Urge the Senate to pass the Keep Our Educators Working Act

To Senators DeMint and Graham:

I strongly urge you to add you name as a cosponsor of the Keep Our
Educators Working Act (S. 3206), introduced by Senator Harkin. I hope the
Senate will act immediately on this urgent legislation, which will help
stimulate the economy and keep our nation on the road to recovery through
an Education Jobs Fund.

Hundreds of thousands of educators across the country are already
receiving "pink slips." The situation is critical and growing worse by the
day.

Children get only one shot at an education. It is not their fault they are
in school during a devastating economic crisis.

Layoffs lead to ballooning class sizes, and fewer counselors, nurses,
reading specialists, and other critically needed educators who ensure that
each child gets the individualized attention she deserves. States are
already making dramatic program cuts-to art, music, afterschool programs,
and even shortening the school day and week-that shortchange our students
and jeopardize our ability to compete in the global economy.

When educators lose their jobs, students lose too. Not one fewer student
is coming through our public school doors because of the economic crisis.
Students need teachers and support workers helping them, protecting them,
inspiring them, and educating them every single day.

Furthermore, education improvement and reform won't happen if there are no
teachers in the classroom! We are facing an educational and economic
catastrophe without your help. School budgets already are cut to the bone,
leading to 4-day school weeks, school closures, program cuts and now
massive layoffs.

The Education Jobs Fund in the Keep Our Educators Working Act would extend
the State Fiscal Stabilization Aid from the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act. This has proven to be the most successful part of ARRA -
saving or funding more than 300,000 education jobs. It has worked; it will
work again and quickly, while states are facing dire circumstances.

Please cosponsor and support immediate passage of the Keep Our Educators
Working Act. Our nation's educators, and the students we serve, are
counting on you.

Sincerely,


Jamie Sanderson
843-527-2762

Mick Mulvaney versus the Muppets

Last night during the South Carolina State Senate's budget debate, North Carolina businessman (and SC State Senator) Mick Mulvaney brought an interesting solution to the floor: eliminate ETV's state funding for an entire year. Thankfully, the amendment didn't pass. But if Mick Mulvaney had gotten his way, we wouldn't have just been without Big Bird, Bert and Ernie, Kermit the Frog and Oscar the Grouch: South Carolina would have placed at risk the only news organization that offers full-time coverage of the SC House and Senate. Mick the Grouch Mulvaney, who sponsored a bill calling for transparency in Senate votes before refusing to defend it on the floor, has revealed himself as an opponent of the greatest tool for government transparency at South Carolina's disposal--SC ETV. While paving the way for even more and dirtier backroom deals may play well with Mulvaney's high-dollar contributors and the special interest PACs he depends on for campaign cash in his run against Congressman John Spratt, South Carolina deserves leaders with the courage of their convictions, not the conviction of their checkbooks. It's 2010. We can change things.

Jay Parmley
Executive Director
South Carolina Democratic Party

Senate Passes Budget; Insurance Coverage for Abortion Restored

Late last night the South Carolina Senate passed their version of the state budget, and we have great news: they voted against attempts to remove state health insurance coverage of abortion in cases of rape and incest!

This did not occur without one last effort by anti-choice Senator David Thomas (R-8) to reinstate the House's language, which stripped coverage in those extreme cases. Thanks to YOUR countless emails, phone calls and hand written letters, this amendment was defeated by a vote of 17-24.

Sen. Ray Cleary voted to table this amendment! Send an email right now and THANK him today!

While we celebrate a victory today, it cannot go unnoticed that 17 senators voted to ban insurance coverage for state employees in cases of rape and incest. This is unconscionable and is a reminder that we still have a lot of work to do. We must continue the fight against the attack on women's reproductive healthcare in South Carolina.

Thank you for all that you do! I encourage you to stay engaged and continue to make a difference in South Carolina!

Best,
Sloane Whelan
SC Field Coordinator

PS: Don't forget to thank your senator for standing up for victims of sexual assault! Click here to send an email!

Ray Cleary says he's 'truly concerned' about Georgetown County education

In a letter, Sen. Ray Cleary said he was "truly concerned" about education in Georgetown County.

I am truly concerned with our county’s education. And as tight as our budgets have been this year, it appears next year will only be worse: one billion additional dollars will not be enough to plug the hole in next year’s education budget. We are expected to lose over 600 million dollars that we currently receive in Federal funding (367 million for school districts - 144 million for Disabilities in schools - 164 million for Title One). We will need 600 million more from the state just to return to 2008 levels.

Gee, I wonder why we're going to expect such a downfall next fiscal year. Could it be the huge tax cuts this state has given to the well off? Yes, government spends money... But, you have taxes to bring in revenue and when you decrease taxes or make tax swaps with unproven results, you set up a disastrous result. Enjoy it, people. Somewhere, Republicans have to just own up to their demise. They are the ones in power in this state. If there are teachers in the county who support Republicans, you should be aware that they are the ones you can thank when you lose your job. Give them a thank you when you blind yourself with social issues while looking for a job.

You know, the people who vote these guys in should be responsible as well. They asked for this when they cast their ballot. No need to act surprised.

Why not explain to the people the reason we may lose federal funding, Senator? It would help, you know. Instead, you just provide more scare tactics.

Senator, there has been no misinformation. It's concrete. The schools in your county - as well as the state - are suffering from huge tax cuts, tax swaps and whatever else has been thrown at public education to destroy it. Teachers' jobs were saved with federal stimulus money, but we shouldn't have even needed it. Legislators in this state should have not have engineered the tax system to benefit the wealthy.

You aligned yourself with Gov. Mark Sanford - a person bought off by Howard Rich to destroy public education - and your party chair who is chairman of South Carolinians for Responsible Government, a Rich front group also hell-bent to destroy public education.

To me, that signals no caring or compassion for public education, its teachers or its students.

More on Jim DeMint and his 'American' ways

Or should I say his capitalist ways. He's good for capitalizing on the moment, especially when he traveled through the state with Marco Rubio with the money bucket and all that jazz. Did he stop to hear from and see the pain of the jobless? No. He went to a country club in Pawleys Island and talked with the well off, looking for money.

But, do you really think that even matters? No... His people care more about this kind of money below (career profile):

Retired	$1,103,013
Health Professionals	$822,953
Republican/Conservative	$755,287
Real Estate	$724,426
Lawyers/Law Firms	$717,248
Leadership PACs	$607,783
Securities & Investment	$531,696
Insurance	$493,695
General Contractors	$310,601
Misc Manufacturing & Distributing	$293,348
Misc Finance	$268,467
Lobbyists	$263,244
Electric Utilities	$261,583
Business Services	$242,528
Automotive	$213,382
Oil & Gas	$212,338
Commercial Banks	$194,728
Hospitals/Nursing Homes	$165,451
Air Transport	$151,159
Food & Beverage	$148,283

Who owns who, right... Well, let's look at his monies from the 2010 U.S. Senate race, shall we?

