What a week for Democrats!! The Obama rally Saturday was inspiring and then being able to drive back to Gooding for the Democrat Caucus last Tuesday was frosting on the cake. It was great visiting with everyone and listening to politics served up grassroots-style. Gooding County about doubled their last caucus numbers. Also heard great reports from the rest of the District 25 caucuses.
Bad news appeared on the economic scene. Tax receipts are down $35 million for January. If this trend continues, it will not bode well for agency budgets and establishment or continuation of programs. Bare bones budgets are hard on all concerned.
This is the last week for Routing Slips (RS) to be introduced in our afternoon committees (for me Agriculture and Natural Resources). Not only am I listening to 5-8 new concepts being introduced each committee, but was also tying up loose ends and generating support for an RS with Rep. Eskridge dealing with the operation and use of state outdoor sport shooting ranges. It establishes a uniform noise standard for these ranges and offers them grandfather protections from nuisance actions resulting from new housing moving in around them. There is great support state wide from sportsmen and it will be heard Monday.
No concrete information on a teacher pay plan. There is the possibility that the category 4 contract (the one requiring teachers to give up continuing contract) will be dropped as part of the pay plan. Still some movement to better train administrators to evaluate teachers and to supervise improvement plans designed to help a teacher become more proficient. There is a still a lot of support for concurrent enrollment in our high schools. This would allow students to take classes which qualify for both high school credit and college credit at the same time. This would enable students in some cases to graduate from high school with enough credits for an AA degree. College of Southern Idaho is working hard to develop classes available in the Magic Valley. A longitudinal data system which would enable instant access to individual records by authorized individuals looks to be a go. If a student were to move to Gooding from Sandpoint, this system would enable a teacher to instantly access records and put that student in classes at his or her proper level. There will be many other educational uses for this type of statewide data system.
Are you aware of the Department of Corrections has the Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) program? This is a free, automated hotline that provides crime victims with vital information and notification 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. This service will allow you to obtain offender information and to register for notification of a change in offender status, such as offender release. This program offers peace of mind to victims of crime and does protect the public. Visit the Idaho VINE hotline at 1-866-9VINE-ID or visit http://www.vinelink.com/.
The Lincoln, Camas, Blaine and Gooding County elected officials were in Boise this week. It was great to talk with all of you. Thanks for the work you do and for the great ideas you come up with for making Idaho such a great place to live.
If you are in town, drop in and personally give me your opinions. Otherwise phone me at 1-208-332-1271, e-mail at dpence@house.idaho.gov, or write P.O. Box 83720, Boise, Idaho 83720-0038
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Education. Show all posts
Friday, February 08, 2008
Rep. Pence: Legislative Report Week 4
The week began with the news of Senator Stennett’s impending surgery. I am thankful that he was up and moving around quickly and was released Thursday. He will be in all our prayers as he continues his treatments in pursuit of recovery.
The Senate Education committee was scheduled to take up the iStars and We Teach Bills last Wednesday, but action was postponed. It appears neither of these concepts have enough approval to make it through committee. There is an effort to salvage the concept of rewarding effective teachers with additional pay. This may take the form of fewer steps or reduced amounts for each step. With tax income falling below expectations, legislators are wary of ongoing commitments of this magnitude. Any bill which ties relinquishing a continuing contract to eligibility to receive a step up the career ladder, will not get my vote.
One of the results of this summer’s Interim Water Resources Committee is H404. It asks for $20 million over ten years to develop aquifer planning and management throughout Idaho. These funds will be used to provide technical studies, facilitation services, hydrologic monitoring, and for the development of measurement and comprehensive plans for these aquifers. Water is becoming a valuable commodity and the need for comprehensive plans aimed at achieving aquifer sustainability is a necessary long-term goal. These plans will also provide data which will help to protect Idaho’s water as we confer with Washington officials over cross boarder water issues near Coeur d’ Alene.
Speaking of water, what about the snow this week? I trust it extended to the east as well. If so, it would go a long way in easing the anxiety over those pending shut down orders on irrigation wells all along the Snake River Aquifer.
The State Board of Education recently released a 113-page report concerning Medical Education in Idaho. This preliminary study was contracted to MGT of America. This report documented that a significant need for more physicians exists in Idaho. In addition the following results were noted:
· Access to physicians by the general population is extremely limited.
· Many of Idaho’s physicians are 55 or older and nearing retirement.
· Idaho’s population base is sufficient to support the clinical part of medical education.
· There are a number of highly qualified Idaho students seeking medical education.
· Idaho is dead last among states in the number of seats available in medical education.
· Less populated states have supported medical schools for years.
· Healthcare is an important component in the national economy, but much less so in Idaho.
· Idaho’s limited investment in medical education makes us ill-prepared to compete for a share of the rapidly expanding biomedical industry.
As a result of this report, the following four alternatives for medical education were identified.
· Create a new university–operated medical school on the distributive model. Sixty - one hundred students could be enrolled per class. Students take introductory courses on the university campus for two years and complete two years clinical training at several sites across the state (lead to a M.D. or equivalent degree)
· Expand the package of contract programs with medical schools in other states. (University of Washington and University of Utah, Others?)
· Develop a new joint medical school from current medical education resources. This approach would draw from the medical education resources of the three state universities.
· Expand graduate medical education (residency) programs in the state.
The Board spokesman, Mark Browning, emphasized that a cost benefit analysis of the data will be forth coming and will be important in any decision. A Medical Education Study Committee has been formed and will be meeting from March through May. Included in their proposed activities are public meetings at five sites around the state in April. Twin Falls is one of the sites and would be a good place to voice your opinions.
