Interesting, if not a tad cynical, commentary, from Chad E. Rogers, on Breaux’s possible candidacy and what it might reveal about our state and us.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Pow!
LAGOP Chairman, Roger Villere, Jr., hits back:
(Baton Rouge) – “Lobbyist John Breaux (D-MD) flew to Louisiana yesterday and immediately started attacking Congressman Bobby Jindal (R-LA). His attacks on Congressman Jindal came in the same minute that he praised the Congressman for his intellect and skill. And of course he completely ignored his own previous statements in which he praised Jindal as a man that can turn this state around,” stated Republican Party of Louisiana Chairman, Roger Villere, Jr.
“After moving away from Louisiana in our greatest time of need, it amazes me that Breaux has the audacity to attack Bobby’s experience. I wonder who the people of Louisiana think did more to help us during and after the Hurricanes? Has Breaux forgotten that Bobby rescued our state’s health care system as Secretary of DHH, improved graduation rates as the head of our education system, and has been working hard the last two years in Congress helping this state recover while Breaux left Louisiana to make millions selling his influence for a lobbying firm that represents the governments of Saudi Arabia and China?” asked Villere.
“Lobbyist John Breaux hasn’t even announced his candidacy for Governor and already he is slinging mud at Bobby. Even worse, he slings mud while also saying that he opposes the politics of personal destruction. You have to be a long time politician to pull that off. It is disappointing that Breaux has decided to turn so negative so quickly,” said Villere.
Hat tip: James Quinn, LAGOP Executive Director
(Baton Rouge) – “Lobbyist John Breaux (D-MD) flew to Louisiana yesterday and immediately started attacking Congressman Bobby Jindal (R-LA). His attacks on Congressman Jindal came in the same minute that he praised the Congressman for his intellect and skill. And of course he completely ignored his own previous statements in which he praised Jindal as a man that can turn this state around,” stated Republican Party of Louisiana Chairman, Roger Villere, Jr.
“After moving away from Louisiana in our greatest time of need, it amazes me that Breaux has the audacity to attack Bobby’s experience. I wonder who the people of Louisiana think did more to help us during and after the Hurricanes? Has Breaux forgotten that Bobby rescued our state’s health care system as Secretary of DHH, improved graduation rates as the head of our education system, and has been working hard the last two years in Congress helping this state recover while Breaux left Louisiana to make millions selling his influence for a lobbying firm that represents the governments of Saudi Arabia and China?” asked Villere.
“Lobbyist John Breaux hasn’t even announced his candidacy for Governor and already he is slinging mud at Bobby. Even worse, he slings mud while also saying that he opposes the politics of personal destruction. You have to be a long time politician to pull that off. It is disappointing that Breaux has decided to turn so negative so quickly,” said Villere.
Hat tip: James Quinn, LAGOP Executive Director
Friday, March 30, 2007
Jindal Alert!
Bobby Jindal will be in Oakdale Sunday morning, April 1 (Palm Sunday), and will give his testimony at the First Baptist Church of Oakdale. The church is located at 110 South 12th Street and the service begins at 11:00.
http://rapidesparishrwc.blogspot.com/2007/03/jindal-alert.html
http://rapidesparishrwc.blogspot.com/2007/03/jindal-alert.html
Mark your Calendar!
Please join …
Cong. Bobby Jindal, Sen. David Vitter, and top NRA officials
Security Sporting Goods
2220 Memorial Drive, Alexandria (near the Alexandria Mall)
8 am Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Cong. Bobby Jindal, Sen. David Vitter, and top NRA officials
Security Sporting Goods
2220 Memorial Drive, Alexandria (near the Alexandria Mall)
8 am Wednesday, April 4, 2007
What. Arrogance.
Grab the Prozac before you read.
I didn’t and am seething:
So, you’re convinced you have the “maturity” and “experience” to be governor, Mr. Breaux? Guess again, sir.
As you gathered – ahem - experience, Louisiana crumbled. *CRUMBLED*, Mr. Breaux. And, given the oh-so-transparent game you’re playing, it’s abundantly clear that maturity doesn’t necessarily come with age.
Grow up, get a clue and go home… to Maryland.
Note: This is *GOOD*. Have a listen on Lee Fletcher.
I didn’t and am seething:
So, you’re convinced you have the “maturity” and “experience” to be governor, Mr. Breaux? Guess again, sir.
As you gathered – ahem - experience, Louisiana crumbled. *CRUMBLED*, Mr. Breaux. And, given the oh-so-transparent game you’re playing, it’s abundantly clear that maturity doesn’t necessarily come with age.
Grow up, get a clue and go home… to Maryland.
Note: This is *GOOD*. Have a listen on Lee Fletcher.
Cenla GoPac Townhall Meeting
Mike Strain
Candidate for Commissioner of Agriculture
April 26 at Bellino's Restaurant Gold Room
4619 Jackson Street Extension
6 PM Social Hour/Cash Bar
7 PM RSVP Dinner
Italian salad, sliced Italian bread, choice of one entrée:
Chicken Pomadoro
or
Seafood AuGratin
Both served over angel hair pasta.