1	Club for Growth	$142,867	$140,150	$2,717
2	Scana Corp	$53,975	$43,975	$10,000
3	AT&T Inc	$35,750	$13,750	$22,000
4	Nelson, Mullins et al	$33,450	$20,950	$12,500
5	Slatecard.com	$26,000	$26,000	$0
6	Koch Industries	$22,000	$12,000	$10,000
7	Blue Cross/Blue Shield	$20,500	$3,000	$17,500
8	Edens & Avant	$19,750	$19,750	$0
9	Cancer Centers of the Carolinas	$18,500	$18,500	$0
10	Good Government for America	$15,000	$0	$15,000
10	UnitedHealth Group	$15,000	$11,000	$4,000
10	US Oncology	$15,000	$0	$15,000
13	Anesthesiology Consultants of	$14,250	$14,250	$0
13	Fluor Corp	$14,250	$6,750	$7,500
15	Verizon Communications	$14,000	$3,000	$11,000
16	Wyche, Burgess et al	$13,300	$13,300	$0
17	BGR Holding	$12,446	$10,300	$2,146
18	Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp	$12,000	$0	$12,000
18	Norfolk Southern	$12,000	$0	$12,000
20	Williams & Jensen	$11,750	$10,750	$1,000

And here's the sector breakdown for the race...

Sector	Total
Agribusiness	$143,944
Communic/Electronics	$266,450
Construction	$167,241
Defense	$26,350
Energy/Nat Resource	$287,722
Finance/Insur/RealEst	$916,152
Health	$400,230
Lawyers & Lobbyists	$451,949
Transportation	$210,482
Misc Business	$446,345
Labor	$8,000
Ideology/Single-Issue	$528,214
Other	$353,311

Jane Dyer at SCDP Convention

South Carolina Democratic Party Convention-Saturday, April 24, 2010 from Jane Dyer on Vimeo.

Why property taxes are a good thing

With the tax swap known as Act 388, I thought I would share some factual information showing how property taxes are a good, "fair" way of getting revenue for a state. Enjoy and share.

Property taxes are fairer than sales taxes. While both the property tax and sales tax are regressive, taking a higher percent of income from middle and lower income households, the property tax is less so.5 Sales taxes are the most regressive tax, since middle and low income households consume a much greater share of their income on taxable items than higher income households do. Moving from a property tax to an increased sales tax is a tax shift from higher income households to middle and lower income households.

Ray Cleary e-mail: 'Between now and next year' is when I will help

From one of the many people who e-mailed Sen. Ray Cleary in support of the Georgetown school funding bill, this was sent to Vice Chair of the SC School Improvement Council E'Lane Carr Rutherford in response:

After reviewing the information and listening to several school board members whom I have called and spoken to, I have been told that they CAN and PLAN to balance the budget without these funds this year . However , per their words, that it would be nice to have these funds available if needed during the year. Unfortunately the school board or administration may not be aware of the disaster which they are facing in next year's budget projections. As I have stated in the paper, OVER a billion dollar shortfall. If we have resources that we can save for the next year, THEN it must be a priority for us to do so. That is why in my news release that I said that I will not override the veto THIS year.

But between now and next year I plan on doing everything possible to get the funds that the district needs to have.

Sincerely Ray

Rutherford responded back:

Senator Cleary: Your vote of NO was a vote of no confidence in our schools, my children and every child in Georgetown County. I cannot put into words how angry I am at this moment. Of course, the school board can and plan to balance the budget - with fewer teachers, larger class sizes, no crossing guards or Resource officers, fewer textbooks, and 58 WALK TO SCHOOL DAYS. It is unfathomable. "Between now and next year" - TODAY was your opportunity and you squandered it!

Extremely disappointed, E'Lane Rutherford

Sen. Cleary, you have let Georgetown County schools down

Well, I guess Georgetown GOP Chair Tom Swatzel gets what he wants when he barks.

Today, Sen. Ray Cleary said he'll vote to sustain Gov. Mark Sanford's veto on the Georgetown school funding option bill Vida Miller, Carl Anderson and Georgetown School District officials worked on to help prevent further furloughs and other cuts in the district.

Sen. Cleary, you have let this county down. It goes back to when this first became an issue - when your chairman barked in the paper (as always, for something) at you. Then, you stated you didn't even know what you signing on to. You asked for forgiveness. I wonder whether he has forgiven you or not, Senator. Care to tell us?

It'll take time for me to forgive. It should be a wake-up call to the entire teaching body here in the county - whether Republican or Democratic or Independent - that the Republican Party here locally and statewide does not care about your job, your livelihood or what you do for the children of public education. They have put you against the wall and will keep you there. The millions and millions cut should be the slap in the face that causes people to think whether voting on social issues over job security is the right thing to do.

Teachers, you are being robbed. I mean, if you like having to live under the knife of anxiety and all that, then keep voting in the GOP in this state because they'll protect you from gays and all that. But forget the job security, forget pay raises, forget your importance. They would rather make the rich feel a lot more comfortable by not hardly paying for any services in the state than you.

Senator, you can say you care about public education all you want, but your voting record is the tell-all. And, with this, you have basically told the public educators in the county you represent that they'll not be allowed the freedom to choose whether or not funds could be used to save jobs.

Yes, that's right. You even said that those who have asked for the money were hoping to not have to use the funds. So, you have taken a choice away and now the schools have to suffer.

Senator Cleary, as a lawmaker, you have had a part in downsizing our public education system in this state. Why have you not urged your fellow senators in allowing Act 388 to be reviewed? You do realize that since its passage in 2006, it has deeply drowned our public schools. Let me share this study with you so that you may have the time to review what is actually happening and cannot say that you don't know what's in front of you.

I'll give you all a snippet of what we should be asking all of our legislators:

This legislation is full of unanswered questions, some of which are very technical and still have the School Boards Association, the County Association and the Municipal Association scratching their collective heads. My questions are more general. So I want to leave you with some questions, and then some suggestions for action. Here are questions to raise with your legislators and others.

· What happens to the property tax relief fund when and if sales tax revenue doesn’t keep pace with the growth of the CPI, population, new construction, and sales that trigger higher increases in assessment?

· What if the cost of education rises faster than CPI plus population?

· If the link is severed between home values and school quality, will taxpayers still care about schools?

· How much of an increased burden are we creating for business, commercial and rental property?

Sen. Cleary, I ask that you do your job and stop parading for the likes of Swatzel and SCRG. These people are hurting - killing - our public education system. You were right in the beginning on this issue. However, you should realize that the absurd tax cutting in this state has led to the problems we now face and, as you remind us, will face in the next fiscal year.

You are flip-flopper in my book, Sen. Cleary. And all it takes is Tom Swatzel to bark with a press release. You do not support public education. Maybe when you start looking at what has caused this state to lose revenue and the tax swap to please Republicans you'll understand.

In the meantime, you can also look at what your dominant party in this state has caused.

Gallivants Ferry Stump Monday, May 3rd! (No Waccamaw Neck Dem meeting)

County Democrats, if you missed mingling with our statewide Democratic candidates at our state Democratic convention last weekend, Monday, May 3 is your next opportunity!

