The Mechanics of Politics

Alec Baldwin might Challenge Joe Lieberman in 2012

2009-08-24T08:54:00.003-05:00

Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman has a message for actor Alec Baldwin, who is reportedly considering a move to Connecticut to challenge Lieberman in 2012: "Make my day."
Lieberman addressed the issue Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union." Baldwin told Playboy magazine that he was considering moving to Connecticut to run against Lieberman, saying he has "no use" for the independent senator.

Obama and 'change'...Iran Prediction...

2009-06-08T21:12:00.008-05:00

In Iran...

Mousavi will beat Ahmadinejad... Four Days... Watch for it...
The politics and change in Iran --- will be called historical...

Has anything 'really' --- Changed?'

2009-06-07T16:28:00.009-05:00

I've mentioned before--- my disappointment, with Obama's Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, and Larry Summers as Director for the National Economic Council...

These guys, are just repackaged Regeanites and believe in the 'trickle down theory.'

{The concept, that if you do not tax the people who benefit the most from collectivism---they will invest in America, and provide 'good paying' jobs for Americans... }

There are maybe 30% of Americans that; 'work for a living' ... that still embrace this ideology...

At the end of the day: the more and more I see of Obama and his administration, the more I realize--- it's more of the same.

This is still a Corporatist Oligarchy...

'Change' has not come to America...

I only wish... he were as 'left,' as he is portrayed...and promised he would be.

This is left---
http://www.hermes-press.com/capitalist_genocide.htm

Really? Five months!?

2009-06-06T21:58:00.006-05:00

I pulled this from the WSJ...

"This is President Obama's economy now," said House Minority Whip Eric Cantor (R., Va.).

I can't even begin to speak to this...

Sotomayor Cartoon

2009-06-05T13:54:00.006-05:00

The 'look' in the eyes of the GOP elephants is the greatest!

If Sotomayor replaces Justice David Souter on the Supreme Court, she may well end up providing the fifth vote for a constitutional right to same-sex marriage or take out “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance.

This Senate Confirmation Hearing will no doubt be 'incredibily boring'--- compared to the Justice Clarence Thomas/Anita Hill sexual harassment charged hearing from years ago--- but you never know...

Texas Independence?

2009-06-05T12:21:00.005-05:00

In The Progressive Magazine, 'No Comment' Section, they ran this...

The State Department, listing the countries Secretary of State Hillary Rodam Clinton has visited, noted that she's taken trips to Europe, the Netherlands, Mexico, the Middle East, Asia, and Texas, Reports the Washington Post. The website provided a breakdown of 'trips by country' and included Texas along with France, Germany and Japan.

I tried to find a link to the countries listed on the DOS website but they had changed it to 'corners of the globe.'

Holy Crap! I thought, Reagan 'proved' deficits didn't matter!!!

2009-06-03T19:47:00.004-05:00

Bernanke Says U.S. Must Focus on Cutting Deficit

The nation needs to "begin planning now" to reduce the budget deficit, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke said today, arguing that even as the government acts to bolster the economy in the short run it must ensure that spending and revenue will come into line in the longer term.
"Congress and the administration face formidable near-term challenges that must be addressed," Bernanke told the House Budget Committee this morning, according to prepared testimony. But he warned that the economy will suffer "unless we demonstrate a strong commitment to fiscal sustainability in the longer term."
Bernanke even connected recent swings in the market for U.S. Treasury bonds to worries about the nation's long-term deficits. The interest rate that government must pay to borrow money for 10 years or more has risen sharply in the past two weeks, as investors in the United States and around the world have become more wary of the nation's growing debt load.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/06/03/AR2009060301367.html?hpid=moreheadlines

Texas lege...Watching a bad movie...

2009-06-03T18:46:00.002-05:00

Texas lege...Watching a bad movie...

2009-06-03T18:43:00.002-05:00

Texas Lege...Watching a bad movie...

2009-06-03T18:33:00.003-05:00

The Texas legislature ends tonight...

2009-06-01T17:46:00.003-05:00

The Texas Legislature comes to an end tonight but might be headed for a special session... Rick Perry may call for a special session to look at CHIP and some transportation issues...tomorrow's newspapers and blogs should be full of the laws, bills and shenanigans that the TX lege spit out. I'll find some time over the next few days and find some highlights...

'Minnesota'...isn't that Sioux for 'enough already'?

2009-05-31T19:49:00.003-05:00

Now it comes down to five votes.

Almost seven months after a U.S. Senate election that was too close to call, five justices of the Minnesota Supreme Court will hear arguments Monday on whether problems with absentee ballots justify reversing a lower-court ruling that declared DFLer Al Franken a 312-vote winner over Republican Norm Coleman.

Partisans across America will be watching, pronouncing judgment on a thousand blogs. The case may cast a blinding national spotlight on the state Supreme Court.

A decision upholding the lower-court ruling could end the protracted struggle and allow Franken to join the Senate, giving Democrats an invincible majority. A ruling for Coleman wouldn't return him to the Senate, but could keep his hopes alive and delay a final decision for months.

Minnesotans want the dispute to end, recent polls show. Most people say Coleman should concede. Nearly two-thirds believe that Franken ultimately will be declared the winner.

(http://www.startribune.com/politics)

Really!? ...WOW!

2009-05-31T19:43:00.000-05:00

Rachel Maddow and the EFCA

2009-05-31T19:36:00.002-05:00

100th post!!!

2009-05-14T18:48:00.004-05:00

Sorry! I've been busy! Things have settled down a bit, and now I can get back to the MoP...

I stumbled across this looking for something else...Politics aside, this guy has talent...

2009-03-06T14:39:00.004-06:00

This Miracle Brought to You by America’s Union Members

2009-02-26T14:15:00.002-06:00

They're calling it a miracle--the successful landing of a US Airways jet in the Hudson and subsequent rescue of all 155 passengers. They're detailing the heroism of all involved, starting with the pilot and including cabin crew, ferry crews, and first responders. What they're not telling you is that just about every single one of these heroes is a union member.
There's the pilot:
What might have been a catastrophe in New York — one that evoked the feel if not the scale of the Sept. 11 attack — was averted by a pilot’s quick thinking and deft maneuvers,
[snip]
On board, the pilot, Chesley B. Sullenberger III, 57, unable to get back to La Guardia, had made a command decision to avoid densely populated areas and try for the Hudson,
[snip]
When all were out, the pilot walked up and down the aisle twice to make sure the plane was empty, officials said.
Sullenberger is a former national committee member and the former safety chairman for the Airline Pilots Association and now represented by US Airline Pilots Association. He--and his union--have fought to ensure pilots get the kind of safety training to pull off what he did yesterday.
Then there are the flight attendants:
One passenger, Elizabeth McHugh, 64, of Charlotte, seated on the aisle near the rear, said flight attendants shouted more instructions: feet flat on the floor, heads down, cover your heads.
They are members of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA. Yesterday's accident should remind all of us that flight attendants are first and foremost safety professionals--they should not be treated like cocktail waitresses.
There are the air traffic controllers:
The pilot radioed air traffic controllers on Long Island that his plane had sustained a “double bird strike.”
They're represented by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. Someday, they'll rename National Airport for the work these men and women do to keep us safe in the air.
There are the ferry crews:
As the first ferry nudged up alongside, witnesses said, some passengers were able to leap onto the decks. Others were helped aboard by ferry crews.
They're represented by the Seafarers International Union. They provide safety training to their members so they're prepared for events like yesterday's accident.
There are the cops and firemen:
Helicopters brought wet-suited police divers, who dropped into the water to help with the rescues.
They're represented by the Patrolmen's Benevolent Association and the Uniformed Firefighters Association and Uniformed Fire Officers Association (IAFF locals).They're the men and women who performed so heroically on 9/11--and they've been fighting to make sure first responders get the equipment to do this kind of thing.
Bob Corker and Richard Shelby like to claim that union labor is a failed business model.
But I haven't heard much about Bob Corker and Richard Shelby saving 155 people's lives.
Reprinted from Emptywheel, January 16, 2009.

I feel vindicated!! Hooray Me!

2009-02-22T13:31:00.013-06:00

Bankrupt Bailout

The Nation Magazine, dated March 2nd 2009, ran an editorial criticizing President Obama for; "[...] Ignoring the pleas of skeptics and reformers (The Nation Included), the president surrounded himself with familiar players from the old order and rigorously excluded anyone identified as an unorthodox thinker." The Editorial also blast Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner and Obama's economic adviser Larry Summers for being "wedded to the old way of doing things."

On Dec 31st I posted; Is a corporate oligarchy the same thing as facism?

Obama has named Lawrence Summers to head the National Economic Council and Timothy Geithner to be Treasury Secretary. If you believe that deregulation of the financial industry was the fire for this economic meltdown you should know that these guys have fanned the flames. Summers helped to dismantle Glass-Steagall and as Clinton’s Treasury Secretary signed off on the Commodity Futures Modernization Act which removed oversight on credit default swaps and derivatives trading. (This was the act that was the catalyst for Enron)

Geithner worked at the IMF for “W.” He also worked at the Treasury Department under Bush 1 and Clinton; just as Treasury and the IMF were manipulating the Asian economies for U.S. Banks and corporations that subsequently destroyed South Korea's and Thailand's middle class. Since 2003 he has been President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and you can rest assured his policies there have been about executive and Wall Street preservation, not the National interest. (By “National interest” I mean the interest of the middle class here in the U.S.)
Here’s the question: Why is Obama naming these guys to these positions?

MoP's prediction; A retraction and an apology to Limbaugh by Wednesday.

