Wisconsin Cheese Head Revolution Continues In Madison Capitol

Governor Scott Walker's budget repair bill kept protesters overnight inside capitol building.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 27, 2011

Madison - On Sunday, hundreds of pro-union supporters were allowed to stay overnight for the 13th day at the capitol building after a deadline to close it for cleaning came and went. The building was scheduled to close at 4 p.m. and police began to advise people to leave. Hundreds left, but about three hundred people decided to stay and were ready to engage in a peaceful disobedience, if forced to leave.
State Capitol Police Chief Charles Tubbs decided to let the protesters remain inside the capitol building after protesters were moving aside and letting cleaning crews do their job. Tubbs says, the people are peaceful and were very cooperative with the cleaning staff.
The Republican legislature had adopt a rule to close the capitol building by Sunday afternoon. Most of the cooking wares, food dispensing and other items were cleared on Saturday night. Protesters had to be moved out from offices where they had been staying overnight and will be allowed to sleep in the rotunda area.

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Obama Hasn't Walked With Union Workers In Wisconsin As He Indicated In 2007

Wisconsin protests entered 13th day and tens of thousands of people protested on Saturday as 14 Senate Democrats remained out of state to stall Walker's budget bill indefinately.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 26, 2011

Madison - On Saturday, ten of thousands of pro-union supporters and workers converged at the Capitol for the 13th day, making it one of the largest manifestations of protests since the Vietnam War-era. More than 250,000 protesters have gathered at the Capitol since February 15. There were just a few pro-Walker supporters at the capitol grounds, but both sides remained peaceful. The Wisconsin legislators didn't have a session for the weekend and will be back on Monday.
Governor Scott Walker (R) announced that if the Senate doesn't pass his budget bill by next Tuesday, layoff notices for more than 1,500 state and public workers will be issued. Despite Walker's threat, some school districts around the state have already issued preliminary layoff notices to employees. One of them is Lisa Fitzgerald, a Hustisford school counselor and the wife of Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R) who supports Walker's budget. He won't negotiate the bill and wants to also eliminate bargaining rights for workers.
Another 41 teachers and workers at Delevan-Darien High School where Governor Walker attended received preliminary layoff notices, as well. Reports by teachers at the high school indicate that Walker is losing support from Republicans being affected by the budget bill.
Governor Walker and the Republican controlled legislature turned Wisconsin into ground zero for union busting by pushing a budget repair bill to eliminate collective bargaining for most state workers. The Wisconsin State Assembly passed Walker's Budget Repair Bill on early Friday defeating any effort by House Democrats to stop it or remove the provision to end collective bargaining for workers.
The House budget repair bill version is now in the state Senate. The lack of Senate quorum guarantees that the bill won't be debated or voted on. It will be stalled indefinately until the Senate Republicans agree to negotiations according to Democrats. The Senate can pass non-fiscal bills.
Last week, they passed a Voter ID bill temperarily, but couldn't pass it legally since it includes fiscal items on it. Both the budget and ID bills remain stalled.
The 14 Senate Democrats have vowed to remain out of state until Republicans and Walker agree to remove the provision eliminating collective bargaining. 
Taking note, President Barack H. Obama (D) has failed to put on a comfortable pair of shoes and walk among pro-union prostesters as he indicated while campaigning for President, if union workers bargaining rights were being denied.
“If American workers are being denied their right to organize and collectively bargain, when I’m in the White House. I’ll put on a comfortable pair of shoes myself – I’ll walk on that picket line with you as President of the United States of America,” President Obama said during his campaign for President in 2007.
A recall has been organized on Saturday against State Senator Alberta Darling (R), according to pro-union supporters. Other Republican legislators are also facing recalls.
Republican supporters have began a recall effort against State Senator Robert Wirch (D) also.

On Saturday, more than 70,000 pro-union supporters, teachers, public and state workers participated during protests in Madison. Video by Alejandro Riano, link at: http://bit.ly/hfqHYj

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Driver Involved In Milwaukee's S. Cesar Chavez Drive Hit and Run Death Charged

Surveillance video showing Walden hitting Dominguez-Rosa. (Milwaukee Police Department)

Vehicle used in fatal hit and run was repainted to avoid detection.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 25, 2011

Milwaukee - On Friday, Nathaniel Walden, 19, was charged with Hit and Run-Involving Death in last Sunday's traffic death of Rufino Dominguez-Rosa, 34, in Milwaukee's South side. Walden is facing 25 years in prison and $100,000 in fines, if convicted. He remains in custody on a $7,500 cash bond. Walden is expected back in court on March 7, according to court records.
Police arrested Walden after his vehicle was spotted in the 1800 block of W. National Ave. Several officers recognized a parked vehicle matching the description taken by a surveillance video where Rosa was killed.
Police noticed the fresh paint and primer on the vehicle. When they checked the license plate number, it turned out be Walden's. He was later arrested where he worked without incident.
Walden confessed to police that he was driving northbound in his vehicle when he hit Rosa in the crosswalk at the 1000 block of S. Cesar Chavez Dr. about 1:50 a.m. and kept on going. Rosa later died at Froedtart Hospital around 3 a.m. on Sunday, according to police. Walden never stopped to help the victim.

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House Republicans Passed Governor Walker's Budget Repair Bill In Wisconsin

Photo: Wiseye

Wisconsin has an alternative to fix the State's projected $3.6 billion deficit by establishing a non-profit State Bank with generated profits going to deficit, according to radio talk shows discussing the prospect. Walker's budget repair bill moves to Senate.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 25, 2011