Recommendations from the committee are scheduled at the June Board Meeting. If you want to look more closely at the report, it is available through the Office of the State Board of Education [click here].
If you are in town, drop in and personally give me your opinions.
Otherwise, phone me at 1-208-332-1271, e-mail at dpence@house.idaho.gov, or write P.O. Box 83720, Boise, Idaho 83720-0038
The Senate Education committee was scheduled to take up the iStars and We Teach Bills last Wednesday, but action was postponed. It appears neither of these concepts have enough approval to make it through committee. There is an effort to salvage the concept of rewarding effective teachers with additional pay. This may take the form of fewer steps or reduced amounts for each step. With tax income falling below expectations, legislators are wary of ongoing commitments of this magnitude. Any bill which ties relinquishing a continuing contract to eligibility to receive a step up the career ladder, will not get my vote.
One of the results of this summer’s Interim Water Resources Committee is H404. It asks for $20 million over ten years to develop aquifer planning and management throughout Idaho. These funds will be used to provide technical studies, facilitation services, hydrologic monitoring, and for the development of measurement and comprehensive plans for these aquifers. Water is becoming a valuable commodity and the need for comprehensive plans aimed at achieving aquifer sustainability is a necessary long-term goal. These plans will also provide data which will help to protect Idaho’s water as we confer with Washington officials over cross boarder water issues near Coeur d’ Alene.
Speaking of water, what about the snow this week? I trust it extended to the east as well. If so, it would go a long way in easing the anxiety over those pending shut down orders on irrigation wells all along the Snake River Aquifer.
The State Board of Education recently released a 113-page report concerning Medical Education in Idaho. This preliminary study was contracted to MGT of America. This report documented that a significant need for more physicians exists in Idaho. In addition the following results were noted:
· Access to physicians by the general population is extremely limited.
· Many of Idaho’s physicians are 55 or older and nearing retirement.
· Idaho’s population base is sufficient to support the clinical part of medical education.
· There are a number of highly qualified Idaho students seeking medical education.
· Idaho is dead last among states in the number of seats available in medical education.
· Less populated states have supported medical schools for years.
· Healthcare is an important component in the national economy, but much less so in Idaho.
· Idaho’s limited investment in medical education makes us ill-prepared to compete for a share of the rapidly expanding biomedical industry.
As a result of this report, the following four alternatives for medical education were identified.
· Create a new university–operated medical school on the distributive model. Sixty - one hundred students could be enrolled per class. Students take introductory courses on the university campus for two years and complete two years clinical training at several sites across the state (lead to a M.D. or equivalent degree)
· Expand the package of contract programs with medical schools in other states. (University of Washington and University of Utah, Others?)
· Develop a new joint medical school from current medical education resources. This approach would draw from the medical education resources of the three state universities.
· Expand graduate medical education (residency) programs in the state.
The Board spokesman, Mark Browning, emphasized that a cost benefit analysis of the data will be forth coming and will be important in any decision. A Medical Education Study Committee has been formed and will be meeting from March through May. Included in their proposed activities are public meetings at five sites around the state in April. Twin Falls is one of the sites and would be a good place to voice your opinions.
Recommendations from the committee are scheduled at the June Board Meeting. If you want to look more closely at the report, it is available through the Office of the State Board of Education [click here].
If you are in town, drop in and personally give me your opinions.
Otherwise, phone me at 1-208-332-1271, e-mail at dpence@house.idaho.gov, or write P.O. Box 83720, Boise, Idaho 83720-0038
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Rep. Jaquet: Legislative Report Week 4
Thank you to so many of you who have touched base to check on Senator Clint Stennett. Clint is recuperating from his surgery at his Boise rental house and is planning to come back to work shortly. He gets to look forward to chemo/radiation, but he’s a tough guy and we know that he’ll be setting records for his recovery!
I’m hoping to see many of you at the Senator Barack Obama Rally on Saturday, February 2. The doors open at 7:00 am and I’m intending to be there between 7 and 7:30. I believe that Obama is our best chance for change. He has ignited young and old people around his candidacy. He represents a transformation regarding business as usual in Washington DC. I’m planning on attending my caucus in Blaine County, Tuesday, February 5. I’m carpooling with Jon Thorson, who is sitting in for Clint, and with Commissioners Schoen and Bowman who will be in Boise for a County conference.
Food tax: The Republicans introduced a complicated expansion of the grocery tax credit this week. I’m hoping that the Chairman of the Rev and Tax committee will allow us to introduce our bill which takes the sales tax off food over a six year period. There is also a Republican bill which has a similar approach. It’s so much easier to do it at the cash register!
School construction bond subsidy access: Several years ago a safe schools bond program was developed which was utilized by seven school districts including Wendell. Wendell had tried to pass a bond for a new middle school. Their old school had been condemned. The second time around with the subsidy it was successful. Now, Wendell would like to present a new request for voter consideration which includes an agriculture/technology and athletic expansion. We discovered that Wendell, because they had taken advantage of the first program, would not be able to access the new program which all districts now had the benefit of. Today I’m presenting legislation which will open this back up to the 7 districts including Wendell. The chair of the Revenue and Taxation Committee has asked to be a co-sponsor.
Energy Efficient State Energy Act: This week in the House Environment Affairs committee this bipartisan bill passed out of committee and it will now go to the House floor for a vote. The bill will require all major state buildings, and building renovations, to be designed, constructed and certified to a standard that achieves energy savings at least 30% greater than the current state approved energy code. I support this bill.
