DANE COUNTY
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
ISMAEL R. OZANNE
Dane County Courthouse 215 S. Hamilton St. #3000 Madison WI 53703-3297
Ph (608) 266-4211 Fax (608) 267-2545 http://countyofdane.com/daoffice/dahome.htm
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
March 25, 2011 10:05 p.m.
MADISON---Dane County District Attorney Ismael R. Ozanne issued the following
statement:
I was surprised to learn shortly before 5 p.m. this afternoon that, despite Judge Maryann Sumi’s temporary restraining order, an effort was undertaken to try and make 2011 Wisconsin Act 10 (Governor Walker’s Budget Repair Bill) effective. I was even more surprised to learn that the impetus for an attempt at publication, contrary to Judge Sumi’s order, came from a named defendant in the lawsuit.
As Judge Sumi said in issuing the temporary restraining order enjoining publication of the bill on March 18, 2011:
Finally, the necessity to preserve the status quo. I think relief is essential to preserve the status quo, which is what exists here and now. The bill has passed. But it has not been published.
I believe that, pursuant to Judge Sumi’s order, the status quo is preserved. This case, including the legal significance of today’s actions, should be resolved in a court of law. I look forward to presenting our case on behalf of the People of the State of Wisconsin Tuesday morning, March 29, 2011, at 8:30 a.m.
# # #
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Friday, March 25, 2011
Prosser won't recuse himself in appeal of collective bargaining law
Click on "share" to read the news story in its entirety.
Lawsuit alleges stripped-down union bill approved by Senate still had fiscal provisions
Click on "share" to read the news story in its entirety.
An Email from a AFSCME Member to Republican Legislators
From: Greg Giessen [mailto:flockageese@sbcglobal.net]
Sent: Friday, March 25, 2011 4:29 PM
To: Wisconsin Republican Legislators
Cc:
Subject: Grothman's Latest Proposal
Republican legislators-
You claim that the state is broke. Desperate times. Gotta make some radical moves to get this thing fixed. You then make public employees the scapegoat. "Asking" for concessions, destroying collective bargaining for dedicated public servants, many who have given years of their lives in service to this state. Taxpayers with families to support. Making their difficult jobs even harder. Throwing any concept of employee morale out the door, all in the name of "fixing the budget".
You treat the public school teachers the same way, pulling the rug out from under them, and sending far less money to the districts. Again, all in the name of "fixing the budget". Despite those wonderful "tools" given to them in the repair bill, many distircts still have gaping funding holes. So, why in God's name would you then turn around, Glenn, and propose to give tax credits to private schools? $1500 per year per first grader, $2500 per year per ninth grader? and even more to come!! The state needs every dollar it can get. You guys say so yourselves every day. Yet when it is time to walk the walk, after talking the talk over and over and over again, you let your true colors show.
Glenn Grothman and other Walker-following "legislators", your arrogance and utter disdain for the citizens of this state is showing.
As all those thousands of protesters have said, IT'S NOT ABOUT THE MONEY!!, is it?
Gregory J Giessen
AFSCME Local 0163
Sent: Friday, March 25, 2011 4:29 PM
To: Wisconsin Republican Legislators
Cc:
Subject: Grothman's Latest Proposal
Republican legislators-
You claim that the state is broke. Desperate times. Gotta make some radical moves to get this thing fixed. You then make public employees the scapegoat. "Asking" for concessions, destroying collective bargaining for dedicated public servants, many who have given years of their lives in service to this state. Taxpayers with families to support. Making their difficult jobs even harder. Throwing any concept of employee morale out the door, all in the name of "fixing the budget".
You treat the public school teachers the same way, pulling the rug out from under them, and sending far less money to the districts. Again, all in the name of "fixing the budget". Despite those wonderful "tools" given to them in the repair bill, many distircts still have gaping funding holes. So, why in God's name would you then turn around, Glenn, and propose to give tax credits to private schools? $1500 per year per first grader, $2500 per year per ninth grader? and even more to come!! The state needs every dollar it can get. You guys say so yourselves every day. Yet when it is time to walk the walk, after talking the talk over and over and over again, you let your true colors show.
Glenn Grothman and other Walker-following "legislators", your arrogance and utter disdain for the citizens of this state is showing.
As all those thousands of protesters have said, IT'S NOT ABOUT THE MONEY!!, is it?
Gregory J Giessen
AFSCME Local 0163
Transportation from Wausau to Stevens Point on Monday, 03/28/2011
Brothers and Sisters:
If you are not aware, the Reverend Jesse Jackson is planning on speaking in a rally in Stevens Point on Monday March 28, 2011 at 12 noon. Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) is planning on bringing up their bus to Marathon County Parks at 10 a.m. to pick people up for this and transport to Stevens Point on Monday. Save gas and ride the bus if you are able.
In Solidarity,
John Spiegelhoff
Staff Representative
AFSCME Wisconsin Council 40
715-722-4041
If you are not aware, the Reverend Jesse Jackson is planning on speaking in a rally in Stevens Point on Monday March 28, 2011 at 12 noon. Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) is planning on bringing up their bus to Marathon County Parks at 10 a.m. to pick people up for this and transport to Stevens Point on Monday. Save gas and ride the bus if you are able.
In Solidarity,
John Spiegelhoff
Staff Representative
AFSCME Wisconsin Council 40
715-722-4041
Large Labor Rally Planned for Neenah on Saturday!
Please note that there will be NO rally at the State Capitol tomorrow (3/26) - the large rally that is taking place tomorrow will be in Neenah at the Fox Valley Labor Temple (157 S. Green Bay Road, Neenah, WI) at 1:00pm.
Talking Points Regarding the Illegal Publishing of Wisconsin Act 10
The Illegal Publishing of the Anti-collective Bargaining Bill (Wisconsin Act 10):
POINT 1: Scott Walker and his allies in the Legislature have shown more clearly than ever they have no respect for the rule of law, and their extreme overreach in this massive power grab to strip workers of their rights has no bounds. In a matter of months, Walker and his Republican allies have attempted to turn our great state of Wisconsin and all its democratic traditions into their own banana republic.