Madison - On early Friday just after 1:15 a.m., the majority of the House Republicans passed Governor Scott Walker's Budget Repair Bill after debating for more than 62 hours in session. Immediately after the vote, House Democrats became outraged because the Republican Speaker Pro-Tem Bill Kramer called to stop debate and abruptly allowed the Republicans to vote for it. The vote was opened and closed within seconds with 51-17 votes. Only 13 Democrtas were able to vote quickly by pushing the "no" vote button. But, 25 Democrats didn't have a chance to vote on the bill. Two Republicans are saying, that they voted for the budget, but the push button didn't record their vote. An Independent representative did not vote. Four Republicans voted "no" on Walker's budget bill. The Republicans voting against the bill were Richard Spenbauer from Oshkosh, Lee Nerison from Westby, Travis Tranel from Cuba City and Dean Kuafert from Neenah.
Republicans violated rules and laws by stopping debate to pass Walker's budget repair bill, according to Democrats. Republicans wouldn't let 20 House legislators from speaking on the bill and Democrats accused the Republicans of abusing power and illegally closing debate.
Democrat legislators chanted "shame, shame, shame" after Republicans began to walk out of the session. They will seek legal action to overturn vote.
The bandage repair bill makes major cuts in funding for schools, eliminates collective bargaining for state and public workers, cuts worker pensions and medical benefits, allows the sale of power plants without bids, cuts funding to K-12 schools and allows for medical funding programs and benefit changes without legislative hearings by the State.
On Thursday, some Wisconsin school workers have received preliminary layoff notices. One of them is Lisa Fitzgerald, a Hustisford school counselor and the wife of Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R) who supports Walker's budget, won't negotiate the bill and wants to also eliminate bargaining rights for workers.
Even 41 teachers and workers at Delevan-Darien High School where Governor Walker attended received preliminary layoff notices, as well. Reports by teachers at the high school indicate that Walker is losing support from Republicans being affected by the budget bill. 
The budget bill now heads to the senate for debate and approval, but 14 Senate Democrats have left the state to block the bill by preventing quorum. Democrats won't budge and say they will not return until Walker and the Senate Republicans remove the provision or section ending collective bargaining rights.
The Senate session needs 20 senators for quorum to approve fiscal bills. Today, it lacks one senator to complete quorum and to pass Walker's budget. Democrats say, the state workers and unions have agreed to Walker's concessions, but won't give up collective bargaining.
Walker wants to bust the unions by ending collective bargaining, except for wages, according to recorded prank caller posing himself as billionaire David Koch. Walker revealed how he and other Republicans conspired to deceit Senate Democrats into coming back to Wisconsin in order to reach quorum. How Walker and others thought of using trouble makers to disrupt the crowds of protesters and wanting ads by a third party to promote his budget bill.
Senate Republicans worked with Walker to pass a rule and revoking direct bank deposit for the 14 Democrats, to try and force quorum. The rule likely violates state workers right to direct deposit.
Peg Lautenschlager (D) former Attorney General in Wisconsin told the Madison dot com that Governor Walker most likely violated labor, ethics and election laws as exposed in the prank call by Buffalo Beast dot com from New York. The pranked call became a national embarrassment for Walker.
An inquiry by the State Government Accountability Board is underway to see if Governor Walker broke any ethics laws after hundreds of e-mails complaining and requesting an investigation were registered.
More than 200,000 pro-union protesters have gathered in Madison, since February 15 and have protested every day against Walker's push to end union bargaining rights. Some of the protesters have stayed overnight inside the capitol building in protest. Republican legislators passed a rule to close the capitol building on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. when the legislative sessions and public hearings end.
The Senate Republicans called another session on Thursday and sent senate staff and state police to the residences of the Democrats that have left Wisconsin, to check if they have returned. State police can't only try to convince a senator to return to Madison. Senators can't be taken into custody for breaking quorum.
Walker reaffirmed the State is broke and he has nothing to give. But allowing collective bargaining by state workers won't cost or make the state any money.
Walker threaten to layoff 1,500 state workers by next week and the State will lose $165 million dollars in refinancing the budget repair bill by Friday. Democrats agreed, that Walker doesn't have to layoff workers and he would be responsible for the layoffs and losing millions. Wisconsin has an alternative to fix the State's projected $3.6 billion deficit by establishing a non-profit State Bank with generated profits going to deficit, according to radio talk shows discussing the prospect. With at least 15% of people seeking loans and other business that generates income for a bank would actually create a millions for the State.
Walker and the State could face lawsuits for layoffs affecting school teachers and workers, according to school districts that would be affected by major cuts.
Numerous protests were reported throughout the state and are expected to pick up steam as people become affected by the major cuts.
More than 200 public officals and school board presidents from 20 cities, 41 towns and 22 counties announced their opposition to Walker's budget repair bill and the governor's intent to eliminate collective bargaining for state workers.
Non-partisan Wisconsinites have call on Governor Walker to remove the provision eliminating state workers bargaining rights and move forward.
Indiana House Republican Speaker Brian Bosma says, provision to end collective bargaining rights for workers is dead.Democrats fled state.
Ohio Senate Republicans plan to change bill to keep collective bargaining rights for state workers and avoid a Wisconsin bill block repeat.

House video session after Walker's budget repair bill vote: http://bit.ly/i8zB4h

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Espinoza, Zeta Leader Arrested For U.S. ICE Agent Death In Mexico

Julián Zapata Espinoza

Los Zetas involved in the death of U.S. ICE agent in Mexico.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 23, 2011

Mexico City, Mexico - On Wednesday, the Secratary of National Defense (Sedena) announce the arrest of Julián Zapata Espinoza, aka, "El Piolin" and other members of Los Zetas involved in the death of Jaime Zapata, 32, Special Agent for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Espinoza was arrested at a safe house used by Los Zetas in San Luis Potosí.
Along with Espinoza, the military police arrested, Armando Álvarez Saldaña, Mario Domínguez Realeo, aka, Domingo Díaz Rosas, Jesús Iván Quezada Peña, aka, "El Loco," Martin Bárcenas Tapia, Rubén Darío Venegas, aka, "El Catracho,"  originally from Honudras, Diana Margarita Guerreo Morales, Roxana Mireya Ríos Velázquez and Magali Chaín Castillo López, the presumed wife of Espinoza. A minor was arrested too, according to Sedena.
Espinoza confessed that he is the known leader of the Zeta group operating in the San Luis Potosí area and that U.S. ICE Agents Zapata and Víctor Ávila were mistaken as rival drug cartel gang members by driving an armored black SUV. Ávila survived the shooting.
Espinoza told Mexian authorities that Quesado Peña and Darío Venegas including himself had participated in the February 15, shooting death of ICE Special Agent Zapata near San Luis Potosí.
Military police confiscated five high power weapons, amunition and five vehicles.
The suspects will be processed by the Mexico Attorney General's Office. The arrests were made in connection of prior arrests of Los Zetas in December who identified Espinoza as the Zeta leader in San Luis Potosí and intelligence reports.
Espinoza was previously arrest in December 2009 by the military on charges for organized crime.

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Prank Call To WI Governor Walker By Buffalo Beast Reveals Deceit And Conspiracy To Bust Unions

Wisconsin Republican Governor Scott Walker gets punked.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 23, 2011

Buffalo, New York - The following is the actual telephone conversation transcript between Wisconsin Republican Governor Scott Walker and Ian Murphy from Buffalo Beast dot com who actually fooled Walker that he was actually David Koch on Tuesday.
Buffalo Beast dot com had posted several Youtube videos with audio, but the prankster could be heard talking to Walker. The conversation transcript between the prankster and Walker was posted in Buffalo Beast dot com and the websit went down afterwards due to an over load.
Walker believing he is talking to billionaire Koch, one of his major campaign contributors opens up and exposes an attempt to deceit 14 Senate Democrats to return to Madison. Walker explains that he would make the democrats believe that he would actually try to negotiate with them, but has no intention to do. How he supported for Senators to pick up their payroll checks in person at the Senate floor, to get quorom.
Walker and his conspirators even thought about having trouble makers go into the crowds of protesters to start trouble. He even boosted his media coverage and expected the media to get tired of reporting about the Madison union protests.
Koodos for Murphy from Buffalo Beast dot com for exposing Walker's true motives and conspiracies, if in fact the conversation actually happened.
Governor Walker's Office confirmed a call was answered by the governor. Buffalo Beast dot com Publisher Paul Fullon confirmed the call was made.
Governor Walker in an afternoon press conference confirmed the call and drew numeorus questions by the media. He abruptly made general statements about the prankster and wouldn't elaborate further.
In the following two Youtube videos posted by Buffalo Beast, only the prankster could be heard.
Conversation audio part 1 at: http://bit.ly/garcoS

Conversation audio part 2 at: http://bit.ly/igfB81

Here is the conversation transcript between the prankster and Governor Walker that was posted in Buffalo Beast dot com.

Walker: Hi; this is Scott Walker

Koch: Scott!

David Koch. How are you?

Walker: Hey, David! I’m good. And yourself?

Koch: I’m very well. I’m a little disheartened by the situation there, but, uh, what’s the latest?

Walker: Well, we’re actually hanging pretty tough. I mean— you know, amazingly there’s a much smaller group of protesters—almost all of whom are in from other states today. The State Assembly is taking the bill up—getting it all the way to the last point it can be at where it’s unamendable. But they’re waiting to pass it until the Senate’s—the Senate Democrats, excuse me, the assembly Democrats have about a hundred amendments they’re going through. The state Senate still has the 14 members missing but what they’re doing today is bringing up all sorts of other non-fiscal items, many of which are things members in the Democratic side care about. And each day we’re going to ratchet it up a little bit…. The Senate majority leader had a great plan he told about this morning—he told the Senate Democrats about and he’s going to announce it later today and that is: The Senate organization committee is going to meet and pass a rule that says if you don’t show up for two consecutive days on a session day—in the state Senate, the Senate chief clerk—it’s a little procedural thing here, but— can actually have your payroll stopped from being automatically deducted—

Koch: Beautiful.

Walker: —into your checking account and instead—you stil get a check, but the check has to be personally picked up and he’s instructing them—which we just loved—to lock them in their desk on the floor of the state Senate.

Koch: Now you’re not talking to any of these Democrat bastards, are you?