Next Monday is the deadline for draft requests for new legislation. That puts pressure on us to get our bills drafted, reviewed and into the committee chairs. Bills that are not drafted by then don’t have much of a chance to get across to the Senate for approval. I’m scrambling.
Good to hear from so many of you this week. It is always good to have the Representatives from the Association of Idaho Cities.
Let me hear from you: Phone: 1-800-626- 0471 email: wjaquet@house.idaho.gov
I’m hoping to see many of you at the Senator Barack Obama Rally on Saturday, February 2. The doors open at 7:00 am and I’m intending to be there between 7 and 7:30. I believe that Obama is our best chance for change. He has ignited young and old people around his candidacy. He represents a transformation regarding business as usual in Washington DC. I’m planning on attending my caucus in Blaine County, Tuesday, February 5. I’m carpooling with Jon Thorson, who is sitting in for Clint, and with Commissioners Schoen and Bowman who will be in Boise for a County conference.
Food tax: The Republicans introduced a complicated expansion of the grocery tax credit this week. I’m hoping that the Chairman of the Rev and Tax committee will allow us to introduce our bill which takes the sales tax off food over a six year period. There is also a Republican bill which has a similar approach. It’s so much easier to do it at the cash register!
School construction bond subsidy access: Several years ago a safe schools bond program was developed which was utilized by seven school districts including Wendell. Wendell had tried to pass a bond for a new middle school. Their old school had been condemned. The second time around with the subsidy it was successful. Now, Wendell would like to present a new request for voter consideration which includes an agriculture/technology and athletic expansion. We discovered that Wendell, because they had taken advantage of the first program, would not be able to access the new program which all districts now had the benefit of. Today I’m presenting legislation which will open this back up to the 7 districts including Wendell. The chair of the Revenue and Taxation Committee has asked to be a co-sponsor.
Energy Efficient State Energy Act: This week in the House Environment Affairs committee this bipartisan bill passed out of committee and it will now go to the House floor for a vote. The bill will require all major state buildings, and building renovations, to be designed, constructed and certified to a standard that achieves energy savings at least 30% greater than the current state approved energy code. I support this bill.
Next Monday is the deadline for draft requests for new legislation. That puts pressure on us to get our bills drafted, reviewed and into the committee chairs. Bills that are not drafted by then don’t have much of a chance to get across to the Senate for approval. I’m scrambling.
Good to hear from so many of you this week. It is always good to have the Representatives from the Association of Idaho Cities.
Let me hear from you: Phone: 1-800-626- 0471 email: wjaquet@house.idaho.gov
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Winning the war? At what cost?
In a casual conversation the other day, a very sweet but very conservative gentleman commented that America needed to "win the war".
First of all, can someone tell me what we "win"? Is there a prize, a trophy, a ribbon that I don't know about?
Or is this about ego? Is this like the man who refuses to ask directions-- because he refuses to admit he's lost?
Are we banging our heads against the wall... in order to demolish the building... in order to say we cleared the lot for a new structure? What good is it to have a new structure after we've bashed our brains in for twenty years trying to remove the wall?
Just think, if the taxpayers in my congressional district (2-Rep. Mike Simpson) didn't spend our $206.6 million that we are instead spending on the Iraq War in FY2008, our district would be able to provide...
First of all, can someone tell me what we "win"? Is there a prize, a trophy, a ribbon that I don't know about?
Or is this about ego? Is this like the man who refuses to ask directions-- because he refuses to admit he's lost?
Are we banging our heads against the wall... in order to demolish the building... in order to say we cleared the lot for a new structure? What good is it to have a new structure after we've bashed our brains in for twenty years trying to remove the wall?
Just think, if the taxpayers in my congressional district (2-Rep. Mike Simpson) didn't spend our $206.6 million that we are instead spending on the Iraq War in FY2008, our district would be able to provide...
- 56,247 Idahoans with Health Care OR
- 171,088 Homes with Renewable Electricity OR
- 5,088 Public Safety Officers OR
- 3,920 Music and Arts Teachers OR
- 52,071 Scholarships for University Students OR
- 22 New Elementary Schools OR
- 1,903 Affordable Housing Units OR
- 131,142 Children with Health Care OR
- 23,974 Head Start Places for Children OR
- 3,920 Elementary School Teachers
This is our money... used for the war in Iraq. I guess Idaho doesn't have residents needing health care, children needing teachers or schools, young people needing help with tuition, or families needing affordable housing.
So... tell me... who's winning what here? And who is really paying for it?
Thursday, November 08, 2007
More Republican family values
So what will Luna do? Make excuses or throw him under the bus? I guess the days of "compassionate conservatism" are long over... I must have slept through them or something...
A Nampa man is on the run, charged with inappropriately touching a child and the suspect is related to the state leader for Idaho's education system.
James D. Luna is charged with lewd conduct of a child under 16-years-old. Court documents filed in Canyon County, show the victim told police Luna began touching her in 2000, to quote: "Make her feel better."
The victim says that sexual conduct happened more than 20 times during a five year span from when she was nine, until she was 14-years-old.Police say in those documents Luna admitted the crimes during a taped phone call between him and the victim.
He is the brother of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna.
CBS 2 Eyewitness News talked to one mom who says Superintendent Luna needs to help protect kids but what his brother is accused of shouldn't make a difference on his role as a state educational leader.
