it that Monroe City Councilman and winner of a recent million dollar lottery will resign his position and cake walk into a 4th district court position. It’s possible that Mr. Johnson is legally blind, which by all accounts is a requirement for a district court position in Ouachita Parish.
Finally, rumor has it that Monroe City Councilman Jay Marx will be resigning his position because of an “ethical problem” involving his hardware store doing business with the City of Monroe. Of course, who knows what an “ethical problem” is anymore under the Jindal administration?
Thursday, July 10, 2008
U Can't Play The Game Without A Program
Yours truly would truly love to be running for congress in the 5th Congressional District, but that would mean I give a damn about Louisiana. Here is a list of those signing up to run in the Fall taken from the wwl web site. If any body asks where biggs is this weekend you just tell them I've gone to the courts, tennis that is.
List of qualifiers to run in this fall's electionsWWL.com Reporting
1st Congressional DistrictSteve Scalise (i), R-JeffersonJim Harlan, D-Lacombe"Vinny" Mendoza, D-Ponchatoula
2nd Congressional DistrictWilliam Jefferson (i), D-New OrleansTroy ``C'' Carter, D-New OrleansHelena Moreno, D-New OrleansByron Lee, D-MarreroCedric Richmond, D-New OrleansJames Carter, D-New OrleansKenya Smith, D-New OrleansJerry Jacobs, No Party-New OrleansMalik Rahim, Green-New Orleans3rd Congressional DistrictCharlie Melancon (i), D-Napoleonville.
4th Congressional DistrictWillie Banks, D-LacampArtis ``Doc'' Cash, D-ShreveportPaul Carmouche, D-ShreveportJohn Fleming, R-MindenJeff Thompson, R-Bossier CityChris Gorman, R-ShreveportJohn Milkovich, D-Keithville
5th Congressional DistrictRodney Alexander (i), R-QuitmanAndrew Clack, R-Rayville
6th Congressional DistrictWilliam ``Bill'' Cassidy, R-Baton RougeDon Cazayoux (i), D-Baton Rouge
7th Congressional DistrictCharles Boustany (i), R-LafayetteDon Cravins, D-OpelousasLouisiana
Supreme Court, Associate Justice, 1st DistrictRoland Belsome, D-New OrleansGreg Guidry, R-Nine Mile PointJimmy Kuhn, R-Ponchatoula.
Louisiana Supreme Court, Associate Justice, 5th DistrictCatherine ``Kitty'' Kimball (i), D-Ventress.
Public Service Commission, District 1Jack ``Jay'' Blossman Jr. (i), R-MandevilleJohn Schwegmann, No Party-Metairie
Public Service Commission, District 5Foster Campbell (i), D-Bossier City.
Don't you just love those nicknames y'all.
List of qualifiers to run in this fall's electionsWWL.com Reporting
1st Congressional DistrictSteve Scalise (i), R-JeffersonJim Harlan, D-Lacombe"Vinny" Mendoza, D-Ponchatoula
2nd Congressional DistrictWilliam Jefferson (i), D-New OrleansTroy ``C'' Carter, D-New OrleansHelena Moreno, D-New OrleansByron Lee, D-MarreroCedric Richmond, D-New OrleansJames Carter, D-New OrleansKenya Smith, D-New OrleansJerry Jacobs, No Party-New OrleansMalik Rahim, Green-New Orleans3rd Congressional DistrictCharlie Melancon (i), D-Napoleonville.
4th Congressional DistrictWillie Banks, D-LacampArtis ``Doc'' Cash, D-ShreveportPaul Carmouche, D-ShreveportJohn Fleming, R-MindenJeff Thompson, R-Bossier CityChris Gorman, R-ShreveportJohn Milkovich, D-Keithville
5th Congressional DistrictRodney Alexander (i), R-QuitmanAndrew Clack, R-Rayville
6th Congressional DistrictWilliam ``Bill'' Cassidy, R-Baton RougeDon Cazayoux (i), D-Baton Rouge
7th Congressional DistrictCharles Boustany (i), R-LafayetteDon Cravins, D-OpelousasLouisiana
Supreme Court, Associate Justice, 1st DistrictRoland Belsome, D-New OrleansGreg Guidry, R-Nine Mile PointJimmy Kuhn, R-Ponchatoula.