Tea with meal.
$25 per person (includes meal, gratuity and tax)
Specify the number of each entree preferred and make check payable to:
BELLINO'S RESTAURANT
Respond by April 24 to Cenla GoPac, P.O. Box 12445, Alexandria, 71315
Candidate for Commissioner of Agriculture
April 26 at Bellino's Restaurant Gold Room
4619 Jackson Street Extension
6 PM Social Hour/Cash Bar
7 PM RSVP Dinner
Italian salad, sliced Italian bread, choice of one entrée:
Chicken Pomadoro
or
Seafood AuGratin
Both served over angel hair pasta.
Tea with meal.
$25 per person (includes meal, gratuity and tax)
Specify the number of each entree preferred and make check payable to:
BELLINO'S RESTAURANT
Respond by April 24 to Cenla GoPac, P.O. Box 12445, Alexandria, 71315
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Waxman's at it, again.
I remember, back in the 103rd Congress (the last time the Dems controlled things), a bill was introduced to force any average citizen, with an issue concern, to register, formally, as a lobbyist. Without registration and the concomitant registration fee, members of congress would be free from pestering constituents and issue-oriented, non-profit groups. Cool, huh? Thankfully, it didn’t pass, primarily due to meddlesome constituents causing a congressional switchboard meltdown.
Although U.S. Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA) is taking a slightly more incremental approach, this time – targeting the Executive Branch and special interest groups like, say, the National Right to Life Committee – his bill, H.R. 984, however “ethical” the language and the veil, is sinister. The eventual goal is similar, if not broader, than that of the 103rd Congress.
Read all about it, then call, e-mail, fax, whatever. Methinks another meltdown is in order.
Although U.S. Rep. Henry Waxman (D-CA) is taking a slightly more incremental approach, this time – targeting the Executive Branch and special interest groups like, say, the National Right to Life Committee – his bill, H.R. 984, however “ethical” the language and the veil, is sinister. The eventual goal is similar, if not broader, than that of the 103rd Congress.
Read all about it, then call, e-mail, fax, whatever. Methinks another meltdown is in order.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Speak out on Breaux!
LFRW members and supporters might want to participate in this week's survey on Moon Griffon's website to determine…
"just exactly where does John Breaux live?"
Click on www.moongriffon.com and let him know what you think! Let your voice be heard!!
"just exactly where does John Breaux live?"
Click on www.moongriffon.com and let him know what you think! Let your voice be heard!!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Interesting take on Vitter’s early endorsement of Giuliani
From Lee Fletcher:
The endorsement of Giuliani has caused some controversy from the strong conservatives.
Questions have arisen and simmer across the state of Louisiana.
Now Senator Vitter has outlined his view and continues to stress the reasons and research that led him to the decision.
Senator Vitter has a staunch conservative record which will not change no matter who he supports for president.
In fact, Senator Vitter may have done the one thing other conservatives have not yet done.
He may have insured that a conservative is at the table should Giuliani win. He seems to me to have taken a bold step that some have a hard time understanding but the impact could be greates because of what he did and when he did it.
For decades, it has been critically important to step up and back a presidential candidate as early as often to prove loyalty early.
The fact is candidates for jobs in the administrations of democrats and republicans are often rated based on how early they supported a sitting president.
Pre primary endorsements are most critical because they are hardes to make and make the biggest impact in the earliest days of fledgling campaigns.
Vitter could very well have made the boldest and brightest move of the entire presidential election thus far.
Senator Vitter also has put Louisiana in a position to have big support early. This decision will have the major impact of insuring that a real conservative is at the table and his name will be David Vitter.
The endorsement of Giuliani has caused some controversy from the strong conservatives.
Questions have arisen and simmer across the state of Louisiana.
Now Senator Vitter has outlined his view and continues to stress the reasons and research that led him to the decision.
Senator Vitter has a staunch conservative record which will not change no matter who he supports for president.
In fact, Senator Vitter may have done the one thing other conservatives have not yet done.
He may have insured that a conservative is at the table should Giuliani win. He seems to me to have taken a bold step that some have a hard time understanding but the impact could be greates because of what he did and when he did it.
For decades, it has been critically important to step up and back a presidential candidate as early as often to prove loyalty early.
The fact is candidates for jobs in the administrations of democrats and republicans are often rated based on how early they supported a sitting president.
Pre primary endorsements are most critical because they are hardes to make and make the biggest impact in the earliest days of fledgling campaigns.
Vitter could very well have made the boldest and brightest move of the entire presidential election thus far.
Senator Vitter also has put Louisiana in a position to have big support early. This decision will have the major impact of insuring that a real conservative is at the table and his name will be David Vitter.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Uh-oh
Seriously, folks. I just heard Tony Snow, White House Press Secretary, announce he’s going in for surgery, Monday, to remove a small mass that was discovered on his lower abdomen.