"What his brother is involved in I don't think he should be, you know, necessarily held responsible for that, I mean it wasn't something he specifically did," said Susan Faulkner as she waited to pick up her daughter from middle school.
Police say James Luna admitted to touching the girl and allegedly said he had a problem and needs help, but isn't sure there is anyone who can help him. Luna was last seen driving a Beige/white Mazda M3 with Idaho license plate 2CDA064.
They say Luna could be armed. You are urged to call Nampa Police at #465-2257 if you have any information.
CBS 2 Eyewitness News called Superintendent Tom Luna's office but so far no one has called back.
Additional Links
Man Wanted for Sexual Conduct with Child
Story Created: Oct 25, 2007 at 5:09 PM MST
By Kiersten Throndsen
A Nampa man is on the run, charged with inappropriately touching a child and the suspect is related to the state leader for Idaho's education system.
James D. Luna is charged with lewd conduct of a child under 16-years-old. Court documents filed in Canyon County, show the victim told police Luna began touching her in 2000, to quote: "Make her feel better."
The victim says that sexual conduct happened more than 20 times during a five year span from when she was nine, until she was 14-years-old.Police say in those documents Luna admitted the crimes during a taped phone call between him and the victim.
He is the brother of State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna.
CBS 2 Eyewitness News talked to one mom who says Superintendent Luna needs to help protect kids but what his brother is accused of shouldn't make a difference on his role as a state educational leader.
"What his brother is involved in I don't think he should be, you know, necessarily held responsible for that, I mean it wasn't something he specifically did," said Susan Faulkner as she waited to pick up her daughter from middle school.
Police say James Luna admitted to touching the girl and allegedly said he had a problem and needs help, but isn't sure there is anyone who can help him. Luna was last seen driving a Beige/white Mazda M3 with Idaho license plate 2CDA064.
They say Luna could be armed. You are urged to call Nampa Police at #465-2257 if you have any information.
CBS 2 Eyewitness News called Superintendent Tom Luna's office but so far no one has called back.
Additional Links
...After a grand jury indictment, 43-year-old Luna was arraigned on charges that he allegedly sexually abused a female family member from the time she was 9 years old until she was 14.
"By having manual to genital contact, and or oral to genital contact with the intent to arouse, appeal to, and or gratify lust, passion, and or desire of the defendant, and or the minor child. Do you understand that charge sir?" asked the judge.
"Yes sir," replied Luna.
Many of the details involved in the indictment come from a recorded conversation between Luna and the victim in which he allegedly admits to the abuse, and even tells the girl that he needs help, but isn't sure anyone can offer him the help he needs...
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
I just wish he'd kiss me first...
WARNING: If you are sensitive to suggestive/racy/risque videos, do NOT watch this! They don't "show" anything but it is VERY suggestive.
That being said, it's pretty funny... in a sad sad way.
Thanks, Lane at News For The Left, for sharing this!
That being said, it's pretty funny... in a sad sad way.
Thanks, Lane at News For The Left, for sharing this!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Luna challenged to be a man...
Thank God for people like Joe Vandal over at IdahoFallz.com! He doesn't waste time pussyfooting around, but is open and up front with his challenge to Luna--explain the discrepancies or admit the lies.
Joe Vandal points out that Luna keeps dancing around the subject and ignores the questions... instead Luna hides behind the skirts of his former boss--who tries to convince us that the REPORTER was the one who lied, not Luna.
No, the reporter was not fired. And in case anybody STILL thinks that Luna is just misunderstood, Joe Vandal points out the following:
Discrepancy #1: Luna claims he was a presidential appointee, however the 2004 Plum Book (page 55) describes Thomas R. Luna as an “SC” type of appointment, defined on page 5 as a “Schedule C Excepted Appointment”. A presidential appointment is defined as “PA” or “PAS” types. How does Luna counter this evidence?
Discrepancy #2: Luna claims he was a “Senior Advisor”, however the same 2004 Plum Book entry describes Thomas R. Luna as a “Special Assistant”. How does Luna counter this evidence? Does Tom Luna have a certificate or promotion papers that describes him as a “Senior Advisor”?
Discrepancy #3: Luna’s federal pay grade is described in the same 2004 Plum Book entry as a GS-15, indeed a few pay levels lower than what a presidential appointee would earn. This bolsters the AP reporter’s argument. How does Tom Luna counter this evidence? Does Tom Luna have a pay stub describing him at a higher pay grade?
Discrepancy #4: Luna claims he had several meetings with President George Bush and Bill Hansen, but the AP story said Hansen did not recall any. Given that Bill Hansen has attacked the AP story, does Bill Hansen now remember these meetings with President Bush and Tom Luna? Does Tom Luna have records of any meetings with President Bush? (Note: Staged photos in front of the desk are not enough.)
Joe Vandal reminds us that "Luna has said he will demand accountability from our schools. We Idahoans will demand accountability from Luna to answer these allegations before he lays his fingers on our schools."
In the Comments section, it is pointed out that Luna won by a small margin... and it's probably safe to say that those same voters would NOT have voted for Luna if he had admitted that he lied about his background... or had even honestly reflected his less-than-qualifying experiences in the first place! FYI, a recall can begin 90 days after Luna takes office (not 90 days after he was privately sworn into office).
Stop by Tom Luna Must Directly Answer Allegations or Face Consequences and read the whole post... send it on to friends... heck, send it to Tom himself and let him know, that as an Idahoan AND a voter, that you want him to answer these questions!