POINT 2: By attempting to unilaterally publish their bill eliminating the rights of hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites, Walker and his cronies have willfully ignored a court order barring enactment – making a mockery of decades of both due process and transparency in Wisconsin government. It’s clear at this point that Scott Walker and his corporate benefactors like the Koch brothers will literally do or say anything in pursuit of their extreme power grab.
POINT 3: There can be no doubt this is illegal. Today’s actions come in arrogant defiance of both the court order and specific instructions to the Legislative Reference Bureau from the Secretary of State. Judge Sumi’s order enjoins all “further implementation” of the Act – including but not limited to the publication of the bill, and Secretary of State La Follette specifically ordered the LRB “not to proceed with publication until I contact with a new publication date.”
POINT 4: The Court of Appeals viewed this such a serious issue of statewide importance it called on the Supreme Court to intervene, and left Judge Sumi’s order carrying the force of law in place. If Scott Walker attempts to treat this action as having the force of law, he will have assumed the role of dictator, not governor, of the State of Wisconsin.
POINT 5: Scott Walker and his massive overreach for absolute power is attempting to destroy the rule of law in Wisconsin. From refusing open records requests, unconstitutionally barring access to Capitol building, steamrolling open meetings laws to jam through a budget repair in bill in the dark of night, or today’s flagrantly anti-democratic actions in the face of direct orders to the contrary by the courts and the Secretary of State, Walker and Republicans have proven themselves unfit to govern our great state of Wisconsin.
Creation Date: 03/25/2011
POINT 1: Scott Walker and his allies in the Legislature have shown more clearly than ever they have no respect for the rule of law, and their extreme overreach in this massive power grab to strip workers of their rights has no bounds. In a matter of months, Walker and his Republican allies have attempted to turn our great state of Wisconsin and all its democratic traditions into their own banana republic.
POINT 2: By attempting to unilaterally publish their bill eliminating the rights of hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites, Walker and his cronies have willfully ignored a court order barring enactment – making a mockery of decades of both due process and transparency in Wisconsin government. It’s clear at this point that Scott Walker and his corporate benefactors like the Koch brothers will literally do or say anything in pursuit of their extreme power grab.
POINT 3: There can be no doubt this is illegal. Today’s actions come in arrogant defiance of both the court order and specific instructions to the Legislative Reference Bureau from the Secretary of State. Judge Sumi’s order enjoins all “further implementation” of the Act – including but not limited to the publication of the bill, and Secretary of State La Follette specifically ordered the LRB “not to proceed with publication until I contact with a new publication date.”
POINT 4: The Court of Appeals viewed this such a serious issue of statewide importance it called on the Supreme Court to intervene, and left Judge Sumi’s order carrying the force of law in place. If Scott Walker attempts to treat this action as having the force of law, he will have assumed the role of dictator, not governor, of the State of Wisconsin.
POINT 5: Scott Walker and his massive overreach for absolute power is attempting to destroy the rule of law in Wisconsin. From refusing open records requests, unconstitutionally barring access to Capitol building, steamrolling open meetings laws to jam through a budget repair in bill in the dark of night, or today’s flagrantly anti-democratic actions in the face of direct orders to the contrary by the courts and the Secretary of State, Walker and Republicans have proven themselves unfit to govern our great state of Wisconsin.
Creation Date: 03/25/2011
Message and Statement from AFSCME Council 24 Director and Assistant Director Regarding the Publishing of Wisconsin Act 10
From: Jana Weaver [jweaver@wseu-24.org]
Sent: Friday, March 25, 2011 9:16 PM
To: AFSCME Council 24 Leadership
Cc: AFSCME Council 24 Staff
Subject: Scott Walker's Illegal Actions
Importance: High
All,
We are sure most of you have heard that the Walker Administration once again thumbed their nose at the law in Wisconsin and “published” their anti-worker budget repair bill. This is in direct violation of the temporary restraining order put in place by Judge Sumi and left in place by the Court of Appeals when they requested that the Supreme Court to accept the case. It also flies in the face of what the elected Secretary of State, Doug LaFollette, ordered. These types of actions will not be tolerated by this union or the citizens of Wisconsin. Our team of attorney’s are hard at work this evening analyzing these actions and determining the best way to stop yet another attack. Please find below a statement from Marty.
If you have questions we’ll try to answer them but the republican’s actions are unlawful and unexplainable.
Solidarity,
Marty and Jana
----------
Executive Director Beil's Statement
03/25/2011
Scott Walker and his allies in the Legislature have shown more clearly than ever they have no respect for the rule of law, and their extreme overreach in this massive power grab to strip workers of their rights has no bounds. In a matter of months, Walker and his Republican allies have attempted to turn our great state of Wisconsin and all its democratic traditions into their own banana republic.
By attempting to unilaterally publish their bill eliminating the rights of hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites, Walker and his cronies have willfully ignored a court order barring enactment – making a mockery of decades of both due process and transparency in Wisconsin government. It’s clear at this point that Scott Walker and his corporate benefactors like the Koch brothers will literally do or say anything in pursuit of their extreme power grab.
There can be no doubt this is illegal. Today’s actions come in arrogant defiance of both the court order and specific instructions to the Legislative Reference Bureau from the Secretary of State. Judge Sumi’s order enjoins all “further implementation” of the Act – including but not limited to the publication of the bill, and Secretary of State La Follette specifically ordered the LRB “not to proceed with publication until I contact with a new publication date.”
The Court of Appeals viewed this such a serious issue of statewide importance it called on the Supreme Court to intervene, and left Judge Sumi’s order carrying the force of law in place. If Scott Walker attempts to treat this action as having the force of law, he will have assumed the role of dictator, not governor, of the State of Wisconsin.