Louisiana Supreme Court, Associate Justice, 5th DistrictCatherine ``Kitty'' Kimball (i), D-Ventress.
Public Service Commission, District 1Jack ``Jay'' Blossman Jr. (i), R-MandevilleJohn Schwegmann, No Party-Metairie
Public Service Commission, District 5Foster Campbell (i), D-Bossier City.
Don't you just love those nicknames y'all.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Series on Gambling Continues
As most of you know, I vigorously oppose gambling in all forms; it's a bad deal for Louisiana. Here's more reasons why from 2theadvocate.com
Marsha Shuler went to the ethics board (now completely vacant under Governor Jindal) to survey the 2007 income that legislators, their spouses and businesses received from government entities and the gambling industry. Here is a little of what she found.
Forty-four out of 104 current Louisiana House members reported government or gambling-related income by either themselves, their spouses or their businesses in 2007 as did 19 of 38 current Louisiana Senate members.
I am, of course, most interested in the money from gambling, so here goes. Rep. Ernest Wooten, R-Belle Chasse, the chair of the Louisiana House committee with oversight over gambling laws, received $16,000 from Redman Gaming of Louisiana LLC, a video poker business. The husband of state Senator "Queen" Ann Duplessis, received $43,500 from Churchill Downs Horse Racing Company. Rep. Willie Mount, D-Lake Charles, a lawyer, received $3,573 from Redman Gaming of Louisiana LLC. Rep. Ricky Templet, R-Gretna received $9,197 from Metro Gaming & Amusement Company. Rep. Jerry Gisclair, D-Larose, received $65,000 in radio station income from gambling interests. Rep. Gordon Dove, R-Houma, reported that a restaurant in which he is part owner receive $23,328 from B & L Amusements Company, related to video poker operations. My Texas Instruments calculator says that's $160,598 from gambling to legislators.
The Secretary of State's Office reports that Metro Gaming and Amusement is at 1800 Lafayette St., Gretna, 70053. President is Beuregard H. Miller, Jr., 77 Derbes Drive, the Vice-President is Arthur S. Lawson, Jr., 20 Derbes Drive, and the Secretary/Treasurer is Manuel J. Licciardi, 237 Fairfield Dr., all of Gretna. [It also reports on a Metro Gaming Investments, L.L.C. of 1800 Lafayette St. Gretna, LA 70053. Members are Manuel J. Licciardi, Arthur S. Lawson, Jr., and Beauregard H. Miller, Jr.]
Churchill Downs Louisians Horseracing Company, L.L.C. is located at C/O C T Corporation System, 8550 United Plaza Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70809. Managers are Robert L. Evans, Steven P Sexton, and Randall E Soth all of 700 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY 40208
Finally, Redman Gaming of Louisiana, L.L.C. is located at C/O Frank J. Relan, 2424 Marietta Street, Kenner, LA 70062. managers are James P. Koehler, Frank J. Relan, and Bennie F. Relan all of 2424 Marietta Street, Kenner, LA 70062
There is no listing for B&L Amusement Co.
As you can read, gambling is an equal opportunity employer, republicans and democrats alike.
Marsha Shuler went to the ethics board (now completely vacant under Governor Jindal) to survey the 2007 income that legislators, their spouses and businesses received from government entities and the gambling industry. Here is a little of what she found.
Forty-four out of 104 current Louisiana House members reported government or gambling-related income by either themselves, their spouses or their businesses in 2007 as did 19 of 38 current Louisiana Senate members.