Joe Vandal points out that Luna keeps dancing around the subject and ignores the questions... instead Luna hides behind the skirts of his former boss--who tries to convince us that the REPORTER was the one who lied, not Luna.
No, the reporter was not fired. And in case anybody STILL thinks that Luna is just misunderstood, Joe Vandal points out the following:
Discrepancy #1: Luna claims he was a presidential appointee, however the 2004 Plum Book (page 55) describes Thomas R. Luna as an “SC” type of appointment, defined on page 5 as a “Schedule C Excepted Appointment”. A presidential appointment is defined as “PA” or “PAS” types. How does Luna counter this evidence?
Discrepancy #2: Luna claims he was a “Senior Advisor”, however the same 2004 Plum Book entry describes Thomas R. Luna as a “Special Assistant”. How does Luna counter this evidence? Does Tom Luna have a certificate or promotion papers that describes him as a “Senior Advisor”?
Discrepancy #3: Luna’s federal pay grade is described in the same 2004 Plum Book entry as a GS-15, indeed a few pay levels lower than what a presidential appointee would earn. This bolsters the AP reporter’s argument. How does Tom Luna counter this evidence? Does Tom Luna have a pay stub describing him at a higher pay grade?
Discrepancy #4: Luna claims he had several meetings with President George Bush and Bill Hansen, but the AP story said Hansen did not recall any. Given that Bill Hansen has attacked the AP story, does Bill Hansen now remember these meetings with President Bush and Tom Luna? Does Tom Luna have records of any meetings with President Bush? (Note: Staged photos in front of the desk are not enough.)
Joe Vandal reminds us that "Luna has said he will demand accountability from our schools. We Idahoans will demand accountability from Luna to answer these allegations before he lays his fingers on our schools."
In the Comments section, it is pointed out that Luna won by a small margin... and it's probably safe to say that those same voters would NOT have voted for Luna if he had admitted that he lied about his background... or had even honestly reflected his less-than-qualifying experiences in the first place! FYI, a recall can begin 90 days after Luna takes office (not 90 days after he was privately sworn into office).
Stop by Tom Luna Must Directly Answer Allegations or Face Consequences and read the whole post... send it on to friends... heck, send it to Tom himself and let him know, that as an Idahoan AND a voter, that you want him to answer these questions!
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Googling Tom Luna
Mr. Rural ED: Whatever Happened to Tom Luna?
A few of us have been wondering about whatever happened to Tom Luna. Some of you will remember him as the Director of the U.S. Department of Education's ...
The Sniff Test: Tom Luna
The Statesman got very caught up in the fact that Tom Luna doesn't sound like a ... I can't help thinking Tom Luna, with his penchant for state control of ...
A few of us have been wondering about whatever happened to Tom Luna. Some of you will remember him as the Director of the U.S. Department of Education's ...
The Sniff Test: Tom Luna
The Statesman got very caught up in the fact that Tom Luna doesn't sound like a ... I can't help thinking Tom Luna, with his penchant for state control of ...
Luna story disputed...
Letter to the editor in the Times-News, 12/20/2006:
Source disputes reporting in story about Luna
Over the last 25 years, I have been deeply involved in education policy and politics in federal and state government, as well as the corporate, non-profit and university sectors.
During this time, I have had hundreds of opportunities to work with the media in all forms. I have had great respect for the media, as reporters have generally reported facts in an honest and straightforward manner. Unfortunately, an Associated Press story by Jesse Harlan Alderman is a stunning exception.
The story, about Superintendent-elect Tom Luna is sloppy, slanted and much ado about nothing.Simply put, there has never, ever been any question that Tom Luna was a political appointee, serving President Bush and Secretary Paige at the U.S. Department of Education. Tom's capsulation of his work in Washington, D.C., has been accurate to the letter.
Mr. Alderman misrepresents my statements in order to support his faulty premise that Luna "embellished" his resume and "misrepresented his position" with the department.
Mr. Alderman's premise is tenuous at best. Even he acknowledged he was "splitting hairs."Tom Luna is a man of integrity, and until today, that integrity has never been questioned. In fact, Tom's work at the department was stellar. He represented Secretary Paige and President Bush with honor and distinction.
The voters of Idaho have spoken, and they are anxious to let Tom get to work improving student achievement for Idaho's children.
Mr. Alderman and the Associated Press owe Tom a formal apology.
WILLIAM D. HANSEN
Washington, D.C.
(Editor's note: William D. Hansen, a former U.S. deputy Secretary of Education, is the senior managing director for Chartwell Education Group LLC in Washington, D.C.)
Background:
Tom Luna "embellished" resume?
Tom Luna "restructuring" Dept of Ed
Source disputes reporting in story about Luna
Over the last 25 years, I have been deeply involved in education policy and politics in federal and state government, as well as the corporate, non-profit and university sectors.
During this time, I have had hundreds of opportunities to work with the media in all forms. I have had great respect for the media, as reporters have generally reported facts in an honest and straightforward manner. Unfortunately, an Associated Press story by Jesse Harlan Alderman is a stunning exception.
The story, about Superintendent-elect Tom Luna is sloppy, slanted and much ado about nothing.Simply put, there has never, ever been any question that Tom Luna was a political appointee, serving President Bush and Secretary Paige at the U.S. Department of Education. Tom's capsulation of his work in Washington, D.C., has been accurate to the letter.
Mr. Alderman misrepresents my statements in order to support his faulty premise that Luna "embellished" his resume and "misrepresented his position" with the department.