Scott Walker and his massive overreach for absolute power is attempting to destroy the rule of law in Wisconsin. From refusing open records requests, unconstitutionally barring access to Capitol building, steamrolling open meetings laws to jam through a budget repair in bill in the dark of night, or today’s flagrantly anti-democratic actions in the face of direct orders to the contrary by the courts and the Secretary of State, Walker and Republicans have proven themselves unfit to govern our great state of Wisconsin.
# # #
Sent: Friday, March 25, 2011 9:16 PM
To: AFSCME Council 24 Leadership
Cc: AFSCME Council 24 Staff
Subject: Scott Walker's Illegal Actions
Importance: High
All,
We are sure most of you have heard that the Walker Administration once again thumbed their nose at the law in Wisconsin and “published” their anti-worker budget repair bill. This is in direct violation of the temporary restraining order put in place by Judge Sumi and left in place by the Court of Appeals when they requested that the Supreme Court to accept the case. It also flies in the face of what the elected Secretary of State, Doug LaFollette, ordered. These types of actions will not be tolerated by this union or the citizens of Wisconsin. Our team of attorney’s are hard at work this evening analyzing these actions and determining the best way to stop yet another attack. Please find below a statement from Marty.
If you have questions we’ll try to answer them but the republican’s actions are unlawful and unexplainable.
Solidarity,
Marty and Jana
----------
Executive Director Beil's Statement
03/25/2011
Scott Walker and his allies in the Legislature have shown more clearly than ever they have no respect for the rule of law, and their extreme overreach in this massive power grab to strip workers of their rights has no bounds. In a matter of months, Walker and his Republican allies have attempted to turn our great state of Wisconsin and all its democratic traditions into their own banana republic.
By attempting to unilaterally publish their bill eliminating the rights of hundreds of thousands of Wisconsinites, Walker and his cronies have willfully ignored a court order barring enactment – making a mockery of decades of both due process and transparency in Wisconsin government. It’s clear at this point that Scott Walker and his corporate benefactors like the Koch brothers will literally do or say anything in pursuit of their extreme power grab.
There can be no doubt this is illegal. Today’s actions come in arrogant defiance of both the court order and specific instructions to the Legislative Reference Bureau from the Secretary of State. Judge Sumi’s order enjoins all “further implementation” of the Act – including but not limited to the publication of the bill, and Secretary of State La Follette specifically ordered the LRB “not to proceed with publication until I contact with a new publication date.”
The Court of Appeals viewed this such a serious issue of statewide importance it called on the Supreme Court to intervene, and left Judge Sumi’s order carrying the force of law in place. If Scott Walker attempts to treat this action as having the force of law, he will have assumed the role of dictator, not governor, of the State of Wisconsin.
Scott Walker and his massive overreach for absolute power is attempting to destroy the rule of law in Wisconsin. From refusing open records requests, unconstitutionally barring access to Capitol building, steamrolling open meetings laws to jam through a budget repair in bill in the dark of night, or today’s flagrantly anti-democratic actions in the face of direct orders to the contrary by the courts and the Secretary of State, Walker and Republicans have proven themselves unfit to govern our great state of Wisconsin.
# # #
Wisconsin Act 10 Has Been Published - Over the Order of the TRO
It appears that the Walker administration feels they have found another way around the law by having the Legislative Reference Bureau publish the Act rather than the Secretary of State. The TRO ordered the SOS to NOT publish the Act until a hearing was held. It did not order the LRB from not publishing the Act. Wisconsin Act 10 WAS PUBLISHED on March 25th (Today)...
The below disclaimer is printed on the first page of Wisconsin Act 10:
* Section 991.11, WISCONSIN STATUTES 2009−10 : Effective date of acts. “Every act and every portion of an act enacted by the legislature over the governor’s partial veto which does not expressly prescribe the time when it takes effect shall take effect on the day after its date of publication as designated” by the secretary of state [the date of publication may not be more than 10 working days after the date of enactment].
† Pursuant to section 35.095 (3) (b), Wis. Stats., the secretary of state designated March 25, 2011, as the date of publication for this act. On March 18, 2011, the Dane County Circuit Court enjoined the secretary of state from publishing 2011 Wisconsin Act 10 until further order of the court. Section 35.095 (3) (a), Wis. Stats., requires the Legislative Reference Bureau to publish every act within 10 working days after its date of enactment.
Download, view and print Wisconsin Act 10 >>>
----------
Steven R. Williams
Political Education Legislative Coordinator
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
(608) 269-0307 Field Office
The below disclaimer is printed on the first page of Wisconsin Act 10:
* Section 991.11, WISCONSIN STATUTES 2009−10 : Effective date of acts. “Every act and every portion of an act enacted by the legislature over the governor’s partial veto which does not expressly prescribe the time when it takes effect shall take effect on the day after its date of publication as designated” by the secretary of state [the date of publication may not be more than 10 working days after the date of enactment].
† Pursuant to section 35.095 (3) (b), Wis. Stats., the secretary of state designated March 25, 2011, as the date of publication for this act. On March 18, 2011, the Dane County Circuit Court enjoined the secretary of state from publishing 2011 Wisconsin Act 10 until further order of the court. Section 35.095 (3) (a), Wis. Stats., requires the Legislative Reference Bureau to publish every act within 10 working days after its date of enactment.
Download, view and print Wisconsin Act 10 >>>
----------
Steven R. Williams
Political Education Legislative Coordinator
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
(608) 269-0307 Field Office
Joint Committee on Finance Has Scheduled the Biennial Budget Hearings
There has been some changes to the early rumors of where JFC would hold its budget hearings around the state. Below is the latest info;
The Joint Finance Committee has scheduled four public hearings on the Biennial Budget Bill. The dates, times and location of the hearings are:
Thursday, April 7th from 10:00am - 6:00pm:
UW-Stevens Point (Lee Dreyfus University Center, Melvin Laird Room, Stevens Point)
View the hearing notice >>>
Friday, April 8th from 10:00am - 5:00pm:
Northwood School Richard’s Auditorium, Highway 53, Minong
View the hearing notice >>>
Monday, April 11th from 10:00am - 6:00pm:
State Fair Park, Expo Center Hall A, West Allis
View the hearing notice >>>
Wednesday, April 13th from 10:00am - 6:00pm:
Arcadia High School Auditorium, Arcadia
View the hearing notice >>>
The committee notice said it will conclude taking testimony at the time specified.