I am, of course, most interested in the money from gambling, so here goes. Rep. Ernest Wooten, R-Belle Chasse, the chair of the Louisiana House committee with oversight over gambling laws, received $16,000 from Redman Gaming of Louisiana LLC, a video poker business. The husband of state Senator "Queen" Ann Duplessis, received $43,500 from Churchill Downs Horse Racing Company. Rep. Willie Mount, D-Lake Charles, a lawyer, received $3,573 from Redman Gaming of Louisiana LLC. Rep. Ricky Templet, R-Gretna received $9,197 from Metro Gaming & Amusement Company. Rep. Jerry Gisclair, D-Larose, received $65,000 in radio station income from gambling interests. Rep. Gordon Dove, R-Houma, reported that a restaurant in which he is part owner receive $23,328 from B & L Amusements Company, related to video poker operations. My Texas Instruments calculator says that's $160,598 from gambling to legislators.
The Secretary of State's Office reports that Metro Gaming and Amusement is at 1800 Lafayette St., Gretna, 70053. President is Beuregard H. Miller, Jr., 77 Derbes Drive, the Vice-President is Arthur S. Lawson, Jr., 20 Derbes Drive, and the Secretary/Treasurer is Manuel J. Licciardi, 237 Fairfield Dr., all of Gretna. [It also reports on a Metro Gaming Investments, L.L.C. of 1800 Lafayette St. Gretna, LA 70053. Members are Manuel J. Licciardi, Arthur S. Lawson, Jr., and Beauregard H. Miller, Jr.]
Churchill Downs Louisians Horseracing Company, L.L.C. is located at C/O C T Corporation System, 8550 United Plaza Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70809. Managers are Robert L. Evans, Steven P Sexton, and Randall E Soth all of 700 Central Avenue, Louisville, KY 40208
Finally, Redman Gaming of Louisiana, L.L.C. is located at C/O Frank J. Relan, 2424 Marietta Street, Kenner, LA 70062. managers are James P. Koehler, Frank J. Relan, and Bennie F. Relan all of 2424 Marietta Street, Kenner, LA 70062
There is no listing for B&L Amusement Co.
As you can read, gambling is an equal opportunity employer, republicans and democrats alike.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Speaker Tucker (On the Legislator's Pay Raise, "I' regret, but . . .
from the times picayune
House speaker regrets handling of raise
But higher salaries needed, Tucker says
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
By Meghan GordonWest Bank bureau
Facing a room full of Algiers constituents, House Speaker Jim Tucker said he regretted the way he and fellow legislators went about their pay raise campaign, but he continued to defend its merits.
"If we had to do it over again, we sure wouldn't do it this way, that's for sure," he told about 100 people at Holy Cross College.
Tucker, a Republican, joined fellow Algiers legislators Rep. Jeff Arnold and Sen. David Heitmeier, both Democrats. Citizens had pointed questions for Tucker and Arnold, asking them to defend their votes to double their base salaries. Heitmeier, meanwhile, faced a much friendlier crowd.
"I voted no," he said, pretending to hand the microphone back to Tucker to the room's laughter and applause.
Tucker, who played a pivotal role in the bill's passage, is one of six lawmakers targeted with recall campaigns. The public vitriol subsided somewhat when Gov. Bobby Jindal vetoed the bill Monday, going back on his promise to lawmakers that he wouldn't intervene. The issue became the most controversial topic of the Legislature's session that ended last week.
Ursula Murphy of Algiers told the lawmakers that she was appalled to watch them boost their own pay when, back in the 1980s, she would have to trek to Baton Rouge every year as a Jefferson Parish school nurse to host ice cream parties as a ruse for begging for minuscule raises. She said her salary increased from about $10,000 to $17,000 in a decade.
"All you said was, 'I want the money,' and gave no explanation," she told them.
Murphy said she finally feels like a professional now that she works in the private sector as an occupational health nurse.
Tucker said he didn't support a similar legislative pay raise in 2005 because he said teacher pay was poor. He vowed not to tackle the issue until Louisiana made specific strides in financing public education.
"This year, teachers are going to go above the Southern regional average for the first time in history, and we've fully funded K-12 and higher education -- extremely important goals," he said.
With those accomplished, Tucker said, he found it appropriate to examine lawmakers' $16,800 annual salaries, which haven't grown in 28 years.
Arnold and Tucker both blamed bloggers and radio broadcasters for using false statements to stir up the controversy.