As always, Tony sounded very upbeat. Nevertheless, given his past scare with colon cancer, please say a prayer for him.
As always, Tony sounded very upbeat. Nevertheless, given his past scare with colon cancer, please say a prayer for him.
Breaking: Pelosi did it.
The U.S. House of Representatives just passed a $124 billion emergency supplemental spending bill that includes a firm deadline of August 31, 2008 for combat troops to leave Iraq. The Loony Left, represented by U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio), doesn’t like the bill, since it doesn’t completely and immediately de-fund the campaign in Iraq.
The vote passed 218 to 212. Obviously the attached bribes of pork, - “sweeteners,” as they're called - with which the bill was laden, paid off.
The bill probably won’t pass the U.S. Senate; but, if it does, I’m ever hopeful the President will *finally* unwrap his veto pen.
The vote passed 218 to 212. Obviously the attached bribes of pork, - “sweeteners,” as they're called - with which the bill was laden, paid off.
The bill probably won’t pass the U.S. Senate; but, if it does, I’m ever hopeful the President will *finally* unwrap his veto pen.
Doc Cooksey Endorses Bobby
This past Wednesday, former U.S. Representative John C. Cooksey, M.D., wrote a piece regarding his endorsement of Bobby Jindal, in The Ouachita Citizen.
Sensibility
Interestingly, the following, from The Daily Advertiser, came to me from James Quinn, Executive Director of the LAGOP. Given the article isn’t complimentary of either of the state’s major political parties, it strikes me that, perhaps, the LAGOP leadership may be coming into some semblance of maturity.
Breaux should not run for governor
“In announcing she would not seek re-election, Gov. Kathleen Blanco said: "There is nothing more important to Louisiana's future than a strong recovery, free from politics."
We agree.
For that reason, we believe it is in the state's best interest that former U.S. Sen. John Breaux not run for governor at this time.
His emergence as a potential candidate already has distracted state political leaders from concentrating on our recovery.
The Democratic Party leadership has long been pre-occupied with gracefully pressuring Blanco to withdraw and strategically pressuring Breaux to jump in.
The state Republican party leadership has spent recent weeks plotting to derail a Breaux candidacy. The television advertisements questioning Breaux's residency and eligibility might be the first to sling mud at someone who hasn't declared for office.
Imagine how heated, nasty and distracting the fight will get if Breaux runs.
Leaders of the state's two major parties lack the self-discipline to focus on recovery if Breaux runs against the already-declared U.S. Rep. Bobby Jindal. They will focus on personal attacks, not public needs.
Asking Breaux to not run is a significant request, but he proved during his tenure as a U.S. senator that he could set aside partisan politics for the good of the state and the nation. His legacy is his ability to build bridges and help rival sides reach consensus. His reward for that talent has been his post-political career as a Washington lobbyist.
So, we appeal to Breaux to reflect on what is good for Louisiana - on what Louisiana needs right now. It doesn't need a fight. It doesn't need partisanship. It doesn't need political activists plotting dirty tricks, calling opponents names, avoiding true debate on issues and distracting the voters.
As The (New Orleans) Times-Picayune said in an editorial Wednesday, the state needs "coastal restoration; the creation of sustainable, well-paying jobs; top-quality public schools; an efficient and responsive health-care system."
We welcome debate on those issues, as well as how to spend, invest, save and refund to taxpayers the state's surplus revenues. That question should not be resolved by a lame-duck governor and a legislative session filled with politicians jockeying for their own re-election or figuring how to dodge a term limit by moving from House to Senate.
We fear that if Breaux runs for governor, despite his qualifications, we will never hear those debates. Instead, the campaign will be hijacked by political power brokers and dumped into our courts in a fight over what the word "citizen" means. We will waste months that could be better spent devising strategies to help our state recover.
We salute Kathleen Blanco for putting recovery ahead of politics. We ask Breaux to do the same because the leaders of our major political parties don't have the discipline to do so in an election year.”
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Oh Charlie, Charlie…
U.S. Rep. Charlie Melancon (D-Napoleonville), potential Democrat candidate for governor, shot himself and his party in the foot... and elsewhere.
Read about it here, but this is the infamous snip:
“U.S. Rep. Charlie Melancon of Napoleonville said Democrats need a centrist, white candidate to beat Jindal.”
Good job, Charlie. Keep. It. Up.
Hat tip: Ruth Ulrich
Read about it here, but this is the infamous snip:
“U.S. Rep. Charlie Melancon of Napoleonville said Democrats need a centrist, white candidate to beat Jindal.”
Good job, Charlie. Keep. It. Up.
Hat tip: Ruth Ulrich
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Official LAGOP Announcement, Later Today
The Executive Committee of the Republican State Central Committee (LAGOP) voted, without objection today, to endorse Bobby Jindal in the race for governor. An official statement will be issued later this afternoon.