2009-02-22T10:38:00.008-06:00

Fla. governor Charlie Crist (R) continues to back Obama on recovery.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Florida's Republican governor says the GOP should be willing to work with Democrats in a time of economic crisis.
Charlie Crist is taking some heat from those in his party who say he's too supportive of President Barack Obama's economic stimulus bill.
Appearing Sunday on NBC's "Meet the Press," Crist says that he's willing to give the new president "a shot" and to try to help make his economic recovery plan work. The package passed Congress with almost no Republican support.
According to Crist, the key for the GOP to regain power in Washington is doing what's right for Americans. He says that means taking an approach to governing that is compassionate and fiscally conservative and marked by common sense.

Gun Control...Isn't that hitting your target?

2009-02-19T17:55:00.004-06:00

Are you ready for the House Bill titled 'HR 45, Blair Holt Licensing and
Record Act of 2009'. It will make it illegal to own a firearm unless it is
registered with the database in Washington D.C. As a gun owner you will
have to be finger printed, you will be required to provide your DL#, SS#,
you must maintain a valid address at all times, submit to mental and
physical health records being put on file, you will also be required to
file any address changes and any ownership changes even if private sale.
Each update will cost $25 and if you fail to comply you will lose your
right to own firearms. This bill and its language mirror almost completely
one defeated last year in the House of Representatives by soon to be Chief
of Staff Rahm Emanuel. Will the citizenry be as lucky this time?

Pass this on to everyone who believes in strict Constitutionalism and
remember that laws only apply to those who obey them. Criminals by
definition and nature do not abide by laws. New laws and restrictions only
apply to the law abiding citizen and are not written with the criminal in
mind. With guns, it is not about having laws on the books to prosecute
individuals, it is about taking guns away from the people so that no one has
them in the first place.

One last item to note, when assuming power and creating a facist state,
Hitler was a proponent of strong gun laws because a disarmed populace was
much easier to control than an armed one. The Kings of old also outlawed
weapons of any kind in any region that they conquered to quell the ability
of the citizens to uprise against them.

The Founding Fathers of this Nation understood all of the above and
because of this they included the Second Amendment in the Constitution.
In fact, they knew that at some point in every society's life span that the
need for the right to keep and bear arms against a tyrannical state an
absolute right that could not be revoked.

They did this because the first thing tyrants and despots do is to remove
a populations right to defend themselves. When this is done the tyrants have
no problem with the destruction of society as we know it.

For a link to Open-Congress.org information click here.

Back to politics...

2009-02-17T21:48:00.006-06:00

This is from a great documentary about the political division in this country...

Here is a clip...

YouTube this Docu. for more info...

De-motivational Posters

2009-02-15T11:16:00.006-06:00

Great site for de-motivational posters...very funny.

Hey where are the wing walkers...Oh wait...

2009-02-14T12:36:00.002-06:00

Below are some pictures I recieved in an email.

YouTube Video...blade imbalance

2009-02-09T18:05:00.002-06:00

2009-02-02T17:32:00.001-06:00

Terry Maxon over at the DMN wrote;

Mark sends me his friend Sassy's recipe for a new drink, The Sully,
honoring Capt. Chesley B. "Sully" Sullenberger, the intrepid US Airways
pilot:

Two shots Grey Goose
One splash water

Where is Hillary?

2009-01-31T18:38:00.003-06:00

Just an Observation...

It has only been 11 days and we have heard from Obama; Biden, Geithner, Lilly Ledbetter, Eric Holder, and even Rush Limbaugh, but where is my girl? Obama did a Lincoln-esque move making her the female William H. Seward but just where is Hillary?

Over at the New York Times they speculate where she will go for her first vist as SoS.

2009-01-31T06:25:00.000-06:00

ED Sill over at the Texas AFL_CIO Sent;

You don't have to pinch yourself any more. The president and vice president
of the United States really like labor unions. They made it clear that the
future of all working people depends on the fate of labor unions. And they
started down the road of taking action.
President Barack Obama today did more
good things for organized labor than George W. Bush achieved in eight
years.
Besides adopting a new frame for consideration of what is good for
working people, signed three executive orders to begin the reversal. As reported
by the AFL-CIO, these orders:
• Require federal service contractors to offer
jobs to current workers when contracts change.
• Reverse a Bush order
requiring federal contractors to post notice that workers can limit financial
support of unions serving as their exclusive bargaining representatives.
•
Prevent federal contractors from being reimbursed for expenses meant to
influence workers deciding whether to form a union and engage in collective
bargaining.
What else did the White House do today? According to The New
York Times:
--Obama condemned "shameful" bonuses that Wall Street bankers
have taken in the midst of the greatest economic contraction of the last
quarter-century;
--Obama told a group of labor leaders at the Executive Order
signings that included the AFL-CIO and Change to Win leaders, "Welcome back to
the White House.”
--Biden said the first meeting of a new task force to
promote the "well-being of the middle class" will be Feb. 27 in Philadelphia.
The task force, led by former Economic Policy Institute economist Jared
Bernstein, will examine health care, "green jobs" and college opportunities as
well as looking at "restoring the balance in the work place,” Biden said. Biden
said the web site AStrongMiddleClass.gov will keep track of the task
force.
--Obama hailed Senate passage of an expansion of the Children's Health
Insurance Program. In the 66-32 vote to add $32.8 billion to the program over
the next 54 months, U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison, R-Texas, voted "yes" and
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, voted "no".

2009-01-27T16:36:00.009-06:00

Hello from Austin!

{The lone Blue Dot in a Big Red State.}

I'm down here for the AFL-CIO legislative conference. As I look around the conference room I notice 90% of the representatives here are older than me. I'm 42 and I am a Pup! If Labor is to continue to grow and have an effective voice in our Democracy, we have to do a better job of recruiting youth into the Labor movement and activist/leadership positions.

(I know)... Part of it is the dynamics of young families; being older, and having the time to devote to union business, but the enthusiam of our younger members must be encouraged and nurtured.

I'll get off my soap-box now, and tell you of a few highlights from Austin...

The Legislature:

This Session, the Texas legislature is expected to work on almost 8000 bills. By the closing weeks of this session (June 1st) they are excpecting to vote on close to 300 bills a day!

By way of comparison, last session; 6190 bills were introduced, 1481 passed, and 51 were vetoed by Gov. Prick Perry. (The "P" in the first name is silent)

We have a new Speaker of the House. Tom Craddick is gone...(ding dong the witch is dead...)

The new speaker is Joe Straus... (GOP... but old school statesman GOP, not Neo-Con Nazi GOP)
By 2010 there could be a Democratic Speaker... In 08; Irving's district 105 went (R) and was decided by 20 votes! 902 put a Republican in Houston's 144th, and only 3555 kept Corpus Christi Red.

This is the Mayor of Houston, Bill White. He will be your next Senator from Texas in 2010.

The Interest;

Great work is being done for Texas working families over at the Center for Public Policy Priorities (CPPP). They are watching the Texas budget, pushing for Children's Health Care, and keeping check on Unemployment Insurance. Lots-a-legal stuff was presented but the "ADD-like-me" take-away info was;

2008-2009 money available to the 'lege' for the budget was 92.1billion. Money available for 09-10 is 94.7 billion (so it's not like we don't have the money, we just need to bitch about where the money is spent.)
Folks ask where does the Lottto money go? The truth is; The Lottery only brings in about 1 billion for the state of Texas. Public education alone cost close to 40 billion dollars a year. Yeah...1 out of 40. (Don, we need to buy more... for the good of the kids)
Texas Ranks 50th in providing unemployment insurance. 1 out of 5 unemployed Texans do not collect UI because of outdated rules and regulations.
You smokers contribute 2.6 billion to Texas' general fund. (Isn't it like $5 a pack now? And there is talk of taxing tobacco and alcohol even more...)
We also rank last in providing healthcare for children. 1 in 5 kids in Texas lack health insurance...
Remember we have the money...as citizens we just need to bitch about how it is spent.

The Hot Potato;

Entergy vs Summers,

Watch; as the lege passes this one around... Entergy vs Summers is a Texas Supreme Court ruling (9 to 0) that is just shameful. Google it...I can't do it justice here. Really, Look it up.

The Secretary of Labor;

Ray Marshall,

Very cool, soft spoken, Professor Emeritus; University of Texas, former Secretary of Labor...

He spoke on immigration issues.

"It is not good for our Democracy to have a large group of people working in our country that are not covered by our laws."-Ray Marshall

He called for the "re-adjustment of the documentation status" of the 12 to 20 million people that are here in this country illegally.

Secretary Marshall called for a "High value-added strategy" concerning labor. (I don't know what that means but...) "The Guest worker" H1B and the H2B programs are driving down wages.

We can't compete with labor in Mexico and China. But we can press for laws that discourage the exodus of jobs. Tariffs, Trade agreements, International Labor agreements and wage standards would be a whole lot more effective than a 12 foot border fence. If we build a 12 foot fence, there will be a market for 13 foot ladders.

We can't isolate ourselves, and we can't completely expose ourselves, we have to be stewards of our own destiny.

I'll try to keep you posted here but...I'm a busy man. :)

Thanks for reading if you got this far...

2009-01-25T12:42:00.001-06:00

Great link to tell Congress to Preserve Skilled Aviation Jobs and Protect Passenger Safety!

Tommy Boy's little brother?

2009-01-25T12:39:00.003-06:00

Guess who wasn't paying attention during the pre-flight saftey demo.

Headline news from around the world...

2009-01-24T06:55:00.004-06:00

This is a great site. It is an interactive website with a map of the U.S. and the world that displays the front page of local Newspapers from around the globe...

Alternate runway Hudson L or Hudson R?