"The information that was put out, particularly through the blogs and through the radio, was so wrong in so many instances that it was hard to even begin to come back with the facts," Tucker said.
He said the legislation would not have given lawmakers fatter retirement benefits because politicians elected after 1999 aren't eligible for retirement. He said commentators also spoke of free cars and free health care plans that don't exist.
The duo also defended the proposed raises on the rationale that the Legislature must be a cross-section of the state's populace, not just the wealthy. Tucker said that while recruiting people to run during the last wave of elections, at least a dozen people turned him down on the basis of pay alone, including teachers, lawyers, a dentist and an architect.
"I saw that as a real problem for the state, because we have to have people of all walks of life to serve in the Legislature," he said.
Arnold said he was laid off from his bank job in the first week of the legislative session. He said his boss mentioned his long hours as a legislator as one reason he was selected in the round of staffing cuts.
Arnold said he felt justified voting for the raise and that he didn't take it lightly.
"It was definitely the hardest vote I've ever taken in the Legislature," he said, contrasting a somber scene in the House to the Senate's ebullient mood epitomized by the bill's author, Sen. Ann Duplessis, D-New Orleans, pumping her fist in the air.
Mark Jaunet of Algiers asked Tucker and Arnold what they learned from the process, if they had to do it all over again.
Arnold responded: "I would go to the governor and say, 'Give us a number you can live with. You give us the bill, and we'll run with.' "
Don Costello of Algiers said that plenty of good work done in the session has been overshadowed by the raises. He said the lawmakers just picked a terrible time to broach the subject, given the economy and gas prices. "Thank you for everything you've done," he said, generating vigorous applause.
Tucker agreed that the timing was horrible and said the only palatable avenue might be taking it out of the hands of the Legislature entirely with a constitutional amendment approved by voters. "I can't think of a good time to take up this issue," he said, returning to the difficulty of recruiting worthy lawmakers. "To see the possibility of (the Legislature) not being the best that it can be in the future bothers me."
. . . . . . .
Meghan Gordon can be reached at mgordon@timespicayune.com or 504.826.3785.
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House speaker regrets handling of raise
But higher salaries needed, Tucker says
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
By Meghan GordonWest Bank bureau
Facing a room full of Algiers constituents, House Speaker Jim Tucker said he regretted the way he and fellow legislators went about their pay raise campaign, but he continued to defend its merits.
"If we had to do it over again, we sure wouldn't do it this way, that's for sure," he told about 100 people at Holy Cross College.
Tucker, a Republican, joined fellow Algiers legislators Rep. Jeff Arnold and Sen. David Heitmeier, both Democrats. Citizens had pointed questions for Tucker and Arnold, asking them to defend their votes to double their base salaries. Heitmeier, meanwhile, faced a much friendlier crowd.
"I voted no," he said, pretending to hand the microphone back to Tucker to the room's laughter and applause.
Tucker, who played a pivotal role in the bill's passage, is one of six lawmakers targeted with recall campaigns. The public vitriol subsided somewhat when Gov. Bobby Jindal vetoed the bill Monday, going back on his promise to lawmakers that he wouldn't intervene. The issue became the most controversial topic of the Legislature's session that ended last week.
Ursula Murphy of Algiers told the lawmakers that she was appalled to watch them boost their own pay when, back in the 1980s, she would have to trek to Baton Rouge every year as a Jefferson Parish school nurse to host ice cream parties as a ruse for begging for minuscule raises. She said her salary increased from about $10,000 to $17,000 in a decade.
"All you said was, 'I want the money,' and gave no explanation," she told them.
Murphy said she finally feels like a professional now that she works in the private sector as an occupational health nurse.
Tucker said he didn't support a similar legislative pay raise in 2005 because he said teacher pay was poor. He vowed not to tackle the issue until Louisiana made specific strides in financing public education.
"This year, teachers are going to go above the Southern regional average for the first time in history, and we've fully funded K-12 and higher education -- extremely important goals," he said.
With those accomplished, Tucker said, he found it appropriate to examine lawmakers' $16,800 annual salaries, which haven't grown in 28 years.