With all due respect, Walter, could we please keep the "Jungle Primary" on the other side of the aisle? Pretty please?
With all due respect, Walter, could we please keep the "Jungle Primary" on the other side of the aisle? Pretty please?
Latest From Bobby
Dear friends,
Many of you called and emailed last night to find out my thoughts on the decision by the Governor not to seek re-election. First of all, I want to start by saying that I wish our Governor and her family well. I realize this was a difficult decision for her, and I wish her the best.
Let me also say that I am very hopeful that everyone in our state will work together over the coming months to move our state forward. That is more important than partisan politics; the future of Louisiana is at stake.
These are difficult times for our state, and yet, I am very optimistic and even excited about the future of our state. I believe that we can do great things. We have been through a lot, but we are a very resilient bunch, and we can create a bright future for ourselves, our children, and our grandchildren.
The most important thing now is that we move beyond the status quo that has led our state to where we are now. Louisiana needs a big injection of new ideas and leadership, and I am ready to provide that leadership.
It is really not enough to say that we can successfully recover from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Important as that is, it is too small a goal. We do not want to just get back to where we were; we need to go much further.
You will hear a lot of political rumors about potential candidates over the next few weeks. I have been and I will continue to be very straightforward and honest with the people of Louisiana; I am running and I am running to win.
I cannot do it without your support.
To win this election, we will need 15,000 volunteers. To take back our state, we will need millions of dollars to fight national liberal organizations that are dead set on defeating us. To truly make a difference, we will need you, your family, and your friends to offer your public support of our campaign.
My campaign will be a very vigorous effort designed to win the support of every voter in every corner of our state.
Today, I am emailing you to ask for your personal commitment that you will stand by our campaign as we work to make Louisiana a better place.
To support our campaign financially, click here.
To offer your public support for our campaign, click here.
To volunteer, click here.
I am ready to lead our state forward, and I hope I can count on your support.
Bobby
LAGOP Announces Poll Results
In Case You Missed it – Latest Poll Shows Jindal Beats Breaux by 30 points
In a poll taken by noted political analyst, Bernie Pinsonat, Rep. Bobby Jindal beats lobbyist John Breaux by 30 points. The relevant section is as follows and a link to the full article written by Chris Tidmore is below:
“Pollsters, like Bernie Pinsonat of Southern Media & Opinion Research, tell 995fm.com news that the latest polls show that former U.S. Senator John Breaux would be ‘a significant underdog’ in a race against Republican Congressman Bobby Jindal. Pinsonat says the latest survey shows Jindal leading Breaux by nearly 30%, with 55% of those polled favoring Jindal and 25.6% supporting Breaux. The pollster says ‘not a lot of people could name anything he (Breaux) has done for Louisiana recently.”
Richard Ieyoub? Again??? Maybe, Mitch.
In a poll taken by noted political analyst, Bernie Pinsonat, Rep. Bobby Jindal beats lobbyist John Breaux by 30 points. The relevant section is as follows and a link to the full article written by Chris Tidmore is below:
“Pollsters, like Bernie Pinsonat of Southern Media & Opinion Research, tell 995fm.com news that the latest polls show that former U.S. Senator John Breaux would be ‘a significant underdog’ in a race against Republican Congressman Bobby Jindal. Pinsonat says the latest survey shows Jindal leading Breaux by nearly 30%, with 55% of those polled favoring Jindal and 25.6% supporting Breaux. The pollster says ‘not a lot of people could name anything he (Breaux) has done for Louisiana recently.”
Richard Ieyoub? Again??? Maybe, Mitch.
Breaux’s Legal Woes
Read this opinion from John S. Baker, Jr.
Apparently, Breaux also is seeking an opinion from Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr.
Update: New Above the Law Breaux video.
Apparently, Breaux also is seeking an opinion from Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr.
Update: New Above the Law Breaux video.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Jindal vs. Breaux?
This evening, in time for 6:00 news broadcasts, Governor Kathleen Blanco will announce that she is not running for re-election. Tune in, either to KLAX or to KALB for live coverage.
Despite Breaux’s questionable residency, Blanco wouldn’t step aside if that were any real problem for Breaux. Remember Jim McCrery. The residency ruling for him will apply to Breaux.
Nevertheless, Breaux and his wife are registered to vote in Maryland. Unless I’ve missed something, McCrery did not register to vote out of state. That aspect very well could be a problem for Breaux. Political analyst Charlie Cook believes it might be, at any rate, saying that even if Breaux manages to overcome that legal problem, it could still hurt him politically.
That said, given Blanco’s terrible poll numbers, no one should be surprised she’s not running for re-election. Terrible poll numbers do not a large war chest make. Couple that with the unlikelihood that the Thyssen-Krupp steel mill is coming to Louisiana and it’s clear a re-election bid would be ridiculous.
