Fealk and Lennox testify

On Friday, February 22, 2008, I drove over 2 hours to Alma, Michigan. Why? Because the Michigan State Senate Subcommittee on Higher Education Funding was holding a hearing. In attendance was a student from Central Michigan University, Dennis Lennox. You probably haven't heard of Mr. Lennox or if you're a regular reader of the blogosphere, maybe you have. Dennis has been stalking Gary Peters on campus in the dark, on occasion. Dennis is a tool of the Michigan Republican Party.

On Friday, Dennis testified and asked the committee to delay funding to CMU based on his complaint that Gary Peters should not hold a privately funded professorship, which doesn't cost taxpayers one penny, according to the CMU budget.

I also testified in front of the committee and I will be posting video of that testimony later today. Dennis testified that his issue with Mr. Peters is not political, which is a blatant lie. Dennis has even held press conferences with the chair of the Michigan Republican Party, Saul Anuzis.

After the hearing, a reporter from the CMU student newspaper wanted to talk to me about the hearing and Michael Westendorf, from Saginaw Valley State University and contributor to the SVSU student newspaper, followed me through the halls until I found an office where I answered questions for the reporter. Westendorf continued to film me through the window next to the door of the office we were in.
I want to make it abundantly clear, even though Dennis calls me a "paid bozo" in an article in the CMU student newspaper, I am not on the payroll of any Democratic organization, nor Gary Peters' campaign.

Dennis seems to be cut from the same cloth as Trent Wisecup, former Chief of Staff of Joe Knollenberg.


Here is a small piece from the CMU student newspaper, CM Life

In contradiction, Bruce Fealk of Rochester Hills, who writes a blog criticizing State Rep. Joe Knollenberg called Vote No on Joe (Knollenberg), spoke to the senators after Lennox.

"I would ask you not take any action," he said.

Peters is running against Knollenberg in November for the 9th district U.S. House seat.

Fealk said he reviewed CMU's budget, and the Griffin Endowment Chair, the position Peters fills, is a privately endowed chair and does not come from taxpayers' dollars.

Lennox said CMU is a public university and taxpayers have the right to ask legitimate questions.

Fealk also said he called all the Board of Trustee members and each reported no complaints from any students about Peters.

"I don't think it's unusual or unethical for him to run for Congress," he said.

Fealk pointed out that three presidential candidates also are senators.

Lennox said Peters should have been at the meeting to defend himself.

"Gary Peters is an adult and a politician, and CMU should be answering these questions, not a paid bozo from Oakland County," he said.

Birmingham Eccentric: Peters Sides with Workers

Peters sides with workers

Gary Peters has taken a stance for the working man, calling for economic changes in Oakland County and lashing out at Rep. Joe Knollenberg, his Republican rival for the 9th U.S. House seat.

"I will be a strong voice for the working men and women of Oakland County and will fight to bring and protect high-paying jobs and ensure health care is available," Peters said Wednesday at the Pipe Fitters Local 636 in Farmington Hills.

Peters was joined by Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Chris Van Hollen. Several workers were also in attendance to share their stories of struggle.

"Congressman Knollenberg has partnered with the Bush administration in leveling a disastrous economic policy that has undermined the rights of workers, dished out incentives for companies to invest oversees, and stood idly by, watching the exodus of thousands of Michigan jobs," Peters said.

"Gary Peters is a proven problem solver with a record of results for working families. No one will fight harder on behalf of his constituents and for every Michigan job," Van Hollen said. "Whether it's voting to outsource American jobs or blindly supporting the Iraq war, Joe Knollenberg is one of President Bush's most loyal rubber stamps and is out of touch with the struggles and priorities of working families in this district."

Peters and Van Hollen were joined by Dan Pier, who after 31 years of working for Farmer Jack grocery store lost his job.

"Our current congressman believes that Michigan jobs can not be saved," Pier said. "I do not agree with this. Our present situation calls for someone who will work for us in Washington and in Oakland County and not sit idly by as companies undercut wages and prices while our jobs disappear. We need a change in leadership and I know that Gary Peters will put the priorities of working men and women in Oakland County first."

Joe and his role in beef recall

You've probably heard about this story by now about the huge beef recall, 143 million pounds of it. What you probably don't know is that your Congressman, Joe Knollenberg had a role in this tragedy. HR 3931, introduced by Representatives Gary Ackerman (D-NY) and Steven LaTrourette (R-OH) to prohibit USDA certification of meat from livestock too sick or injured to walk unassisted, making permanent the USDA's administrative ban on "downed cattle" in human food and expanding it to cover other species. The bill had 143 cosponsors. Joe Knollenberg was not one of them.

Humane Society Legislative Fund

About 60 people gathered in Bloomfield Hills on Friday night for a presentation about Joe Knollenberg and his poor record on issues relating to animal right and animal cruelty. Everyone there was very excited to start going after Joe Knollenberg on his record on these issues. Joe Knollenberg's rating from the Humane Society Legislative Fund is a poor 28%.

The HSLF is looking to target the Peters v. Knollenberg race with issue funding to help retire Joe Knollenberg. Stay tuned. You can look at the HSLF score card by clicking here

On Friday 2/22/08, I attended the Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher Education Funding

On Friday afternoon, February 22, 2008, I attended the Michigan Senate Committee on Higher Education Appropriations. Dennis Lennox, of Students Against Gary Peters, was in attendance also. Dennis gave about a 12 minute presentation, after which I testified also. Dennis testified that his beef with Gary Peters "is not political." Well, I have to say, if this isn't politically motivated, I don't know what is. Lennox attended a press conference at Central Michigan University with Michigan Republican Chair, Saul Anuzis. There's even pictures of Lennox and Anuzis at CMU holding their press conference. Here's a little video I put together with just a bit of Mr. Lennox's testimony. I'm not the best video editor in the world, but you get the idea.

If this isn't political, why is Dennis Lennox holding a press conference with Saul Anuzis, Chair of the Michigan Republican party

Detroit News Covers Van Hollen Campaigning with Gary Peters

Dems step up efforts to unseat Knollenberg

Democratic candidate Gary Peters, party leader join forces at local rally in bid to oust GOP veteran.

Gordon Trowbridge / Detroit News Washington Bureau

FARMINGTON HILLS -- Democrats on Wednesday previewed their line of attack in what promises to be one of the nation's hottest congressional races, when a top party campaign official came to Oakland County promoting Gary Peters' bid to unseat veteran Rep. Joe Knollenberg.

Rep. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., the head of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, stopped with Peters at a Pipefitters & Steamfitters Local 636 to rally organized labor support before attending a Peters' fundraiser later in the day. Van Hollen, whose job is to expand Democrats' narrow House majority, said the combination of a changing Oakland County district and Knollenberg's support of President Bush make the seat ripe for a takeover.

"If you look at the political constituency here, it's one we think is very up for change," Van Hollen said. The fact that Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Hills, won a narrow 2006 victory over a relatively unknown and underfunded challenger, and Democratic polling showing Knollenberg with a low approval rating, "make it pretty clear that there's a huge amount of discontent with the incumbent," Van Hollen said.