2009-01-23T09:21:00.001-06:00

Surveillance Video from Manhattan's ConEd Building of US Air Flt 1549 Ditching

2009-01-22T12:33:00.008-06:00

Is your contact information for the Local up to date?

565 Membership Meeting Highlights

2009-01-22T08:06:00.004-06:00

In this day and age of instant information and twenty four hour news; It is good to know members are recognizing the need for the grassroots efforts that we are nurturing at the Local level. More and more members are attending the monthly meetings. January's meeting had a great turnout.

As attendance continues to grow, solidarity is strengthened and Labor wins.

Some of the highlights at this month's meeting were;

The FAA will be doing an audit at American the week of February 2nd through the 6th.
31 to 35 New FAA inspectors have been hired to monitor AA system wide.
Look to see your Union officers on the floor in the coming weeks listening to your concerns.
Double check the 777 AD Flow Mode Pre-Flight Check Paperwork.
Follow procedure on A/C parts with stores, particularly fuel control units, (Check the caps.)
Actual Minutes and more information can be found at the HALL.

See you at the Hall next month...

Death Clock

2009-01-20T14:06:00.004-06:00

But don't worry to much about the contract...You may not live long enough...

Check out your life expectancy with The Death Clock

Highlights from the Negotiation Committee Meeting at 565...

2009-01-16T07:49:00.016-06:00

Your Negotiations committee consist of 22 members from all over the system.
At the 565 Hall today were;
Steve Gilboy 563
Bob Zimmerman 565
Bob Owens 562
Steve Luis 514
Todd Gibbs 521
Johnny Griffith 567 Title II
Frank Pecoraro 513 Title II
& International Representative Don Videtich

The meeting focused on where we've been, where we are and where we are going concerning the contract. A genuine united front from all the Locals was an underlying theme from the committee.

Here is a flow chart of what happens under the Railway labor act. (It is included in one of the handouts that is available at the Hall.)

Here are a few highlights of the meeting;

At this point M&R and the company are still in negotiations; not mediation (Section 6 Notices; under the Railway Labor Act)

The proposal given the company November 18th is our table position.

The M&R committee has tentatively scheduled 2/16 & 2/17 2009 for the next negotiations between M&R and AA.

Should we have to go to Federal mediation, historically, the average time for airline Labor in mediation is 18 months (It could be longer. It could be shorter. Also keep in mind; a mediator is a referee, an arbitrator is a judge.)

Retro-pay is our table position concerning the company dragging it's feet... (So stand fast.)

Expect to see a media campaign from the Union as we move forward; including our sacrifices and the obscene executive compensation and management bonuses.

Look for AFL-CIO Union representation on the podium for the Obama inauguration. (Jim Little)

The next regular membership meeting is Thursday, January 22nd. More information can be picked-up at the Hall.
Let me know if you want me to email you what I have.

2009-01-15T21:03:00.003-06:00

2009-01-15T16:46:00.002-06:00

Company reviews for American Airlines.

2009-01-15T11:14:00.001-06:00

AA Employee Hailed as Hero

2009-01-15T11:06:00.002-06:00

Over at Fox news they interviewed stores clerk Dell Wolfgramm about pulling a man from a burnning car after an accident near Hangar 5.

Good Job Dell!

Apples to Oranges?

2009-01-15T10:58:00.002-06:00

Here are just a few things that AA forgot to mention when they put out their article to the Ft.Worth Star-Telegram.
1. Everyday before the flight the F/A are required to report to the gate 1 hour prior to the flight. This is done with no pay.

2. If they have a sit-time in between flights, it is usually anywhere from 1 to 5 hrs. with no pay.

3. All F/A are required an annual training for 2 days with no pay.

4. During through trips if there are passengers staying on board the aircraft waiting for their next trip, all F/A are required to babysit or stay on board with the passengers for 1 hr. with no pay.

5. If the F/A have to clean the aircraft in between flights or deplaneing the aircraft or having to track down a place to put their liquor deposits after their day is complete anywhere in the airport, it is done without being paid.

There are many things the company left out that they would rather not mention to the public that should be mentioned so all the cards are on the table.

2009-01-14T11:54:00.001-06:00

2009-01-14T10:29:00.004-06:00

To the membership of Local 565,

The Local is working hard to make the changes that were mandated by the rank and file vote last year. As always; it is an uphill battle but with the new leadership we have the momentum, enthusiasm and drive and a real sense of possibility and purpose.

One of the changes high on the priority list is better communication from Union Leadership to the rank and file. In the past, the primary vehicles for information have been the postings on the Union boards, the Local’s Website, monthly meetings and Stewards. We will continue to make use of these outlets and work to develop all available resources to keep the membership informed.

In addition to the above mention resources. I want to develop Local 565’s database for member email. In this electronic age, email and technology are an untapped resource for the Local and moreover organized Labor. Email me at communications@twu565.org. I will put you in the Local’s email database to receive any postings, news and information as well as contract negotiation updates as they become available.

My goal is the advancement of the interest of Labor through better communication.

Understandably there is a lot of cynicism. The economy; the contract, layoffs, rising debt, the falling dollar, apathy, graft, corruption and greed are more than disheartening: They are destroying the middle class and this Nation. Labor has to keep fighting. We have to adapt. We have to keep moving.

Be the change…

“Never, never, never give up.” –Winston Churchill

2009-01-13T11:10:00.004-06:00

SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Dear Maintenance and Related Contract Members Title I and Title II,
Your Contract negotiations committee would like to invite you to a Special Membership Meeting (dates, times, and locations are listed below.) We will be presenting a brief description of our 2007/2008 bargaining history along with a look at the Federal Mediation Process. A limited number of Committee Members will be attending. However, we have a cross section of our Committee Members from our different work locations; Base Stations, Line Stations, Title I, Title II and ATD. We look forward to meeting with you and we encourage you to attend.
Best Regards,
TWU M&R Negotiations Committee

Jan. 16, 2009
Times: 0730 -9:00 -1130-1530

Local 565

2509 Bedford Road

Bedford, TX 76021

You might have missed it...

2009-01-11T09:24:00.007-06:00

Airlines sue the FAA over new crew rest rules.

On long flights, the FAA wants more crew on board for crew rest and safety...

The airlines want less crew on board to save money...

Let's hope the FEDS win this one.

Maybe this year we can persuade Congressman Poe to re-introduce some form of his FAA reauthorization ammendment from 07.

WHERE IS LABOR?

2009-01-10T08:15:00.004-06:00

LOBBYING CONGRESS

Top Spenders;

(1998-2008)
US Chamber of Commerce
$427,879,680
American Medical Assn
$194,987,500
General Electric
$178,088,000
American Hospital Assn
$157,749,347
AARP
$147,822,064
Pharmaceutical Rsrch & Mfrs of America
$141,083,400
Northrop Grumman
$123,075,253
Edison Electric Institute
$121,865,999
Business Roundtable
$114,340,000
National Assn of Realtors
$111,810,380
Lockheed Martin
$110,746,721
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
$108,013,172
Exxon Mobil
$99,916,942
Boeing Co
$98,918,310
Freddie Mac
$96,164,048
General Motors
$95,781,483
Verizon Communications
$92,780,610
Southern Co
$89,260,694
Ford Motor Co
$80,644,808
Fannie Mae
$80,437,000

Ref. Center for Responsive Politics.

Opining from the right...

2009-01-09T21:18:00.003-06:00

$104,655.60 Ad in the Washington Post--

Here is someone with the money to fund a rebuttal to what Howard Dean, Democratic National Committee Chairman, said recently that 'many Republicans have never done an honest day's work in their life'. The following full-page ad was placed in the Washington Post by a businessman named George J. Esseff, Sr. He paid $104,655.60 to run the ad and only did it because he is sick and tired of the way that 'the rich' are portrayed by liberals these days. It is a great read.

The Ad
Maybe you're a conservative Republican?
In today's America, ask a growing number of high school and college students, their teachers and professors, the self-anointed media elite and/or hard working men and women of all ethnicities, the question, 'What is a Republican?' and you'll be told '... a rich, greedy, egotistical individual, motivated only by money and the desire to accumulate more and more of it, at the expense of the environment, the working poor....and all whom they exploit...'
I am a Republican - and I am none of those things....and I don't know any Republicans who are!

WHAT I AM, first and foremost, is a loving husband of some 52 plus years, the father of four, and an American who's proud of his country...and his country's heritage.

WHAT I AM is the grandson of immigrants who risked everything, including their lives and those of their children, to escape tyranny in search of freedom.

WHAT I AM is a man who grew up during the Depression and witnessed first hand the effects of the Stock Market crash and the soup lines that followed. I watched as both my parents and grand parents, who had very little themselves, shared what food they had with a half dozen other families who had even less.

WHAT I AM is someone who worked his way through college by holding down three and four jobs at a time and then used that education to build a better life.

WHAT I AM is a husband who, at age 24, started his own business for the 'privilege' of working 60, 70 and 80 hours a week, risking everything I had, including my health, in search of a better life for myself and my loved ones.

WHAT I AM is a businessman whose blood, sweat and tears....and plenty of them..., made it possible for me to provide a secure living, not only for my family and myself, but also for literally hundreds of my employees throughout the years, employees who in turn were able to buy their own homes, raise their own families and give back to their communities and their country.

WHAT I AM is a man who believes in God; a God who has blessed this country ... and all for which it stands.

WHAT I AM is someone who knows, if you doubt miracles exist in today's world, you need only to look into the face of those who received them ... and the eyes of those who give them.

WHAT I AM is an American who's proud that his President embraces a belief in God; proud of a President who understands, as 'politically incorrect' as it may be, there is evil in this world, and for the security and safety of all freedom loving people everywhere, it must be confronted ... and it must be defeated.