Some have said that Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu, who very much wants to be governor, might get the nod, rather than Breaux. I highly doubt that, considering his poor showing in the New Orleans mayoral race. The Dems simply can’t risk it with so much at stake in ’08. Ergo, my bet is that Breaux, despite legal difficulties, is Bobby Jindal’s opponent.
Get ready, folks. This election cycle could be one for the books.
Snarky update: I just heard a local Dem analysis of Blanco’s remarks and the possibility of Breaux’s gubernatorial candidacy. No mention was made of Breaux’s voter registration in Maryland, but it was said that the courts generally allow voters to decide such residency matters. Really? In this case, which ones, those in Maryland, or those in Louisiana? Will the governor’s race eventually decide it? If Breaux wins, he’s a Louisiana citizen; but, if he loses, he’s a citizen of Maryland? Are we confuzzled yet?
Despite Breaux’s questionable residency, Blanco wouldn’t step aside if that were any real problem for Breaux. Remember Jim McCrery. The residency ruling for him will apply to Breaux.
Nevertheless, Breaux and his wife are registered to vote in Maryland. Unless I’ve missed something, McCrery did not register to vote out of state. That aspect very well could be a problem for Breaux. Political analyst Charlie Cook believes it might be, at any rate, saying that even if Breaux manages to overcome that legal problem, it could still hurt him politically.
That said, given Blanco’s terrible poll numbers, no one should be surprised she’s not running for re-election. Terrible poll numbers do not a large war chest make. Couple that with the unlikelihood that the Thyssen-Krupp steel mill is coming to Louisiana and it’s clear a re-election bid would be ridiculous.
Some have said that Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu, who very much wants to be governor, might get the nod, rather than Breaux. I highly doubt that, considering his poor showing in the New Orleans mayoral race. The Dems simply can’t risk it with so much at stake in ’08. Ergo, my bet is that Breaux, despite legal difficulties, is Bobby Jindal’s opponent.
Get ready, folks. This election cycle could be one for the books.
Snarky update: I just heard a local Dem analysis of Blanco’s remarks and the possibility of Breaux’s gubernatorial candidacy. No mention was made of Breaux’s voter registration in Maryland, but it was said that the courts generally allow voters to decide such residency matters. Really? In this case, which ones, those in Maryland, or those in Louisiana? Will the governor’s race eventually decide it? If Breaux wins, he’s a Louisiana citizen; but, if he loses, he’s a citizen of Maryland? Are we confuzzled yet?
A Note From Bobby
March 19, 2007
Dear friends,
Moving forward with our insurance reform legislation
This week, the House Financial Services Committee announced it will hold a hearing on an important insurance bill that I am spearheading through Congress. This is great news for our state because my legislation will create a multiple peril reinsurance program within the National Flood Insurance Program that will allow homeowners the option of buying this insurance and knowing that all of their damage from wind and water will be covered.
Too often, adjusters have fought with Louisiana residents over whether their damage came from wind or water. In the end, it does not matter; damage is damage, and my bill will give homeowners and business owners the option of buying their comprehensive coverage from one source.
Too many residents of Louisiana are unable to find any insurance coverage, much less coverage that is affordable. I have been working hard on this issue, and this bill is a good step towards rectifying this problem by giving consumers at least one more choice. I am glad that my colleagues in Congress are showing a commitment to fixing these problems that face our state.
Making sure insurance claims can be paid
In addition, I joined a group of bipartisan Members of Congress this week in introducing national risk catastrophe legislation.
We have to do more to lower insurance premiums throughout Louisiana, and this bill will be a step in the right direction. The federal government has a history of aiding areas devastated by disaster, like it did in New York City in the aftermath of September 11th. Louisiana residents deserve the same treatment; it should not matter if the damage was caused by a terrorist attack or a hurricane.
Specifically, this legislation would establish a layer-based reinsurance system, which would allow the private sector to take the lead on property insurance. The government would in turn provide a national backstop in cases where a natural catastrophe reached a significant level, beyond the capacity of the private market, like it did following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Too many people in our state have been left to fend for themselves and pay large premiums because the insurance industry cannot keep up with the huge number of claims being filed. This bill will help ensure that Louisianians will have lower premiums and will get their claims paid so that they can begin the monumental task of rebuilding their lives. Importantly, the chairman of the Financial Services Committee has offered his support. I will keep working with my colleagues to push this legislation in Congress.
Advocating for more nursing workforce development
As I meet more and more people from throughout our state, I continue to hear the same concerns over and over. We need better access to health care. We need improved schools. And most of all, we need economic development in our state.
This impacts every industry and every community in our state. But if we want to expand the businesses in our state, and bring new industries to Louisiana, we have to ensure that we have a trained workforce ready to work.
This week, I spoke to nurses from Oak Grove and Natchitoches who were concerned about the nursing shortage in their areas. This shortage exists statewide though, and is something that has to be addressed immediately.