Below is a little history behind the Gallivants Ferry Stump. It's rich in tradition and only we SC Democrats can claim it!

"The Galivants Ferry Stump, which has been held biennially for more than 134 years, is considered the oldest and largest “stump speaking” in the nation. Galivants Ferry itself became hallowed grounds for Horry County Democrats when General Wade Hampton arrived there on horseback in late September to initiate his history-making gubernatorial campaign of 1876. This marked the beginning of Democratic dominance in South Carolina politics for the next hundred years.

The 2010 Stump will be held at Pee Dee Farms, the community’s century-old general store. Galivants Ferry, which is on the National Registry of Historic Districts, is located on Highway 501 where it crosses the Little Pee Dee River. The Stump will follow the traditional festival format of bluegrass music and clogging starting at 4:30 p.m. The actual 'speaking' will begin at 6:00 p.m. featuring all local, state and national Democratic candidates."

Darryel Carr, our county party's alternate Executive Committeeman has offered a bus from his company to those of us who'd like to go to this traditional event.

Here's the schedule for Monday-

Pawleys Island -Food Lion Board 3:15 Leave 3:30

Georgetown-Food Lion Board 3:45 Leave 4:00

75 minute trip Speeches are at 6PM

For more information, call Nancy Kolman at 235 2075 or 240 3396 or write her at:

nkolman@sc.rr.com

Thanks,

Susan Smith - Georgetown County Dems Executive Committee member

Jim DeMint wants your Obama tax cuts

That's right.

In a just-released blast e-mail to supporters, The vile Jim DeMint is wanting you donate to his campaign while calling out Obama for statements he made regarding the way these tea criers have been acting over the many months. Specifically, Obama made a pun at the crowds by saying they ought to thank him - for the tax cuts.

I do. About 99 percent of South Carolina should because they have benefited from at least one Obama tax cut.

Jim, is your corporate money not enough? Your millions from special interests? Must you continue to keep asking these people of your state for money, even when you can't do anything to help the majority?

Industry	Total	Indivs	PACs
Republican/Conservative	$339,567	$330,100	$9,467
Retired	$332,199	$332,199	$0
Lawyers/Law Firms	$306,363	$216,314	$90,049
Real Estate	$252,922	$209,422	$43,500
Health Professionals	$249,429	$176,429	$73,000
Insurance	$222,252	$42,584	$179,668
Securities & Investment	$160,058	$117,058	$43,000
Electric Utilities	$145,150	$75,900	$69,250
Lobbyists	$145,086	$137,940	$7,146
Leadership PACs	$136,977	$0	$136,977
Business Services	$118,137	$94,015	$24,122
Oil & Gas	$117,572	$36,572	$81,000
Misc Finance	$105,594	$86,594	$19,000
General Contractors	$80,158	$62,659	$17,499
Commercial Banks	$71,195	$24,945	$46,250
TV/Movies/Music	$71,000	$6,000	$65,000
Telecom Services & Equipment	$68,000	$11,000	$57,000
Air Transport	$66,000	$2,500	$63,500
Computers/Internet	$62,700	$11,700	$51,000
Misc Manufacturing & Distributing	$58,250	$38,750	$19,500

Thanks, but no thanks to Jim DeMint and his corporate elite.

Ray Cleary omits information in letter to voters

Sen. Ray Cleary:

Last month, I offered an amendment to increase the cigarette tax by ninety cents not fifty cents (national average is 1.37) with the additional monies of 190 million going for National Board for teachers and education.

Let's look at something Cleary didn't share in his letter to voters...

He opposed an amendment for 2009 House Bill 3584 (Cigarette Tax). The amendment passed in the Senate (26 to 17) on March 31, 2010, to direct $5 million dollars to the Medical University of South Carolina Hollings Cancer Center for tobacco-related cancer research and to create the South Carolina Healthcare Trust Fund. [Vote Details and Comments]

I also found a discrepancy with the number Cleary offered in his letter. It appears to be $85 million, not $190 million as stated in regards to his amendment. However, he was the only Republican supporting the measure. It doesn't say whether it would go to public schools, only to help a deficit of the National Board Certification program.

The amendment was offered by Cleary (R) and Sen. Phil P. Leventis (D) on March 31, 2010, to direct $85 million of the remaining annual revenue to the Department of Education to fund the deficit of the National Board Certification program. The amendment failed in the Senate (18 to 26) on March 31, 2010. [History, Amendments & Comments]

Source: South Carolina Votes

Horry County Dems hold 'Bumper Sticker' Day May 1

Saturday, May 1^st

10 am to 3 pm

900 4^th Avenue, Conway- at HCDP Headquarters

for more information call 488-4237 (488-HCDP)

Join us at the Horry County Democratic Party Office to add some Democratic vigor to your car, motorcycle, bike, stroller or other vehicle! We will have an assortment of stickers from the candidate campaigns and others that will help you share your Democratic spirit with others. We’ll clean your bumper and beautify it with the sticker(s) of your choice! This will be the kickoff date for the Conway Farmers Market and other downtown events are planned.

Volunteers are needed. Call if you have time to help.

Donations to the Horry County Democratic Party are welcome.

A Fitting Memorial to Labor's Dead and Injured

by: Dick Meister, t r u t h o u t | Op-Ed

We're coming up on another Workers Memorial Day on April 28 - a day when organized labor and its allies honor the millions of men and women who've needlessly suffered or died because of workplace hazards and to demand that the government act to lessen the hazards.

It's certain that unless federal authorities do act to expand and adequately enforce the neglected job safety laws, the number of victims will remain at a terrible and unnecessarily high level.

Every year, more than 6,000 Americans are killed on the job. More than 6 million are injured, at least half of them seriously. Another 60,000 die from their injuries or from cancer, lung and heart ailments and other occupational diseases caused by exposure to toxic substances.

Think of that: An average of at least 16 workers killed and nearly 5,500 badly hurt on each and every day, plus 135 or more dying daily from job-related illness. The financial toll also is high: More than $3 billion in health care expenses and other costs to employers and workers, such as lost wages and production.

Trying to reduce workplace dangers, always a difficult task, became even more difficult when the Bush administration took office in 2000 and began eight years of what the United Auto Workers accurately cited as "a harsh, vindictive attack on health and safety standards."

Under President Bush, important new health and safety regulations proposed by experts were brushed aside by the Labor Department. Job-site inspections were all but abandoned and employers were asked merely to certify that they had voluntarily complied with the existing regulations. Fines for violations were rare, in any case, as were criminal charges against employers whose willful violations led to injury, illness or death.

There was, in short, very little enforcement of the job safety laws, and absolutely no progress in reducing workplace dangers or the ever-mounting number of work-related injuries and fatalities.

But under President Obama, there's genuine hope for change. As Obama's Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis made clear at her swearing-in: "There's a new sheriff in town."

Solis has shifted from reliance on voluntary compliance to stricter enforcement, hiring hundreds of new investigators and enforcers for the Labor Department's Occupational Safety and Health and Mine Safety Administrations. Most of them are longtime advocates for working people, some of them from organized labor. They're holding jobs held during the Bush years by employer advocates whose main concern was shielding employers from the costs of making work safer.