WHAT I AM is an American who takes comfort in the knowledge that our President refuses to allow decisions concerning the very safety and security of this nation to be governed by the political whims of foreign governments.

WHAT I AM is tired of hearing from leading Democrats who see only negativity in America, racism in her people, class warfare in her society and 'political incorrectness' in her character.

WHAT I AM is a former Democrat who now understands that it is the soldier and not the reporter that guarantees us our freedoms of the press, speech and dissent.

WHAT I AM is a man who believes in the sanctity of life. A man who is repulsed by the pandering of the political left for votes, at the expense of the unborn.

WHAT I AM is a husband and father who believes in the sanctity of marriage and the preservation of the family unit.

WHAT I AM is a ex-movie goer who is repulsed by those insecure, socially inept, elementary thinking, ego-inflated 'entertainers' who have appointed themselves 'experts' in the fields of national security and geo-politics and then use their forum to attack this nation, its leaders and its actions, much to the delight and encouragement of our enemies.

WHAT I AM is an American who understands the difference between 'censorship' and 'choice.' Evidently, these individuals do not, because when these same 'celebrities' receive public ridicule for their offensive actions, the first thing they yell is 'censorship.' What they seem incapable of understanding is that the right of free speech and dissent is shared equally by those offended, as well as those who offend. I support and will continue to support those films and performers whom I choose to and refuse to support those I don't. It is my right as an American, a right I will continue to enthusiastically exercise.
&n bsp;
WHAT I AM is a voter, tired of politicians who, every time their voting records are subjected to public scrutiny, try to divert attention from their political and legislative failures by accusing their opponents of 'attack ads' and 'negative campaigning;' and the news media who allow them to get away with it.

WHAT I AM is a Catholic who loves his God and his Faith, and who's been taught to respect all religions whose teachings are based in love, peace and charity. As such, I am embarrassed and ashamed of those individuals in both private and public life whose decisions and actions are devoid of any sense of character or morals; individuals who are only driven by what's best for them, rather than what's right, often times at the expense of many, including our national security.

WHAT I AM is a realist who understands that the terrorist attack that murdered hundreds of innocent Russian children could have occurred here, in our heartland. That's why I sincerely believe America needs, now more than ever, a President who sees with a clear and focused vision and who speaks with a voice, when heard by both friend and foe alike, is understood, respected and believed.

WHAT I AM is eternally grateful to Ronald Reagan for having the bravery to speak out against Communism and the courage of his convictions in leading the fight to defeat it; and to George W. Bush for the vision, courage, conviction and leadership he has shown in America's war on terrorism amidst both the constant and vicious personal and political attacks both he and his family are made to endure.

WHAT I AM is a human being, full of numerous faults and failures, but a man, nonetheless, who though not always successful, has continually strived to do 'what's right' instead of 'what's easy.' A man who is challenging the religious leaders of all faiths to not only preach to their congregations the fundamentals of 'what's right' and 'what's wrong,' but to also then hold them accountable for their actions in both the public and private sectors.

WHAT I AM is disgusted with the Courts who, on one hand, call the murder of a pregnant woman a 'double homicide,' but then refer to the abortion of her baby as 'pro-choice.'

WHAT I AM is someone deeply troubled by a political party which embraces a candidate whose primary 'leadership' qualities center around his protesting of the Vietnam war and his labeling the honorable men and women who fought in it, (50,000 of whom gave their lives in that action), as rapists and war criminals (John Kerry). That same political party then stepped forward this year to block the appearance of a true Vietnam war hero, retired Admiral and former United States Senator, Jeremiah Denton, (a man who spent seven years and seven torturous months in a North Vietnamese prison), from speaking before an open session of the California Legislature as part of that state's 4th of July celebration. The reason Democrats gave for refusing to allow this American hero to speak before th eir state legislat ure was because of the 'conservative' nature of his views. As an American, that troubles me deeply....as well it should you. (Are you listening Mr. D?)

WHAT I AM is a man who feels the need to spend ONE HUNDRED & FOUR THOUSAND, SIX HUNDRED & FIFTY FIVE DOLLARS ($104,655.60, tax paid) of his own money, to purchase this advertisement in order to set the story straight. Some may say this money would have been better spent feeding the world's poor. At the risk of sounding self-serving, as an American and as a Republican, for the last six decades of my life, I have done exactly that ... and more. Following the examples of my parents and grandparents, I have used my earnings to feed the poor, shelter the homeless, provide housing for the elderly and medical care for the sick ... and continue to do so ... and I'm not alone in that work.

WHAT I AM is someone who is paying for this announcement at my sole expense in hopes of opening the eyes of those led blindly by ill-informed elements of our great nation, who through either ignorance or malicious intent, repeatedly attack and belittle those of us who belong to a political party that holds true to the belief, 'The rights of the governed exceed the power of the government.' For those interested, I am speaking only as a tax-paying individual who is in no way associated with the Republican National Committee, nor with any of its directors or delegates.

WHAT I AM is a man who understands, 'the American way of life' is a message of self-empowerment for all.

WHAT I AM is an American who is grateful that our nation gives each of us the opportunity of self-determination and the right to benefit from the fruits of self achievement.

WHAT I AM is an American who wants to preserve that way of life for all who seek it.

WHAT I AM is blessed to be an American .... and proud to be a conservative Republican.

(WHAT I AM) is curious what else could have been bought with a $104,000...
Comments? I've got a point by point rebuttal in mind but a lot of other things are being piled on my plate right now.

Concerning the comparisons of Obama to FDR;...We can only hope...

2009-01-06T19:18:00.008-06:00

No business which depends for existence on paying less than living wages to its workers has any right to continue in this country. By living wages I mean more than a bare subsistence level --I mean the wages of decent living.—Franklin D. Roosevelt

2009-01-06T11:54:00.000-06:00

Every dollar that the boss did not work for, one of us worked for a dollar and didn't get it.—William Dudley "Big Bill" Haywood

Having a blast in St Martin! ...A 757 jet-blast...

2009-01-04T09:56:00.003-06:00

60 Minutes on the TSA...

2009-01-04T09:17:00.005-06:00

2009-01-03T19:33:00.011-06:00

Hey! That AOA vane is 1 degree off...

2009-01-01T09:59:00.002-06:00

Is a corporate oligarchy the same thing as facism?

2008-12-31T14:47:00.010-06:00

Obama has named Lawrence Summers to head the National Economic Council and Timothy Geithner to be Treasury Secretary. If you believe that deregulation of the financial industry was the fire for this economic meltdown you should know that these guys have fanned the flames.

Summers helped to dismantle Glass-Steagall and as Clinton’s Treasury Secretary signed off on the Commodity Futures Modernization Act which removed oversight on credit default swaps and derivatives trading. (This was the act that was the catalyst for Enron)

Geithner worked at the IMF for “W.” He also worked at the Treasury Department under Bush 1 and Clinton; just as Treasury and the IMF were manipulating the Asian economies for U.S. Banks and corporations that subsequently destroyed South Korea's and Thailand's middle class. Since 2003 he has been President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and you can rest assured his policies there have been about executive and Wall Street preservation, not the National interest. (By “National interest” I mean the interest of the middle class here in the U.S.)

Here’s the question: Why is Obama naming these guys to these positions?

Know Your Senator? John Cornyn;

2008-12-30T08:22:00.010-06:00

John Cornyn III (born February 2, 1952) is the junior United States Senator from Texas. He is a Republican and was elected to his first term in November 2002, having defeated former mayor of Dallas, Ron Kirk. He defeated the Democratic State Representative Rick Noriega of Houston in the November general election for his second term. He was elected Chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee for the 111th U.S. Congress. [Ref]

Over at Project Vote Smart they have more information on John Cornyn.; including his biography, voting record, committees, as well as interest group ratings of his performance in the Senate. More information is available on their website.

Contact John Cornyn; HERE

Know your Senator? Kay Bailey Hutchison;

2008-12-30T07:13:00.009-06:00

Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R) (born July 22, 1943), In 2001, she was named one of "The 30 most powerful women in America" by Ladies Home Journal. She is the first woman to represent Texas in the U.S. Senate, the first Republican woman to win election to the Senate by defeating an incumbent, and is currently the most senior Republican woman in the Senate, ranking 39th out of 100 in seniority. [ref.]

Education; BA University of Texas 1962, JD University of Texas Law 67 (at least she's a Longhorn)

Over at Project Vote Smart they have a wealth of information on K.B.H.; including her biography, voting record, committees, as well as interest group ratings of her performance in the Senate. More information is available on their website.

Contact Kay Bailey Hutchison;
HERE

Calvin & Hobbes economics. (Click for larger)

2008-12-29T09:32:00.001-06:00

2008-12-27T21:29:00.001-06:00

Sock and AWE!

Fuel hedging "cost" AA money

2008-12-26T16:53:00.010-06:00

Over at Bloomberg they have a quick news segment explaining fuel hedging and airline fuel cost.

In one part of the clip they're actually optimistic about airlines for 2009; keep that in mind when the company is crying poor-mouth about the contract.

It will always be something...fuel, ASMs, cost here, cost there, labor cost, labor cost, labor cost... if they paid you dollar a year it would be a dollar too much!

There is information out here that can be Labor's fuel; we just have to pump it ourselves.

Comments Anyone?

2008-12-26T15:48:00.003-06:00

This is a response letter to GM's request for support from their employees & suppliers. It is bitter and vitriolic; and it speaks volumes to perception...