Mr. Alderman's premise is tenuous at best. Even he acknowledged he was "splitting hairs."Tom Luna is a man of integrity, and until today, that integrity has never been questioned. In fact, Tom's work at the department was stellar. He represented Secretary Paige and President Bush with honor and distinction.
The voters of Idaho have spoken, and they are anxious to let Tom get to work improving student achievement for Idaho's children.
Mr. Alderman and the Associated Press owe Tom a formal apology.
WILLIAM D. HANSEN
Washington, D.C.
(Editor's note: William D. Hansen, a former U.S. deputy Secretary of Education, is the senior managing director for Chartwell Education Group LLC in Washington, D.C.)
Background:
Tom Luna "embellished" resume?
Tom Luna "restructuring" Dept of Ed
Sunday, December 17, 2006
In honor of my brother...
This is a re-post... just in case someone needs an end-of-the-year tax write-off! For the sake of this scholarship, I have NO pride!! (except the pride I feel for my brother...)
On my blog, per my family's request, I have deliberately tried to avoid any mention of my brother, especially by name. The following request has nothing to do with Democrats or Republicans, but it is to honor my brother, his memory, and one of his passions.
My brother, Major Alan Blake Rowe, was killed in Iraq on Sept. 3, 2004. It was his fourth deployment and he'd been "in country" less than a week. He left behind a wonderful wife and two precious children.
One of my brother's serious interests (along with Broncos!) was Political Science. One of our favorite family stories is about the luncheon Alan attended with my father around age 6, where he sat next to then-Governor of Idaho, Cecil Andrus. From what I've been told, he chatted with Governor Andrus throughout the meal.
In the early 1990s, Alan worked as an intern for Idaho State Senator Laird Noh:
Alan received his Associates at the College of Southern Idaho and his Bachelor's at Boise State University, majoring in Political Science. After his death, one of his professors at CSI started a scholarship fund, "The Alan Rowe Memorial Political Science Scholarship". The only guideline attached at this point is that it will be used to fund a scholarship for a student studying political science at CSI.
No funds have been distributed because we need to raise the balance to a $10,000 endowment level. Since my brother was killed, our first concerns were for the educational fund for the children, then a fundraiser for families of local (Magic Valley) deployed Guard members, and then another fundraiser for TAPS (for families of other KIAs), so this is our first major request for donations.
Please consider supporting this opportunity to continue my brother's memory and honor his commitment to education and Political Science.
Thank you.
Donations should be made out to:
And mailed to:
Thank you so very much,
Diana Rowe Pauls
Very Proud Sister of Major Alan Blake Rowe of Gooding, Idaho
KIA 9-3-2004 in Iraq
On my blog, per my family's request, I have deliberately tried to avoid any mention of my brother, especially by name. The following request has nothing to do with Democrats or Republicans, but it is to honor my brother, his memory, and one of his passions.
My brother, Major Alan Blake Rowe, was killed in Iraq on Sept. 3, 2004. It was his fourth deployment and he'd been "in country" less than a week. He left behind a wonderful wife and two precious children.
One of my brother's serious interests (along with Broncos!) was Political Science. One of our favorite family stories is about the luncheon Alan attended with my father around age 6, where he sat next to then-Governor of Idaho, Cecil Andrus. From what I've been told, he chatted with Governor Andrus throughout the meal.
In the early 1990s, Alan worked as an intern for Idaho State Senator Laird Noh:
"He was interested in natural resources and natural resources management," Noh said. "He worked under my supervision. He was a marvelous human being and extremely motivated."
"At the time, Idaho was beginning to awaken to the implications of the Endangered Species Act," Noh said. The Legislature and the public didn't have a thorough understanding of the act, he said, so he tasked Rowe with writing a research paper on the potential listing status of various plants and animals in Idaho and what the implications were because of the provisions of the law.
"He just dug into it," Noh said. "He did a very professional job. We circulated it to all the members of the committee and media. I still refer to it periodically."
"He read newspapers and was very interested in the world around him," Noh added. "He was very mature. I was kind of hoping he was looking toward a career in natural resource management. But he was also oriented to a career in the military. He was a class act and a great citizen."
Alan received his Associates at the College of Southern Idaho and his Bachelor's at Boise State University, majoring in Political Science. After his death, one of his professors at CSI started a scholarship fund, "The Alan Rowe Memorial Political Science Scholarship". The only guideline attached at this point is that it will be used to fund a scholarship for a student studying political science at CSI.
No funds have been distributed because we need to raise the balance to a $10,000 endowment level. Since my brother was killed, our first concerns were for the educational fund for the children, then a fundraiser for families of local (Magic Valley) deployed Guard members, and then another fundraiser for TAPS (for families of other KIAs), so this is our first major request for donations.
Please consider supporting this opportunity to continue my brother's memory and honor his commitment to education and Political Science.
Thank you.
Donations should be made out to:
The College of Southern Idaho Foundation, Inc.
MEMO: Alan Rowe Memorial Scholarship
And mailed to:
CSI Foundation
P.O. Box 1238
Twin Falls, ID 83303-1238
Thank you so very much,
Diana Rowe Pauls
Very Proud Sister of Major Alan Blake Rowe of Gooding, Idaho
KIA 9-3-2004 in Iraq
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Heads are rolling...
Yesterday, Dan commented on my previous post, "Luna Lied??" (about his Presidential nomination), and gave a heads-up and inside look as to what kind of games Tom Luna is playing in his new sandbox as Idaho's new Superintendent of Public Instruction now that he's firing people left and right before he's even begun his term in office...