Arnold and Tucker both blamed bloggers and radio broadcasters for using false statements to stir up the controversy.
"The information that was put out, particularly through the blogs and through the radio, was so wrong in so many instances that it was hard to even begin to come back with the facts," Tucker said.
He said the legislation would not have given lawmakers fatter retirement benefits because politicians elected after 1999 aren't eligible for retirement. He said commentators also spoke of free cars and free health care plans that don't exist.
The duo also defended the proposed raises on the rationale that the Legislature must be a cross-section of the state's populace, not just the wealthy. Tucker said that while recruiting people to run during the last wave of elections, at least a dozen people turned him down on the basis of pay alone, including teachers, lawyers, a dentist and an architect.
"I saw that as a real problem for the state, because we have to have people of all walks of life to serve in the Legislature," he said.
Arnold said he was laid off from his bank job in the first week of the legislative session. He said his boss mentioned his long hours as a legislator as one reason he was selected in the round of staffing cuts.
Arnold said he felt justified voting for the raise and that he didn't take it lightly.
"It was definitely the hardest vote I've ever taken in the Legislature," he said, contrasting a somber scene in the House to the Senate's ebullient mood epitomized by the bill's author, Sen. Ann Duplessis, D-New Orleans, pumping her fist in the air.
Mark Jaunet of Algiers asked Tucker and Arnold what they learned from the process, if they had to do it all over again.
Arnold responded: "I would go to the governor and say, 'Give us a number you can live with. You give us the bill, and we'll run with.' "
Don Costello of Algiers said that plenty of good work done in the session has been overshadowed by the raises. He said the lawmakers just picked a terrible time to broach the subject, given the economy and gas prices. "Thank you for everything you've done," he said, generating vigorous applause.
Tucker agreed that the timing was horrible and said the only palatable avenue might be taking it out of the hands of the Legislature entirely with a constitutional amendment approved by voters. "I can't think of a good time to take up this issue," he said, returning to the difficulty of recruiting worthy lawmakers. "To see the possibility of (the Legislature) not being the best that it can be in the future bothers me."
. . . . . . .
Meghan Gordon can be reached at mgordon@timespicayune.com or 504.826.3785.
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Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Kostelka, 'I went to [Baton Rouge} to serve not to go broke
Sen. Kostelka who admitted on KNOE that he voted to triple his salary remained defiant in his comments to the NewsStar reporter Greg Hilburn in the aftermath of the Governor’s veto of a bill doubling his salary. Yesterday, before the veto he told a constituent in a telephone call that the Governor was shallow and had no courage. I guess because he knew the Governor was going to veto the bill. He continued in that vain in the interview after the veto.
Can you imagine, here’s a guy who has served one four-year term at the current salary rate plus this year’s chair’s salary, about $30,000, and over $90,000 in retirement (assuming his appeals court salary was $150,000 and you use his KNOE interview multiplier of 60%) and about $100,000 as a "rain maker" for the Bole’s law firm steadfastly remains unrepentant in defeat. And that does not include what he reported he has in his re-election campaign fund.
“I went to [Baton Rouge] serve not to go broke!” he said arrogantly on KNOE.
I guess (like President Clinton) it all depends on what broke is; but I am confident that a lot of people in his senate district would relish the opportunity to be as broke as Bob Kostelka is!
Can you imagine, here’s a guy who has served one four-year term at the current salary rate plus this year’s chair’s salary, about $30,000, and over $90,000 in retirement (assuming his appeals court salary was $150,000 and you use his KNOE interview multiplier of 60%) and about $100,000 as a "rain maker" for the Bole’s law firm steadfastly remains unrepentant in defeat. And that does not include what he reported he has in his re-election campaign fund.
“I went to [Baton Rouge] serve not to go broke!” he said arrogantly on KNOE.
I guess (like President Clinton) it all depends on what broke is; but I am confident that a lot of people in his senate district would relish the opportunity to be as broke as Bob Kostelka is!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Jindal Touches The Third Rail
Today at 11:00 AM CDT Governor Jindal, shortly after the latest poll showed that the Governor Jindal’s approval rating had fallen to 40%, Governor Jindal announced to the press that he was vetoing the legislator’s pay raises.