Dear Employees & Suppliers,
Congress and the current Administration will soon determine whether to provide immediate support to the domestic auto industry to help it through one of the most difficult economic times in our nation's history. Your elected officials must hear from all of us now on why this support is critical to our continuing the progress we began prior to the global financial crisis......................As an employee or supplier, you have a lot at stake and continue to be one of our most effective and passionate voices. I know GM can count on you to have your voice heard.
Thank you for your urgent action and ongoing support.
Troy Clarke
President General Motors North America
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Response from:
Gregory Knox, Pres.
Knox Machinery Company
Franklin, Ohio

Gentlemen:

In response to your request to contact legislators and ask for a bailout for the Big Three automakers please consider the following, and please pass my thoughts on to Troy Clark, President of General Motors North America.

Politicians and Management of the Big 3 are both infected with the same entitlement mentality that has spread like cancerous germs in UAW halls for the last countless decades, and whose plague is now sweeping this nation, awaiting our new "messiah", Pres-elect Obama, to wave his magic wand and make all our problems go away, while at the same time allowing our once great nation to keep "living the dream". Believe me folks, The dream is over!

This dream where we can ignore the consumer for years while management myopically focuses on its personal rewards packages at the same time that our factories have been filled with the worlds most overpaid, arrogant, ignorant and laziest entitlement minded "laborers" without paying the price for these atrocities.this dream where you still think the masses will line up to buy our products for ever and ever.

Don't even think about telling me I'm wrong. Don't accuse me of not knowing of what I speak. I have called on Ford, GM, Chrysler, TRW, Delphi, Kelsey Hayes, American Axle and countless other automotive OEM's throughout the Midwest during the past 30 years and what I've seen over those years in these union shops can only be described as disgusting.

Troy Clarke, President of General Motors North America, states: "There is widespread sentiment throughout this country, and our government, and especially via the news media, that the current crisis is completely the result of bad management which it certainly is not."

You're right Mr. Clarke, it's not JUST management.how about the electricians who walk around the plants like lords in feudal times, making people wait on them for countless hours while they drag ass.so they can come in on the weekend and make double and triple time.for a job they easily could have done within their normal 40 hour work week. How about the line workers who threaten newbies with all kinds of scare tactics.for putting out too many parts on a shift.and for being too productive. ( Volumes could be written about the bloat and abuse in union shops; in most production process businesses that need to be efficient and productive and they have outlived their true value.)

(We certainly must not expose those lazy bums who have been getting overpaid for decades for their horrific underproduction, must we?!?)

Do you folks really not know about this stuff?!? How about this great sentiment abridged from Mr. Clarke's sad plea: "over the last few years .we have closed the quality and efficiency gaps with our competitors." What the hell has Detroit been doing for the last 40 years?!? Did we really JUST wake up to the gaps in quality and efficiency between us and them? The K car vs. the Accord? The Pinto vs. the Civic?!? Do I need to go on? What a joke!

We are living through the inevitable outcome of the actions of the United States auto industry for decades. It's time to pay for your sins, Detroit.

I attended an economic summit last week where brilliant economist, Alan Beaulieu, from the Institute of Trend Research, surprised the crowd when he said he would not have given the banks a penny of "bailout money". "Yes, he said, this would cause short term problems," but despite what people like politicians and corporate magnates would have us believe, the sun would in fact rise the next day. and the following very important thing would happen.where there had been greedy and sloppy banks, new efficient ones would pop up.that is how a free market system works.it does work.if we would only let it work."

But for some nondescript reason we are now deciding that the rest of the world is right and that capitalism doesn't work - that we need the government to step in and "save us".Save us my ass, Hell - we're nationalizing.and unfortunately too many of our once fine nation's citizens don't even have a clue that this is what is really happening.But, they sure can tell you the stats on their favorite sports teams.yeah - THAT'S really important, isn't it.

Does it ever occur to ANYONE that the "competition" has been producing vehicles, EXTREMELY PROFITABLY, for decades in this country?... How can that be??? Let's see. Fuel efficient. Listening to customers. Investing in the proper tooling and automation for the long haul.

Not being too complacent or arrogant to listen to Dr. W. Edwards Deming four decades ago when he taught that by adopting appropriate principles of management, organizations could increase quality and simultaneously reduce costs. Ever increased productivity through quality and intelligent planning. Treating vendors like strategic partners, rather than like "the enemy". Efficient front and back offices. Non union environment.

Again, I could go on and on, but I really wouldn't be telling anyone anything they really don't already know down deep in their hearts.

I have six children, so I am not unfamiliar with the concept of wanting someone to bail you out of a mess that you have gotten yourself into - my children do this on a weekly, if not daily basis, as I did when I was their age. I do for them what my parents did for me (one of their greatest gifts, by the way) - I make them stand on their own two feet and accept the consequences of their actions and work through it. Radical concept, huh. Am I there for them in the wings? Of course - but only until such time as they need to be fully on their own as adults.

I don't want to oversimplify a complex situation, but there certainly are unmistakable parallels here between the proper role of parenting and government. Detroit and the United States need to pay for their sins. Bad news people - it's coming whether we like it or not. The newly elected Messiah really doesn't have a magic wand big enough to "make it all go away." I laughed as I heard Obama "reeling it back in" almost immediately after the final vote count was tallied."we really might not do it in a year.or in four." Where the Hell was that kind of talk when he was RUNNING for office?

Stop trying to put off the inevitable folks . That house in Florida really isn't worth $750,000. People who jump across a border really don't deserve free health care benefits. That job driving that forklift for the Big 3 really isn't worth $85,000 a year. We really shouldn't allow Wal-Mart to stock their shelves with products acquired from a country that unfairly manipulates their currency and has the most atrocious human rights infractions on the face of the globe.

That couple whose combined income is less than $50,000 really shouldn't be living in that $485,000 home. Let the market correct itself folks - it will. Yes it will be painful, but it's gonna' be painful either way, and the bright side of my proposal is that on the other side of it all, is a nation that appreciates what it has.and doesn't live beyond its means.and gets back to basics.and redevelops the patriotic work ethic that made it the greatest nation in the history of the world.and probably turns back to God.

Sorry - don't cut my head off, I'm just the messenger sharing with you the "bad news". I hope you take it to heart.

Gregory J. Knox, President
Knox Machinery, Inc.
Franklin, Ohio 45005

Merry Christmas!!! Twas the Night before Bailout

2008-12-24T08:25:00.007-06:00

Happy Christma-Kwanza-nakkuh
With apologies to Clement Clarke Moore
MoP presents:

Twas the night before Bailout;

Twas the night before Bailout, and all through the States
Folks were worried about the economy and feared for their fate.
Can we afford to buy gifts this Christmas? Do we dare?
Quite, simply put... money for presents is simply not there.

The children are content expecting only to be fed,
And perhaps a college education and a brighter future ahead.
So far, their college fund… I’ve yet had to tap
But the income to expenses…such an ever increasing gap.

When up on Wall Street there arose such a disaster,
I checked my 401k and couldn’t move things faster.
I tried to save all I could of my little nest egg of cash
But history repeats, and methinks this another crash.

So here we are staring into the abyss…
Of the next Great Depression…all from remiss.
We’ve been here before and should’ve learned our lesson.
Why we abandoned the wisdom of the past is anyone’s guessin.

So, in steps St. Paulson, that will save us from this wreck,
All we have to do now is sign over a blank check!
700 Trllion dollars no questions asked…
But you have to do it now, you have to do it quick and you have to do it fast.

So, Congress wrote the check without debate one on the floor.
And the money was allotted to the who, where and the what for,
They came from all over, big names well known,
To mismanaged financial giants, taxpayer money was thrown…

Now Suntrust! Now AIG, now JP Morgan and Chase!
Here! Citibank! Here Regions! Your debt we’ll erase!
To the CEOs and executives most funds shall fall!
But…Cash away, cash away, cash away all!!!

Now as you sit and wonder how…
Why do we buy the milk when we own the cow?
Money to banks, instead of directly to borrowers?
To the ideology of fascism these must be followers.

You will see it argued, the fault be Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac
How bankers were forced to lend under the Community Reinvestment Act.
But bankers do not engage in unprofitable propositions,
And the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cuts made for so many sweet commissions

In comes’ Ben Bernanke and his Federal Reserve…
With the promise of rate cuts and an economy preserved!!!
But supply side economics only works when…
There is a middle class and they have money to spend.

Bernanke cut the interest rates ever so low,
Lowest on record…practically zero!
So people could buy, but they still cannot afford,
All the imports brought in from U.S. trade policy accords.

So here we are again staring into the abyss,
A real substantive economic policy missed…
Here’s to hope that we move back to Eccles from Greenspan
Away from supply-side and back to demand.

When a democracy passes laws that neglects its own past,
And a policy of government that opposes middle class,
As FDR said; “Necessitous men are not [free.]”
I say; here…this New year, let failed policies be…

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

by Brian Golden 12/24/08

Where'd the bailout money go? Shhhh, it's a secret

2008-12-23T11:13:00.006-06:00

Oh, this will just piss you off...

Where'd the bailout money go? Shhhh, it's a secret

AP study finds $1.6B went to bailed-out bank execs

Write em...

Senator John Cornyn

Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison

Find your representative

MoP gonna save you money! Make it rain beeyotch!

2008-12-23T10:16:00.009-06:00

Here is a link to the UnionPlus website. It has information and links to discounts, bargains, consumer tips etc...not a bad site for union friendly rescources.
They do have some discounts worth looking over; they have up to 40% off movie tickets as well as some Dell Computer savings.
There is one discount offered by UnionPlus.org that can be beat over in Jetnet. As an AA employee you can get a 21% discount on AT&T products and services...
Jetnet+employee services+scroll to the bottom+in purple click services+AT&T link+print that page with the reference code+take it by a corporate store.

With economy in shambles, Congress gets a raise!