Solis's team has moved to enforce new rules to better protect some of the most endangered workers, including mine workers and crane operators. She's also stressing the need to help the millions who suffer chronic pain in the neck, back, shoulders, arms or wrists and other suffering resulting from the endlessly repetitive movements and often heavy lifting required in many jobs today.

Those so-called ergonomic injuries are the most common - and most neglected - of the serious injuries suffered by US workers.

Solis has put a task force to work designing a much tougher enforcement program for serious or repeat offenders, who will face mandatory job-site inspections. What's more, she and Obama have named one of the country's most distinguished safety experts, David Michaels of Georgetown University, to head the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Michaels' main goal is to get employers and workers and their unions to jointly develop programs that would include safety training for workers as part of an effort to meet what Michaels and other safety experts see as a great need to change OSHA's direction and philosophy.

Michaels and Solis have gotten important help from Congressional Democrats who introduced legislation to strengthen the safety laws, in part by increasing penalties imposed on violators. Penalties now are so minimal that many employers simply ignore the law and consider the fines, if any, a routine cost of doing business.

The measures also call for more strongly protecting workers who report safety violations by their employers, extending the laws' coverage to farmworkers, local and state government employees and other groups not currently covered, and otherwise strengthening workers' job safety rights.

It's certain, at any rate, that labor, Obama, Solis and their supporters will indeed wage the major battle for true job safety that they've promised and have, in fact, already started. There could be no more fitting a memorial to the millions who've been needlessly maimed or killed while working to sustain themselves and their families.

Truthout / CC BY-NC 3.0

Another way to track SC legislators: South Carolina Votes

The South Carolina Policy Council, a group I disagree with more than I agree, has a very intensive site dedicated to tracking our state legislators - South Carolina Votes. I am impressed. I have always been for government transparency and this just increases the bar. I hope more is done to provide an open government to our people in the state.

Below is the information on the site:

South Carolina Votes gives users instant access to concise, plain language and objective descriptions of every single bill, amendment, and vote that takes place in the South Carolina legislature. Unlike any other bill tracking utility, South Carolina Votes, is unique because all legislative actions are described - not just those selected by a particular interest group. It is searchable by legislator, keyword, and 50 subject categories, so users can create their own custom "voting record guide."

South Carolina Votes has all these features:

• * Concise, plain-language, objective and accurate descriptions of every bill, amendment, roll call vote and voice vote.
• Ability to track all the votes of a particular legislator, or search by bill number, category or keyword.
• Ability to view all the bills and amendments introduced by a particular legislator.
• Ability to post a public comment, view others' comments, and participate in citizen surveys on each bill.
• Automatically e-mail legislators or others about a bill.
• Ability to follow action in any one or more of 50 different categories of legislation (such as Education or Land Use or Taxes).
• Ability to sign up for e-mail notifications of action on any bill or subject area of interest, including new bill introductions.

South Carolina Votes also provides citizens with an on-line forum where they can exchange views with others about specific bills or other South Carolina public policy or political issues. A “point of view neutral” blog invites users to post comments on topical issues of the day. Specialized wikis concentrate the dispersed knowledge of many users to create even greater transparency regarding individual legislators, South Carolina judges, local units of government and school districts. Finally, a blog aggregator displays the latest posts from South Carolina’s leading political and public policy blogs, right, left and center.

South Carolina Votes is a free public service of the South Carolina Policy Council, an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit research and educational institution. Its purpose is to inform citizens, community leaders, business people, media, and public officials about legislation that affects their families, schools, jobs and communities. The site empowers citizens to take a more active part in the democratic process, and hold their elected representatives accountable.

Ray Cleary issues statement regarding Georgetown school district issue

Recently I have received numerous e-mails asking me to vote for or against this Georgetown School Spending Bill. This is not unusual. However, misrepresentations concerning my past support for public education crosses the line in fairness.

So, first let me set the record straight, I have never voted to reduce appropriations to public education. Last year, I supported the stimulus monies for education for it made no sense to divert monies which the Federal Government had already printed and which South Carolina taxpayers were going to pay back, to keep any other state’s teachers employed.

Last month, I offered an amendment to increase the cigarette tax by ninety cents not fifty cents (national average is 1.37) with the additional monies of 190 million going for National Board for teachers and education.

Today, I, along with other senators, will be offering a budget amendment which if passed will give Georgetown County schools more than two (2) million more by diverting for now - unspent funds in the college endowed chairs program.

Do I believe South Carolina’s education system does poorly only because of lack of money - NO - With only forty cents out of every dollar going to classrooms and teachers’ salaries, it could be better.

The Department of Education in Columbia has to be run more efficiently. However, now, we need to find a way to fund schools. And, ask Dr. Elsberry, with Horry schools, who was recently quoted in the Sun News that “our legislators, Senator Cleary, etc., have always met and worked with us.”

Now, to comment on the recent handling of this bill. First, I want to emphasize that Representative Miller responded well and as a former school board member has been active in assisting the needs of our school system. But, the school board dropped the ball.

They informed Representative Miller that this was a school board request using left over funds (capital or bonded monies were never mentioned).

As I write this today, neither any member of the school board or the administration has bothered to set up a meeting, phone call, etc. with either Senator Yancey McGill or me about the need to use “Bonded Monies”.

They just sent a resolution voted on only after four (4) members out of nine (9) told us what the Board wanted. Very disappointing.

But, now we must get down to the question of “Overriding the Governor’s Veto”. In two phone calls, and was stated in the newspaper, the board is hoping not to need these funds. My concern is next year when we will face over a one billion dollar additional shortfall in education.

We should be preparing for this crisis. Also, the philosophical question of using “Capital Funds” for operations, a possible constitutional issue to some, but at a minimum of a renege of a promise.

So, in trying to reach a decision and as an advocate of Home Rule (also applies to school boards), the decision has been difficult for me.

Sen. Cleary will be making his decision Thursday on whether to sustain or override Gov. Sanford's veto.

Midlands Dems Stumpin' at the Shoals May 2

The Democrats in the Midlands are sponsoring, "Stumpin' at the Shoals" Sunday, May 2, from 5 to 7 pm at Saluda Shoals Park, 5605 Bush River Rd.

This is a FREE hamburger and hot dog cookout with politics on the side.

Local and statewide Democratic candidates and elected officials will be on hand along with our State Chair and both county party chairs from Richland and Lexington counties.

We want to have plenty of food so reservations are required. Even entrance to the park is free if you tell them at the gate that you are with the Democrats at Paw Paw Shelter.

Sponsored by the Richland Democratic Women and the Greater Irmo Democratic Club.

RSVP to: marilynsummers@aol.com or (803) 788-1528

Every Child Matters provides two offers for free bumper stickers

With the economy still shaky and an important election just a few months away, the friends of children need to let all candidates know that investments in health and social policy are more important than ever. Children didn't cause our economic woes and they shouldn't suffer because of them. ECM is beginning its 2010 non-partisan campaign to spotlight children's issues during the election. We will be working with child advocates in all states to make kids a priority. One way to build our influence with candidates is to show that there are a lot of us watching them. That's why ECM is creating a nationwide electronic advocacy network that lets us all communicate quickly and efficiently. Here are two early and easy ways you can help build a nationwide movement and help kids in your state.