The voter's writing has been on every wall in Louisiana, but the Governor Jindal blithely ignored their messages. Instead he stammered and stuttered inane reasons for not vetoing the legislator's pay raise from Shreveport, to Ruston, to Baton Rouge.
Finally, when the polling information reached his desk, Governor Jindal ran for cover, just the way he did when he was running Health and Hospitals and when he was running The Board of Trustees for State Colleges and Universities. Without his patrons, Mike Foster and John Breaux, when he was on his own, Governor Jindal touched the third rail.
The voter's writing has been on every wall in Louisiana, but the Governor Jindal blithely ignored their messages. Instead he stammered and stuttered inane reasons for not vetoing the legislator's pay raise from Shreveport, to Ruston, to Baton Rouge.
Finally, when the polling information reached his desk, Governor Jindal ran for cover, just the way he did when he was running Health and Hospitals and when he was running The Board of Trustees for State Colleges and Universities. Without his patrons, Mike Foster and John Breaux, when he was on his own, Governor Jindal touched the third rail.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Well, What Evil Works In The Hearts Of Men?
Yesterday the U.S. Attorney in Shreveport, Donald Washington, announced the indictment of two Friends of State Senator Francis Thompson and his brother. The charge mail fraud involving public servants profiting from the sale of land to the state of Louisiana (i.e. Poverty Point Reservoir). All three, Michael L. “Mike” Thompson, Terry D. Denmon, and William R. “Billy” Coenen, Jr.have lawyered up. “Mike” Thompson age 59 has retained M. Allyn Stroud 48 year’s old of Weiner, Weiss & Madison of Shreveport. Terry D. Denmon age 64 has retained Carey B. Underwood 32 year’s old of Davenport, Files and Kelly of Monroe. “Billy” Coenen, Jr. age 61 has retained the one and only “We’ll clean their clock in court” J. Michael Small (age unknown) of Alexandria, who I believe represents Mr. Thompson in a previous indictment.
So, how long will it take the federales to turn one or more of these “honest and dedicated public servants” and get them to role over on their “decent” colleagues? How long before the second shoe falls on other Friends of Francis Thompson (FOF), other members of his family, and possibly the Senator himself? Only the Shadow knows and he ain’t talk’n r’ght now!.
So, how long will it take the federales to turn one or more of these “honest and dedicated public servants” and get them to role over on their “decent” colleagues? How long before the second shoe falls on other Friends of Francis Thompson (FOF), other members of his family, and possibly the Senator himself? Only the Shadow knows and he ain’t talk’n r’ght now!.
A Pall Settled Over All Of Monroe, Louisiana
Sometime after 2 PM yesterday a pall settled over all of Monroe, Louisiana, north of Forsythe Avenue, for it was at that time that the NewsStar web site reported that “Randy” Moffett the president of Southeastern Louisiana University, a 1-AA sports school with two directions in its name was named the new president of the University of Louisiana System and not Republican James Cofer, the president of the University of Louisiana at Monroe, a 1-A sports school with one direction in its name.
It seems that the board doing the selecting decided to choose the steak rather than the sizzle. That is the board selected the chief executive that had real accomplishments like an ever growing enrollment rather than the one who said during his interview yesterday his most outstanding accomplishment was changing the name of the school mascot. They decided on the executive who had done more with less than the one who had done less with more. Kudos to the board.
It seems that the board doing the selecting decided to choose the steak rather than the sizzle. That is the board selected the chief executive that had real accomplishments like an ever growing enrollment rather than the one who said during his interview yesterday his most outstanding accomplishment was changing the name of the school mascot. They decided on the executive who had done more with less than the one who had done less with more. Kudos to the board.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Betrayal
Betrayal, that's all I can call it. My Monroe City Councilman Ben Katz who repeatedly has criticized Mayor Mayo to me and many others voted resoundingly with the Mayor last evening at the City Council meeting. The issue: a series of amendments to the City's ordinances on Trash and Garbage; the most onerous being an amendment to fine, I am sorry City Attorney Summersgill/Tew, to levy a fee on an offender--not clearly defined--of $50 the first week after the transgression and doubling for every week thereafter---and with no warning.