2008-12-23T09:41:00.007-06:00

Congress gives itself a raise.

typical...

Remember this?

Year-end Local 565 President's Message

2008-12-22T16:37:00.006-06:00

Local 565 Year-end President's message.

Nigel! Gerard!...don't make me come back there!

2008-12-22T10:14:00.007-06:00

The FAA has called for the pilots union and the company not to scrap their ASAP program.

It looks as if the two are in for a long drive to grandma's... Would you stop touching me! Mom he's on my side!... I hate you!...

MoP's prediction...A Decisive Arbitrary Decision-maker, D.A.D. (federal arbitrator) will pull the car over and straighten everything out before it gets nuts.

Hopefully next year, Mom's new husband will realize unions do all the chores and then the company will become the red-headed step child.

Lego my Eggo-beater

2008-12-20T21:18:00.009-06:00

The Danish investment company that also owns the toy manufacturer Lego, KIRK Kapital A/S, a is buying 39 ATR 72s from American Eagle, then will lease them back.

{Yeah, I thought the same thing...WTF?... Must be a creative-accounting/write-off thing.}

George Bush Dodges Everything!

2008-12-20T15:37:00.004-06:00

"Gitttin all Locke and Burke and s*"t!"

2008-12-20T10:30:00.011-06:00

"Locke and Burke"

Democrat or Republican, liberal or conservative; on economic issues, here is the question at its ideological core.

In our democracy; do businesses, commerce and the economy exist to serve our government: Or does our government exist to serve the economy, commerce and business?

The reason I prefaced that question with “in our Democracy” is this;

Because we are a government of the people, for the people and by the people; let me ask the question this way… Do businesses, commerce and the economy exist to serve We the People: Or do We the People exist to serve business, commerce and the economy?

I submit that we the people have lost sight of the purpose of government and that purpose is to serve We the people.

(Brought to you by MoP's Office of Redundancy Office;
working to help stamp-out and eliminate redundancy daily everyday.)

Quick Quote

2008-12-19T19:00:00.000-06:00

"[W]ealth has never yet sacrificed itself on the altar of patriotism." -Robert La Follette

2008-12-19T15:05:00.006-06:00

As expected...

The APFA and AA file for Federal mediation.

But MOM! I want the good cereal! Not Sam's-Flakes!

2008-12-17T13:59:00.025-06:00

Currently with the currency;

Over at the Wall street journal they did a piece on the falling value of the dollar compared to currencies around the world; Dollar Continues to Slide
Here is just part of the article;
Currency watchers said while dollar fundamentals remain bleak with the Fed having signaled a new era of ultra-low interest rates and quantitative easing, there has been no major catalyst for Wednesday's sudden and renewed moves lower. Rather, technical breaches of the dollar's post-Fed lows have brought momentum players back onside with the dollar downtrend, while thin trading conditions exaggerate the magnitude of intraday movements for many currency pairs.

WTF?
What do these economist eat for breakfast? Ambiguous biscuits smothered in garrulous gravy hold the brevity?
In layman's terms;
The people that make money trading money do not think the dollar is a good buy. And they are claiming they can't figure out exactly why. They are also saying, because a lot of people are trying to make money on the falling dollar, they hope it looks worse than it really is.

Now, let me explain what is really happening...
The federal reserve cut interest rates to practically zero and the rest of the world feels that the U.S. is simply printing money (which cheapens the value of the dollar). Now when you go to WalMart to buy something, it cost more because China is demanding more dollars for the imports they send here. But you aren't making anymore money to buy those Chinese goods. (see three post down You get nothing) So, you cut back on the dollars you spend, which perpetuates the catch 22 of supply side economics; and the fool's errand of trying to create real value in a service economy.

Good luck with that!
Sorry for the depressing post and the bad link...I'll find some good news tomorrow.
B.G.

Appropriate quote by T.J.

2008-12-17T09:54:00.013-06:00

"Fix reason firmly in her seat, and call to her tribunal every fact, every opinion. Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason, than that of blindfolded fear." -Thomas Jefferson

Kudos to the guest post. From the comments it looks as if he has ignited a spark of interest..
Good! I encourage the open dialogue and conversation and hope he post again soon.

2008-12-15T20:37:00.014-06:00

Guest Post;

This post is from a DFW Aircraft Mechanic...

December 15, 2008
When one see’s the bailouts of financial institutions and the abuse some of those institutions instilled by using the TARP monies for political contributions and corporate bonuses etc.. I wonder; when I find out that my union shop stewards are having a Christmas appreciation dinner in an elaborate expensive restaurant. Is it just as inappropriate as the misuse of funds by the financial institutions? Please, don't get me wrong. I appreciate the hard work our shop stewards do everyday and realize their commitment to the union and it's membership. However, we the membership are struggling financially and are demanding a contract that will bring back what we gave up in 2003. Are these expensive Christmas appreciation dinners paid for by the membership appropriate at a time when rank and file members are trying to make ends meet after the 2003 concessions?. I can understand a dinner at a moderate but nice restaurant….ie. Fridays or Chilis, but a high dollar restaurant?
I don’t understand the difference between this dinner and Arpey buying a condo in Cabo on the bonuses he received from his employees. I thought this new administration was going to be different from the past. I was under the impression that some of the leadership was bringing their own lunches to work instead of using expense money, which is an example never done by a prior administration.

I have high regards for our new administration. I believe that this is the first administration that has been elected by the membership for the membership. Now this might not be highly regarded as a major importance, but if you think about it; how is this any different than the Big Three, AIG or any other corporations that take money from the tax payer for their own gain instead of the gain of the entire company and its employees?
All I ask is before this administration has another event like this, that perhaps they think about their membership and hardships it is suffering during this difficult time when this company, who is sitting high on the hog, refuses to do the right thing to the very people that helped put them on that hog.

MoP's P.P. (Political Prediction)

2008-12-15T08:59:00.009-06:00

Obama has been naming cabinet post for his administration but has yet to name a replacement for Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao. (good riddance)
Let's just see if I have my finger on the pulse of American Politics. MoP's prediction/choice for Obama's Labor Secretary; Thomas Georghegan.

You Get Nothing!

2008-12-14T17:20:00.021-06:00

American/TWU; 12 days of talks end with...

No surprise here...NO DEAL!!! We are now heading for Federal Mediation.

Whats next? I found a flow chart over at the National Mediation Board (NMB) that explains what happens to us under the Railway Labor Act (RLA)

Remember the urgency for us to sign the concessionary contract in 2003? If we didn't act quickly our fate would be in the hands of a bankruptcy judge! Remember the reason Carty resigned? Everyone knows by now slogans like; “Pull together-Win together” and “Shared Sacrifice” espoused by the company are nothing more than hollow sound-bites and lies. The fact that today, American is dragging its feet, should come as no surprise either; I just wonder if this paradigm of simulated corporate integrity and feigned accountability to employees is in the GPM somewhere and I missed it.

But wait; We must also hold ourselves accountable. Click on the Share GAAin Pic...it is a link to the NMB timeline concerning Labor issues and it is telling. It's evident that back in the day, Labor didn't play. They fought hard for things that we so submissively surrendered under the guise of "saving the company." Notice how the last time the TWU took it to the mattresses was Pan-Am in 1985. Twenty three years later, we are the next generation. Are we leaving things better for the ones who will be here when we are gone? That would be a resounding NO. We have much work to do... the first step is the re-realization of the import of solidarity.

Reports about the no-deal by;

Dallas Morning News; American Airlines, union fail to hammer out quick deal.

Bloomberg; American Air, Baggage Handlers End Talks; Mediation May Be Next

Bailout Scam!

2008-12-13T08:33:00.010-06:00

Bill Moyers is one of the last true journalist in the media today. In this PBS video he speaks with Georgetown University Professor Emma Coleman Jordan about the 700 billion bailout.

This is just the sickest...

The fraud, graft, corruption and greed explained in this video will make you physically ill... but it is a must see. http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/12122008/watch.html

Civics Lesson

2008-12-13T07:43:00.007-06:00

Must watch civics lesson;

PBS; Bill Moyers speaks with constitutional lawyer Glenn Greenwald...

http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/12122008/watch.html

Aircraft Maintenance outsourcing and Drug Testing

2008-12-12T12:42:00.020-06:00

420: I don't smoke pot; that's my credit score after the concessions.

As you know AMTs working on aircraft in the U.S. are subject to random drug testing. I'm gonna give you a dijoono. Did you know that the U.S. is the only country in the world that requires the random drug testing of people that work in aviation? That fear of coked-up foreigners working on U.S. passenger aircraft might just work in our favor and help keep AMT jobs here in the United States.

Attempt at a solution...The Poe Amendment; H. AMDT. 805, H.R 2881.

Representative Ted Poe (R), from the 2nd district of Texas tried to attach an amendment to the FAA's re-authorization bill that would require any outsourced maintenance contractors outside the U.S. working on U.S. aircraft to be randomly drug tested like we are here in the states.

I called Congressman Poe's office in support of the amendment and was told the amendment failed to gain enough support...at least for this year.

But if it can be resurrected at the next FAA re-authorization bill, it could be the check valve that will prevent outsourcing & keep aircraft mechanic jobs here in the states!!!

The Aircraft Maintenance Technician best friend in congress; Representative Ted Poe, D.C. Office 202-225-6565

Click here for more information about The Poe Amendment For an op-Ed piece about it over at "Aviation Today" click here... http://www.aviationtoday.com/am/issue/departments/backshop/industryinsights/27952.html

Senate kills Bailout bill

2008-12-12T08:00:00.003-06:00

Bailout; UAW says full pay to the last day...

Senate republicans say nay...