Written comments can be emailed to the committee at: budgetcomments@legis.wisconsin.gov or sent by US mail to:
Joe Malkasian, Room 305 East, State Capitol, Madison, WI 53703
The only changes that we see from earlier information is that Ripon has been dropped and Livingston, WI, a small town of 597 in Grant County did not materialize.
If you will notice, the budget hearings are being held in "Democratic" districts with the exception of State Fair Park that is fairly heavy Republican. They expect a backlash of testimony, so they do not want these meetings in district's where the legislators may be forced (Republican "follow-the-leader" types) to vote for the bill while a majority of their constituents are opposed to it.
We expect State Fair Park to even have a showdown of citizens on both sides. We suspect republican supporters will come to the meeting to counter citizens opposed to Walker's budget bill and/or just plain in opposition of Walker as a whole.
----------
Steven R. Williams
Political Education Legislative Coordinator
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
(608) 269-0307 Field Office
The Joint Finance Committee has scheduled four public hearings on the Biennial Budget Bill. The dates, times and location of the hearings are:
Thursday, April 7th from 10:00am - 6:00pm:
UW-Stevens Point (Lee Dreyfus University Center, Melvin Laird Room, Stevens Point)
View the hearing notice >>>
Friday, April 8th from 10:00am - 5:00pm:
Northwood School Richard’s Auditorium, Highway 53, Minong
View the hearing notice >>>
Monday, April 11th from 10:00am - 6:00pm:
State Fair Park, Expo Center Hall A, West Allis
View the hearing notice >>>
Wednesday, April 13th from 10:00am - 6:00pm:
Arcadia High School Auditorium, Arcadia
View the hearing notice >>>
The committee notice said it will conclude taking testimony at the time specified.
Written comments can be emailed to the committee at: budgetcomments@legis.wisconsin.gov or sent by US mail to:
Joe Malkasian, Room 305 East, State Capitol, Madison, WI 53703
The only changes that we see from earlier information is that Ripon has been dropped and Livingston, WI, a small town of 597 in Grant County did not materialize.
If you will notice, the budget hearings are being held in "Democratic" districts with the exception of State Fair Park that is fairly heavy Republican. They expect a backlash of testimony, so they do not want these meetings in district's where the legislators may be forced (Republican "follow-the-leader" types) to vote for the bill while a majority of their constituents are opposed to it.
We expect State Fair Park to even have a showdown of citizens on both sides. We suspect republican supporters will come to the meeting to counter citizens opposed to Walker's budget bill and/or just plain in opposition of Walker as a whole.
----------
Steven R. Williams
Political Education Legislative Coordinator
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
(608) 269-0307 Field Office
Isn't That Sweet...
In a news conference today, Governor Walker has stated that the anti-collective bargaining bill was passed in a "legal" process.
He also relieved all of us of some anxiety, he says he will not run for President in 2012.
You can watch the news conference in its entirety at Wisconsin EYE >>>
He also relieved all of us of some anxiety, he says he will not run for President in 2012.
You can watch the news conference in its entirety at Wisconsin EYE >>>
A Very Moving Video
In early March, Council 40 Local 2228 produced a video about the fight to retain collective bargaining rights and how it affects public employees. The Local used its own funds to hire video and audio staff from Los Angeles and flew them in for a few days. The results are stunning.
Protest outside Madison Club
Protesters are dogging the tracks of Republican lawmakers. Thursday, while Joint Finance Committee co-chairs, Representative Robin Vos and Senator Alberta Darling were inside the Madison Club attending a WisPolitics luncheon, about 100 protesters were outside the private downtown club. The group sang “My Darling Clementine,” in apparent reference to the recall effort against Darling, and chanted the now familiar “this is what democracy looks like.” [Read More]
AFSCME Wisconsin Lobby Day - *CANCELLED*
The AFSCME Wisconsin Lobby Day originally scheduled for Thursday, April 14th has been cancelled.
Members are encouraged to participate in local community events and to check the SEPAC website for the most current listing of activities.
http://www.wseu-sepac.org
Members are encouraged to participate in local community events and to check the SEPAC website for the most current listing of activities.
http://www.wseu-sepac.org
Prosser won't recuse himself in appeal of collective bargaining law
Click on "share" to read this article in its entirety >>>
Retired AFSCME DNR Member Lashes Out at Rep. Roger Rivard (R-75)
Checkout the SEPAC BIO of information submitted by Rep. Rivard >>>
I am responding to the article published in the March 16, 2011 issue of The Chronotype entitled “Rivard gives views on budget”. Everyone understands two people can view the same set of circumstances and come away with different opinions based on their unique perspectives. But, there is also the reality of truth and untruth. If the quotes attributed to Rep. Roger Rivard are accurate, he reveals himself as at best an uninformed parrot repeating other peoplesʼ lies or at worst, to be a liar himself.
Read the "Letter-to-the-Editor" in its entirety >>>
Letter written by retired AFSCME Member, Scott Plaster, Local 1218
I am responding to the article published in the March 16, 2011 issue of The Chronotype entitled “Rivard gives views on budget”. Everyone understands two people can view the same set of circumstances and come away with different opinions based on their unique perspectives. But, there is also the reality of truth and untruth. If the quotes attributed to Rep. Roger Rivard are accurate, he reveals himself as at best an uninformed parrot repeating other peoplesʼ lies or at worst, to be a liar himself.
Read the "Letter-to-the-Editor" in its entirety >>>
Letter written by retired AFSCME Member, Scott Plaster, Local 1218
Subject: Wisconsin AG E-mail Address
vanhollenjb@doj.state.wi.us - The e-mail address for you to use to tell Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen what you think about his efforts to overturn the injunction stopping Scott Walker's union-busting bill. This is not an easy email address to get. Please share it widely.