Mr. Katz had said to me in a private conversation before voting yes to introduce the ordinance anyway, that he could not support this unenforceable ordinance. He also said he didn't care if old people and handicapped people were fined!
The community comments to these amendments were very responsible, supportive of cleaning up the city but suggesting with a carrot approach rather than with a stick. Cindy Smith, and officer in north Louisiana Interfaith was supported by seven members of InterFaith as she spoke about a more reasonable approach for the City to take, one less threatening. Baron Powell, Jimmy Inzina, and several others spoke in the same vain pointing out the practical problems of enforcing such a punishment on untraceable trash dumpers.
Persuaded by these comments the Chair of the City Council, Mr. Red Stevens, offered a motion to delay implementation of the ordinance vote by ninety days to allow for conversations with the public, saying that he was impressed by the suggestions and ideas from the community speakers. Mr. Robert Johnson seconded the motion. It was defeated by Mr. Gilmore, Mr. Marx, and Mr. Katz. Then on the original motion to implement the amendments, the vote was the same Mr. Gilmore, Mr. Marx, and Mr. Katz. Mr. Stevens and Mr. Johnson opposed.
Once again the Monroe City Council caved to the Mayor. A reasonable thinking Louisianan must conclude that Mr. Katz, who is offended by everything the Mayor does, traded his vote for the Mayor's support of his wife during the recent election for House of Representatives. Pitiful!
Mr. Katz had said to me in a private conversation before voting yes to introduce the ordinance anyway, that he could not support this unenforceable ordinance. He also said he didn't care if old people and handicapped people were fined!
The community comments to these amendments were very responsible, supportive of cleaning up the city but suggesting with a carrot approach rather than with a stick. Cindy Smith, and officer in north Louisiana Interfaith was supported by seven members of InterFaith as she spoke about a more reasonable approach for the City to take, one less threatening. Baron Powell, Jimmy Inzina, and several others spoke in the same vain pointing out the practical problems of enforcing such a punishment on untraceable trash dumpers.
Persuaded by these comments the Chair of the City Council, Mr. Red Stevens, offered a motion to delay implementation of the ordinance vote by ninety days to allow for conversations with the public, saying that he was impressed by the suggestions and ideas from the community speakers. Mr. Robert Johnson seconded the motion. It was defeated by Mr. Gilmore, Mr. Marx, and Mr. Katz. Then on the original motion to implement the amendments, the vote was the same Mr. Gilmore, Mr. Marx, and Mr. Katz. Mr. Stevens and Mr. Johnson opposed.
Once again the Monroe City Council caved to the Mayor. A reasonable thinking Louisianan must conclude that Mr. Katz, who is offended by everything the Mayor does, traded his vote for the Mayor's support of his wife during the recent election for House of Representatives. Pitiful!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
LOUISIANA LEGISLATIVE RAISES MAKE THE NY TIMES
FROM THE NEW YORK TIMES
June 24, 2008
Legislators Raise Pay, and a Governor Pays the Price
By ADAM NOSSITER
NEW ORLEANS — The reformist image of Gov. Bobby Jindal, considered by Republicans a top potential vice-presidential choice, has recently taken a beating after Mr. Jindal refused to veto a sizable pay increase that Louisiana legislators voted for themselves this month.
The increase would more than double the salary of the part-time legislators effective July 8, to $37,500 from $16,800, with considerably more money available once expenses are added in. It has touched a nerve in this impoverished state.
Conservative talk-radio show hosts and bloggers have denounced it, newspaper editorials have inveighed against it — The Times-Picayune of New Orleans called the increase “greedy” and its main proponent “shameless” — and the legislators themselves received floods of e-mail messages from angry constituents.
More confounding to many citizens here than the action by the lawmakers is the inaction of Governor Jindal, who came into office this year with promises to overhaul Louisiana’s reputation for dubious ethics.