CLICK HERE for the rest of the story.

Peters Ramping Effort for Knollenberg's Seat

DCCC Chair, Chris Van Hollen campaigns for Gary Peters

From Wednesday's Detroit Free Press

An All-Star, but can she hit?

Nancy Skinner of Royal Oak got a boost in her challenge to Republican Rep. Joe Knollenberg last week.

Democracy for America, a progressive blog, named Skinner its 2008 All-Star among 98 candidates for Congress. It could bring Skinner much-needed campaign cash. She reported only $6,785 in her campaign fund at the end of 2007, compared with Knollenberg's $1,035,640.

Skinner's Democratic rival for the seat, ex-lottery commissioner Gary Peters, reported $358,516.

Peters is to campaign today with U.S. Rep. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., who heads the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.

Joe, follow Tim Walberg's lead. Hold a Public Town Hall Meeting and Allow Questions from the Floor

Joe, here's a challenge to you, hold a public Town Hall meeting and Allow Questions from the Floor.

Walberg town-hall meeting is Tuesday

U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg's town-hall meeting is set for Tuesday night in the library at Jackson High School.

A quarter-page advertisement that was published Sunday on Page A7 and Monday on Page A3 in the Citizen Patriot contained the wrong date. An outside advertising agency submitted incorrect information, officials said.

A member of Walberg's staff will be on hand at the school tonight to survey any constituent who shows up, said spokesman Matt Lahr.

Tuesday's open meeting begins at 7 p.m. and is scheduled to last two hours.

Walberg, R-Tipton, will speak for 15 minutes about current issues in the House of Representatives, then open the floor to questions from residents.

Knollenberg walks out on contempt vote

This is simply amazing, even in the partisan world we find ourselves in. Contempt of Congress citations were issued to Harriet Miers and Josh Bolten, President Bush's Chief of Staff, but they refused to even show up to answer the questions of Congress, showing an utter disregard for the law. The House passed a resolution holding them in contempt and Joe didn't even bother to vote. The Constitution means nothing to President Bush and Joe Knollenberg. The Democrats were able to pass the resolution even though the Republicans walked out.

Passed: 223-32 The House agreed to H. Res. 982, providing for the adoption of the resolution (H. Res. 979) recommending that the House of Representatives find Harriet Miers and Joshua Bolten, Chief of Staff, White House, in contempt of Congress for refusal to comply with subpoenas duly issued by the Committee on the Judiciary and for the adoption of the resolution (H. Res. 980) authorizing the Committee on the Judiciary to initiate or intervene in judicial proceedings to enforce certain subpoenas, by a recorded vote of 223 ayes to 32 noes, with 1 voting "present'', Roll No. 60, after agreeing to order the previous question by voice vote.

New Oakland Democratic Politics Blog

I've started a new blog for Oakland County Politics at www.oaklanddemocraticpolitics.blogspot.com. This blog is meant to cover politics and events in Oakland county, focusing on Democratic politics. Some topics we can cover currently in the news is the recalls of Marie Donigan and Aldo Vagnozi, etc.

Something weird going on at Oakland Politics

This video of a Glenn Clark interview with Jim Thienel is on www.oaklandpolitics.com. I saw it, watched it and made comments. There were 8 comments on the video about Glenn Clark, specifically one of the comments was about the fact that Glenn Clark is on the payroll of John McCain while serving as the chair of the Republican 9th District Comittee. Click here to view the FEC report. Chetly Zarko, the owner of Oakland Politics, has taken down the comments without explaining why. Very interesting. Click here for the posting on Oakland Politics.
You will note that it says there are 8 comments, but when you go to the comments page, no comments appear.

Oakland Right Interviews Glenn Clark, Chair of 9th District Republican Committee (+) by: chetly Fri Feb 15, 2008 at 02:59:06 AM EST

Here's a video of Glenn Clark, which will appear on The Oakland Right cable access show. Clark gives us insight into his and the 9th District's plans and activities.

Discuss :: (8 Comments)

NEWS FLASH: KNOLLENBERG ENDORSES MCCAIN

Rep. Knollenberg endorses McCain (From DetNews.com)

Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Hills, announced today that he's throwing his support behind Sen. John McCain for president. He had been a Mitt Romney backer.

Praising McCain as an "American hero and an American statesman," Knollenberg said, "I am confident that he has the right experience to lead our country as president."

This endorsement comes to you from the same man that endorsed George W. Bush so enthusiastically in 2004. Can you trust him in 2008?

Gary Peters on Trade and the Knollenberg Amendment

Gary Peters talks about trade and the auto industry

Joe Knollenberg on the auto industry

Gary Peters On Iraq

From the 9th District forum, Gary Peters responds to a question about what to do in Iraq. Interesting, Joe Knollenberg doesn't even think Iraq is an issue, since there is not one word about it on his web campaign web site.

Oakland Press publishes response to article

This morning's Oakland Press published my response to Saul Anuzis' press conference regarding Gary Peters' teaching position at Central Michigan University. If Saul's mouth is moving, he's lying.

Our next Congressman from the 9th District

This is Gary Peters' opening statement at the 9th District forum on February 13, 2008.


Gary Peters' closing statement at the 9th District forum on February 13, 2008.

Gary Peters, Joe Knollenberg and Nancy Skinner on Global Warming

Gary Peters on global warming

Here's Joe Knollenberg on the environment and global warming.


Here's Nancy Skinner on global warming.
(Just Kidding)

Gary Peters Showing some Courage on Health Care

Last night the 9th District Democratic Committee held a forum between Gary Peters and Nancy Skinner. In this video Gary Peters addresses health care in America, endorsing a Medicare for all plan. Since Joe won't come out in public and debate Gary Peters, here's the next best thing.



Here's what Joe has to say on health care


Here's Joe's Health Care Plan

Joe's not even good to animals

This guest opinion appeared in the Oakland Press today, addressing Joe Knollenberg's record on animal cruelty. I wonder if Joe has a dog and whether he kicks it for fun. Joe even wants to process sick cows for human consumption. Thanks, Joe, we appreciate your concern for our health. Maybe you want to revisit your health care plan.

GUEST OPINION
Knollenberg repeatedly fails to curb animal cruelty

By Michael Markarian

Special to The Oakland Press

Almost no one defends cruelty any longer, and it would be hard to understand the motivation of a lawmaker who voted against efforts to crack down on the inhumane treatment of animals.

After all, animal welfare is widely recognized as a social virtue. Oakland County readers may be surprised, then, that Republican U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Hills, stubbornly refuses to let go of the ugly past. Sadly, he has amassed one of the worst records on animal cruelty issues in Congress. Throughout his career in Washington, he has opposed modest and common-sense animal welfare reforms.

He has time and again opposed efforts to halt the slaughtering of America's horses for export to Europe and Asia so the animals' meat could be consumed as a delicacy. His position is at odds with the important historical place horses have occupied in our culture. They helped Americans settle this country.