I have been a vocal advocate in Congress for ensuring that we are adequately funding important workforce development programs for the nursing industry. Hospitals throughout the U.S. report that a shortfall of nurses is impacting the quality of care that is provided. There are currently thousands of health care jobs sitting vacant in Louisiana, even as our children leave the state looking for jobs. And over the next ten years, our country is anticipated to need more than one million new nurses as the baby-boomer generation ages. This will both help improve the quality of health care and also create good paying jobs for our people.
I sent a letter to the leadership in the House of Representatives this week pushing for an increase in support for nurse workforce development programs. To ensure that we are able to meet the demands on our health care system, we must have a drastic increase in the number of workers who are ready to work today, and I will continue to work hard to support Louisiana nurses.
Funding for recovery projects
The House Appropriations Committee passed an important supplemental spending bill last week that contains billions of dollars for hurricane recovery projects in Louisiana and along the entire Gulf Coast. This funding comes as part of a much larger bill, and I have called on leadership in Congress to allow for a separate vote on hurricane relief funding without adding other unrelated provisions.
Too many people along the Gulf Coast are still struggling to recover from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita for political games to be played with recovery dollars.
I have been advocating for this funding for crucial projects in our area, and some of the major projects I have been pushing were included in the bill. This legislation includes $1.3 billion in new funds to repair and accelerate completion of flood protection projects throughout our area. In addition, $650 million will be provided to complete flood protection projects at the Inner Harbor Navigational Canal. Our first priority must be ensuring that all of our communities in Louisiana have adequate flood protection, and I will continue to call on my colleagues in Congress and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to fully fund and implement all of the flood and storm needs in Louisiana.
The supplemental bill also contains $60 million that may be used to help our educational systems recover, as well as recruit and train new teachers and faculty. This includes $30 million to elementary and secondary schools in order to help them recruit and retain teachers and $30 million to higher educational facilities that were forced to suspend their operations for at least 30 days as a result of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. I requested both of these important provisions in order to support our schools and higher education facilities.
I introduced legislation last Congress that was signed into law that granted the Secretary of Education the waiver authority to allow higher education institutions to forgo local matching funds in federal campus based aid funds. In addition, I introduced a bill that was included as part of the 2005 Department of Defense Appropriations bill which allocated $1.6 billion in education support for the thousands of children displaced by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The money helped schools in Louisiana rebuild and reopen so displaced students could return home.
In addition, two provisions that I have been pushing for were included in this bill. The first provision will allow FEMA to forgive the Community Disaster Loans for local governments. In addition, the legislation also contains $910 million to waive the state and local cost shares resulting from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. I have been a vocal advocate for these provisions as communities in our state need this assistance as they continue to rebuild and recover. Other communities in previous disasters have received this assistance, and Louisiana should be afforded the same benefit.
I will continue to push leadership in the House of Representatives to let Members of Congress take a vote on these important provisions separate from the rest of the bill so that this important funding can get to our state as quickly as possible.
This weekend, I enjoyed spending some time in Mansura, just north of Cottonport in Avoyelles Parish. I always enjoy catching up with old friends in the area. I hope you have a great week, and feel free to contact my office if we can be of any assistance to you!
Monday, March 19, 2007
Huh???
For once, The Town Talk got something right. How did that happen?
The snip:
· John Breaux, a former U.S. senator and representative from Louisiana, has not announced that he will run for governor of the state, but many expect he will do so within two weeks. Given that, Republicans are on the offensive.
A television commercial that began airing Friday makes this point: Breaux is a resident of Maryland and has been since 2005. Breaux owns a multimillion-dollar home there, he has a Maryland driver's license, and he is registered to vote there. Thus, the GOP ad says, he is not eligible to run in Louisiana.
We think: We agree with the ad. Breaux has made his allegiances and preferences more than clear. Let him fight for the people of Maryland. He spent 32 years representing Louisiana, first in the U.S. House and then in the U.S. Senate. Three decades is more than enough to get something done. Louisiana needs new blood and new thinking.
Update: Evidently, Breaux ain't listenin'.
The snip:
· John Breaux, a former U.S. senator and representative from Louisiana, has not announced that he will run for governor of the state, but many expect he will do so within two weeks. Given that, Republicans are on the offensive.
A television commercial that began airing Friday makes this point: Breaux is a resident of Maryland and has been since 2005. Breaux owns a multimillion-dollar home there, he has a Maryland driver's license, and he is registered to vote there. Thus, the GOP ad says, he is not eligible to run in Louisiana.
We think: We agree with the ad. Breaux has made his allegiances and preferences more than clear. Let him fight for the people of Maryland. He spent 32 years representing Louisiana, first in the U.S. House and then in the U.S. Senate. Three decades is more than enough to get something done. Louisiana needs new blood and new thinking.
Update: Evidently, Breaux ain't listenin'.