Offer One - Free Bumper Sticker Click this link to include your friends in communications from Every Child Matters. Just enter their name and email address and we'll send them an an email introducing them to our work on behalf of children and the option to become part of our campaign to make kids a priority. As always, they can opt out of receiving email at any time. We will send you a free 'I'm Voting for Kids' or 'I'm Voting for Grandkids' bumper sticker for each of your friends. And we'll send you one, too, for taking the time to help us expand our network.

Offer Two - Materials for Your Special Event If you are holding a conference, convention or meeting and would like free bumper stickers to give to your participants, please send an email to info@everychildmatters.org to request them. All we ask in exchange is that you collect business cards from those who receive a bumper sticker and return them to our national office. We'll even provide you with an envelope.

We can't say it often enough - thank you for all you do to help make sure that Every Child Matters.

Homeland Insecurity ...Why new investments in children and youth must be a priority for the Obama Administration and the 111th Congress

Thank you for your help in making children a political priority.

Republican Tim Scott takes your freedom today

First Congressional candidate Tim Scott, a Republican, was the deciding vote that allowed passage in the S.C. House to legalize warrantless searches. Other GOP candidates (who are in the statehouse) voted no.

Hey, tea criers... Tim is taking your freedom, your privacy? When's the next rally?

Whatcha gonna do when the Scottster runs wild on your liberty?

So, I guess it's OK to do one thing, not another in regards to school funding

Interesting...

The fight to save public education in this state - and its schools, teachers, etc. - is less important than funding charter schools in the state?

I find it amusing that people speak out against the local situation with Georgetown School District's attempt to use already secured funds in one area for operational costs, but the state lawmakers feel it's OK to want loans (grants) - federal and state - for charter schools.

Thanks to Gina Smith at The State for exposing this:

In a bipartisan show of support, House lawmakers voted Tuesday to revise the 1996 charter school laws.

The bill, which requires one more House vote before moving to the Senate, creates a revolving loan program of federal and state grants to help build charter school facilities, allows charter schools' enrollment to be "boys only" or "girls only," increases charter school students' access to sports and other extracurricular activities at nearby public schools and alters the state's charter school board.

The bill does not alter funding for charter schools which are public schools, free of many state regulations to help encourage innovation.

South Carolina currently has about 11,000 charter school students.

So, while the state public schools deal with MASSIVE budget cuts and teacher losses, we'll have to be borrowing for charter schools.

Charter school students can use public schools for their extracurricular activities, even when public schools are having to forgo such?

The fight to destroy true public education in this state is on. Are you paying attention now?

Maybe the Dems at the statehouse could define the word "bipartisan" as kissing the GOP's ass on this, you think?

SC New Democrats, Charleston Dems partner for May 12 Governor debate

We've got exciting news. On May 12, less than a month before June's gubernatorial primary, the Charleston County Democratic Party, in partnership with South Carolina New Democrats, will host a debate with all three Democratic candidates for governor, and YOU are invited.

For the first time since Barack Obama's election, South Carolina Democrats have the chance to elect statewide candidates who are poised to bring real change to our state.

So on May 12, I hope you will join us.

2010 Charleston County Democratic Party, SC New Democrats Governor's Debate
WHO: Robert Ford, Jim Rex, Vincent Sheheen
WHEN: May 12, 2010 7:00PM
WHERE: Physicians Memorial Auditorium on the campus of the College of Charleston

Reception to follow at the nearby Stern Student Center.

Sponsorship Levels
Event Sponsor $5,000 (debate tickets included)
Hosts $1,000 (10 tickets included)
Friends $500 (5 tickets included)
Supporters $250 (3 tickets included)
Individual tickets $50

All sponsorship levels will be listed in event program.

Interested in sponsorship? Click here to sign up to become a sponsor.

A limited number of free tickets will be made available before the debate. To be among the first to know when tickets are available, sign up here.

We're looking forward to a great debate between some great candidates.

Thanks for everything you do for Democrats,

Phil Noble
President, South Carolina New Democrats

George Tempel
Chairman, Charleston County Democratic Party

Ashley Cooper on WLTX

I want to give you a quick update on the campaign and share a link to an interview that aired last night on WLTX in Columbia.

I have been traveling the state, making new friends, and gaining support everywhere I go.

There's a recurring theme in the conversations I've been having with our fellow South Carolinians: a longing for new ideas and new leadership in Columbia.

With your help, we can make that goal a reality.

Click the video link above to watch the interview from WLTX, and if you like it, please share it with your friends.

Thank you for your continued support.

Georgetown County isn't the only one trying to help hurting public schools

The Georgetown County School District isn't the only school district in the state wanting to use money already secured in construction funds
to cover operating costs.

Neighboring Charleston County has asked for an identical resolution and it gained key approval in the S.C. House Tuesday. Governor Mark Sanford has said he we would veto this bill, along with Georgetown and York counties requests. York County's delegation has already overridden Sanford's veto.

These school districts are being hit hard by repeated state budget cuts to public education due to lack of state revenue. Both lawmakers and school district officials are trying to find any and all ways to prevent further loss of teachers or furloughs.

The legislation needs perfunctory final approval in the House, then must pass the Senate. Because it applies only to Charleston County schools, only legislators from Charleston County will cast votes.

Georgetown's delegation can override Sanford's veto as well. Senator Ray Cleary is key to that override.

Here's the full story: Bill would aid strapped schools

Frank Chaloupka study says 'significant cigarette tax increase' would help bring in revenue

Here's the Executive Summary of the 18-page SC Chaloupka Report:

A SIGNIFICANT CIGARETTE TAX INCREASE IN SOUTH CAROLINA WOULD PRODUCE A LARGE, SUSTAINED INCREASE IN STATE TOBACCO TAX REVENUES

On the whole, state cigarette and other tobacco tax revenues are among the most predictable, steady, and reliable revenues that states receive. While these revenues do decline gradually over time as smoking and other tobacco use declines, the reductions in revenue are modest, predictable and more than offset by the related reductions in public and private sector health care and other economic costs caused by smoking.

In general, state cigarette and other tobacco tax revenues increase sharply following a significant increase to a state’s cigarette and other tobacco product tax rates (despite the smoking declines prompted by the tax increase and any related increases in smuggling or tax evasion), and then tend to decline annually by one to three percent in subsequent years as cigarette smoking and other tobacco use continues to go down in response to other factors (e.g. increased information on the health consequences of tobacco use and stronger public policies targeting tobacco use).

As shown in the figure below, South Carolina’s experiences are slightly different, with tax revenues rising slowly following small tax increases in 1969 and 1977, given that few tobacco control measures were implemented in the state and population was growing. More recent experiences are consistent with those of other states with revenues generally declining slowly over the past two decades. When tax rates have increased in South Carolina, as in other states, there have been sharp and sustained revenue increases. Most recently, South Carolina, like other states, has experienced larger than normal declines in smoking, pack sales, and cigarette tax revenues because of the large federal cigarette tax increase in early 2009. This same basic pattern, with large amounts of new state revenues in every future year, would occur again if South Carolina increased its cigarette tax rate significantly in 2010.