While horses are not food animals, even livestock deserve basic humane treatment -- but Knollenberg has voted to deny such protections and play Russian roulette with our food supply. He sought to continue processing "downer" cattle -- animals who are too sick or injured to walk to slaughter, and are often dragged with chains, ropes, bulldozers, and forklifts. These downer cows pose a greater threat of spreading "mad cow disease," or bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), because they may go lame due to illness or neurological disease. Of the 15 known cases of BSE-infected animals discovered in North America, at least 12 involved downer animals.

Animals in the wild don't fare any better with Knollenberg. Last year, he voted to allow wealthy American trophy hunters to shoot polar bears in the Arctic -- where they face threats from global warming and vanishing ice floes -- and bring their heads and hides back across the border to America. It is already illegal to hunt these polar bears for sport in Alaska, so trophy hunters skirt the spirit of U.S. law by killing polar bears abroad.

The Safari Club International gives out a "Bears of the World" hunting achievement award to individuals who shoot four of the eight species of bears in the world, and that awards program drives competitive killing of polar bears.

The Fish and Wildlife Service has made a preliminary finding that polar bears should now be listed as "threatened" with extinction.

It wasn't the first time Knollenberg had taken aim at wildlife. He voted to allow the trophy shooting of bears over piles of grease and jelly doughnuts on national forests and other federal lands, and the use of steel-jawed leghold traps and wire neck snares on national wildlife refuges -- inhumane and unsporting practices opposed by responsible hunters. He even voted against two measures that would have protected dolphins from drowning in tuna nets.

Even with a ballooning deficit, and even though he says he's a fiscal conservative, Knollenberg believes in giving government hand-outs to industries that abuse animals. He voted to use your tax dollars to promote the trophy hunting of elephants in Africa, and to give a $2 million annual subsidy to the luxury mink coat industry.

Of all 15 Congressional districts in Michigan, the Ninth District has the most members of the Humane Society of the United States. Knollenberg's opposition to the most modest animal welfare reforms, especially in light of the humane-minded constituency he represents, is just perplexing.

Citizens of the Ninth District, and the nation's animals, deserve better treatment.

Michael Markarian is president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. He writes the blog "Animals & Politics" online at www.michaelmarkarian.org.

Will Joe Vote to Spy on Americans

Now that the Senate has approved the FISA bill that will give the telecom companies retroactive immunity to continue spying on American, it's up the the House to stand their ground to prevent this travesty of justice and clear breaking of the law by the Bush administration and the telecom companies.

I'm watching to see how Joe Knollenberg votes, whether he'll stand up for the Constitution or stand up for our criminal president and vice president. No one needs immunity if they didn't commit a crime. When will we hold Bush and Cheney accountable for their crimes against the country? We're watching, Joe.

Republicans Know No Shame

This article appeared in the Oakland Press this morning. Talk about making much ado about nothing. Republicans also plagiarized the John Ashcraft 2006 campaign, when John created a milk carton asking where Joe Knollenberg was. Knollenberg is rarely in the district and never conducts public town halls or forums where all 9th District residents are invited to ask Joe Knollenberg about his votes in Congress.

I personally called all of the members of the CMU Board of Trustees and not one had been made aware of even one complaint from a student that takes Gary Peters' class.

Also, it should be known, Dennis Lennox is not even in Gary Peters' class.

Let's focus on the real issues here. This issue is just a trumped up attempt to bring negative publicity to a public servant that has served Michigan residents honorably and capably and he is more than able to replace Joe Knollenberg in the U.S. Congress.

Will Joe endorse John (100 years in Iraq) McCain?

I just found this great video that speaks to a what John McCain would do if he were to be elected president. 100, 1000 more years in Iraq, who knows how many casualities and catastrophic injuries.

Following Joe's Money

I wonder if Joe's vote against the mine safety legislation has anything to do with where Joe Knollenberg is getting his campaign contrubutions from. What do you think?

Ms. Stephanie Salvagno COALPAC - National Mining Assoc. 101 Constitution Ave NW # 500 East Washington, DC 200012133		11/05/2007	500.00
			500.00
	Receipt
Ms. Stephanie Salvagno MINEPAC - National Mining Assoc. 101 Constitution Ave NW, #500 East Washington, DC 20001		11/05/2007	500.00
			500.00
	Receipt

Ms. Beverly Marshall Duke-Energy PAC 422 S. Church Street, PB05D Charlotte, North Carolina 282420001		10/27/2007	1000.00
	Treasurer		1000.00
	Receipt

Mr. Jeff Hogg RJ Reynolds PAC 1201 F Street, #1000 Washington, DC 20004		12/12/2007	1000.00
			2000.00
	Receipt

This is unconscionable. The S-Miner Act would:

* Help prevent disasters. It would add new safeguards for a dangerous practice called “retreat mining.” It would strengthen standards to contain explosions and fires inside mines. It strengthens the enforcement hand of the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, in part by giving the agency subpoena authority. It increases certain penalties against mine operators that violate the law. And it creates a miner ombudsman’s office to handle safety complaints from miners.

* Improve emergency response in the event that a disaster does occur. The legislation more clearly defines MSHA’s responsibilities and authority at the scene of a disaster. It requires MSHA to develop a plan to better coordinate with state and local authorities. It establishes rules for independent investigations of mining disasters. And it would improve safety technology in the mines, including better tracking and communications equipment, more reliable air supplies, and the installation of refuge chambers where trapped miners can safely await rescue.

* Reduce long-term health risks facing miners. The legislation updates standards to combat black lung disease and to reduce miners’ exposure to other deadly health risks, such as asbestos. It also strengthens rules to better inform miners of the health risks they face.

Now we know why Joe voted no.

Eccentric Covers 9th District Fund Raising

Dollars adding up quickly for 9th House candidates
By Greg Kowalski
Staff writer

In the race for the U.S. 9th House seat, Gary Peters may be winning the battle of the bucks, at least on the Democratic side of the ticket.

On Thursday, Peters announced he "has received more contributions to date than any previous candidate to take on Republican Joe Knollenberg."

Peters said he raised $183,414 last quarter for a total of $401,217.

"Whether it's people I meet at house parties and club meetings or the nearly 1,000 individuals that have contributed to our campaign, every day I see momentum building for our grass-roots campaign," Peters said in a prepared statement.

It isn't clear how much ahead that puts him against rival Democrat Nancy Skinner, who said a tally of donations hasn't been made yet. "I've been getting small donations from around the county," Skinner said. (Skinner ended the quarter with $6700 cash on hand.)

In 2006, when Skinner ran against Knollenberg, she raised a respectable $420,000 during the length of the campaign and came within 15,000 votes of beating the incumbent Knollenberg.

"I have not been out there in full force," Skinner said last week. But she did take comfort in that she placed first in the Democracy for Action Internet poll, which rated her as the leading progressive candidate among 98 Congressional races across the country in a preliminary count.

"Money alone isn't going to do it," Skinner said.