Walker: Ah, I—there’s one guy that’s actually voted with me on a bunch of things I called on Saturday for about 45 minutes, mainly to tell him that while I appreciate his friendship and he’s worked with us on other things, to tell him I wasn’t going to budge.

Koch: Goddamn right!

Walker: …his name is Tim Cullen—

Koch: All right, I’ll have to give that man a call.

Walker: Well, actually, in his case I wouldn’t call him and I’l tell you why: he’s pretty reasonable but he’s not one of us…

Koch: Now who can we get to budge on this collective bargaining?

Walker: …I think the paycheck will have an impact… secondly, one of the things we’re looking at next…we’re still waiting on an opinion to see if the unions have been paying to put these guys up out of state. We think there’s at minimum an ethics violation if not an outright felony.

Koch: Well, they’re probably putting hobos in suits.

Walker: Yeah.

Koch: That’s what we do. Sometimes.

Walker: I mean paying for the senators to be put up. I know they’re paying for these guy—I mean, people can pay for protesters to come in and that’s not an ethics code, but, I mean, literally if the unions are paying the 14 senators— their food, their lodging, anything like that…[*** Important regarding his later acceptance of a Koch offer to “show him a good time.” ***]

Walker: …I’ve got layoff notices ready…

Walker: [bragging about how he doesn't budge]…I would be willing to sit down and talk to him, the assembly Democrat leader, plus the other two Republican leaders—talk, not negotiate and listen to what they have to say if they will in turn—but I’ll only do it if all 14 of them will come back and sit down in the state assembly....legally, we believe, once they’ve gone into session, they don’t physically have to be there. If they’re actually in session for that day, and they take a recess, the 19 Senate Republicans could then go into action and they’d have quorum…so we’re double checking that. If you heard I was going to talk to them that’s the only reason why. We’d only do it if they came back to the capital with all 14 of them…

Koch: Bring a baseball bat. That’s what I’d do.

Walker: I have one in my office; you’d be happy with that. I have a slugger with my name on it.

Koch: Beautiful.

Walker: [union-bashing...]

Koch: Beautiful.

Walker: So this is ground zero, there’s no doubt about it. [Talks about a “great” NYT piece of “objective journalism.” Talks about how most private blue-collar workers have turned against public, unionized workers.]…So I went through and called a handful, a dozen or so lawmakers I worry about each day and said, “Everyone, we should get that story printed out and send it to anyone giving you grief.”

Koch: Goddamn right! We, uh, we sent, uh, Andrew Breitbart down there.

Walker: Yeah.

Koch: Yeah.

Walker: Good stuff.

Koch: He’s our man, you know.

Walker: [blah about his press conferences, attacking Obama and all the great press he's getting.] Brian [Sandoval], the new Governor of Nevada, called me last night he said—he was out in the Lincoln Day Circuit in the last two weekends and he was kidding me, he said, “Scott, don’t come to Nevada because I’d be afraid you beat me running for governor.” That’s all they want to talk about is what are you doing to help the governor of Wisconsin. . I talk to Kasich every day—John’s gotta stand firm in Ohio. I think we could do the same thing with Vic Scott in Florida. I think, uh Snyder—if he got a little more support—probably could do that in Michigan. You start going down the list there’s a lot of us new governors that got elected to do something big.

Koch: You’re the first domino.

Walker: Yep. This is our moment.

Koch: Now what else could we do for you down there?

Walker: Well the biggest thing would be—and your guy on the ground [Americans For Prosperity president Tim Phillips] is probably seeing this [stuff about all the people protesting, and some of them flip him off]

[Abrupt end of first recording, and start of second.]

Walker: [Bullshit about doing the right thing and getting flipped off by “union bulls,” and the decreasing number of protesters. Or some such.]

Koch: We’ll back you any way we can. What we were thinking about the crowd was, uh, was planting some troublemakers.

Walker: You know, well, the only problem with that — because we thought about that. The problem—the, my only gut reaction to that is right now the lawmakers I’ve talked to have just completely had it with them, the public is not really fond of this…[explains that planting troublemakers may not work.] My only fear would be if there’s a ruckus caused is that maybe the governor has to settle to solve all these problems…[something about '60s liberals.]…Let ‘em protest all they want…Sooner or later the media stops finding it interesting.

Koch: Well, not the liberal bastards on MSNBC.

Walker: Oh yeah, but who watches that? I went on “Morning Joe” this morning. I like it because I just like being combative with those guys, but, uh. You know they’re off the deep end.

Koch: Joe—Joe’s a good guy. He’s one of us.

Walker: Yeah, he’s all right. He was fair to me…[bashes NY Senator Chuck Schumer, who was also on the program.]

Koch: Beautiful; beautiful. You gotta love that Mika Brzezinski; she’s a real piece of ass.

Walker: Oh yeah. [story about when he hung out with human pig Jim Sensenbrenner at some D.C. function and he was sitting next to Brzezinski and her father, and their guest was David Axelrod. He introduced himself.]

Koch: That son of a bitch!

Walker: Yeah no kidding huh?…

Koch: Well, good; good. Good catching up with ya’.

Walker: This is an exciting time [blah, blah, blah, Super Bow reference followed by an odd story of pulling out a picture of Ronald Reagan and explaining to his staff the plan to crush the union the same way Reagan fired the air traffic controllers]…that was the first crack in the Berlin Wall because the Communists then knew Reagan wasn’t a pushover. [Blah, blah, blah. He's exactly like Reagan. Won't shut up about how awesome he is.]

Koch: [Laughs] Well, I tell you what, Scott: once you crush these bastards I’ll fly you out to Cali and really show you a good time.

Walker: All right, that would be outstanding. [*** Ethical violation much? ***] Thanks for all the support…it’s all about getting our freedoms back…

Koch: Absolutely. And, you know, we have a little bit of a vested interest as well. [Laughs]

Walker: [Blah] Thanks a million!

Koch: Bye-bye.

Walker: Bye.

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Arizona Senate Committee Passed Bills Targeting Illegal Immigrants By Revoking Citizenship, Education And Housing

Anti-immigrant bills now headed for full senate debate.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 23, 2011

Phoenix, Arizona - On Tuesday, the state Senate Judiciary Committee passed several bills targeting undocumented immigrants living in public housing, collecting public benefits, undocumented students attending public schools and illegals working in the state. The first bill dealing with housing, education and public benefits passed with a vote of 7-6. The second bill that was passed earlier on a vote of 8-5 and targets automatic citizenship for children born to undocumented parents living in Arizona. The state citizenship bill challenges the interpretation of the 14th Amendment to automatically become a citizen, if born in the jurisdiction of the U.S. The citizenship bill is expected to be challenged and will probably end up in U.S. Supreme Court. The case will most likely cost the state millions to defend. The bills were sponsored by Senator Russell Pearce (R) who believes it would save millions of taxpayer dollars for Arizona.
Pearce previously sponsored the stalled SB 1070 law known as an immigration enforcement bill that allowed law enforcement officials to inspect the legal status of people suspected of being in Arizona illegally. The law has been challenged by the U.S. Department of Justice and has been stalled in federal court. A federal judge block major provisions from being enforced making it useless.
The recent bills approved by the senate committee will require school officials to confirm the legal status of students and report illegals to authorities, make it a crime for illegals to drive in the state including 30 days in jail and confiscation of vehicle, public agencies would be required to verify the legal satus of residents at public housing and evict illegals, businesses forced to use the federal E-Vertify or get their license suspended, illegals caught using false documents to work face a mandatory 6 months in jail.
The bills now go before the full Arizona state senate for debate.
Earlier in the week, Senate Bill 1405 or hospital bill that would require hospital officials and doctors to report undocumented immigrants seeking treatment to law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement was killed due to major protests by members of the medical profession that spoke against it.