Small rate increases or a rate increase that is split into smaller multi-stage increases would reduce the public health benefits and cost savings, and South Carolina would not collect as much revenue as from a one-time, larger rate increase. For instance, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids projects that a 50-cent increase will prevent 23,300 youth from becoming adult smokers, encourage 12,800 adults to quit, prevent 10,700 smoking-caused deaths, and save $529.4 million in long-term health care costs. However, because a small increase is more easily offset by tobacco company price cuts and price-reducing promotions, it would not generate as many public health benefits or cost savings.

To maintain, or even increase, their cigarette tax revenues over time, states can take a number of additional actions, besides just periodically increasing their cigarette tax rates. For example, states can make sure their tax rates on other tobacco products are roughly equal to the state tax on cigarettes (so the state does not lose money when a continuing smoker switches from cigarettes to lower-taxed roll-your-own cigarettes or small cigars). States can also minimize tobacco product smuggling and other tax evasion through such measures as implementing high-tech tax stamps, making sure smokers understand the state’s laws pertaining to tobacco tax evasion, increasing penalties for smuggling and other tax evasion, and directing a portion of all penalties to help fund expanded enforcement.

Focus on Kids raise awareness, tell truth to GOP-led state

Here's Focus on Kids, others telling the truth to deaf people, um, the Republican-dominated state house:

A coalition of kids' advocacy groups is asking lawmakers to consider raising taxes, repealing sales tax exemptions and repealing a statewide property tax law in order to fund programs that provide health care and other assistance to children.

Focus on Kids, a coalition of 60 S.C. groups including the Appleseed Legal Justice Center and S.C. Fair Share, said lawmakers have already cut the budget too much, and that lawmakers need to consider raising new revenues to balance a $600 million budget hole this year and an expected budget hole of more than $1 billion next year. Lawmakers have already cut the effectiveness of most programs, said Sue Berkowitz, and must start thinking about the children who depend on Medicaid and other state assistance.

Read more: http://thestatecom.typepad.com/ygatoday/2010/04/child-advocates-propose-tax-hikes-for-health-education.html#ixzz0mL4RQCCO

Here's Focus on Kids 46-page report, The Children's Budget, showing the "Devastating Budget Cuts and Their Impact on the Lives of South Carolina’s Children."

Republican wet dream – Drunk and Armed

Seriously...

Thanks to Faiz Shakir and ThinkProgress.org for reporting on this:

Earlier this month, Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell (R) signed legislation allowing “concealed carry permit holders to bring loaded handguns” into establishments that serve alcohol. The law allows permit holders to carry guns in restaurants, “as long as the holders do not consume alcohol.” A leading Virginia gun lobby is now arguing that the law unfairly stigmatizes gun carriers as second-class citizens because there is an exception that “allows law-enforcement officers and commonwealth’s attorneys to carry concealed weapons and consume alcohol.” Philip Van Cleave, leader of the Virginia Citizens Defense League, complained, “We’re not allowed to drink, but they (law enforcement officials) can. … That’s two classes of citizens.” But Van Cleave has a solution:

Van Cleave said one proposed bill would allow no one but an on-duty officer doing undercover work to drink alcohol while carrying a concealed weapon. The other bill will say that anyone can carry a concealed gun and drink if they wish, “as long as they are not drunk.”

“Whatever the General Assembly assumes will apply to everyone,” he said. “Police officers and permit holders are all in the same tent; so I say: General Assembly, you choose. But whatever it is, we’re equal.”

In a letter to McDonnell on behalf of the state’s police chiefs, Virginia Beach Police Chief Jake Jacocks, Jr. opposed the new law, arguing: “We can fully expect that at some point in the future a disagreement that today would likely end up in a verbal confrontation, or a bar fight, will inevitably end up with gunfire if you sign this legislation into law.” The chances of that happening would only increase if the Virginia gun lobby has its way.

Conference Committee Meeting on H.3245 canceled today

Today's Conference Committee meeting to discuss H. 3245- the Ultrasound Two Trip Requirement Bill was canceled.

While the S.C. Senate and House work to rescheduled this meeting, the members of the Conference Committee need to hear from you.

The bill passed by the Senate last month contains compromise language that finds common ground on this issue. It is important that this language doesn't change.

Click here to email the 6-member panel and tell them to support the Senate bill language on H. 3245.

Today's NY Times on Gun Show Loophole

"Before any more tragedies happen, lawmakers need to stop listening to the gun lobby and start listening to their constituents."

That's what The New York Times wrote this morning in a hard-hitting editorial supporting our effort to Close the Gun Show Loophole.

This is the latest sign that our campaign is building momentum. Mayors Against Illegal Guns launched TV ads targeting Senators in 6 keys states, 186 Pennsylvania Mayors joined together and created their own TV ad, and more than a dozen grassroots organizations across the country have joined in our fight.

But it's the support of people like you that will make the difference -- and right now we need your help. More than 45,000 people all across the country have joined you in calling on Congress to close the Gun Show Loophole. Can you help us reach 50,000 names?

Read today's New York Times editorial and ask your friends and family to sign the petition to Close the Gun Show Loophole.



After years of inaction in Washington, people from all across the country are coming together to push for common sense gun laws, and we're closer than ever to reaching our goal.

Today's editorial is right: Now is the time for our elected officials to act. But to get the votes we need, it's going to take more people, more energy, and more voices raised together.

Check out the Times editorial and help us reach 50,000 signatures to Close the Gun Show Loophole:

http://www.closetheloophole.org/tellafriend

Thanks for all you're doing,
Mayors Against Illegal Guns

Latest News on S.C. Cigarette Tax

Recap of last week’s action. Last Wednesday, the House amended and returned to the Senate the 50-cents cigarette tax. Only a handful of amendments were offered, including the anticipated effort to lower the amount to 30 cents which was defeated. Thanks to all the calls and emails from our LEAd Grassroots Network. After 3 hours of debate, the bill passed the House by a vote of 61-49. Thanks to all of you who called your Representative - YOU helped make this legislative step a success!

The only change made from what the Senate passed is the elimination of funding for the I-95 corridor. The other provisions remain the same: 50-cent increase, $5M each for smoking cessation and prevention efforts and cancer research, remaining revenues for the Medicaid Trust Fund; $1M for agriculture from the existing Tobacco Settlement Fund.

Where we are now. The Senate now must either concur with the House amended version or a conference committee will be appointed to work out the differences. Due to budget deliberations in the Senate this week, we expect the bill to be taken up next week.

Vote analysis & follow up thank-you. Please review the 61-49 vote analysis. It’s important that we all take a minute to thank those 61 House members who voted with us. We’ll need their support to override the Governor’s veto in the coming weeks so let’s be sure to keep the lines of communication open. Click the name of your legislator below to send them a note of appreciation.