Perhaps. But Knollenberg came up with his own figures, which cannot be taken lightly. He has rased more than $1.4 million in 2007.

"The Knollenberg campaign raised the most money it has since 2002," a Knollenberg campaign statement stated. It was, he noted, "a particularly strong showing for a non-election year, during which time candidates typically raise fewer dollars."

Still, with the primary in August and the general election in November, the campaign money-raising season is still young.

Joe Knollenberg's promise, Fewer Jobs, More Wars

With John McCain now the presumptive Republican nominee, let's stop a minute and think about what a John McCain presidency would be about, especially were there to be more Republicans like Joe Knollenberg, who has supported the war in Iraq consistently. I don't think it's a pretty picture. Joe's choice for the Republican nomination, Mitt Romney, pulled out of the race yesterday. Will Joe support John (100 more years in Iraq) McCain?

Joe, can you help me figure this out

I was looking at my tax bills going back to 2003, and there's a recurring charge for $275. What exactly is that for and how do I get it removed from my bill?

Joe, this is what ONE day in Iraq will buy

Gary Peters wants to get the U.S. out of the war in Iraq and start pulling our troops out immediately. Joe Knollenberg wants to stay indefinitely and has been willing to support President Bush's disastrous policy in Iraq that has killed almost 4,000 American soldiers, affecting untold families and 30,000 soldiers seriously injured, maimed and suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. It's time to elect a Democrat to Michigan's 9th Congressional District.

Keith Olbermann On Telecom Immunity

Are you listening, Joe?

GOP, Dems to pour money into hot races

GOP, Dems to pour funds into 2 hot races

February 1, 2008

By KATHLEEN GRAY

FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER

Voters in two congressional districts -- one in Oakland County and one that stretches from Washtenaw County to Battle Creek -- will be the focus of hotly contested, expensive races featuring veteran Democratic challengers against incumbent Republicans.

Former state Sen. Gary Peters, a Bloomfield Township Democrat, has raised more than $400,000 to challenge U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg of Bloomfield Township, but Knollenberg has raised three times as much -- about $1.4 million through Dec. 31, according to campaign finance reports filed Thursday

Peters had about $359,000 still available, while Knollenberg, who has represented the district cutting a wide swath across Oakland County since 1993, had more than $1 million available. Peters was the state's lottery commissioner before leaving to take a teaching post at Central Michigan University.

"This is a race that's going to have to be very well-funded. But raising money is not going to be an issue for us," said Peters' campaign spokeswoman, Julie Petrick.

Knollenberg, first elected in 1992, won by a 51%-47% margin in 2006 against Royal Oak Democrat Nancy Skinner. He spent $2.6 million on his 2006 race compared with Skinner's $364,000.

Peters Raises Record Amount in Michigan's 9th

Peters raises record amount in Michigan's 9th

Oakland County, MI- Gary Peters continues to build overwhelming momentum in his bid for Congress in Michigan's 9th District. Peters has received more contributions to date than any previous candidate to take on Republican incumbent Joe Knollenberg and has garnered early key endorsements. Peters garnered support from almost 1000 individuals in the district including support from Republicans and Independents.

"Whether it's people I meet at house parties and club meetings or the nearly 1000 individuals that have contributed to our campaign, every day I see momentum building for our grassroots campaign. Our working families in Oakland County are fed-up with Washington and the direction of this country. Our message of change, fighting tooth and nail for jobs, and putting Oakland County first has really struck a chord."

Gary Peters is widely regarding for having a hands-on approach to solving local problems. He has a record of results and independence -- turning the lottery around, cutting taxes, holding the line on spending, and creating economic opportunity for the middle class.

In addition to his strong fundraising, Peters has received a flood of endorsements. Last week Peters received the full support and endorsement of the Michigan Association of Police Organizations, which represents over 14,000 police officers in Michigan. Peters has also recently received the endorsement of the American Federation of Teachers in Michigan as well as the Service Employees International Union, the fastest growing labor organization representing over 80,000 workers in Michigan. Peters has also received one of the earliest endorsements of the Michigan AFL-CIO which represents over 600,000 workers and 59 unions across the state.

Peters, who has been outspoken about our need for change in Oakland County, raised $183,414.00 last quarter, bringing the total funds raised of the campaign to $401,217, and has a cash on hand balance of $359,366. The Democrat who ran against Joe Knollenberg last cycle raised just under $24,000 in her end of the year filing in 2006. Peters has also exceeded David Fink, the top raising Democrat to challenge Knollenberg, who to date in Q4 of 2001 had amassed just under $370,000 thousand.

Troy Eccentric Letters Support Gary Peters

These two letters appeared in the Troy Eccentric letters and both make very good points regarding the stance Nancy Skinner is making regarding her candidacy.

Support for Peters Troy Eccentric letters

I am writing to object to the characterization of Gary Peters' congressional campaign as "Hinging on outsiders" or "anointed" by the party ("Congressional election could hinge on outsiders," Jan. 10) or "disenfranchised" ("Disenfranchised Dems steam over primary ballot," Jan. 13).

My name was mentioned as an early endorser for Gary's campaign, which I am happy to strongly emphasize, but it has nothing to do with party affiliation and everything to do with the fact that I have known and worked with Gary since he was first elected to the state Senate in January 1996.

He came to a meeting of the Bloomfield Hills Legislative Action Network, which was a group of parents who lobbied our Lansing delegation on both sides of the aisle to support our public schools. Gary made ongoing efforts to stay informed and seek out our opinions on issues effecting our district. As a 10-year member of the Bloomfield Hills Board of Education, I had the opportunity to work with Gary on many issues during his tenure in the Senate. I have worked with his wife, Colleen, for 10 years to support the work of Lighthouse of Oakland County.

I resent Nancy Skinner's inference that I am a tool of the Democratic Party. She doesn't know me and has never sought my endorsement. I am not a party activist and was not even present at the meeting Jan. 10 where the discussion took place.

Cynthia von Oeyen

Bloomfield Hills

Process was fair

In reading your Jan. 13 article, "'Disenfranchised' Dems steam over primary ballot," I was very disappointed by Nancy Skinner's comments that endorsements for her opponent in the congressional race were somehow rigged by the Democratic Party.

I am a member of the Service Employees International Union, which endorsed Gary Peters recently. Our process was driven by our membership. We held a town hall meeting of our members with Skinner and Peters. In fact, all three candidates were invited, including Congressman Joe Knollenberg (he declined).

We ask that the candidates "Walk A Day In The Shoes" of our members in order to earn our endorsement. Peters and Skinner both did such, shadowing a Farmington Hills home care worker and Royal Oak city employees, respectively. Lastly, we asked candidates to fill out a detailed questionnaire on issues affecting our members and required them to participate in a thorough screening before our Political Directors Committee. From this multistep process, we found that Gary Peters had a stronger grasp on the issues and had already built an impressive campaign structure aimed at winning in November. Any suggestion that our endorsement process was a foregone conclusion or that it was rigged is a disservice to our membership and the time they spent.