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Emanuel Elected Chicago Mayor

Rahm Emanuel

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 22, 2011

Chicago - On Tuesday, Rahm Emanuel, 51, was elected Mayor of Chicago, according to the local election commission. Emanuel won most of the wards in the city and non of the other mayorial candidates received more than 25%  of the votes to have a run off election.
Emanuel was the former White House chief of staff in President Barack H. Obama's administration. He raised more than 12 million for his mayoral election campaign.
Emanuel a Democrat never committed to follow former Mayor Richard J.Daley's sanctuary policy prohibiting Chicago Police and city workers from asking the legal status off undocumented immigrants in Chicago, according to Mexican organizations requesting where he stood on the issue. While Emanuel worked for the White House, he was in charged of making sure immigration laws and Obama's administration policies on immigration were enforced.

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Indiana House Democrats Break Quorum And Leave State To Block Republican Bill To Eliminate Bargaining Rights

Governor Mitch Daniels publically called on GOP members in Indiana to drop House Bill 1468 that prevents collective bargaining for union workers.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 22, 2011

Indianapolis, Indiana - On Tuesday, Governor Mitch Daniels (R) confirmed that the majority of House Democrats had left the state to avoid a vote on House Bill 1468, which would strip bargaining collective rights for state workers. The bill is considered anti-union and the Indiana House Democrats followed Wisconsin Senate Democrats in breaking quorum by leaving the state to prevent the legislation from passing. The bill was passed by a committee on Monday and was expected to be debated on Tuesday.
On Tuesday, an estimated 4,000 union members showed up at the capitol in protest of the Republican bill. Governor Daniels indicated that the bill should have been taken up at a later date and not now. Daniels went on the airwaves and made a plea for House Republicans to drop the controversial bill. The lack of quorum by the House session will keep other bills from moving forward. The House Democrats have shut down the process of passing important bills, according to Governor Daniels.
Daniels contrary to Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker (R) is more willing to by pass the elimination of any attempt to strip collective bargaining for workers. House Bill 1468 would strip unions and companies from negotiating contracts with the state.
No word has been released yet, when the House Democrats will return to Indiana. The Indianapolis Star reported that the democrats have split up in groups and crossed over into Illinois and Kentucky.
The Indiana House needs 67 members to reach quorum, but on Tuesday they only had 58 members in the session suspending daily business.

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46-year-old Man Who Shot Milwaukee Cop Gets 55 Years In Prison

Louis Manuel Domenech

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 22, 2011

Milwaukee - On Thursday, Louis Manuel Domenech, 46, was sentenced by Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Jean A. Di Motto to more than 55 years in prison. Domenech was convicted on February 14, for 1st-degree intentional homicide, possession of a weapon by a felon and possession of marijuana. 
In April 2009, Officer Vidal Colón, 30, a seven-year veteran in the police department was responding to a domestic dispute call at the 1200 block of S. 36th St. when he got into a shooting match with Domenech. Officer Colón was shot three times and survived the shooting. Domenech was also shot by Officer Vidal.
Vidal later retired for the Milwaukee Police Department.

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Pima Jury Decides Forde, Leader Of Minuteman American Defense Should Get The Death Penalty

Shawna Forde

Jury unanimously decided minuteman leader should be put to death for her participation in a home invasion and double homicide.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 22, 2011

Tucson, Arizona - On Tuesday, a Pima Couty jury decided that Shawna Forde, 43, the self proclaimed leader of the Minuteman American Defense in Arizona should be put to death for her particpation in a double homicide. Forde was convicted on February 14, on two counts of murder, one count each of attempted first-degree murder, burglary, and aggravated assault including armed robbery. Forde faced the death penalty for the May 30, 2009 home invasion and cold blooded murder of both Raul Junior Flores, 29, and Brisenia Flores, 9. Forde along with Jason Bush, a white supremacist and Albert Gaxiola were charged with the homicides.
Forde, Bush and Gaxiola invaded the Flores home in Arivaca, Arizona and pretended to be law enforcement agents looking for fugitives.
Forde and her accomplices were actually looking for drugs and $4,000 that they believed Flores had hidden at his home. Forde had planned the home invasion and wanted the money to help finance her anti-immigrant Minuteman border security operation, but no money or drugs were ever found.
Bush's trial is set for March and Gaxiola's trial is scheduled for June.

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Koch Brothers Could Benefit On Wisconsin Governor Walker's Budget Repair Bill

Photo: WIAFL/CIO

Madison pro-union demonstrations enter eight day of protests

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 22, 2010

Madison - On Tuesday, Walker called on Senate Democrats staying in Illinois, "you had your time, now you can come home and do your job." Walker warn that one thousand state workers could be layoff by next week and many of them could be getting pink slips after Friday.
Senate Democrats say, Walker can meet with union workers and agree on a contract, since workers have agreed on Walkers concessions except giving up their right to bargain collectively. Walker doesn't have to layoff state workers, since the budget repair bill is only through June 30. Walker is making the decision to layoff workers.
Representative Peter Barca, (D) released a statement that representatives will introduce about 100 amendments to stop and kill the Walker's bill. Wisconsin Senate Democrats in Illinois say, if Walker is worried about not making the deadline to get the bill refinance by Friday and doesn't want to layoff state workers. Then why doesn't he negotiate and offer a compromise? Democrats won't give up the collective bargaining for state workers.
TMJ News 4 reported that Walker's bill, if approved would allow power plants to be sold without any bids. Those who would benefit is one of Walker's largest campaign contributors, the conservative Koch brothers, Charles and David owners of Koch Industries who gave the Walker campaign $43,000 in 2010 and gave $1 million to the Republican Governors Association. Democracy Now dot org reported, since taking office, Walker has been in close contact with Americans for Prosperity, a Koch-funded organization. The head of the organization, Tim Phillips, told the New York Times that his group had worked behind the scenes to try to encourage a union showdown in Wisconsin.

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Kenosha City Council And Kenosha Police Association Oppose Governor Walker's Push To Eliminate State Workers Bargaining Rights

Photo: Labor Union News

Governor Walker and the Republican controlled legislature will lose $165 million in refinancing for the budget repair bill, if it fails to pass by next Friday.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 21, 2011

Kenosha - On Monday night, the Kenosha City Council unanimously approved a resolution opposing the Republican controlled legislature and Governor Scott Walker's (R) budget repair bill, which would strip most state employees of their right to collectively bargain. Kenosha is the first city to publicly oppose the proposed Republican budget bill. The resolution is just symbolic and non binding, but sents a strong message from a former union base city to Governor Walker.
Walker on Monday reaffirmed that he will not negotiate the elimination of collective bargaining rights of more than 300,000 state workers. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R) has also said, the "budget repair bill is not negotiable."
Last week, fourteen Senate Democrats left the state of Wisconsin and ended up in Illinois. The Senate session failed to reach quorum for a week. More than 200,000 pro-union protesters have gathered at the Madison Capitol during the last seven days.
Senate Democrats reported from Illinois that some moderate Senate Republicans are considering breaking away from party lines and at least three Republicans are needed to vote with Democrats in amending the budget repair bill.
Governor Walker has until Friday to get his budget bill approved so the state can refinance and restructure the fiscal budget. If Walker fails to get the bill approved, the state will lose about $165 million in refinancing and will cost more to repair Walker fiscal crisis.
Democrats have reaffirmed, that they will stay in Illinois until Walker is willing to renegotiate the budget bill. It could take weeks, before the Senate Democrats return to Wisconsin.
Also on Monday, the Kenosha Professional Police Association released the following press release denouncing Governor Scott Walker's provision in the budget repair bill that would eliminate collective bargaining by most state workers.
“We appreciate the fact that Governor Walker recognizes the unique work that law enforcement officers do. However, the KPPA is unable to stand by while legislation moves forward that undermines the rights of our brothers and sisters in other public employee unions,” Steve Lampada, president of the KPPA said in a statement today.
"We work with these public employees every day and cannot support a two-tier collective bargaining system that treats them so different than we are treated.
“We are all dedicated public servants. We each have unique duties and responsibilities and all are important to making our communities better places to live, work and raise our families.
“We therefore call on state legislators to reject the portions of the Budget Repair Bill that would permanently undermine the state’s collective bargaining law,” Lampada concluded.