RPRW April Meeting
When: Thursday, April 12, from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Where: Rayford Building (second floor Board Room), 2230 MacArthur Drive, Alexandria
Featured Speaker: Greta Jones, Power PAC Treasurer and former LFRW President
Subject: Power PAC (assists Republican candidates in Louisiana, especially women candidates)
Where: Rayford Building (second floor Board Room), 2230 MacArthur Drive, Alexandria
Featured Speaker: Greta Jones, Power PAC Treasurer and former LFRW President
Subject: Power PAC (assists Republican candidates in Louisiana, especially women candidates)
Cost of lunch: $5 per person
Luncheon needs (expenses will be reimbursed):
some volunteers to make spinach manicotti dishes, or something similar
one volunteer to bring bread
one volunteer to bring ice
Luncheon volunteers, please contact Gena Gore!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Fred Thompson's Radio Address
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
LFRW 2007 Spring Conference
Register now for the LFRW Membership and Board of Director's Conference to be held in Covington April 20 - 22. Download and print the Registration form linked here and mail with your payment to the address written on the form.
Tentative CONFERENCE AGENDA
Friday, April 20
5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. Conference Registration
7:00 p.m. Welcome Reception for
Registered Attendees
Home of Maura & Jack Donahue
Tentative CONFERENCE AGENDA
Friday, April 20
5:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. Conference Registration
7:00 p.m. Welcome Reception for
Registered Attendees
Home of Maura & Jack Donahue
Saturday, April 21
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Conference Registration
9:00 a.m. Region Vice Presidents’ Workshop
Home of Linda Begue
10:30 a.m. Executive Committee Meeting
Home of Linda Begue
1:00 - 2:15 p.m. Workshop: New Literacy Project
Presented by Argiro Morgan
2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Workshop: “The True Colors of
Team Building & Leadership”
Guest Speaker: Kathy Hayward
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Magnolia Club Reception
(Members & Invited Guests Only)
Home of Governor Dave Treen
7:30 p.m. Conference Banquet
Featuring Entertainer Ronnie Kole
Sunday, April 22
8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Conference Registration
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Prayer Service
9:30 a.m. Business Session
Noon Adjourn
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Conference Registration
9:00 a.m. Region Vice Presidents’ Workshop
Home of Linda Begue
10:30 a.m. Executive Committee Meeting
Home of Linda Begue
1:00 - 2:15 p.m. Workshop: New Literacy Project
Presented by Argiro Morgan
2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Workshop: “The True Colors of
Team Building & Leadership”
Guest Speaker: Kathy Hayward
5:30 - 7:00 p.m. Magnolia Club Reception
(Members & Invited Guests Only)
Home of Governor Dave Treen
7:30 p.m. Conference Banquet
Featuring Entertainer Ronnie Kole
Sunday, April 22
8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Conference Registration
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Prayer Service
9:30 a.m. Business Session
Noon Adjourn
Monday, March 12, 2007
Saturday, March 10, 2007
27th LFRW Biennial Convention
Rapides Parish Republican Women's Club represented by Gena Gore, Club President and Registration Chair for the Convention and her Committee, Sue Lee- Delegate, Sue Haynes- Delegate, Jane Nugent - Delegate, Diane Lawton - Delegate and Jonie Credeur - Alternate, attended the Convention and worked the Registration tables. On Friday, we set up the tables, registered attendees and then attended a Wine & Wares Reception. There were many items being marketed with great food and wine.
On Saturday, after registration, we attended a Business Session where we heard from all of the officers and committees. Pam Jenkins, Nominating Committee Chair announced all of the nominees for the 2007 LFRW Officers. John Diez of Louisiana Committee for a Republican Majority was the Guest Speaker. We then attended the Awards Luncheon where our club was awarded Second Place for Campaign/Volunteer Hours and Second Place Membership for obtaining the most increase in membership. Our Guest Speaker was Michael Zak, Author. He made available his latest book "Back to Basics for the Republican Party" and many of us took advantage of his presence and got our copies autographed. He was one of the most fascinating speakers I have heard. After lunch and the meeting adjourned, we made the most of a couple of free hours and went shopping at one of the nearby malls. At 4:30 we returned to the hotel and Gena Gore boarded one of two buses going to the new Boardwalk for a wonderful Magnolia Club Reception where many dignitaries and politicians introduced themselves and spoke of their aspirations and platforms. We then rushed back to the hotel to dress for the much anticipated Banquet. The Honorable Charles "Buddy" Roemer, III, Governor of Louisiana, 1988-1992 was the Speaker. After dinner, many of us visited the Hospitality Suites made available to us by the candidates and speakers.
On Sunday, we attended the Prayer Breakfast and then our Business Session during which we adopted changes in the By-Laws, elected our new officers for 2007 and adopted our new Resolutions. Gena Gore was elected as Region 4 Vice-President. The Honorable Jane Smith, Representative for District 8 was our Speaker. We then attended the Installation Luncheon where the new officers were installed. Our Guest Speaker was Donna Howe, LFRW Immediate Past President. The Convention was then adjourned.
Congratulations to Kathy Ross, Convention Chairman, and all of her committees for a successful convention.