Chuck Bonar

Joe, we need to end the war, not more tax cuts

Joe Knollenberg has a new entry on his blog. Joe has introduced. Here's the language.
Tax Relief for Families and Small Business

by Rep. Knollenberg

January 25th, 2008

Yesterday I was proud to introduce H.R. 5126, the Family Security and Small Business Stimulus Act of 2008. Our economy has slowed down and for the sake of families in Michigan, it is critical that we take action in Washington to help. Enabling families and small businesses to keep more of their hard-earned money instead of sending it to the IRS is a valuable first step. My bill will do this in three ways: permanently cutting the lowest income tax bracket from 10% to 5%; sending all taxpayers an advance payment of this tax-cut; and allowing small businesses to expense more of their purchases.

Joe and his Republican collegues seem to think tax cuts are the answer to every problem. While no one likes to pay more taxes, a tax cut in a time of economic crisis, when our national debt is $9 TRILLION, we are fighting a war that is costing $12 billion a month, a tax cut will only multiply the crisis. A more sensible approach would be to invest in America's infrastructure providing good paying jobs to our citizens, who in turn pay taxes and improve the overall economy. The wealthiest American do not need a tax cut, but those citizens going through foreclosure need more than a tax rebate check to solve their problems.

Maybe if we end the fiasco in Iraq and use the money being poured down the rat hole there we can start to solve the economic crisis in America.

Call Joe, Tell Him Spying on Americans is Against the Law

Watch This Video:

Farmington Hills Office 30833 Northwestern Hwy Suite 100 Farmington Hills, MI 48334 Phone: (248) 851-1366 Fax: (248) 851-0418 Washington Office 2349 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-5802 Fax: (202) 226-2356

Knollenberg Reactions to last Bush SOTU

Joe seems very concerned about alternative energy, which is a good thing. Too bad he hasn't taken the lead and introduced his own legislation to make this a reality. My guess is that his plan would be all about tax breaks for the auto companies. Where has Joe been on alternative energy for the past 14 year he's been in Congress? I'll tell you where, he's been blocking every attempt by Congress to raise fuel economy standards. The Big 3 is finally waking up to the fact that they can't just keep building SUV's and making outrageous profits on the large, gas guzzlilng models. Finally hybrids, fuel cells and biofuels were front and center at this year's auto show. Maybe Joe and the Big 3 finally see the writing on the wall. It will be a little too late for Joe though. This is Joe's last term in Congress.

From the Detroit Free Press

“I ... support the president’s call for bipartisan work on energy issues. The American auto industry is facing the reality of meeting new fuel economy standards in the coming years. Now that the government has issued this mandate, it is our responsibility to help them get there. That is why we need an aggressive and robust investment plan for alternative fuels, including advanced research in plug-in electric batteries and diesel technology.” — U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Township.

From the Detroit News

Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Hills, said Congress needs to do more to support automakers, now that they face the new mandate.

"I want to see more funding for plug-in hybrids, advanced batteries and clean diesels," Knollenberg said.

From the Detroit Free Press

Rep. Joe Knollenberg, a Bloomfield Township Republican, said the stimulus bill should also expand tax breaks for equipment bought by small businesses. "This is about jobs for families who need them, and we should take some bolder steps," he said.

Former Knollenberg Staffer Annouces County Commission Run

Well, this is interesting. A former Knollenberg campaign worker, John Witt, announced he is challenging Tim Burns for the 19th District of the County Commission. I wonder how if John thinks that his being aligned with Joe (33% approval) Knollenberg will be an advantage. It's kind of like aligning yourself with George (24% approval) W. Bush. I wonder if "fiscally responsible" means the he wants to continue to use the government credit card, as has been the policy of Joe Knollenberg and George W. Bush.

As an aside, the web site mentioned in the press release comes up "page not found."

CONTACT: John Witt
Phone: (248) 229-8801
E-mail: wjohn@aol.com
Blog: www.johnwitt.blospot.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 28, 2008

WITT ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER
The John Witt for County Commissioner Campaign issued the following press release:
Today, John Witt filed his candidacy for County Commissioner for the 19th District as a Republican candidate. Witt had the following to say about his campaign:

"I am running for County Commissioner because I will be a strong representative of the 19th District and provide a much needed fresh perspective on the Board of Commissioners. I am proud to be the candidate in this race most dedicated to fiscal conservatism and most dedicated to protecting the tax dollars of Oakland County residents. Today, I am demonstrating that very dedication by pledging to 19th District residents that I will never vote for a general county budget that increases at a rate higher than inflation and I will never vote to increase Oakland County's property tax millage rate. I also will work to make the Board of Commissioners more open and accessible to residents by pushing for the full Board meetings to take place in the evening and for these meetings to be televised. Furthermore, I will advocate for meeting minutes to be available in both hard copy and electronic form within three working days after a meeting. I will be a strong voice for the concerns of my constituents in Troy and Clawson. While I may not be the establishment's choice for the Republican nomination, I will work hard to become the people's choice. Instead of relying on the support of political insiders who reside outside the 19th District, I look forward to earning the support of Troy and Clawson voters. I will earn this support by always putting the 19th District first."

John Witt, an eight-year resident of Troy, has previously worked for Congressman Joe Knollenberg and the Keith Butler for United States Senate Campaign. He looks forward to using his fresh perspective to bring stronger, more fiscally responsible and resident-focused representation to the 19th District.

About John Witt
Education: B.A., summa cum laude, Saint Louis University, January 2008.
Graduate of Brother Rice High School, May 2004.

Political Intern in District Office of Congressman Joe Knollenberg.
Background: Campaign Assistant for Keith Butler for United States Senate.
Member, Troy-Clawson Republican Forum.
Member, Oakland County and Michigan Republican Party.

Joe and his Republican Colleagues' Policies cause recession

Starting with Ronald Reagan and his busting of the air traffic controllers union, wages have been under tremendous pressure. This report puts Republican policies in perspective and how those policies are related to our current economic crisis.

Olbermann covers homelss veterans

Republicans say they are the party that takes care of veterans. The truth is, according to the Veterans Administration, there are 195,000 homeless veterans. Joe and his Republicans colleagues say they care about veterans, but the facts say something different. Bill O'Reilly and his kind can't face the consequences of their actions.

Joe Votes No on Improving Safety for Miners

This is unconscionable. The S-Miner Act would:

* Help prevent disasters. It would add new safeguards for a dangerous practice called “retreat mining.” It would strengthen standards to contain explosions and fires inside mines. It strengthens the enforcement hand of the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration, in part by giving the agency subpoena authority. It increases certain penalties against mine operators that violate the law. And it creates a miner ombudsman’s office to handle safety complaints from miners.

* Improve emergency response in the event that a disaster does occur. The legislation more clearly defines MSHA’s responsibilities and authority at the scene of a disaster. It requires MSHA to develop a plan to better coordinate with state and local authorities. It establishes rules for independent investigations of mining disasters. And it would improve safety technology in the mines, including better tracking and communications equipment, more reliable air supplies, and the installation of refuge chambers where trapped miners can safely await rescue.