Rachel Maddow of MSNBC point of view that Wisconsin is not bankrupt and Governor Walker wants to prevent Democrats from winning elections. Check out video link at: http://bit.ly/i1Kv3X

MSNBC reporting by Rachel Maddow on Madison protests (Feb. 16, 2011) video at http://bit.ly/gFE5z2

Related article: Recall For Republican Legislators And Governor Walker Brewing Over Eliminating Union Bargaining Rights For Public Workers http://bit.ly/i16MXz

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Wisconsin State Government Under Siege By Democrats

Rev. Jesse Jackson marched with Voces de la Frontera in favor of union bargaining rights. Photo: Voces de la Frontera

More than 100,000 protesters gathered for the sixth day of peaceful demonstrations in Madison.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 19, 2011

Madison - On Saturday, hundreds of Latinos along with Voces de la Frontera joined the tens of thousands of pro-union protesters in calling for Governor Scott Walker (R) and Republican controlled legislature to allow collective bargaining in the budget repair bill for most state employees. The bill, if passed would strip state employees from collective bargaining rights, except for wages.
Protesters have been demonstrating for six days at the Madison Capitol. The protesters have been gaining support from Wisconsin taxpayers around the state.
Hundreds of Tea Party pro-Walker supporters showed up in Madison, but both sides peacefully voiced their concerns. They were out numbered by pro-union supporters.
Governor Walker admitted on Saturday, that he never thought state employees and professional public workers would actually call in sick, walk out of their jobs and protest in Madison. Union leaders have confirmed that they have accepted wage and benefits cuts, but won't give up bargaining collective rights. They have informed Governor Walker about accepting all of his concessions, except eliminating collective bargaining rights for state workers.
So far, Governor Walker and the Republican controlled Senate have failed to pass any bill for the last six days. State government has been under siege by Democrats who have said, that they stand with Wisconsin state employees and the people of the state in maintaining their right to collectively bargain.
Fourteen Senate Democrats left the state last week in order to slow down the passage of the budget repair bill. Their bold move to leave the state and go into Illinois kept the Senate's session from reaching quorum. Since early last week, the Republicans haven't been able to pass any type of bill.
The Republican controlled legislature is useless without the Senate being able to reach quorum to conduct any business and to approve legislative bills affecting the state.
The Senate Democrats have vowed to stay out until the Republicans and Governor Walker are willing to come to the table and discuss the budget bill. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R) said, "the budget repair bill is not negotiable." Senator Chris Larson (D) says, democrats had about 100 amendments to propose, but Republicans wouldn't accept any and were ready to pass the bill without any other consideration or further public input in budget hearings.
Larson admitted that Senate Democrats staying in Illinois and Governor Walker have been talking and are trying to reach some type of a compromise. No details have been released by either Walker or the democrats.
Walker strongly believes, that some of the 300,000 state employees that haven't called in sick and left their jobs to protest will continue to stay at work. Those state employees might be willing to accept Walker's decision to take away their right to negotiate through collective bargaining.
Walker could be in for a surprise when employees decide to finally step up to defend their right to bargain and join the thousands of pro-union protesters.  

Point of view that Wisconsin has no fiscal crisis, but a political move by Republicans (GOP) to bust unions, which support the Democrats, according to Rachel Maddow, MSNBC.

Republicans by busting unions can prevent Democrats from winning elections. Unions have been the source of organizing and helping Democrats win elections.

• In January, Wisconsin had a budget surplus of $120 million, the Congressional State Office reported.

• Governor Walker gave $137 million worth of tax breaks to businesses creating a budget shortfall.

• The Budget repair bill includes items that have no fiscal impact like eliminating collective bargaining. It doesn't save Wisconsin any money by ending bargaining rights for most state employees.

• State employees contracts didn't create a fiscal crisis, Governor Walker created the crisis to bust unions and destroy the Democratic Party, so Republicans can win upcomming elections.

Rachel Maddow of MSNBC point of view that Wisconsin is not bankrupt and Governor Walker wants to prevent Democrats from winning elections. Check out video link at: http://bit.ly/i1Kv3X

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Mexican DJ From Sonido Condor Detained By Police In Iowa For Suspected Drugs

Arnulfo Aguilar Vásquez

Photo: HNG

DJ stopped on an Iowa highway by police who suspected he was transporting drugs.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 19, 2011

Milwaukee - On Friday during a presentation in the predominately Hispanic South side neighborhood, Arnulfo Aguilar Vásquez, 51, an internationally famous Mexican DJ for Sonido Condor publicly announced that on Thursday he was detained by police in Iowa. Aguilar Vásquez told a crowd of fans during a concert dance presentation at the Buddhist Temple Hall, 1925 W. National Ave. that he and his crew were travelling through Iowa when they were pulled over by police on suspicion they were transporting drugs.
An officer suspected Aguilar Vásquez was transporting drugs and called for backup to search several vehicles. Numerous police officers responded to the scene and searched every item, luggage and sound equipment for alleged hidden drugs in the two semi-trailers Aguilar Vásquez and his crew were travelling in. 
Aguilar Vásquez said, it was a bad experience and that he had never been so humiliated in his life by such police allegations, which weren't true. He came short from saying that police were profiling Latinos. The police even called his contract sponsors and manager where he was supposed to perform, for vertification.
He wouldn't wish it on any Latino travelling through the state of Iowa. No drugs or any contraband was ever found by police in the semi-trailers and he was allowed to continue on his trip. No citation for any traffic violation was given to Aguilar Vásquez, according to his public testimonial.
He has been touring the U.S. and has performed in California, Texas, Wisconsin, Ohio and other states. On Saturday, El Condor will be in Chicago, Illinois performing live for thousands of people with cumbias, Salsa, reggaeton, duranguese and ect. His elaborate light show, sound equipment and music mixing attracts full houses where ever he performs. Throughout his presentation, multitude of fans come up and give him hand written requests on what ever piece of paper or cardboard they can write a message on. The special dedications and messages are than announced by El Sonido Condor live, such as names of fans and their families, other sound groups and special announcements for couples.
Aguilar Vásquez warned more than 200 people at the dance to be alert and careful while travelling through Iowa. He is originally from Mexico City and is best known for attracting at least 300,000 people to his 25th Anniversary of playing with Sonido Condor in 2005 and performed as a DJ for 13 hours straight without stopping.
In 2011, Aguilar Vásquez will celebrate 31 years as a DJ for Sonido Condor.

El Sonido Condor two semi-trailers arriving at a Mexican city to perform http://bit.ly/f4tTDF

El Sonido Condor concert video 2009 at http://bit.ly/g0pz8q

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Chicago Giordano's Pizza Restaurants To Continue Operating Under Bankruptcy Chapter 11

Federal judge allows Giordano's Pizza franchises to continue operating while company reorganizes under Chapter 11.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 18, 2011

Chicago - On Thursday, the Chicago Business dot com reported that a federal judge in the Northern Illinois District Bankruptcy Court ruled that Giordano's Enterprises Inc. can continue operating its 6 Chicago, 2 Naperville and 35 franchises known for making the "World's Famous Stuff Pizza" while the Chapter 11 process gets resolved. The bankruptcy filing was submitted to the court on Wednesday.
The court filing shows, Giordano's defaulted on a real estate loan, which was due on the first day of the year. Giordano's owes about $45 million in multiple real estate loans to Fifth Third Bank. The company defaulted in one loan, which was mostly for principle and interests incurred for the real estate, according to the Chapter 11 filing by Attorney Michael Gesas, who represents Giordano's.
On Thursday, the Giordano's Enterprises Inc. owners Eva and John Apostolou requested under the Chapter 11 filing that they be allowed to pay employees, vendors and to continue to operated while Giordano's reorganizes and goes through the restructuring process.
Under the Chapter 11 protection, Giordano's can use $35 million for employee payroll totaling $207,000, to pay vendors for amounts due and delivered goods within the last 20 days totalling an estimated $700,000 and to continued its operation of the pizza businesses, according to Thursday's decision by Judge Eugene Wedoff, the Chicago Business dot com reported.
The Chapter 11 filing, bankruptcy laws help people who can no longer pay their creditors get a fresh start– by liquidating assets to pay their debts or by creating a repayment plan. Bankruptcy laws also protect troubled businesses and provide for orderly distributions to business creditors through reorganization or liquidation, according to to U.S. Courts dot gov.