Over at FOXnews (yes, I will sometimes post things by FOX) they have a story titled "United Auto Workers Lash Out at GOP Senators Over Bailout Collapse"

Here is the link...

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2008/12/12/auto-workers-union-lashes-gop-senators-bailout-collapse/

The UAW is absolutely right to refuse any more concessions. The big three are threatening bankruptcy if nothing is done is nothing new. Every union member at American has heard that lie...does this sound familiar? "So that there is absolutely no confusion or uncertainty, I must make completely clear that if we fail to secure flight attendant ratification by tomorrow… [April 16th]… we are regrettably left with no alternative but to immediately file for bankruptcy." [Don Carty]. (Ramstack)

The Senate republicans claim that if only the UAW accepts wage and benefit cuts to that of their counter parts at the non-union plants of Nissan, Toyota and Honda then the money will flow and it will be Popsicles rainbows and lollipops.

Does that mean the UAW will be required to give up their health insurance? That cost is a large part of the supposed $70 an hour that automakers pay. This link explains where the $70 number came from... http://mediamatters.org/items/200812060002

The non-union competition's health care cost is offset through the respective countries universal health care plans. We have to compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges.

Congratulations UAW for calling their bluff and standing firm...the time of the politics of fear will soon be at an end.

B.G.

Comments welcome and requested...

Ramstack, Tom. Airline Attendants Accept Pay, Benefits Cuts; American's Chairman Lauds Employees for Vote That Provides Reprieve from Bankruptcy. Newspaper Title: The Washington Times. Publication Date: April 17, 2003. Page Number: C10

Delta/Northwest

2008-12-10T00:46:00.007-06:00

Delta/Northwest; Seniority is everything.

The dust hasn't settled over at Delta/Northwest. The one news story I found about the trouble with the merger can be linked here: http://www.startribune.com/business/35776879.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aU7EaDiaMDCiUZ

Delta is trying to merge the seniority lists of its work groups before a free and fair election for union representation can be held. The IAM had filed a lawsuit earlier to force Delta to wait until a federal mediator calls the two one and then hold an election before preceding with the seniority list integration. Keep an eye on this one. If Delta's attempt to mesh seniority lists favor more non-union employees and a vote for representation is held...guess what.

UAW

2008-12-08T11:45:00.005-06:00

The Detroit News put together a piece called "Success in South America" "South of the Equator, Ford and GM Prosper"... http://detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/99999999/AUTO01/708210301/-1/SPECIAL&template=THEME&theme=AUTOS-SOUTH-AMERICA

It's the same old story. "U.S. workers should work harder for less money so that American companies can compete in this global economy." Notice in this video; http://info.detnews.com/video/index.cfm?id=1189
how they marvel at the efficiency of the plant in Brazil but not once do they mention wages, health care or benefits for the employees.

If you judge solely on efficiency...Hell, slavery was efficient!

More on the Southwest/AMFA tentative deal...

2008-12-07T19:51:00.010-06:00

AMFA has released more information about their tentative agreement with Southwest...

http://www.amfa11.com/CN/SWA_Negotiation_Update_13_200812051%20Final.pdf

At the end of a four year contract, with raises and potential bonuses, the mechanics at Southwest are looking at better than $45 an hour.

Congratulations guys and thanks for the precedent!

Employee Free Choice Act

2008-12-06T21:38:00.018-06:00

There is an important piece of legislation grinding its way through congress called The Employee Free Choice Act. I think it is one of the most progressive bills in favor of Labor to be presented before congress since the The Wagner Act of 1935.

The A.D.D. like me..."Hey look something shiny!" ...Summary: The E.F.C.A. will allow non-union shops to vote for union representation if they sign 50+1 cards. {Like the AMFA drive that failed in 04}Instead of signing a card to {authorize for a vote} for union representation; you sign a card {as a vote for} union representation.

Here are just two For & Against links so you can decide for yourself...
PRO: http://freechoiceact.org/petition/?source=ggl&gclid=CP_TlsnDrZcCFQIfswod2Xeshw
CON: http://www.unionfacts.com/articles/cardCheck.cfm

2008-12-06T20:12:00.001-06:00

Southwest/Mechanics Reach Tenative Deal

2008-12-06T19:08:00.005-06:00

Again, meanwhile over at Southwest...
As of post time CNN/Money seemed to have the most info about the tentative agreement...
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/djf500/200812051714DOWJONESDJONLINE000959_FORTUNE5.htm

The above graph came from American's negotiations web page. http://www.aanegotiations.com/default.asp

American's use of (WN) stands for either Southwest or "What!...Never!"

The Human Clock

2008-12-06T11:48:00.002-06:00

This is just a Cool Link:
Every minute a new image loads that tells the time. It may be a person holding a sign, Big Ben, a license number, or a street address. Submitted photos are encouraged...
http://www.humanclock.com/?s=1

Immigrant Song.

2008-12-05T20:13:00.000-06:00

Do you have what it takes to become a citizen?

MSNBC put together a sample of twenty questions that the INS asks immigrants before they can become a citizen. Try it here...
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/19552808/

By the way...The INS requires a score of 80 or better. Good Luck

Contract update websites.

2008-12-04T19:19:00.002-06:00

Information from the company on contract negotiations from all three unions can be found here: http://www.aanegotiations.com/default.asp

BUT...before you link above,

here is a walk down Bad-Memory Lane...

http://articles.latimes.com/2003/apr/17/business/fi-amr17

2008-12-04T14:22:00.000-06:00

Meanwhile...Over at Southwest...

An article over at TDAmeritrade declares...

[Indeed, Southwest employees are often described as among the most satisfied and best compensated in the industry, compared with, as one example, AMR Corp.'s American Airlines, which suffers from low morale stemming from mistrust between workers and management.]
["The attitude between Southwest an American Airlines employee is night and day," said Craig Hodges of Hodges Capital Investments, which holds sizable stakes in both companies. "American employees act like they hate their jobs and act like they're put out when you ask them for a pillow."]

Here is the link to the whole article.http://research.tdameritrade.com/public/stocks/news/story.asp?docKey=4018-0853494CB55743D99EA1CA346181A479-0GHS29VNRML5J77G7C26N1RF6S

2008-12-04T08:37:00.000-06:00

The Big Three Automakers are back... Good luck with that...

GM, Ford & Chrysler are back on the Hill today to plead with Congress for about 35 billion in loans.

My prediction...Not gonna get it.

Americans are becoming fed up with taxpayer funded bailouts and 61% believe we should let the automakers fail.

Over at the Boston globe there is an article about the recent poll and public disapproval...

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/12/poll_americans.html

Those kind of poll numbers will force Congress to vote with public sentiment. The Senate will send them packing and and most certainly into bankruptcy. The results are going to be disastrous for our unions brothers at the UAW but at some point this has to stop.

Senator Saxby Chambliss wins in GA

2008-12-03T14:25:00.000-06:00

Chambliss' runoff election win in Georgia means the magic number of a sixty has been denied. Democrats were hoping for 60 seats in the Senate to be able to block any Republican filibuster. As of now the count will be 58 to 41 with Minnesota in recount. But with today's progressive political momentum; party caucusing, at least for Conservatives, may be weakening. Any progressive legislation grinding its way through the Senate that is halted by a Republican filibuster; Dems will only need to sway one maybe two Republicans to move a bill forward.
There are as many as seven Senators that many conservatives believe are RINOs (Republican in name only) that might not tow the (R) party line...
1. Olympia Snowe (R. Maine)
2. Susan Collins (R. Maine)
3. Gordon Smith (R. Ore.)
4. Arlen Specter,(R. Pa.)
5. Coleman, Norm, (R. Minn.)
6. Richard Lugar (R. Ind.)
7. George Voinovich (R. Ohio)

Reuters has the full story about the Georgia Senate runoff...
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSN0152117620081203

2008-12-03T08:47:00.000-06:00

American Airlines complained to Federal mediators about the Pilots' and the progress of their negotiations . Trebor Banstetter over at SkyTAlk wrote a blog on the story...http://startelegram.typepad.com/sky_talk/2008/12/aa-blasts-union-pilots-walk-out.html

To see the what company negotiators presented to mediators click here.
http://www.aanegotiations.com/documents/NMBPresentationforAANegotiations3.pdf

2008 November Newsletter

2008-12-01T15:42:00.000-06:00

11/18/2008
The Mechanics of Politics
By Brian Golden
“When political news breaks; placard it!”

U.S. Senate; the election isn’t over just yet…

There are three U.S. Senate seats yet to be decided; Georgia, Minnesota and Alaska.
These three states are either in a runoff or in a recount. This is important. If all three states send a democratic Senator to Washington it will be the first time in almost thirty years that the democrats will have a filibuster proof 60 vote majority in the Senate. (58 to 40 with independents Senators Bernie Sanders (VT) and Joe Lieberman (CN) caucusing with the democrats) A filibuster is where the opposition/minority party can talk, talk and talk some more, on the senate floor effectively preventing a vote and thus the passage of any new legislation before the Senate. If incumbent republican Senators Ted Stevens of Alaska, Norm Coleman of MN and Saxby Chambliss of GA lose in their recount or runoff, the democrats will have the coveted sixty vote majority to defeat a republican filibuster and pretty-much pass any legislation they want. Your fingers are crossed if you’re a democrat; you’re biting your nails if you’re republican.
Confirmation of Supreme Court Justices by the Senate is another reason why these three seats are of import. A solid democratic majority in the Senate would more than likely confirm soundly left of center judges to the highest court in the land. The nominees that President Obama will bring before the Senate to replace the likely retiring left-leaning justices Ginsberg and Stevens, middle-of-the-road Kennedy, as well as the right leaning 72 year old Scalia, should he decide to retire, could tip the Robert’s court 6 to 3 towards the left. Depending on your politics this is great news or the end of civilization as we know it.