* Reduce long-term health risks facing miners. The legislation updates standards to combat black lung disease and to reduce miners’ exposure to other deadly health risks, such as asbestos. It also strengthens rules to better inform miners of the health risks they face.

Our Congressman, Joe Knollenberg voted NO! How could you, Joe?

Knollenberg funded by Hezbollah?

From DebbieSchlussel.com

By Debbie Schlussel

When I heard Mitt Romney, a week ago Saturday Night, in the ABC debate, claim that he's the only candidate who "understands radical jihad," I scratched my head. He refuses to ask his church to stop funneling $20 million plus to a HAMAS charity, or even to say he disagrees with it. I like and respect Mormons, but not this outrageous funding decision by their church. Plus, he made anti-American statements when he headed the 2002 Salt Lake Games that jihadists would love. And then, there was his statement at the ABC debate that he will take the Muslim world into "modernity and moderation." But, does he really believe "modernity" equals moderation? Um, I guess he's never seen a jihadist website or been to Dubai. They are more modern than we are. It's just their ideology that's back in the 7th Century and good luck to Mitt in bringing it up to date. Oh, and don't forget Romney's previous statement at a town hall meeting that he "admires Hezbollah."

But now, I come to find out, that Hezbollah's key funder in Congress, Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R-Michigan), is a key Romney guy and has been hangin' with Romney all over Michigan for the last week. There he is on stage, denoted by a circle, in the picture below, from a Romney rally in the Detroit area yesterday.

Does Romney have problems with the fact that Knollenberg and his state legislator son, Marty Knollenberg, both took thousands in campaign contributions from Hezbollah's American agents, Nijad Fares and Abdullah Bouhabib, as I've repeatedly noted? Apparently Not. Does Romney have a problem with the fact that, to pay these egregious contributors back, Joe Knollenberg single-handedly (with Sen. Spencer Abraham on the Senate side) doled out at least $86 million of our tax money to Hezbollah in 2000, allowing Hezbollah to rebuild its strongholds in Southern Lebanon and expand? Apparently not.

Is Romney bothered that Joe Knollenberg put "Seeds of Peace"--a summer camp founded by Yasser Arafat's fave biographer--on the federal budget? Or that the camp, until recently run by Clintonista Aaron David Miller, discussed Holocaust denial as a legitimate theory and made Jewish campers and kids of Palestinian terrorists discuss that? Why is our tax money going to this camp in Maine? Ask Mitt Romney's favorite new Michigan Congressman?

Or ask Joe Knollenberg why millions in our federal money went to the jihadist, anti-Israel National Arab American Museum? He single-handedly went to bat for federal pork for this warehouse of enemy propaganda on our soil. And ask Romney why he has allies like this in Michigan.

Rochester Eccentric: Power to the people

The January 10 edition of the Rochester Eccentric has the article posted previously, with pictures.

Protest at the "Americans for Prosperity" summit

How dare the Republican presidential candidates. Some of the Republican presidential candidates, as America falls into what is predicted to be a widespread recession, gathered at Laurel Manor in Livonia on Saturday. Republicans seem to think that tax cuts are the way to bring prosperity to America. Even though their tax cuts go to the richest 1% of Americans, those are the only people Republicans care about, including Joe Knollenberg.

A dedicated group of local activists showed up at the "American Dream Summit" to let America know that they are not fooling the rest of us any more. We all know now that Republicans don't care about average working men and women. They care about their corporate donors and the profits of the corporations they serve.

Call Joe and tell him to support Cheney's Impeachment

Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL) is calling for the impeachment of Dick Cheney. Please watch the video and sign the petition
Call or fax Congressman Knollenberg:
Phone: (202) 225-5802
Fax: (202) 226-2356

Click here to sign the petition.

Did Joe get Yen maniupulation wrong?

I'm no economist, but this seems to make sense to me. It's Toyota combating Knollenberg's argument on yen manipulation.

Weak Yen or Strong Products?

We're going to take an overdue look at an old wives' tale that materializes rather like unwelcome ghosts from time to time.

It is that the Japanese government has somehow manipulated the value of its currency, the yen, to benefit Japanese-based companies that do business in the United States and Europe, holding it artificially low so that the manufacturers are able to realize what amounts to a subsidy on products they build in Japan and sell abroad.

Indeed, this tale of the manipulated yen is far more spectral than, say, Casper, our friendly ghost of theatrical cartoon series fame. It raised its wispy head again late last year, this time in a letter from Rep. Joe Knollenberg (R., Mich.), published in the Wall Street Journal.

CLICK HERE for the rest of the story.

Right to Work is Wrong for Michigan

On Tuesday, January 15, primary election day in Michigan, you may run across people asking you to sign a petition to make Michigan a "Right to Work" state.

DON'T SIGN THAT PETITION!!!!

It will drastically affect you and your family in a negative way if Michigan were to become a "Right to Work" state. Watch this video.

Joe Knollenberg Loves George W. Bush

I wonder how this will look played on television in say, October of 2008.

West Bloomfield Eccentric: Congressional Election Could Hinge on Outsiders

Congressional election could hinge on outsiders
By Annette Kingsbury
STAFF WRITER

In the 1860s, Abraham Lincoln suffered the slings and arrows of nasty political cartoons. In 1964, a black-and-white TV ad showed a mushroom cloud over a child picking daisies, implying that presidential candidate Barry Goldwater would use the nuclear bomb in Vietnam.

In the digital age, you don't have to have money, access to the media or party connections to make waves in politics. Anyone with a camera phone and Internet access can get involved in a big way.

Rochester Hills retiree Bruce Fealk has forced people to pay attention to his campaign to unseat incumbent Congressman Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Township. A liberal, Fealk has put up his own Web sites, hosts a cable TV show and engages in good old-fashioned demonstrating, such as showing up at the Rochester Christmas parade in a big papier mache likeness of Knollenberg.

Michign Progress

Retire Joe Knollenberg

CLICK HERE for the rest of the story.

Detroit News notes Albright hire by Knollenberg

This article appeared on January 2 in the Detroit News, noting Trent Wisecup's run-in with a camera wielding anti-war activist (me) and gives the link to the video and quotes Joe as saying Craig Albright is a professional, maybe implying Trent wasn't so professional?

It looks like rather than take a new tack, Joe prefers to stick with someone he knows. I expect that we'll see more of the same from Joe, rather than learning from his mistakes of the past. That's good news for Gary Peters, his expected opponent in the 2008 general election. This being Joe's last campaign, I'm glad Joe at least isn't going to turn into a Mitt Romney flip-flopper. Oh, did I mention Joe endorsed Romney?

Rep. Knollenberg hires top aide

U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Hills, announced today that he's hired a new chief of staff, Craig Albright, who's worked in Republican politics since the mid-1990s and who's also getting ready to be a first-time dad.

Knollenberg is expected to face another barnburner of a race. He's targeted by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. He'll face the winner of the Democratic match between former Michigan lottery commissioner Gary Peters and Nancy Skinner, who held Knollenberg to an unimpressive 52-percent victory in 2006.