You may also use the SEPAC Action Center to properly format your electronic communication or create a print copy for your signature.
"Click Here" to access the SEPAC Action Center for WI AG Van Hollen >>>
You may also use the SEPAC Action Center to properly format your electronic communication or create a print copy for your signature.
"Click Here" to access the SEPAC Action Center for WI AG Van Hollen >>>
100 Years After Triangle Fire, Horror Resonates
It was a warm spring Saturday when dozens of immigrant girls and women leapt to their deaths — some with their clothes on fire, some holding hands — as horrified onlookers watched the Triangle Shirtwaist factory burn.
The March 25, 1911, fire that killed 146 workers became a touchstone for the organized labor movement, spurred laws that required fire drills and shed light on the lives of young immigrant workers near the turn of the century.
The 100th anniversary comes as public workers in Wisconsin, Ohio and elsewhere protest efforts to limit collective bargaining rights in response to state budget woes. Labor leaders and others say one need only look to the Triangle fire to see why unions are crucial.
Read the entire story >>>
The March 25, 1911, fire that killed 146 workers became a touchstone for the organized labor movement, spurred laws that required fire drills and shed light on the lives of young immigrant workers near the turn of the century.
The 100th anniversary comes as public workers in Wisconsin, Ohio and elsewhere protest efforts to limit collective bargaining rights in response to state budget woes. Labor leaders and others say one need only look to the Triangle fire to see why unions are crucial.
Read the entire story >>>
Roadtrip to Recall - Starting from Madison - Saturday, 03/26
-----Original Message-----
From: xxxxxx@ufree.info On Behalf Of private xxxx list
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2011 5:05 PM
To: xxxxxx@ufree.info
Subject: [xxxx] notice: Saturday 3/26 roadtrip for recall 9:00am - 6:00pm
Road Trip To Recall
Here is some information on a great opportunity to get out and help with the grassroots efforts to Recall the Republican 8.
Road Trip to Recall With Senators Mark Miller and Jon Erpenbach of the "Fab 14"
When: Saturday, March 26th
Where: Brittingham Park Parking Lot (On West Washington Ave. between South Park St. and Regent St.)
Pre-trip Rally: 9:00am
Carpools Depart: 10:00am
Carpools Return: Between 5:00pm - 6:00pm
The Rundown: Senators Mark Miller and Jon Erpenbach will meet with road trippers prior to traveling to Senate Districts.
This Saturday we will be heading to: Green Bay (Cowles), Oshkosh (Hopper), and Shorewood (Darling). These districts are listed in priority order. Travelers will meet with Staff and volunteers from each Senate District and help gather signatures in that district. Free parking available along West Washington Ave. Directions to offices and contact numbers will be provided at the event.
This is an open event. Invite your friends and family, the more road trippers the better!
For more details email Nick at nickn@wisconsinprogress.org
From: xxxxxx@ufree.info On Behalf Of private xxxx list
Sent: Thursday, March 24, 2011 5:05 PM
To: xxxxxx@ufree.info
Subject: [xxxx] notice: Saturday 3/26 roadtrip for recall 9:00am - 6:00pm
Road Trip To Recall
Here is some information on a great opportunity to get out and help with the grassroots efforts to Recall the Republican 8.
Road Trip to Recall With Senators Mark Miller and Jon Erpenbach of the "Fab 14"
When: Saturday, March 26th
Where: Brittingham Park Parking Lot (On West Washington Ave. between South Park St. and Regent St.)
Pre-trip Rally: 9:00am
Carpools Depart: 10:00am
Carpools Return: Between 5:00pm - 6:00pm
The Rundown: Senators Mark Miller and Jon Erpenbach will meet with road trippers prior to traveling to Senate Districts.
This Saturday we will be heading to: Green Bay (Cowles), Oshkosh (Hopper), and Shorewood (Darling). These districts are listed in priority order. Travelers will meet with Staff and volunteers from each Senate District and help gather signatures in that district. Free parking available along West Washington Ave. Directions to offices and contact numbers will be provided at the event.
This is an open event. Invite your friends and family, the more road trippers the better!
For more details email Nick at nickn@wisconsinprogress.org
Wisconsin Supreme Court Candidate Debate, Tonight at 7:00pm
The We the People/Wisconsin: 2011 Supreme Court Debate will feature candidates JoAnne Kloppenburg and David Prosser in a discussion of issues surrounding this spring election.
Watch the debate live on WPT and online at WisconsinVote.org at 7:00pm Friday, March 25. It will be co-anchored by WPT’s Frederica Freyberg and Eric Franke from WISC-TV.
Watch the debate live on WPT and online at WisconsinVote.org at 7:00pm Friday, March 25. It will be co-anchored by WPT’s Frederica Freyberg and Eric Franke from WISC-TV.
Indiana Prosecutor Resigns Over Email He Sent to Gov. Walker
An Indiana Prosecutor has resigned after admitting to sending an email message to Governor Scott Walker where he laid out a "faked" attack on the Governor either in a physical manner or by the use of a firearm and have the attacker appear to be of "Union" backing.
Click on "share" to read the entire article.
Click on "share" to read the entire article.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
2011-2013 Wisconsin State Biennial Budget Hearings by JFC
It is being rumored that the Joint Committe on Finance will hold five public hearings outside the State Capitol in the near future on the biennial budget.
It appears that the Republican dominated JFC has decided to hold the public budget hearings in areas that do not have large media markets.
The rumored locations are;
Arcadia, WI (Trempealeau County - Pop. 2412)
Hayward, WI (Sawyer County - Pop. 2129)
Livingston, WI (Grant County - Pop. 597)
Ripon, WI (Fond du Lac County - Pop. 6828)
West Allis, WI (Milwaukee County - Pop. 61254)
Exact locations and times have not yet been learned. Again, the above locations are rumored to be the chosen locations, but have not officially been communicated by the JFC.
It appears that the Republican dominated JFC has decided to hold the public budget hearings in areas that do not have large media markets.