During his election campaign, he vowed to prohibit legislative pay raises. Once elected, he quickly pushed through a package of measures increasing the Legislature’s transparency and stamping out conflicts of interest, basking in the subsequent glow of his image as a youthful Ivy League reformer doing battle in a shady subtropical outpost.
That image and his solid standing with the religious right helped propel Mr. Jindal, a 37-year-old former Rhodes scholar, into the front ranks of Senator John McCain’s possible running-mate choices. But now some conservative critics are saying the pay-increase episode demonstrates weakness as well as Mr. Jindal’s unreadiness for the prime time of the vice presidency.
“This pay raise is devastating him,” said Moon Griffon, a conservative talk-radio host with a wide following in northern Louisiana, the most Republican and evangelical part of the state. “I’ve gotten over 5,000 e-mails from people who say they voted for him, and who say they would never vote for him again.”
Mr. Griffon added, “People don’t like hypocrisy, and they like somebody with guts.”
The legislative session ended Monday, and Mr. Jindal now has two weeks to veto the pay increase, though he has given no indication that he will do so.
Even while denouncing the money lawmakers are giving themselves, the governor has tried to depict the matter as an internal legislative affair that does not require his meddling.
“I will keep my pledge to let them govern themselves,” the governor said in a statement last week after the State Senate passed the increase, backing off a rejection of the raise, though he also said he was “very sorry” about it. Editorialists and radio show hosts have since had a field day juxtaposing that “pledge” to the Legislature with the promise Mr. Jindal made when he was running last fall to “prohibit legislators from giving themselves pay raises.”
Jim Brandt, president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, an independent good-government research organization in Baton Rouge, said voters did not appreciate a broken pledge.
“It puts a real dent in any sort of reform credential of either the governor or the Legislature,” Mr. Brandt said.
That theme of perceived weakness is echoed by other political experts.
“No matter where I go, they certainly are disappointed, and they are using some very unkind words related to his spine,” said Bernie Pinsonat, a pollster in Baton Rouge. “It’s pretty ferocious.” He added, “I’m quite positive his base is very upset with him.”
The legislators have not had a base pay increase since 1980 and complain that with the governor frequently calling them into special session, their job is no longer part-time. The increase would put salaries in the upper tier for similar part-time legislatures, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
Mr. Brandt agreed that some sort of modest raise could be justified — an independent commission recommended a 12 percent increase several years ago — but said the 123 percent rise, with additional increases pegged to inflation, was “problematic.”
Mr. Jindal’s strategy was apparently based on a desire not to jeopardize the other elements he won in his legislative wish list, like a voucher program for private schools in New Orleans, or restoring spending cuts made by fiscal conservatives in the Capitol.
“He was not about to give the Legislature any excuse to block his reform agenda,” said the governor’s spokeswoman, Melissa Sellers, adding: “The governor has opposed the legislative pay increase loudly every step of the way.”
But the furor over the pay raise has put in the shadows the rest of his program, and other bills pushed by conservatives sympathetic to him, like one the Legislature overwhelmingly approved allowing science teachers to use “supplemental” material that critics say is merely a stalking-horse for teaching creationism.
Monday, June 23, 2008
bobby's folly
June 18, 2008
Dear Editor:
By awarding itself such incredible raises, the Louisiana legislature has stuck its collective finger in the eye of every single voter in Louisiana. What they have done is worse than any other government we have ever had in Louisiana.
If Governor Jindal does not veto this legislative insult to the voters, then he is no better than Edwin Edwards or Huey Long. In fact he might go down as the worst governor we have ever had. Whatever he turns out to be, if he doesn’t correct this egregious affront to the voters, he certainly is no reform governor.
Dear Editor:
By awarding itself such incredible raises, the Louisiana legislature has stuck its collective finger in the eye of every single voter in Louisiana. What they have done is worse than any other government we have ever had in Louisiana.
If Governor Jindal does not veto this legislative insult to the voters, then he is no better than Edwin Edwards or Huey Long. In fact he might go down as the worst governor we have ever had. Whatever he turns out to be, if he doesn’t correct this egregious affront to the voters, he certainly is no reform governor.
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