The already hot feelings in the race were captured on video and posted on YouTube in October. Knollenberg's chief of staff at the time, Trent Wisecup, got into a testy exchange with a camera-wielding anti-war activist. The video has now been watched 47,696 times. Afterwards, Wisecup announced he had gone on paid medical leave to seek treatment for a mood-swing disorder. Knollenberg's office said Wisecup is no longer employed either on the congressional or campaign staff.

"I'm excited to have Craig on board," Knollenberg said in a statement. "He's a true professional and effective at getting things done. It's rare to find someone with extensive knowledge of both my congressional district and Washington, DC."

Albright grew up in Birmingham and has a BA in economics from Michigan State University.

He worked as a legislative aide in the Michigan state legislature before Knollenberg hired him from 1997 to 2005 (including as campaign manager in 2002). He then worked for Vice President Cheney as deputy assistant for legislative affairs and for President Bush as special assistant for legislative affairs.

Joe ignores Albanian-American prisoners

Albanian-American RALLY at Congressman Joe Knollenberg’s Office

RALLY IN SUPPORT OF THE ALBANIAN-AMERICAN POLITICAL PRISONERS ILLEGALLY DETAINED & TORTURED IN MONTENEGRO

Monday, January 7, 2008 at 11:00 am

Farmington Hills Office

30833 Northwestern Hwy
Suite 100
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Phone: (248) 851-1366
Fax: (248) 851-0418

We are rallying at the District Office of Honorable Congressman Knollenberg after numerous appeals by the families of his (4) four imprisoned constituents have gone unheard. The Montenegrin authorities need to be held accountable for their crimes against the U.S. Citizens. It is expected that our elected officials secure the safety and well being of their citizens at home and in other nations. Four (4) American men are deteriorating in a Montenegrin prison while Congressman Knollenberg chooses to ignore the cries of his constituents. The Honorable Congressman Knollenberg needs to fulfill his obligations in Washington by being the voice of his constituents and bring his Americans home!


Contact: Ms. Katrina Dedvukaj Contact: Mrs. Suzanne Lucaj
Phone: (248) 499-3856 Phone: (248) 346-4383

Joe promised to hold hearings on toilets

Wow, this is going to be more fun than I thought. The more I look into the scandal surrounding low-flush toilets, the more serious a problem this looks like. After introducing legislation to repeal the low-flush toilet requirement, Joe, through his legislative director, Craig Albright, promised to hold hearings looking into this serious matter facing the nation.

I feel better already knowing that Joe was on the case and holding hearings. I wonder who the witnesses were. I'll report back in another post.

Even the New York Times weighed in on Poopgate. Click here.

Click here to read the full article.
Early last year, Knollenberg introduced H.R. 859, the Plumbing Standards Improvement Act of 1997, which would repeal the low-flow mandate. The bill has generated substantial public support. "The mail has just been tremendous," says Craig Albright, a legislative assistant to Knollenberg. Most complain about the performance of the new toilets, and about a government that would do such a thing to them. For example, Bill Lynn of Davenport, Iowa, said his new toilets "clog easily, and I find that I sometimes must flush them five or six times," and that "this is just another case of government intrusion, and we have plenty of that." A few have also come to realize that the law's means for conserving water may be a bit misdirected. "It is especially frustrating when I'm plunging my toilet for the third time in one day, to gaze out my window and see my neighbor's sprinkling system," noted Kurt Topel of Riverwoods, Ill. The congressman has promised to hold a hearing after the fall elections.

Albright worked for Joe during toilet movement

I did a little research on Craig Albright, Joe Knollenberg's new Chief of Staff. It appears Craig was Joe's legislative director in 1998 when Joe made it a priority to repeal a law mandating low-flow toilets. Click here for Dave Barry's point of view on the Toilet Police.

I'm impressed! Repealing something with as much importance and low-flow toilets is something I'd want to to flush out for the voters in the 9th District.

I can't wait to see how Craig reacts to the swirling campaign taking place in the 9th District.

Knollenberg names former Bush Cheney legislative director as Chief of Staff

Welcome to the race, Craig. Given your background working in the Bush/Cheney White House, it looks like Joe chose someone with some pretty bad baggage. Looks like Craig has the same priorities as Trent, so he looks to be a pretty good fit for Joe's last campaign.

Albright named Knollenberg chief of staff

Birmingham native Craig Albright has been named chief of staff for Congressman Joe Knollenberg (R-9th District).

Albright replaced Trent Wisecup who resigned later last year.

Knollenberg made the announcement Wednesday.

“I’m excited to have Craig on board,” Knollenberg said is a press release. “He’s a true professional and effective at getting things done. It’s rare to find someone with extensive knowledge of both my Congressional District and Washington, D.C.

“Craig’s dedication to the people of the 9th District and knowledge of Washington are the perfect combination to assist me in accomplishing what I want to do for the people here in Oakland County.”

Albright worked for two years as a legislative aide in the Michigan State Legislature before moving to Washington to work for Knollenberg. He worked for Knollenberg from 1997-2005, including nearly four years as legislative director, and served as Knollenberg’s campaign manager in 2002. From 2005-2006, Albright served as deputy assistant for Legislative Affairs to vice president Dick Cheney. From 2006 until the end of 2007, he served as special assistant for Legislative Affairs to President Bush.

Albright was raised in Birmingham and his parents live there. He received a bachelor of arts in economics degree from Michigan State University. He and his wife Mary Beth are expecting their first child later this year.

385 days until a Democrat Represents Michigan's 9th District

Well, it's New Year's Eve and only 385 days until January 20, 2009, when a Democrat will finally start to represent the 9th Congressional District of Michigan.

I have done my best in 2007 to draw attention to Joe Knollenberg's voting record on things that Americans care about, like torture, the fiasco in Iraq, warrantless wiretapping andthe criminals in the White House and their above-the-law attitude toward the high office they hold. George W. Bush, Dick Cheney and Joe Knollenberg all think that the presidency is their personal playground to do with what they will. Well, the American people have news for you, George, Dick and Joe, this country was founded on government of the people, by the people and for the people and 2008 will be the year that Americans remember this founding principle of our government and start to treat the U.S Constitution the way our founding fathers intended.

The long nightmare of the George W. Bush presidency can't be over soon enough for me, nor can the nightmare of Joe Knollenberg's representation of the 9th District of Michigan. Soon we will have a representative that actually cares about the people and not the corporations.

Joe brings home money for Woodward signs, but says no to money for children's health care

This article showed up in Friday's Free Press. So I guess residents are supposed to say thank you to Joe Knollenberg for bringing home money for signs for Woodward Avenue? Not me. Joe Knollenberg has let voters down on the big issues like health care, voting against expanding a government program that works, the State Children's Health Insurance Program. Thanks to Joe 9 million children won't be able to afford health care. He continues to vote with the President to fund the fiasco in Iraq. He votes for more invasion of our privacy by allowing President Bush to spy on Americans. He votes to allow the President to break international laws by allowing torture of prisoners, leaving American prisoners open to the same treatment by our enemies.