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Wisconsin Senate Democrats Have Left The State To Keep From Reaching Quorum On Walker's Budget Repair Bill

Photo: WIAFL/CIO

More than 200,000 protesters expected to converge at the state capitol in protest against Governor Walker's Budget repair bill, which would eliminate collective bargaining for most state employees.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 17, 2011
(Updated)

Madison - On Thursday, State Senator Alberta Darling (R) reported that all the Senate Democrats got into a bus and have left out of state and won't be back until next week. Darling became dissappointed that the democrats had left their jobs and were not at the morning session. But the democrats are doing their jobs by keeping the Walker budget repair bill from getting approved. The democrats are doing everything to protect the bargaining rights of state employees.
Republican Governor Scott Walker sent out a press release requesting the missing democrats to come back to work and vote on the budget repair bill. "Out of respect for the institution of the Legislature and the democratic process, I am calling on Senate Democrats to show up to work today, debate legislation and cast their vote. Their actions by leaving the state and hiding from voting are disrespectful to the hundreds of thousands of public employees who showed up to work today and the millions of taxpayers they represent," Walker stated.
Walker wants the Senate session to get quorum in order to pass his bill. Walker in an afternoon press conference said, that the bill is representing a modest change and he represents the majority of taxpayers and won't let protesters drown out their voices. Senators should show up for work for what they are paid to do. They can proposed amendments, debate and vote against the budget repair bill. Walker only understands, that the democrats don't have enough votes to make a difference on the bill, but only needs one senator to show up for quorum and get his bill approved.
Democrats will continue to oppose his bill, while Walker is pushing to bust union representation on collective bargaining for workers.
GOP legislators in other states are waiting to see, if Walker can actually succeed in busting state employee collective bargaining in Wisconsin. If Walker succeeds, out of state GOP legislators will move to eliminate collective bargaining for state union employees and public workers in other states.
Senator Jon Erpenbach (D) confirmed that all the Democratic senators have left the state and won't return until Walker and the Republicans seat down to negiotiate and reach a compromise. Minority Leader Mark Miller (D) also confirmed the senators won't return to Wisconsin until a compromise is reached. Both senators wouldn't disclosed their location. The 14 Wisconsin state senators have split up in groups, some are actually staying at the Best Western Clock Tower Resort in North-central Rockford, Illinois. The rest of the senators are in Dubuque, Iowa, according to Lauren Leamanczyzk from TMJ TV News 4. Several senators told Leamanczyk, that they want to slow down the process of approving the budget bill, while Republicans would like to approve it quickly without an opportunity to debate the bill. The senators who were staying at the Clock Tower have since moved to another undisclosed location, Leamanczyk reported.
Senator Lena C. Taylor (D) on Twitter compared Walker to Hitler for trying to bust unions. The Wisconsin State Patrol tried to track the bus, but failed.
The entire Democrat minority senate caucus went missing from the Senate Chambers before Governor Scott Walker's budget repair bill could be debated and voted on. The 14 Democrats decided to boycott the chamber in order to stop the budget repair bill from moving forward. The bill, if approved would strip state employees union rights to negiotiate for pensions, benefits and working conditions, except wages. The bill strips collective bargaining for unions representing public employees. Those exempt from the bill are unions representing police, firefighters, state police and inspectors who endorsed Walker during his election.
The Republican senate majority of 19 senators failed to reach quorum, which 20 senators are needed (three-fifths majority) to have quorum in order to legally pass Walker's budget bill, according to the state constitution.
The Democrats don't plan to attend Walker's budget repair session on Thursday. The Sergeant of Arms in the Senate has ordered law enforcement officers to look for the Democratic senators and to try to bring in at least one to complete quorum. Officers can try to convince a senator to appear at the session, but have no legal authority to force a senator to make his/her presence at the session.  
Tens of thousands of teachers, state employees and public workers converged at the state capitol in protest of Walker's budget repair bill. Union firefighters joined the protesters and union workers including supporters from other states are expected to arrive over the weekend to support Wisconsin union workers. Wisconsin is considered the epicenter for union rights in America. Senator Spencer Coggs (D) who is in Illinois with other senators says, he is fighting for the people of Wisconsin to have the right to collectively bargain. Wisconsin is where the unions began, according to Coggs.
Some groups are working to recall some of the Republican legislators and have considered recalling Governor Walker. Some of the state legislators could be recall, but Walker won't be eligible for a recall until January 2012.
The Governor's Office claims that at least 8,000 e-mails have been received in support of Walker's
budget repair bill. So far, over 50,000 people have protested in Madison in the last two days. More than 200,000 protesters are expected to converge at the capitol over the weekend and the numbers continue to grow. High school students from throughout the state, including in Milwaukee have march with signs peacefully in support of their teachers right to collectively bargain.
On Friday, the AFL/CIO will lead the protests in Madison. School districts from throughout the state, including in Madison are expected to close as teachers call in sick. On Wednesday, dozens of school districts closed and other schools sent students home after teachers took off work. In the Milwaukee Public School District (MPS), more than 442 teachers called in sick and teacher substitutes took over their classes. By Friday, MPS might end up closing area schools as teachers and workers are expected to join protesters at the capitol.
At least nine protesters have been arrested, according to State Capitol Police. Twelve police agencies have been called in to patrol and monitor the protests that will extend into the weekend.
Some protesters are carrying signs with photos of Mubarak + Hitler = Walker and others with signs saying "Don't Walker On Us." More than 25,000 protesters continue their protest inside and around the state capitol.
Dozens of school districts in Madison and around the state have closed schools for lack of teachers in classrooms. Most teachers called in sick and are in Madison protesting.
In Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Area Technical College approved by 8-1 vote a three year contract with union employees and instructors on Wednesday. The contract effective immediately, will save more than $11.6 million and guarantees no layoffs for full time employees. Unconfirmed allegations revealed that Governor Walker had threaten to replace the entire MATC Board for approving the contract. Walker could not be reached for comment.

MSNBC reporting by Rachel Maddow on Madison protests (Feb. 16, 2011) video at http://bit.ly/gFE5z2

Related article: Recall For Republican Legislators And Governor Walker Brewing Over Eliminating Union Bargaining Rights For Public Workers http://bit.ly/i16MXz

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Undocumented Immigrant Freed By ICE In Texas And Heading Back To Family In Illinois

Immigrant busted by police for traffic violation in Illinois and then transferred to Texas by U.S. ICE for lack of space at detention center is freed.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 16, 2011

Rockford, Illinois - On Wednesday, Jesus Vargas, an immigration rights activist in Chicago announced that Julio Cesar, who was arrested during a traffic violation by police and then reported to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been released in Texas. Cesar was freed around 4:30 p.m. and was taken to a nearby Greyhound bus station for his returned trip to Rockford.
Vargas wrote through an e-mail, that Attorney Juan M. Solis had secured Cesar's released. Solis has been instrumental in getting other undocumented detainees released, according to Vargas.
Last week, Cesar had been transferred to Texas by ICE due to lack of space at detention centers in Chicago or in the Midwest.
ICE has yet to comment about overcrowding and alleged over capacity at detention centers at Dodge County in Wisconsin and the Midwest.