Today's Times-News gives confirmation with the official version of Luna's actions...
Prior to the election, the Idaho Statesman published a statement which stated:
"Luna, a Nampa businessman, promised to surround himself with educators on his staff."
(I can't find a link to that article/editorial... if anybody has access to it, please let me know.)
Is it just me or wouldn't someone who has the skills and abilities to lead an agency wait until he was actually in place so he could evaluate the staff before cleaning house?
Is it just me or is anybody else worried about what kind of changes are going to be made in Idaho's schools which will impact Idaho's children (including mine!)?
Anyway, for review, it's very important that you hop over to:
Then go hug your children and their teachers...
...they'll need our support a lot more than usual for the next four years.
Today's Times-News gives confirmation with the official version of Luna's actions...
Prior to the election, the Idaho Statesman published a statement which stated:
"Luna, a Nampa businessman, promised to surround himself with educators on his staff."
(I can't find a link to that article/editorial... if anybody has access to it, please let me know.)
Is it just me or wouldn't someone who has the skills and abilities to lead an agency wait until he was actually in place so he could evaluate the staff before cleaning house?
Is it just me or is anybody else worried about what kind of changes are going to be made in Idaho's schools which will impact Idaho's children (including mine!)?
Anyway, for review, it's very important that you hop over to:
Then go hug your children and their teachers...
...they'll need our support a lot more than usual for the next four years.
UPDATE [12/19/2006]:
Detailed information regarding Luna's slashing and burning at the Dept. of Education over at Royal Mountain Valice's post, Lunacy.
UPDATE (12/20/06):
Source says his statements were misrepresented...
Friday, December 15, 2006
Luna lied????
Headline on the front page of today's Times-News...
"Tom Luna, the incoming head of the state's public school system, misrepresented his position with the U.S. Department of Education on his resume during his successful campaign this fall."
Gee, WHY couldn't this have come out BEFORE the election???
UPDATE (12/07/06):
As referenced in one of the comments to this post, heads are rolling before Luna even starts his term in office.
UPDATE (12/20/06):
Source says his statements were misrepresented...
Source says his statements were misrepresented...
...have you heard about the "No Child Left Behind: Football Version?"...
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
No Child Left Behind - The Football Version
NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND---The Football Version
1. All teams must make the state playoffs and all MUST win the championship. If a team does not win the championship, they will be on probation until they are the champions, and coaches will be held accountable. If after two years they have not won the championship their footballs and equipment will be taken away UNTIL they do win the championship.
2. All kids will be expected to have the same football skills at the same time even if they do not have the same conditions or opportunities to practice on their own. NO exceptions will be made for lack of interest in football, a desire to perform athletically, or genetic abilities or disabilities of themselves or their parents. ALL KIDS WILL PLAY FOOTBALL AT A PROFICIENT LEVEL!
3. Talented players will be asked to workout on their own, without instruction. This is because the coaches will be using all their instructional time with the athletes who aren't interested in football, have limited athletic ability or whose parents don't like football.
4. Games will be played year round, but statistics will only be kept in the 4th, 8th, and 11th game. It will create a New Age of Sports where every school is expected to have the same level of talent and all teams will reach the same minimum goals. If no child gets ahead, then no child gets left behind. If parents do not like this new law, they are encouraged to vote for vouchers and support private schools that can screen out the non-athletes and prevent their children from having to go to school with bad football players.
Thanks to The Royal (Northwest) Mounted Valise --who also thanks A. G. Rud for having this "funny analogy comparing football with NCLB. Well, funny in a sad, sad way."
1. All teams must make the state playoffs and all MUST win the championship. If a team does not win the championship, they will be on probation until they are the champions, and coaches will be held accountable. If after two years they have not won the championship their footballs and equipment will be taken away UNTIL they do win the championship.
2. All kids will be expected to have the same football skills at the same time even if they do not have the same conditions or opportunities to practice on their own. NO exceptions will be made for lack of interest in football, a desire to perform athletically, or genetic abilities or disabilities of themselves or their parents. ALL KIDS WILL PLAY FOOTBALL AT A PROFICIENT LEVEL!
3. Talented players will be asked to workout on their own, without instruction. This is because the coaches will be using all their instructional time with the athletes who aren't interested in football, have limited athletic ability or whose parents don't like football.
4. Games will be played year round, but statistics will only be kept in the 4th, 8th, and 11th game. It will create a New Age of Sports where every school is expected to have the same level of talent and all teams will reach the same minimum goals. If no child gets ahead, then no child gets left behind. If parents do not like this new law, they are encouraged to vote for vouchers and support private schools that can screen out the non-athletes and prevent their children from having to go to school with bad football players.
Thanks to The Royal (Northwest) Mounted Valise --who also thanks A. G. Rud for having this "funny analogy comparing football with NCLB. Well, funny in a sad, sad way."
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Mike the pimp?
It's been clearly obvious that our government, including Rep. Mike Simpson, is willing to sell the American people out to the highest bidder. They want to sell our wilderness, they want to sell our air and water quality, they want to sell our high-paying jobs to countries overseas (while ferociously protecting our minimum wage jobs from the "illegals"--gee, thanks!), and so on. They protect the interests of the huge corporations (pharmaceuticals, oil companies) while family farms and businesses wither on the vine. The government is more than willing to sell us out to those who are willing to pay for them.
Americans must demand change. We need to "fire" those who do not represent citizens but only represent the almighty dollar. The most effective way to do that is to evaluate our current representatives and determine whether they are working for Idaho or do they work to serve others.