Joe Knollenberg bringing home a few hundred thousand dollars for signage for Woodward Avenue does not make up for all the damage he's heaped on our country. I'd gladly give up the money for the signs in exchange for bringing our soldiers home to their loved ones. I'd gladly give up signs for Woodward in exchange for him protecting our civil liberties. I'd gladly give up the signs for a vote for protecting the health of our children. What kind of human being is Joe Knollenberg that he thinks that signs are more important than children?

How many children will die needlessly that could have been covered by the $845,000 that Joe brought home for signs? Shame on you, Joe.

Fortunately I have health care coverage, so I can afford to say this, Joe, you make me sick.

Woodward Avenue beautification helped by federal grant

December 28, 2007

BILL LAITNER

FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER

Woodward Avenue’s signs and tourist attractions will get a shot in the arm in the new year from a fresh round of federal transportation grants.

News of four grants totaling $845,000 came early this month in a letter from U.S. Rep Joe Knollenberg, R-Bloomfield Township.

The letter was being made public this week, said Debbie Schutt, a consultant for the nonprofit Woodward Avenue Action Association, which will implement the grant spending. The actual grant recipient is the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Knollenberg “was instrumental in getting this money,” said Schutt, who lives in Bloomfield Township one block from Woodward.

The real goal of Shock and Awe in Iraq

I'm reading Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein right now, and it's a very enlightening look at the U.S. involvement and how Milton Friedman's economic theories have played a role across the globe. Iraq was the ultimate testing ground for the theories Friedman espoused. As we now know, the experiment has gone very badly and has been a catastrophe for U.S. foreign policy.

3.3 Million MoveOn Members Target Joe Knollenberg

Joe Knollenberg is one of the most vulnerable members of Congress. We will have a strong, well funded candidate that will finally flip the 9th Congressional District of Michigan to the Democratic column and help turn this country around.

To help, please consider donating at Peters for Congress. There is no coordination of effort between MoveOn and the Peters campaign. However, Joe Knollenberg is one of the races that MoveOn has targeted in the 2008 election cycle.

Joe, Santa could use your help to bring them home for Christmas

I'm getting to spend the holidays with my granddaughter, so I know how special it would be if all of our soldiers serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world could spend the holidays with their spouses and children, the way it was meant to be. We can do it. Our soldiers have done all they can in Iraq. Let's show some real family values and reunite our service men and women with their families. Not one more Christmas in Iraq.

Joe, this is why we need, single-payer, universal health care

(From Crooksandliars.com) Many people have followed the horrifying story of Nataline Sarkisyan. She was denied a liver transplant by health care giant CIGNA because they called it “experimental.”

Play video

CIGNA has ignored this medical decision and calls the transplant “experimental” as justification for denying the treatment. CIGNA’s refusal of Nataline’s liver transplant—overruling the urgent appeals of an array of doctors and nurses—is indicative of the failures of the new healthcare plan sponsored by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Fabian Nunez. That plan, which is actively supported by CIGNA, requires every single Californian to purchase insurance products from companies like CIGNA, but does not address the problem of denial of care evident in this situation.

After a protest led by the California Nurses Association along with family and friends turned the heat up on CIGNA, they finally approved the life saving procedure, but…

In a stunning turn around, insurance giant CIGNA has capitulated to community demands, and protests that the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee helped to generate, and agreed to a critically needed liver transplant for Nataline Sarkisyan, a 17-year-old girl in the intensive care unit at UCLA Medical Center…

…they acted too late and she died.

The California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee today blasted insurance giant CIGNA for failing to approve a liver transplant one week earlier for listen to 17-year-old Nataline Sarkisyan, who tragically died last night just hours after CIGNA relented and agreed to the procedure following a massive national outcry.

An editorial by the Houston Chronical called CIGNA’s decision to deny the teen a liver transplant until it was too late “Heartless.”

As California and the nation debate how to institute universal health insurance coverage for citizens, the Sarkisyan case indicates that more must be done than simply covering everyone with a policy. All too frequently, insurance company bureaucrats are making medical judgments that should be left in the hands of a patient’s physician…

If the staff at the UCLA transplant unit approved Nataline’s procedure, that should have been the end of the discussion. For universal health coverage to be meaningful, such decisions must be taken out of the hands of insurance adjustors and placed with an impartial arbiter whose interest is the welfare of the patient rather than a corporation’s balance sheet.

Will the tragedy that struck Nataline Sarkisyan and her family because health care giant CIGNA initially refused a life saving medical treatment become an important story for the voters in Iowa as they begin the process that will determine which candidate will represent each party in the upcoming Presidential election?

Republican voters may face the same situation as the Sarkisyan’s. The CIGNA’s of the world could care less if a family filled out a GOP loyalty oath or did the Pledge of allegiance to President Bush...

Trent Wisecup - The Gift that keeps giving (Crain's)

I found this little gem in Crain's Detroit Business.

Gifts we hope will keep on giving

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and U.S. Rep. Joe Knollenberg: New press aides. Though hailing from different political parties, these guys share at least one thing in common: Both had press aides flame out in spectacular fashion during 2007. Kilpatrick aide Matt Allen was out after his arrest for domestic violence in November. Knollenberg aide Trent Wisecup had been sending bizarre emails to news media for months before he left the congressman's office. What took so long?

I hope you're happy Joe. How many children will die because of your callousness?

This story makes me literally sick to my stomach, that the Democrats pass legislation extending health care to millions of children and Joe Knollenberg and his Republican colleagues vote the legislation down and then don't have the courage to override the President's veto of this important and life-saving program. What kind of country is this anyway, that leaves children without health care coverage? Pro-life my ass. Joe Knollenberg and the Republicans that voted against this bill are hypocrites of the worst variety.

Democrats Suffer Loss as House Extends SCHIP

by Julie Rovner

Listen Now and read the rest of the story [3 min 33 sec] add to playlist

All Things Considered, December 19, 2007 · The Democratic-led Congress on Wednesday officially waved the white flag of surrender on its top domestic issue: the State Children's Health Insurance Program, or SCHIP. Eleven months and two presidential vetoes after vowing to expand its reach, the House instead passed and sent to President Bush a bill that will essentially continue the program in its current form until 2009.

Naomi Klein - Shock Doctrine

Yesterday I purchased a book every American should read, The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein. I've been struggling to make sense of the Bush Administration's policies, torture, war, privitzation of government functions, etc. I thought surely George W. Bush gets that he has lost the support of most of the country, yet he continues to put forward policies that make him less and less popular with the vast majority of Americans. But yet he pushes forward. Why?

The first 20 pages of Shock Doctrine explain why. Get yourself an early Christmas present and pick up a copy for all your friends. This is a very powerful book, and I'm not even through the first chapter of the book, but I know everyone needs to read this book if you love America, the way America used to be. CLICK HERE to purchase it at Amazon.com.