Related article: Overcrowding At ICE Midwest Detention Centers Results In Transferring Of Illegal Immigrants With Minor Violations To Texas http://bit.ly/gLYID5

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Deputy U.S. Marshal Hotsinpiller And Suspect Killed, Two Other Marshals Injured While Executing Warrant In West Virginia

Derek Hotsinpiller
Deputy U.S. Marshal

Two deputy U.S. marshals are recovering from injuries sustained during a morning deadly shootout.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 16, 2011

Elkins, West Virginia - On Wednesday, the U.S. Marshals Service in Washington, D.C. has confirmed that one deputy U.S. marshal had been killed and two other marshals are recovering from injuries incurred during a morning deadly shootout. The deputy marshals along with West Virginia State Police were executing a warrant at a residence in Elkins, when three marshals were fired upon by a 50-year-old suspect inside his home around 8:30 a.m., according to the U.S. Marshals Service.
The deputy marshals were hit by a shotgun blast allegedly fired by Charles Smith. The deputy marshals exchange gunfire killing Smith at the scene, who was wanted on a charge for intent to distribute cocaine. Deputy Marshal Derek Hotsinpiller, 24, was also fatally wounded and later died at Ruby Memorial Hospital. His brother, Dustin Hotsinpiller, a Bridgeport police officer confirmed to Associated Press that Derek had been killed in Elkins while serving a federal warrant. Derek had been working for the Marshals Service for less than two years.
Another deputy marshal remains in the hospital and one marshal was released after being treated, the U.S. Marshals Service reported.
  
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Recall For Republican Legislators And Governor Walker Brewing Over Eliminating Union Bargaining Rights For Public Workers

Photos: Labor Union News and WIAFL/CIO

More than 15,000 public workers protested in Madison and other parts of the state including Milwaukee, according to WIAFL/CIO.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 16, 2010
(Updated)

Madison - More than 15,000 public workers and supporters from the state gathered in protest against Republican Governor Scott Walker's (R) proposed budget repair plan shortfall to cut public employees benefits including pensions, health benefits and eliminates most union bargaining rights, except for wages. Walker wants an estimated 175,000 public employees to pay for half of their own health benefits.
But, three unions representing the Milwaukee police, fire fighters and state police that endorsed Walker for Governor won't be effected. Favoring some unions over other unions is not the right thing to do and Walker is facing criticism over his decision not include them in the cuts for bargaining. Some protesters call Walker's police union favoritism as a first step on the road to corruption in state government.
Walker wants cuts to save millions for the state, however he left himself out by not cutting his salary, paying for half his benefits and failed to eliminate perks. Other Republicans have followed Walker's example by proposing cuts for public workers, except themselves. Walker and the Republican controlled legislature should lead by example, but they fall short of doing so.
The proposed Walker budget plan bill is expected to pass the Senate and the Assembly by Thursday. State GOP legislators are rapidly moving to pass the budget bill without public hearings throughout the state. The passage of the bill will result in statewide effords by public workers and union supporters to organize and begin their quest in recalling Walker and other Republican legislators or just vote them out of office by next election, according to protesters.
Once the bill is approved and signed into law by Governor Walker, protesters, supporters and unions will definately halt all public service and operations in the state in protest. Such work stoppage, can end up paralyzing the entire public worker sector effecting every part of the state that Walker and the Republican controlled legislature can't afford due to the economic catastrophic effect it can create in Wisconsin.
Walker says the state is broke and is determine to pass the bill eliminating most union bargaining rights despite the economic outcome. Walker projects, the budget shortfall by the fiscal year ending in June 30 will reach $137 million. If the bill is approved this week, it would save the state about $30 million by June and at least $300 million by the end of two years, according to Walker. The state has more than a $3 billion deficit.
Walker warned that thousands of state employees could be layed off, if the budget bill fails to pass. State workers say, the proposed pension cuts of 5.8% and 12% health care costs for employees will make it difficult for them to afford the costs. Public workers are willing to negiotiate concessions with Walker, but won't give up their right for unions to bargain for them.
Protesters composed of teachers, public workers and supporters marched in front of Walker's Wauwatosa home in solidarity against the budget repair bill. Most teachers wore red in solidarity in schools on Wednesday. The proposed budget will cut about $1 billion of statewide school aid. It would cut school aid by $200 million from the Milwaukee Public School District (MPS).
MPS officials are expecting for Walker to reject tens of millions of federal Title-1 aid for low-income students. MPS is facing a $13 million deficit.
On Wednesday during a news conference at the State Capitol steps, Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC) President Mary Bell and Rick Badger, executive director of AFSCME Council 40, asked all Wisconsin citizens to come to Madison on Thursday and Friday to show their support for the educators and other public employees in their community, a press release from WEAC reported.
On Thursday, school districts around Madison will be closed for second day. Teachers have skipped classes in the Milwaukee metropolitan area to attend the protests at the capitol. Governor Walker is expected to see a surge of classes and school districts around the state to graduately close as teachers and workers continue to protest his budget repair bill in Madison.
WEAC estimated, that over the last two days as many as 35,000 people have rallied at the Capitol to protest Governor Walker's bill that would essentially strip educators and public employees throughout the state of their right to bargain a contract.
Bell asked for the support of all citizens in this fight for fairness. "Stand along your neighbors, family members and friends and help our voices to be heard!" she said, "We need your help."
“We know these are tough times and we have made it clear to the governor and legislators that we are prepared to do our part to help our state recover. This isn’t about protecting pay and benefits – it’s about protecting the right to collectively bargain. That’s what’s being stripped away here – the rights to be represented... Wisconsin has a tradition that respects the value of work and the individual workers. Governor Walker in a few short days will have destroyed our traditions and imposed his values on all of us," Bell stated during the gathering in Madison.
The Wisconsin AFL/CIO reported that, International labor groups are alarmed that the budget shortfall is being used as a convenient excuse to engage in union busting; religious leaders are pointing out the mutual benefits of labor management cooperation; current and former Green Bay Packers players want public employees to know that they have fans; and veterans groups are alarmed by Governor Walker’s threat to call in the National Guard.

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Two U.S. ICE Agents Shot In San Luis Potosi Mexico, One Reported Dead And Another Wounded

Photo: Universal

Jaime J. Zapata
ICE Special Agent

ICE and DHS working with Mexican authorities to locate assailants.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 15, 2011

Washington, D.C. - On Tuesday, both the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Department of Homeland Security have confirmed that two ICE agents working for the ICE Attaché Office in Mexico City had been shot in the line of duty while driving to the City of Monterrey in the state of Nuevo Leon from their office.
The two ICE agents were travelling in an armored black SUV vehicle along Highway 57 in the state of San Luis Potosi, when they were forced to stop at an apparent check point near the city of San Luis Potosi controlled by a group of armed men. The suspects then shot at the agents and fatally wounded one of them.
ICE Special Agent Jaime J. Zapata was reported killed after subcumming to injuries and died at a Mexican hospital. Zapata was working for the ICE Laredo, Texas office in the Human Smuggling and Trafficking Unit, including the Border Enforcement Security Task Force. ICE Special Agent Victor Avila was hit in the leg and arm and was flowned to Mexico City for treatment. The agent survived the attack and Mexican Federal Police and the military have launched a dragnet to locate the assailants, according to the Mexican Secretary of Exterior Relations (SRE).
Avila remains in stable condition, according to Janet Napolitano, Department of Homeland Security Secretary. Napolitano in a statement said, "U.S. law enforcement agencies are working closely with Mexican authorities who are investigating the shooting to ensure the perpetrators of this unconscionable crime are captured as quickly as possible."