Future forecast. Our next legislative e-alert will likely focus on urging the Senate to concur (agree) with the House version of the bill. By doing so, a conference committee will not be needed and the bill will go to Governor Sanford, who has made it known that he will veto the bill. If this happens, we'll be focusing our grassroots efforts on the veto override. Stay tuned!

New study released confirming sustained revenue. A new study released last week confirms that the 50-cent cigarette tax increase will produce a large, sustained revenue increase in South Carolina. The study was developed by Dr. Frank Chaloupka, tobacco policy expert at the University of Illinois at Chicago, in conjunction with the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids and the South Carolina Tobacco Collaborative.

According to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, a 50-cent cigarette tax increase would prevent 23,300 South Carolina kids from becoming smokers and prompt 12,800 adult smokers to quit. At the same time, the state would generate approximately $123.4 million in new annual revenue while realizing $529.4 million in long-term health care savings.

Source: SCHA

Henry Brown makes fiscal year 2011 'earmark' request for Georgetown port

Are my eyes deceiving me...

No. Henry Brown has actually made a request in the fiscal year 2011 for - wait for it - funding to dredge the Georgetown port. Not the $9 million suggested, however.

Georgetown Harbor, SC
Amount: $8,000,000
Intended Recipient: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District,
69A Hagood Ave
Charleston, SC 29403

Explanation of the Request: This project will fund emergency dredging and associated material placement work in Georgetown Harbor. The Port of Georgetown supports a large share of the jobs in Georgetown County. Failure to maintain the harbor’s authorized depth has—in part—caused these manufactures to curtail operations at these facilities and lay off their employees.

State and local officials have tried to proactively address this problem, securing commitments from four companies to ship their products through the Port of Georgetown, provided the Port is maintained at its authorized depth. These businesses will mean 128 new jobs—in an area with 15.3 percent unemployment—and ship 4.4 million tons of cargo through the port.

But, Brown still makes it rain on the Charleston port...

Charleston Harbor, SC – O&M
Amount: $10,240,000
Intended Recipient: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District,
69A Hagood Ave
Charleston, SC 29403

Explanation of the Request: This project will fund the annual maintenance dredging of Charleston Harbor. Charleston Harbor is one of the busiest container ports in the U.S., supporting over 700 companies in South Carolina alone, which, in turn, pay $11.8 billion in wages to 260,800 South Carolinians. Not maintaining the channel will result in vessel light loading, ships entering the port only at high tide or bypassing Charleston in favor of other ports, all of which have the capability to reduce the economic impact of the port.

Charleston Harbor, SC – Investigations
Amount: $2,500,000
Intended Recipient: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District,
69A Hagood Ave
Charleston, SC 29403

Explanation of the Request: This request will continue the study phase of deepening Charleston Harbor. The Port of Charleston, serves as one of the most important economic drivers for our state. Today, the Port is responsible for $44.8 billion in total economic output and over 260,000 jobs across our state.

A key component in the Port of Charleston’s continued success is its harbor depth. However, its current depth of 45 feet is only able to accommodate deep draft ships under the most optimal conditions. Without an increase to the harbor’s depth, the deep draft ships that will dominate world trade in a few short years will be forced to wait for optimal tides, be light loaded, or simply choose to call on other ports. Should any or all of these happen, the effectiveness of the port and the opportunities for South Carolina companies will be degraded.

But, I knew there was a catch...

Understanding that our country faces a fiscal crisis; I have requested that other portions of the Federal Budget be decreased by at least the amount that I have requested for these projects.

And while my requests do not guarantee funding for these projects, it is guaranteed that these projects will not be funded without Congressional action.

Here, while we are at it, let's look at all of Brown's earmarks, um, for fiscal year 2009.

More on my support for the Arizona Immigration Law

So, tell me when it's okay to deal with illegal immigration in this country? First, people need to realize it's a big problem. Second, they need to realize it's not just one group - it's people of all ethnicity. Coming into this country illegally can be of all colors, not just one.

Illegal immigrants are foreign-born people who are in this country without the proper authorization. They don’t have a valid visa or other necessary documentation to be here legally. Some of the other terms used to refer to illegal immigrants include: “undocumented immigrants,” “undocumented migrants,” “undocumented aliens,” and “illegal aliens.”

In addition to the term “illegal immigrant,” another term frequently used is “noncitizen.” A noncitizen is not necessarily an illegal immigrant. A noncitizen is anyone residing in this country who is not a citizen of the United States. The term noncitizen refers to various foreign-born people who are in this country temporarily or permanently, legally or illegally.

Typically, illegal immigrants are in the country because they have entered the country in an unauthorized manner, they have overstayed their nonimmigrant visas, or they have otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted to the country.

Let me share this report compiled by The Office of Strategic Planning & Results Management -- Minnesota Department of Administration. This might explain a trend that is comparable to other states.

You know, since my first post on why I support the new immigration law in Arizona, a few people got what I was actually trying to say. So, for those who didn't the first time...

Illegal immigration is a huge problem in this country. For years and years now we've heard something would be done to solve the problem. Nonsense. Republicans are the ones who benefit the most from such people. A large percentage of Republicans have big-business roots. It is the Republicans who have sold off this country to cheaper labor for bigger profits. Why do you think a reiteration of current laws was injected into the bill? The laws should already be enforced 100 percent, not mentioned over and over again.

The illegal immigrants are drawn in with the carrot-on-a-stick philosophy. The employers know that the wage they give them is a lot more than what they make in the country they come from, but also know it's a lot less than what they'd pay am American to do the same job. I do not blame the people. They want better for their families. They are caught in the middle. But, the law itself will force the hand of employers who give them jobs.

The Arizona law is extreme, I know, but something has to be done. I consider it the first shot. Now, as progressives, what are we going to do? Fight amongst ourselves because we differ on how to handle the problem or stand united and attack the people that will still benefit: the employers. I have yet to hear or see a mass of progressives call for the businesses that employ illegal immigrants to be shut down. No, I just see groups being started to stand against racism. This is not racism. This is a real issue that has to be dealt with and you can blame politicians on both sides of the aisle for starting the mess.

A friend said that it might kill off the businesses by plucking the illegal immigrants out with the law, then have law enforcement track down where they were employed and hold them accountable.

I say that our laws we have now should have been enforced to the hilt long before this Arizona law came to life.

I support the law as intended. The law enforcement should be held accountable for doing it by the book. The employers of illegal immigrants should be shut down.

Until true reform is formulated - where the politicians go against big business and their political donations - we'll always be the puppets in this fight - while big business and politicians share power over us.

Or, we just open up all our borders and allow all kinds of people here unchecked and undocumented. To hell with laws.

Big business has had its hand in everything from health care reform, union organizing and immigration reform. What do you think they want? Not the best for us - the people of this country.

They want the best for themselves.