The rumored locations are;
Arcadia, WI (Trempealeau County - Pop. 2412)
Hayward, WI (Sawyer County - Pop. 2129)
Livingston, WI (Grant County - Pop. 597)
Ripon, WI (Fond du Lac County - Pop. 6828)
West Allis, WI (Milwaukee County - Pop. 61254)
Exact locations and times have not yet been learned. Again, the above locations are rumored to be the chosen locations, but have not officially been communicated by the JFC.
District IV Court of Appeals Ask Supreme Court to Take Up Collective Bargaining Suit
The District IV Court of Appeals has certified to the Wisconsin State Supreme Court the case of Dane County DA Ozanne seeking to block publication of Wisconsin Act 10, the controversial anti-collective bargaining bill. Four justices of the Supreme Court will have to agree to accept the case.
The appeals court justices of Lundsten, Higgenbotham and Blanchard, J.J. is asking the Wisconsin Supreme Court if "striking down" a legislative bill for violation of the Wisconsin Open Meetings law is an available remedy and if so whether a court has the authority to enjoin the secretary of state's publication of an act before it becomes law.
Read the "Certification fo the Appeals Court >>>
The appeals court justices of Lundsten, Higgenbotham and Blanchard, J.J. is asking the Wisconsin Supreme Court if "striking down" a legislative bill for violation of the Wisconsin Open Meetings law is an available remedy and if so whether a court has the authority to enjoin the secretary of state's publication of an act before it becomes law.
Read the "Certification fo the Appeals Court >>>
Senator recall petitions stolen, returned
RIVER FALLS, Wis. (AP) -- A western Wisconsin man has been arrested for stealing some petitions to recall state Sen. Shelia Harsdorf... [Read More]
Republicans DO NOT Like Democrats Solidarity Support
It would appear that the Wisconsin Legislative Majority, supported by Governor Scott Walker does not like the Wisconsin Legislative Democrats support of Solidarity for Wisconsin Workers.
Democratic Legislators are being told to remove all of their window signs and this would include the large signs telling Governor Scott Walker that this is his "Pink Slip".
Of course, to dispell the above appearance, the below email was sent to ALL legislators;
From: Tonnon Byers, Anne
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2011 10:02 AM
To: *Legislative Assembly Democrats; *Legislative Assembly Independents; *Legislative Assembly Republicans
Subject: Windows
Building Maintenance have notified me that some windows with signs in them are being vandalized (graffiti.) They believe that the removal of signs from the Capitol windows would help prevent such actions. The DOA Tenant Manual does not allow signs in windows. It states, "No signs, displays, banners or similar items shall be visible through exterior windows of the StateCapitolBuilding." I've attached the page that applies (the entire manual is accessible at http://www.doa.state.wi.us/category.asp?linkcatid=755&linkid=61&locid=4.) Your assistance would be appreciated. Thank you.
Anne
Democratic Legislators are being told to remove all of their window signs and this would include the large signs telling Governor Scott Walker that this is his "Pink Slip".
Of course, to dispell the above appearance, the below email was sent to ALL legislators;
From: Tonnon Byers, Anne
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2011 10:02 AM
To: *Legislative Assembly Democrats; *Legislative Assembly Independents; *Legislative Assembly Republicans
Subject: Windows
Building Maintenance have notified me that some windows with signs in them are being vandalized (graffiti.) They believe that the removal of signs from the Capitol windows would help prevent such actions. The DOA Tenant Manual does not allow signs in windows. It states, "No signs, displays, banners or similar items shall be visible through exterior windows of the StateCapitolBuilding." I've attached the page that applies (the entire manual is accessible at http://www.doa.state.wi.us/category.asp?linkcatid=755&linkid=61&locid=4.) Your assistance would be appreciated. Thank you.
Anne
Wisconsin State AFL-CIO Starts Making Robo Calls Today for Joanne Kloppenburg
The message in part, will say, "She has the experience and independence that we need," adding that Justice David Prosser is a "close ally" of Governor Scott Walker.
Many of us are puzzled by the outright attack on working families, not only in Wisconsin, but in many states across America where they have republican majority's.
Voters need to really step up to the plate and know who they are voting for, starting with the Wisconsin Supreme Court race. Voters need to vote with "priorities", i.e. jobs, affordable health insurance, reasonable employment benefits, workplace safety, workplace rights and the economy rather than their political party choices. It is time to remove the "political hat" that a great number of voters wear when voting and learn where the candidates stand on the issues that impact the daily lives of the voters.
Many of us are puzzled by the outright attack on working families, not only in Wisconsin, but in many states across America where they have republican majority's.
Voters need to really step up to the plate and know who they are voting for, starting with the Wisconsin Supreme Court race. Voters need to vote with "priorities", i.e. jobs, affordable health insurance, reasonable employment benefits, workplace safety, workplace rights and the economy rather than their political party choices. It is time to remove the "political hat" that a great number of voters wear when voting and learn where the candidates stand on the issues that impact the daily lives of the voters.
Checkout "Blogging Blue" built by an AFSCME Member
From: "Dave Kopplin"
Date: Wed, 23 Mar 2011 23:15:29 -0500
To: xxxxxx
Subject: Blogging Blue
One of our local 2748 members, Zach W, a Prob & Parole Agent, has a website called Blogging Blue. He has a facebook page too. If anyone has any leads on blog materials, send it to him. He broke the Hopper scandal. He has been endorsed by SEPAC in a prior political campaign and does great work for our cause. Highly recommended.
http://bloggingblue.com/
Please share with everyone.
Thanks,
Dave Kopplin, Local 2748
Date: Wed, 23 Mar 2011 23:15:29 -0500
To: xxxxxx
Subject: Blogging Blue
One of our local 2748 members, Zach W, a Prob & Parole Agent, has a website called Blogging Blue. He has a facebook page too. If anyone has any leads on blog materials, send it to him. He broke the Hopper scandal. He has been endorsed by SEPAC in a prior political campaign and does great work for our cause. Highly recommended.
http://bloggingblue.com/
Please share with everyone.