"I'm not a member of any organized political party, I'm a Democrat!" –
Will Rogers

U.S. House of Representatives
5 out of 435 undecided

There is a recount between Representative Don Young (R) and challenger Ethan Berkowitz (D) in Alaska. California’s 4th district democrat Charlie Brown is trailing Republican Tom Craddick by about a thousand votes with 40,000 still outstanding. In Ohio, Steve Stivers (R) is up by 393 to Mary Jo Kilroy (D) with 20,000 votes still uncounted. Louisiana’s 2nd and 4th district are voting December 6th because of hurricane Gustav. William Jefferson (D) is expected to win over Anh Cao (R); and Paul Carmouche (D) is up against republican John Fleming Jr. If the democrats win they should have a 259 to 156 majority in the house.

“Politics is just show business for ugly people.” - Jay Leno

Texas 81st Legislature
Early Bills before the house and Senate

On November 10th the early filing for legislative bills began in Austin. For the sake of this newsletter I have made a list of ten that caught my interest. As far as I can tell, there are none that have a direct impact on our local, union or industry, but again these are the early bills; There are some hot-button issues that are before the legislature this session but before you become enraged or get your hopes-up, remember School House Rock and “it’s only a bill” By way of comparison, last session; 6190 bills were introduced, 1481 passed, and 51 were vetoed by Gov. Perry.

Here are 10 of note:
HB 129 by State Rep. Roland Gutierrez (D-San Antonio): This bill would make it a law that the Texas Insurance Commissioner be elected as opposed to appointed. This has consumer protection written all over it...this is a good bill)
HJR 19 (House Joint Resolution) by State Rep. Mark Strama (D-Austin): This would change the Texas Constitution to create a non-partisan redistricting committee. Sounds good as long as it remains non-partisan.
SB 220 by Sen. Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville): Would prevent portions of non-toll roads from becoming toll roads. Who wouldn’t support this?
SB 245 by State Sen. Elliot Shapleigh (D- El Paso): Mandates significant testing and security of some electronic voting machines. This bill doesn’t go far enough with oversight, but it is a step in the right direction. This issue needs to be addressed nationally.
HB 20 by State Rep. David Leibowitz (D-San Antonio): this bill would exempt college text books from sales tax. That’s good; maybe a $20 savings on a $240 dollar book that will be obsolete next semester will pay the cover charge for the keg party at Delta house.
SB 105 by Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa (D- McAllen): a bill that imposes a college tuition freeze. Good luck with that Chuy...Whatever UT wants, UT gets.
HB 49 by State Rep. Debbie Riddle (R-Tomball): This bill would require local police (Yes… Barney, not the INS) to arrest and detain anyone that can not produce documentation of citizenship. The charge…? …Trespassing. “Papels por favor, documentación?” How do you say “papers please” in German?
HB 50 by State Rep. Debbie Riddle (R-Tomball): No more in-state tuition for illegal immigrants. I agree, but isn’t that effectively turning our state’s Universities and Colleges into agents of the INS… How... no, why is this even being discussed at the state level? Immigration is a federal problem, not Judy’s at the Dean’s office
HB 91 by State Rep. Dan Flynn (R Van): Bans state agencies from printing any public documents in Spanish. Yo no se, esta la ley? Donde estas me derechos civeles? HB 36 and SB 182, by State Rep. Frank Corte (D-San Antonio) and State Sen. Dan Patrick (R-Houston): Under current informed consent laws both of these bills would require physicians to show women seeking abortions in Texas ultra sound images of the fetus before the procedure. No comment

Acceptable responses to sick-call counseling

2008-12-01T13:26:00.000-06:00

After calling in sick and you are summoned before the kind folks at Lost-time & Attendance to atone for your transgressions; feel free to use these prepared responses. I hope they bring absolution.

The generic
It is with the deepest regret and heartfelt humility that I speak with you today concerning the recent use of my contractually allotted sick time. Due to unforeseen circumstances involving my health and well being I was unfortunately compelled to use the generous half-day sick pay benevolently bestowed upon me by my employer. I cannot begin to express the remorse and disappointment I have in myself and my immune system for having to expend such a magnanimous gift. Rest assured, from this day forth, it is my intent to strive for and achieve my most fervent goal of perfect attendance.

The Subservient
First let me say how much I value, respect and appreciate the hard work you and the lost time administration department have done for American Airlines and our bottom line. As an employee I strive for perfect attendance because I know we are a team at American and if we pull together we win together. Like the importance of the Critical departures throughout the day, I understand the importance of perfect attendance and I agree that every employee should place perfect attendance as a Priority one critical so that the mutually shared sacrifice each employee endures for the good of the company will ensure the success of American Airlines and Operation Cooperation.

The Patriot
Regrettably, I was forced to call-in sick on the date/s in question. With every fiber of my being I wanted to be here on that day and achieve my goal of perfect attendance. I want to contribute to the success of American Airlines. I understand that I am a valued employee with the world’s second largest airline and that makes me an integral part of the economy that is our great nation. In the future, my goal, or personal mission statement; shall be, “Ask not what American can do for me but rather what can I do for American.”

The Paulson
I would like to provide an update on the state of my health, my employment, and my strategy for continued implementation of what I call the sick-call rescue package. As I assess where I am today, I believe I have taken the necessary steps to prevent a broad systemic event. Both at home and at work I have already seen signs of improvement. My immune system is stronger and more stable than just a few weeks ago. Although this is a major accomplishment, there are many challenges ahead. My immune system remains fragile in the face of the bacterial onslaught that resulted in a well being downturn as well as a significant loss to my economic fluidity resulting from the half day sick pay I was forced to take in my weakened condition. Sick call turmoil should abate now that the biggest part of the health correction is behind me. For now my primary focus is recovery and repair of my perfect attendance record.

The MLK
I have a dream. That one day I will be judged not by the failure of my immune system but by the content of my character and history of my work ethic. I dream of a day when as an employee of American Airlines I can call in sick without fear of retribution or sick-call counseling. I envision a promised land where employees are treated with mutual respect and regarded by management as equals in furthering the interest of the company. I am certain that one day this shall come to pass. I may not see it in my career but I believe one day we shall reach the promised land of understanding and mutual respect, where pulling together actually means working together and winning together.

The Bixby
Dear Madam,
I have been shown in the files of Lost Time Administration the statement that I have used five sick-days on the field of battle for my health.
I feel how weak and fruitless must be any word of mine which should attempt to beguile you from the grief of a loss so overwhelming. But I cannot refrain from tendering you the consolation that may be found in the thanks of the one person's health for which they were expended.
I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of my health and well-being
Yours, very sincerely and respectfully,

The Mechanics of Politics

Alec Baldwin might Challenge Joe Lieberman in 2012

Obama and 'change'...Iran Prediction...

Has anything 'really' --- Changed?'

Really? Five months!?

Sotomayor Cartoon

Texas Independence?

Holy Crap! I thought, Reagan 'proved' deficits didn't matter!!!

Texas lege...Watching a bad movie...

Texas lege...Watching a bad movie...

Texas Lege...Watching a bad movie...

The Texas legislature ends tonight...

'Minnesota'...isn't that Sioux for 'enough already'?

Really!? ...WOW!

Rachel Maddow and the EFCA

100th post!!!

I stumbled across this looking for something else...Politics aside, this guy has talent...

This Miracle Brought to You by America’s Union Members

I feel vindicated!! Hooray Me!

MoP's prediction; A retraction and an apology to Limbaugh by Wednesday.

Gun Control...Isn't that hitting your target?

Back to politics...

De-motivational Posters

Hey where are the wing walkers...Oh wait...

Recent Post removal...

YouTube Video...blade imbalance

Where is Hillary?

Tommy Boy's little brother?

Headline news from around the world...

Alternate runway Hudson L or Hudson R?

565 Membership Meeting Highlights

Death Clock

Highlights from the Negotiation Committee Meeting at 565...

AA Employee Hailed as Hero

Apples to Oranges?

You might have missed it...

WHERE IS LABOR?

Opining from the right...

Concerning the comparisons of Obama to FDR;...We can only hope...

Having a blast in St Martin! ...A 757 jet-blast...

60 Minutes on the TSA...

Hey! That AOA vane is 1 degree off...

Is a corporate oligarchy the same thing as facism?

Know Your Senator? John Cornyn;

Know your Senator? Kay Bailey Hutchison;

Calvin & Hobbes economics. (Click for larger)

Fuel hedging "cost" AA money

Comments Anyone?

Merry Christmas!!! Twas the Night before Bailout

Where'd the bailout money go? Shhhh, it's a secret

MoP gonna save you money! Make it rain beeyotch!

With economy in shambles, Congress gets a raise!

Year-end Local 565 President's Message

Nigel! Gerard!...don't make me come back there!

Lego my Eggo-beater

George Bush Dodges Everything!

"Gitttin all Locke and Burke and s*"t!"

Quick Quote

But MOM! I want the good cereal! Not Sam's-Flakes!

Appropriate quote by T.J.

MoP's P.P. (Political Prediction)

You Get Nothing!

Bailout Scam!

Civics Lesson

Aircraft Maintenance outsourcing and Drug Testing

Senate kills Bailout bill

Delta/Northwest

UAW

More on the Southwest/AMFA tentative deal...

Employee Free Choice Act

Southwest/Mechanics Reach Tenative Deal

The Human Clock

Immigrant Song.

Contract update websites.

Senator Saxby Chambliss wins in GA

2008 November Newsletter

Acceptable responses to sick-call counseling