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Minuteman American Defense Leader Forde Found Guilty Of Double Homicide In Arizona

Shawna Forde

Jury finds Forde guilty of multiple charges and murder.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 15, 2011

Tucson, Arizona - On Monday, Shawna Forde, 43, the self proclaimed leader of the Minuteman American Defense in Arizona was found guilty on two counts of murder, one count each of attempted first-degree murder, burglary, and aggravated assault including armed robbery. Forde is facing the death penalty for the May 30, 2009 home invasion and cold blooded murder of both Raul Junior Flores, 29, and Brisenia Flores, 9. Forde along with Jason Bush, a white supremacist and Albert Gaxiola were charged with the homicides.
The only survivor was Gina Gonzalez, the mother of Brisenia. Gonzalez testimony and identifying Forde as the woman in charge of the two men was crucial in convicting her. Forde, Bush and Gaxiola invaded the Flores home in Arivaca, Arizona and pretended to be law enforcement agents looking for fugitives, Gonzalez testified.
Forde and her accomplices were actually looking for drugs and $4,000 that they believed Flores had hidden at his home. Forde had planned the home invasion and wanted the money to help finance her anti-immigrant Minuteman border security operation, but no money or drugs were ever found.
Bush's trial is set for March and Gaxiola's trial is scheduled for June.

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Overcrowding At ICE Midwest Detention Centers Results In Transferring To Texas Of Illegal Immigrants Detained For Minor Violations

Reports of numerous transfers of undocumented immigrants detained for minor traffic violations to Texas draws outrage in Chicago's Mexican community.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 13, 2011

Chicago - Information through an e-mail has been circulating in the Chicago-Rockford, Illinois metropolitan area alleging that Chicago's federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center has reached maximum capacity. Other ICE contracted detention centers in the Midwest and at the Dodge County jail in Wisconsin have been operating in full capacity.
Only the Dodge County jail in Wisconsin has an full contract agreement with ICE to hold illegal immigrants from multiple states. ICE transfers illegal immigrants from Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana and several other states to Dodge County for hold until they are moved to a detention center in Chicago for removal. ICE pays at least pays $400 per illegal immigrant and deports through the Dodge County jail at least between 400-600 illegal immigrants per week.
As a result, law enforcement agencies (police) in the Cook County area that stop illegal immigrants for minor traffic violations and report them to ICE are transferred to Texas and other out of state centers to relieve the overcrowding at the Chicago detention removal center. The transfers have drawn criticism and outrage from the Chicago Mexican community and immigration rights activists. They claim, the transfers cause hardships, delay legal representation, becomes difficult to locate detainees and divide families.
The Cook County jail processes undocumented immigrants as well, when brought in for minor traffic violations or serious alleged criminal offenses.
In one case according to an e-mail, Jesus Cesar from Rockford was detained last week by police for a minor traffic violation. On Friday, family members went to pay his fine or bail for his release. Police notified them, he had been moved to Texas by ICE.
On Monday, an immigration attorney will seek his release from ICE and will ask for his return to Rockford, according to Jesus Vargas, a community activists who is circulating the e-mail. So far, Vargas has confirmed that at least 20 illegal immigrants have been released through their efforts.
The Mexican Chicago Consulate has yet to comment about the alleged transfer of numerous immigrants to other states due to the over capacity of ICE detention centers. The transfers make it more difficult for family members to seek legal representation for those arrested by police and reported to ICE.
ICE has not commented on the overcrowding at the local removal center and other detention centers running in full capacity in the Midwest.

Online Detainee Locator System (ODLS) for families, attorney's and interested parties to locate ICE detainees at link http://bit.ly/cVEXiB.

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Harvard University In Fourth Year To Offer No Tuition Costs To Low Income Talented Students In The U.S.

Last year, Harvard reported record breaking enrollment, since it offered "No Tuition" costs for low-income students whose families make less than 60K annually.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 13, 2011

Cambridge, Massachusetts - The Harvard University for the fourth consecutive year continues to offer "No tuition and No student loans" for low-income talented students graduating from high schools throughout the U.S. Students whose families income falls under $60,000 per year can qualify for free tuition at Harvard. The financial aid initiative was implemented in 2007 and by 2010, Harvard reported that it had surpassed a record of more than 30,000 undergraduate enrollment requests.
In January 2010, Harvard College, one of two schools within Harvard University that offers undergraduate degrees surpassed their own recruitement efforts of talented and honored undergraduate student enrollment. For the first time in the prestigious educational institution history, more than 30,000 undergraduate students submitted applications for enrollment. Harvard attributes the enrollment to the financial aid initiatives implemented over the last five years, ensuring an affordable education and making accessible Harvard College to honor students that excelled academically regardless of economic backs.
On March 2009, Harvard College announced through a press release that it had increased the financial aid for undergraduates by 9 percent, to a record $158 million, for the 2010-11 academic year. The $13 million increase helped keep Harvard affordable and ensure no change in the financial burden for the more than 60 percent of students who receive aid. The estimated average need-based grant award is approximately $40,000.
As a result of this investment, families with undergraduates receiving aid at Harvard paid an estimated average cost of approximately $11,500 in 2011 which is unchanged from 2010. Additionally, Harvard continued its efforts to keep overall tuition growth moderate for all families, holding the 2010 increase to 3.8 percent, for a total cost of $50,724.
In 2007, Harvard introduced a new financial aid plan that dramatically reduced the amount that families with incomes below $180,000 are expected to pay. Families with incomes above $120,000 and below $180,000 with assets typical for these income levels are asked to contribute 10 percent of their incomes. For those families with incomes below $120,000, the parental contribution declines steadily from 10 percent, reaching zero for those with incomes at $60,000 and below, according to the Harvard Gazette.

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Los Pasteles Verdes Initiate St. Valentine's Dance For Free At The Million Dollar Eagles Club Ballroom In Milwaukee

Los Pasteles Verdes live!

Photo: HNG

Tens of hundreds attend Los Bondadosos live performance.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 11, 2011

Milw., WI - On Friday, Los Pasteles Verdes band along with other popular Mexican groups were live at Milwaukee's downtown Eagles Club for Valentine's Day dance. Que huge party for free! A majority of people went into the event with complimentry tickets and were also provided with two complimentry tickets for another dance. ;)
An estimated full house was reached early as Los Pasteles Verdes played romantic song after song for couples at the Eagles Million Dollar Ballroom located at 2401 W. Wisconsin Ave. They also played rancheras for those who like to cruise around the block and half indoor dance floor.
Los Bondadosos, Los Muecas and Los Sagitarios appeared throughout the night. The free dance was promoted by a local radio station La GranD 104.7 FM and other promoters.

Los Bondadosos Live In Milwaukee!

Photos: HNG

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Mubarak Resigns As Egyptian President, Ending 30 Year Reign

Former President Hosni Mubarak

President hands over authority to military, a day later after he refused to step down.

By H. Nelson Goodson
February 11, 2011

Cairo, Egypt - On Friday, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, 82, unexpectantly resigned, a day later after he refused to step down by outside pressure. Mubarak handed over power to the High Council of the Armed Forces led by Defense Minister Mohamed Hussein Tantawi. The military in the past two weeks began to support the 18 day demand of the majority of the Egyptian people for Mubarak to resign.
Vice President Omar Suleiman on Friday made the announcement on national TV that Mubarak had resigned. Mubarak has left Egypt. The military high council is expected to begin the transition to a civilian government.
Mubarak resignation ends 30 years of regime rule in Egypt and the government is heading for a smooth transition to democracy. Over a million people throughout Tahrir Liberation Square in Cairo began to cheer, chant, hug each other in celebration and fireworks exploded ending their final day of Mubarak's regime rule. People and soldiers celebrated a new dawn of freedom for Egypt as the world witness transformation of government.
"Egypt is free at last" some of the Egyptians shouted and to many of the protesters, it became a historical event ending 30 years of state rule. More than 300 Egyptians had died during the 18 days of protests, according to news reports.
On Thursday, Mubarak refused to step down and handed some powers to Vice President Suleiman. Mubarak dissolved the upper levels of government too, to calm the protesters. But, they "boo" him and waved shoes over their heads when he announced that he would not step down. Major protests continued on Friday leading to his resignation.
President Barack H. Obama welcomed the news and America is ready to offer any help for a smooth democratic transition of government. The people of Egypt have spoken and its voices have been heard...and "Egypt will never be the same," added Obama.
Mubarak's resignation led to the lowering the barrel price of oil to $85.00 and gold prices were lowered by $2.00.

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