Thanks,
Dave Kopplin, Local 2748
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
McEntee on Gov. Walker’s Anti-Worker Power Grab
Workers would go unheard without collective bargaining
In his March 18 Washington Forum commentary, “Wisconsin’s bargain budget,” Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) justified taking away collective-bargaining rights for government workers in his state by arguing that his plan is a better deal than the law grants federal employees.
But what Mr. Walker also took away was their voice at work, i.e., the opportunity to have a say on issues such as scheduling, health and safety, overtime policies, and access to training, as well as career development and promotion opportunities. Those issues are the heart and soul of collective bargaining. Economic issues are important, but the most important thing is the voice. When that voice is silenced, so is the voice of the middle class. That’s why collective-bargaining rights are so precious, and that’s the source of Wisconsin residents’ outrage.
Don’t let Scott Walker’s comments fool you. Stripping Wisconsin’s employees of their basic worker rights isn’t about balancing budgets or reducing deficits. It’s about taking away the fundamental right of employees to have a voice in the workplace, and there’s nothing right about that.
John Gage, Washington
The writer is president of the American Federation of Government Employees.
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker made no mention of the massive $117 million in tax breaks he provided for wealthy corporations before he launched his power grab to silence the voices of working men and women. Mr. Walker was more interested in stripping nurses, teachers, corrections officers, bus drivers and emergency medical technicians of their hard-won rights than pulling together to find real solutions to meet the problems in his state.
Now, he has used The Post to paint a decidedly false picture of his record. The battle in Wisconsin was not about balancing the budget. The right of collective bargaining has no impact on any budget. What led more than 100,000 dedicated people to rally outside the state Capitol was the governor’s reckless attempt to destroy the ability of middle-class workers to have a voice.
Public employees fought long and hard for the right to collective bargaining. Forty-three years ago next month, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. died defending the right of collective bargaining for sanitation workers in Memphis. We will not forget his sacrifice. Nor will we forget the treachery of politicians who run for office claiming jobs are their top priority but then spend their first months in office taking away the rights of workers. America’s working families know the difference between right and wrong.
Gerald W. McEntee, Washington
The writer is president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
In his March 18 Washington Forum commentary, “Wisconsin’s bargain budget,” Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker (R) justified taking away collective-bargaining rights for government workers in his state by arguing that his plan is a better deal than the law grants federal employees.
But what Mr. Walker also took away was their voice at work, i.e., the opportunity to have a say on issues such as scheduling, health and safety, overtime policies, and access to training, as well as career development and promotion opportunities. Those issues are the heart and soul of collective bargaining. Economic issues are important, but the most important thing is the voice. When that voice is silenced, so is the voice of the middle class. That’s why collective-bargaining rights are so precious, and that’s the source of Wisconsin residents’ outrage.
Don’t let Scott Walker’s comments fool you. Stripping Wisconsin’s employees of their basic worker rights isn’t about balancing budgets or reducing deficits. It’s about taking away the fundamental right of employees to have a voice in the workplace, and there’s nothing right about that.
John Gage, Washington
The writer is president of the American Federation of Government Employees.
Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker made no mention of the massive $117 million in tax breaks he provided for wealthy corporations before he launched his power grab to silence the voices of working men and women. Mr. Walker was more interested in stripping nurses, teachers, corrections officers, bus drivers and emergency medical technicians of their hard-won rights than pulling together to find real solutions to meet the problems in his state.
Now, he has used The Post to paint a decidedly false picture of his record. The battle in Wisconsin was not about balancing the budget. The right of collective bargaining has no impact on any budget. What led more than 100,000 dedicated people to rally outside the state Capitol was the governor’s reckless attempt to destroy the ability of middle-class workers to have a voice.
Public employees fought long and hard for the right to collective bargaining. Forty-three years ago next month, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. died defending the right of collective bargaining for sanitation workers in Memphis. We will not forget his sacrifice. Nor will we forget the treachery of politicians who run for office claiming jobs are their top priority but then spend their first months in office taking away the rights of workers. America’s working families know the difference between right and wrong.
Gerald W. McEntee, Washington
The writer is president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
Monday, March 21, 2011
SCFL Looking for Volunteers for Election Activity
Come Volunteer to support pro-labor and worker-friendly candidates
Location: Madison Labor Temple
Address: 1602 South Park Street, Madison, WI
Free parking available; Snacks and drinks available. Once you get there, follow the signs for the room number. Bring your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors!
PHONE BANKS
Monday - Thursday (March 21st - 24th): 5 PM to 9 PM
Friday (March 25th): 5 PM to 7 PM
Monday - Thursday (March 28th - 31st): 5 PM to 9 PM
LABOR WALKS
Saturday, March 26th: 10 AM to 6 PM
Sunday, March 27th: 12 PM to 6 PM
GOTV (final Get Out The Vote)
Saturday, April 2nd: 10 AM to 6 PM (Labor Walk)
Sunday, April 3rd: 12 PM to 6 PM (Labor Walk)
Monday, April 4th: 10 AM to 9 PM (Phones and Walks)
Tuesday, April 5th: 10 AM to 8 PM (Phones and Walks)
Printer-friendly flyer for this activity >>>
If you have any questions, please contact:
Kevin Gundlach
AFSCME
E-mail: kcgundlach@yahoo.com
Cell Phone: 608-770-4295
Location: Madison Labor Temple
Address: 1602 South Park Street, Madison, WI
Free parking available; Snacks and drinks available. Once you get there, follow the signs for the room number. Bring your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors!