MegaVote for SC's 1st Congressional District - 4/26/10

In this MegaVote for South Carolina's 1st Congressional District: Recent Congressional Votes Senate: Lael Brainard to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury House: Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act Upcoming Congressional Bills Senate: Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 House: Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2009 House: IMPROVE Acquisition Act of 2010

Recent Senate Votes

Lael Brainard to be an Under Secretary of the Treasury - Vote Confirmed (78-19, 3 Not Voting) The Senate confirmed Lael Brainard as the Treasury Department’s under secretary for international affairs. Her nomination had been held up over concerns that she allegedly failed to pay property taxes on time. Sen. Lindsey Graham voted YES......send e-mail or see bio Sen. Jim DeMint voted NO......send e-mail or see bio

Recent House Votes

Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act - Vote Passed (403-11, 3 Present, 13 Not Voting) The House voted to move forward with a bill to sanction Iran by approving this motion to appoint House members to a conference committee with the Senate. The House version of this bill focuses on imposing sanctions on multinational companies that deal with Iran's petroleum sector, while the Senate's broader version would prohibit the U.S. government from purchasing goods from companies that are subject to sanctions under existing law and expand sanctions on foreign companies investing more than $20 million in Iran’s oil and gas sector. Rep. Henry Brown Jr. voted YES......send e-mail or see bio

Upcoming Votes

Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010 - S.3217 The Senate is scheduled to work on this legislation to overhaul financial regulations. Puerto Rico Democracy Act of 2009 - H.R.2499 The House is scheduled to vote on this bill that would allow Puerto Rico to put its political status to a referendum. IMPROVE Acquisition Act of 2010 - H.R.5013 The House is expected to consider this measure that would overhaul defense acquisition procedures.

Time slips away with no action on Georgetown Port

It was a year ago this month that Chairman Gillespie G. Boyd of the Commissioners of Pilotage and Rep. Vida Miller, chair of the Georgetown Legislative Delegation, drafted a letter to all elected S.C. lawmakers in Washington urging them to secure funds from the Stimulus Package for the Georgetown Port - deemed a project that is "authorized, permitted and shovel ready" by the two authors of the letter.

Here's a full copy of the letter:



As recently as February of this year, a report came out which showed the port as key to economic growth.

The port currently has clients waiting that could add 3 million tons of cargo a year to the port, drawing 250 jobs and $27 million in economic impact through wages, suppliers, and area businesses, according to a report from research economist Don Schunk with Coastal Carolina University.

Schunk presented the economic analysis during Friday's forum before about 75 business and community leaders.

"If we are able to secure some one-time funds to do what we need to do to the port, we will have recurring benefits," he said. "It is not just the port that benefits; it is the entire economy. It is spread throughout every sector."

The biggest industries expected to benefit are transportation, communications and public utilities, which would get an additional 143 jobs if the port is revitalized. Others that would gain include the service industry with 50 jobs and another 26 jobs could come from finance, insurance and real estate, according to the report.

"We have the power to do things now to bring the Georgetown County unemployment rate down," Schunk said.

So, tell me what else is needed to convince those in Washington who represent S.C. - majority Republican - that action needs to be taken NOW!

In March, the same report was given a new look. The story said the Georgetown Port not being dredged was forcing cargo to the Charleston Port.

The director at the port of Georgetown said the dredging situation there is now bad enough that the port turns away cargo and diverts it to Charleston.

Such actions could continue to prove costly for the local area unless federal lawmakers allocate about $8 million to remove the silt at the bottom of the port’s waterway and restore its depth to 27 feet, according to a recent study.

Every 500,000 tons of cargo that passes annually through the port of Georgetown brings in about 42 new jobs for the area, $1.3 million in new local household income and $4.4 million in local economic output, according to a study by research economist Don Schunk from Coastal Carolina University.

The newly released study was commissioned by the Georgetown County Alliance for Economic Development to show the economic impact of the port of Georgetown.

David Plouffe shares 'comprehensive' plan for 2010

There are only 190 days until the 2010 election.

Many of you have been at work long before now. You've held strategy sessions all across the country to discuss how to most effectively help candidates in your community who are fighting to bring about change.

At OFA headquarters, we've been poring over your ideas, your input, and the best data we can get our hands on to determine the most helpful role we can play.

Together, based on that feedback, we've crafted a comprehensive electoral plan that can make a big difference in the upcoming elections.

President Obama recorded a video message to share our goals for 2010 with you -- and to remind us what's at stake. Watch it now.

We've accomplished a lot together. But we're in for a tough fight this fall.

Historical trends aren't in our favor -- the president's party generally loses seats in the first midterm election. And even though President Obama has taken bold steps like the Recovery Act to put us back on the path to prosperity, escaping from a financial crisis like this one takes time.

The prognosticators and pundits are predicting steep losses for the Democrats. The Republicans are already measuring the drapes for their new offices, saying that anything short of an electoral landslide that gives them back control of Congress won't be a victory.

But these are the same folks who said Barack Obama could never become president, the same ones who said we were trying to do too much, too fast -- and that we'd never pass historic health reform. They were wrong then, and they're wrong now.

I believe we can avoid the nightmare electoral scenario that Republicans in Washington have already convinced themselves will happen. But only if we work together.

Two years ago, we challenged a group of young and disaffected voters to participate in the 2008 election. They cast votes for the very first time and helped us elect a new president. You told us that your top priority for 2010 was to help these people head back to the polls -- and we built our plan around that goal.

President Obama has America heading in the right direction. But our opponents want to repeal health reform. They're standing with Wall Street banks to block any efforts to rein in reckless behavior and protect consumers. And they're attacking a foreign policy that has renewed America's standing in the world. They are eager to undo all we've done.

The stakes are high. And that's the level of commitment we need from you. So watch the President introduce our 2010 plan -- and find out how you can get involved in the fight:

http://2010.barackobama.com

It's a pleasure to continue our work together,

David Plouffe

Jay Parmley says Andre Bauer is wrong on 'lazy' comment

Another day, another Republican politician finding his way onto our SCGOPScandal.com website. Lt. Governor Andre Bauer earned his second appearance on our long list of Republican sins Friday night when he told a debate audience that illegal immigration is caused by South Carolinians being "flat-out lazy." From The State, April 24th, 2010: SPARTANBURG - Lazy state residents are contributing to the number of illegal immigrants in South Carolina, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer said during a Republican gubernatorial debate Friday, living off public aid rather than working. "The real problem is the work force," Bauer said, speaking of a state with 12.2 percent unemployment, the sixth-highest jobless rate in the country. "The problem is we have a give-away system that is so strong that people would rather sit home and do nothing than do these jobs. Laziness is not a disability. There are a lot of people that are flat-out lazy and they are using up the goods and services in this state." Show Andre that he's wrong about South Carolinians, and help us keep up the fight against the men like him who wrecked our economy and brought shame to our state: contribute $5, $10, or $15 today. Andre made headlines when he compared children in poverty to stray animals, but it's clear he didn't learn his lesson: show him that his attitude is unacceptable and help us fight for a bright future for all South Carolinians by giving $5, $10, or $15. South Carolinians work hard. They deserve leaders who believe in them and don't put them down when economic times are tough. Help us keep up the fight.

Jay Parmley
Executive Director
South Carolina Democratic Party