On Saturday, after registration, we attended a Business Session where we heard from all of the officers and committees. Pam Jenkins, Nominating Committee Chair announced all of the nominees for the 2007 LFRW Officers. John Diez of Louisiana Committee for a Republican Majority was the Guest Speaker. We then attended the Awards Luncheon where our club was awarded Second Place for Campaign/Volunteer Hours and Second Place Membership for obtaining the most increase in membership. Our Guest Speaker was Michael Zak, Author. He made available his latest book "Back to Basics for the Republican Party" and many of us took advantage of his presence and got our copies autographed. He was one of the most fascinating speakers I have heard. After lunch and the meeting adjourned, we made the most of a couple of free hours and went shopping at one of the nearby malls. At 4:30 we returned to the hotel and Gena Gore boarded one of two buses going to the new Boardwalk for a wonderful Magnolia Club Reception where many dignitaries and politicians introduced themselves and spoke of their aspirations and platforms. We then rushed back to the hotel to dress for the much anticipated Banquet. The Honorable Charles "Buddy" Roemer, III, Governor of Louisiana, 1988-1992 was the Speaker. After dinner, many of us visited the Hospitality Suites made available to us by the candidates and speakers.
On Sunday, we attended the Prayer Breakfast and then our Business Session during which we adopted changes in the By-Laws, elected our new officers for 2007 and adopted our new Resolutions. Gena Gore was elected as Region 4 Vice-President. The Honorable Jane Smith, Representative for District 8 was our Speaker. We then attended the Installation Luncheon where the new officers were installed. Our Guest Speaker was Donna Howe, LFRW Immediate Past President. The Convention was then adjourned.
Congratulations to Kathy Ross, Convention Chairman, and all of her committees for a successful convention.
Friday, March 9, 2007
Come One, Come All!
FRIENDS OF
LANCE MAXWELL
INVITE YOU TO JOIN US,
AS HE ANNOUNCES HIS
CANDIDACY FOR THE LOUISIANA STATE HOUSE OF
REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 25
FRIDAY, MARCH 16, 2007 at 11:30 A.M.
IN FRONT OF THE NEW ALEXANDRIA INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT TERMINAL AT ENGLAND AIRPARK
*airport parking is free for the first hour
Paid for by The Committee to Elect Lance Maxwell, State Representative
Chairman, Jimbo Thiels/Treasurer, Paul Dauzat
LANCE MAXWELL
INVITE YOU TO JOIN US,
AS HE ANNOUNCES HIS
CANDIDACY FOR THE LOUISIANA STATE HOUSE OF
REPRESENTATIVES, DISTRICT 25
FRIDAY, MARCH 16, 2007 at 11:30 A.M.
IN FRONT OF THE NEW ALEXANDRIA INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT TERMINAL AT ENGLAND AIRPARK
*airport parking is free for the first hour
Paid for by The Committee to Elect Lance Maxwell, State Representative
Chairman, Jimbo Thiels/Treasurer, Paul Dauzat
Saturday, March 3, 2007
Could former Governor Jim Gilmore be a dark horse?
Take a look. Gilmore is scheduled to address CPAC, today. Given he pulls no punches in his ad, his speech should be quite *interesting*.
Friday, March 2, 2007
This is just *too* good!
Is uber-lobbyist and possible gubernatorial candidate, John Breaux, actually supporting Bobby Jindal for governor??? Take a look and see for yourselves. ;->
Hat tip: James Quinn, Lee Fletcher and Jo Lea Levy
Hat tip: James Quinn, Lee Fletcher and Jo Lea Levy
Spring Institute Campaign Workshop 2007
The campaign workshop, sponsored by the Louisiana Center for Women in Government, might be interesting, although a tad left leaning. Could learn something, though...
Among those speaking are Secretary of State Jay Dardenne, former Executive Director of the LAGOP, Jason Hebert, and Jindal consultant and RSCC member, Sally Nungesser.
Raymond Strother, who mentored James Carville and Dick Morris, is a *colorful* character, if ever there was one, and he’ll be speaking, as well.
Date: Friday, March 9, 2007
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Location: Old State Capital
Registration Fee: $150
Jean Armstrong, president of the Louisiana League of Women Voters, chairs the event. For more information on the event e-mail: lcwg.info@nicholls.edu.
Hat tip: Paula Furr
Among those speaking are Secretary of State Jay Dardenne, former Executive Director of the LAGOP, Jason Hebert, and Jindal consultant and RSCC member, Sally Nungesser.
Raymond Strother, who mentored James Carville and Dick Morris, is a *colorful* character, if ever there was one, and he’ll be speaking, as well.
Date: Friday, March 9, 2007
Time: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Location: Old State Capital
Registration Fee: $150
Jean Armstrong, president of the Louisiana League of Women Voters, chairs the event. For more information on the event e-mail: lcwg.info@nicholls.edu.
Hat tip: Paula Furr
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