PHONE BANKS
Monday - Thursday (March 21st - 24th): 5 PM to 9 PM
Friday (March 25th): 5 PM to 7 PM
Monday - Thursday (March 28th - 31st): 5 PM to 9 PM
LABOR WALKS
Saturday, March 26th: 10 AM to 6 PM
Sunday, March 27th: 12 PM to 6 PM
GOTV (final Get Out The Vote)
Saturday, April 2nd: 10 AM to 6 PM (Labor Walk)
Sunday, April 3rd: 12 PM to 6 PM (Labor Walk)
Monday, April 4th: 10 AM to 9 PM (Phones and Walks)
Tuesday, April 5th: 10 AM to 8 PM (Phones and Walks)
Printer-friendly flyer for this activity >>>
If you have any questions, please contact:
Kevin Gundlach
AFSCME
E-mail: kcgundlach@yahoo.com
Cell Phone: 608-770-4295
Checkout Photo's Provided by Wisconsin State AFL-CIO
Looking for photo's of the rally's and protest events that have been taking place here in Wisconsin? Then checkout the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO "Flickr" page.
Click here to see the photo's >>>
Click here to see the photo's >>>
Recall Volunteer Attacked, but is Okay
The ongoing Wisconsin Recalls of the eight eligible republican state senators is very important to changing the direction of Wisconsin. However, as the below summary of one of the lead recall organizers describes, we must be vigilant for each others safety as some "radical" supporters of Gov. Walker and the Republican Majority are seeing defeat for their cause and are now resorting to isolated incidents of physical attack of volunteers trying to change the faces of the Republican Majority that has chosen to attack Wisconsin Families.
WE urge ALL recall volunteers to do their work with others and not do it alone. ALL incidents need to be documented and reported to law enforcement authorities.
"Two of our volunteers were out collecting signatures in the Falls on County Line Rd. A guy in a truck pulled over and started yelling at them. The vols told him to leave. The guy got out of his truck and got in their faces. A woman walked up to sign the petition, at which point the guy jumped in between the woman and the vol and punched the vol in the stomach. He then ran away and drove off--they got a partial plate and called 911. The police filed a report and said they probably can get the plates from surveillance video.
The volunteer's name is dave kopplin. He wasn't hurt. He's a big dude and a prison guard and said he's used to it. Both vols said they'll be back again next week! "
Authority: Marty Beil, executive director
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
WE urge ALL recall volunteers to do their work with others and not do it alone. ALL incidents need to be documented and reported to law enforcement authorities.
"Two of our volunteers were out collecting signatures in the Falls on County Line Rd. A guy in a truck pulled over and started yelling at them. The vols told him to leave. The guy got out of his truck and got in their faces. A woman walked up to sign the petition, at which point the guy jumped in between the woman and the vol and punched the vol in the stomach. He then ran away and drove off--they got a partial plate and called 911. The police filed a report and said they probably can get the plates from surveillance video.
The volunteer's name is dave kopplin. He wasn't hurt. He's a big dude and a prison guard and said he's used to it. Both vols said they'll be back again next week! "
Authority: Marty Beil, executive director
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
DOJ Files Appeal to Judge Sumi's TRO
The Department of Justice of the State of Wisconsin has filed an appeal of Judge Sumi's Temporary Restraining Order to the publishing of Wisconsin Act 10, to the 4th District Court of Appeals.
The DOJ motion seeks to stay the TRO and seek permission to appeal Judge Sumi's decision or to petition directly to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The latter request is in anticipation of bringing this matter to the Wisconsin Supreme Court while the court is presently four conservatives to three liberals.
April 5th's election for the Wisconsin Supreme Court could possibly flip the court to four liberals and three conservatives.
See the appeal here >>>
The DOJ motion seeks to stay the TRO and seek permission to appeal Judge Sumi's decision or to petition directly to the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The latter request is in anticipation of bringing this matter to the Wisconsin Supreme Court while the court is presently four conservatives to three liberals.
April 5th's election for the Wisconsin Supreme Court could possibly flip the court to four liberals and three conservatives.
See the appeal here >>>
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Breakfast with "Fitz" in Horicon, WI
On Saturday morning about 50 protesters had hoped that Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald would come out to the end of his driveway and have coffee and donuts with them.
Senator Fitzgerald did not show, but rather had the local police checking on his welfare while the protesters waited patiently for his appearance.
Below is a video of comments made by Executive Director Marty Beil of AFSCME Council 24:
Senator Fitzgerald did not show, but rather had the local police checking on his welfare while the protesters waited patiently for his appearance.
Below is a video of comments made by Executive Director Marty Beil of AFSCME Council 24:
Calculating cost of state budget cuts
Leah Lipska, 29, a state Department of Corrections employee who lives in Mount Horeb, said her monthly house payment is $1,050, nearly half her $2,200 monthly state take-home pay, which will be reduced by $212 because of the additional insurance and pension contributions, she said. Her annual state salary is $38,000.
Read the article in its entirety >>>
SEPAC Note: Leah Lipska is President of AFSCME Local 1 and is a member of the State Employees Political Action Committee.
Read the article in its entirety >>>
SEPAC Note: Leah Lipska is President of AFSCME Local 1 and is a member of the State Employees Political Action Committee.
Supreme Court tensions boil over
Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson provided me with the oath to my office as a State Trooper in 1982. From that point forward I have had the honor, pleasure and opportunity to speak with the Chief Justice on many occassions and to listen to her to speak at formal functions several times. Chief Justice Abrahamson is an extremely intelligent, articulate, fair, polite and friendly person. I would argue that Justice Prosser struggles with taking direction from a woman and does have a temper issue that he is unable to control when he feels that his points are not winning support from his colleagues. -- Steven Williams
Prosser says he was goaded into insulting chief justice
Madison - As the deeply divided state Supreme Court wrestled over whether to force one member off criminal cases last year, Justice David Prosser exploded at Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson behind closed doors, calling her a "bitch" and threatening to "destroy" her.
Read this article in its entirety >>>
Posted by Steven Williams
Political Education Legislative Coordinator
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
Prosser says he was goaded into insulting chief justice
Madison - As the deeply divided state Supreme Court wrestled over whether to force one member off criminal cases last year, Justice David Prosser exploded at Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson behind closed doors, calling her a "bitch" and threatening to "destroy" her.
Read this article in its entirety >>>
Posted by Steven Williams
Political Education Legislative Coordinator
AFSCME Council 24 AFL-CIO
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