For example, let's evaluate Representative Mike Simpson. At the GOP Auction House, I discovered some interesting facts about Rep. Simpson which stimulates some serious questions about whether he represents Idaho or whether he represents the Republican party:
What will Michael Simpson put on the Auction Block next?
Americans must demand change. We need to "fire" those who do not represent citizens but only represent the almighty dollar. The most effective way to do that is to evaluate our current representatives and determine whether they are working for Idaho or do they work to serve others.
For example, let's evaluate Representative Mike Simpson. At the GOP Auction House, I discovered some interesting facts about Rep. Simpson which stimulates some serious questions about whether he represents Idaho or whether he represents the Republican party:
What will Michael Simpson put on the Auction Block next?
HOW SIMPSON RESPONDS TO HIGH ENERGY PRICES
- Rep. Simpson voted against cracking down on the oil and gas industries price gouging.
- Rep. Simpson voted for the GOP energy bill that gave billions to oil, gas and nuclear industries.
- Big oil and gas industries have given Rep. Simpson $42,450. Any surprise?
REP. SIMPSON PUTS BIG BUSINESS AHEAD OF AMERICAN WORKERS
- Rep. Simpson voted to strip overtime protection from millions of workers.
- Rep. Simpson voted to allow federal loans to American companies that have escaped paying U.S. taxes by moving offshore.
GOP "HEALTH CARE"
- Big drug interests have given $4,250 to Simpson over the Representative's career. They know who their friends are.
- Rep. Simpson voted for the GOP Medicare Prescription Drug Bill that will give billions to businesses and the health care industry, while forcing seniors to accept annual increases in premiums and deductibles and a growing gap in coverage for the prescription drugs they buy.
TIES WITH THE GOP LEADERSHIP
- Simpson has taken $1,000 from House Majority Leader John Boehner.
- Simpson received $22,165 from House Majority Leader John Boehner's "Freedom Project" PAC.
- Simpson voted with President Bush 89% of the time.
- Simpson voted the GOP party line 95% of the time.
TIES WITH TOM DELAY AND JACK ABRAMOFF
Simpson has taken:
Simpson has taken:
- $6,171 from Tom DeLay's ARMPAC.
- $1,000 from convicted DeLay associate Jack Abramoff.
With all of these ties to the DeLay/Abramoff mess, is it any surprise that Simpson has:
- Voted to weaken House ethics rules when DeLay proposed doing so as GOP Majority Leader.
- Voted with Tom DeLay 94% of the time (through 3/31/2006)
SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS
- Rep. Simpson voted to continue awarding contracts to Halliburton even if the Pentagon's own audit processes found that more than $100 million of their contractor's costs in Iraq were unreasonable. No surprise that Halliburton gave Simpson $3,000.
- Rep. Simpson opposed expanding access to the military's TRICARE health insurance program to thousands of Reservist and National Guard members, even though 20 percent of all Reservists do not have health insurance, and 40 percent of Reservists aged 19 to 35 lack health coverage.
- Rep. Simpson voted against granting a $1,500 bonus to every American service member serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, including National Guard and Reserve forces.
THE ENVIRONMENT
- 1,861 water systems in 29 states have been contaminated with MTBE, exposing as many as 45 million Americans to this potential carcinogen, but Rep. Simpson voted to protect the companies responsible from lawsuits by communities that need their help to clean up these systems.
- Rep. Simpson voted against bipartisan reform of the Endangered Species Act.
- Rep. Simpson voted for a massive sell off of public lands to mining interests.
HOW DOES SIMPSON SUPPORT...
HIGHER EDUCATION?
While tuition costs are rising for ordinary Americans, Rep. Simpson voted to cut Federal student aid by $12.7 billion -- the biggest such cuts in history.
While tuition costs are rising for ordinary Americans, Rep. Simpson voted to cut Federal student aid by $12.7 billion -- the biggest such cuts in history.
STEM CELL RESEARCH?
Rep. Simpson sided with social conservatives against patients with debilitating diseases and voted against expanding Federal funding of stem cell research.
Rep. Simpson sided with social conservatives against patients with debilitating diseases and voted against expanding Federal funding of stem cell research.
[Sources available at "What will Michael Simpson put on the Auction Block next?"]
How can someone who receives 80% of his money from OUT OF STATE honestly be able to represent the interests of Idaho?
Fortunately, Idaho has an alternative alternative with Jim Hansen. To start out with, Jim is ONLY accepting contributions UNDER $100. Yes, he has friends and family from out-of-state who are sending their $100 to Jim to support him because they believe in him, but I think that we can handle that much better than competing with a PAC sending thousands of dollars to a politician because they are purchasing a "service" (i.e. vote) from him. Most Idahoans cannot compete with PACS and thousand dollar contributions. Most of us can handle sending a donation under $100.
Check Jim out and ask yourself... who do YOU want in DC? Someone who works for out-of-state organizations or political parties... or someone who works for the people in Idaho?
Thursday, May 25, 2006
A "thank you" letter from Senator Bert Marley
May 25, 2006
Friends and Supporters,
It has been said that “defeat is an orphan,” but I don’t agree. I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support I have received from so many of you over the last few days. Your kind words have meant the world to me, my family and my staff.
Throughout this campaign I have been humbled by the generosity of Idahoans. So many of you have opened your homes and donated your valuable time and money to support my candidacy. For that, I will be forever grateful. With your help, we spread a positive message about the needs and future of public education.
We may not have won this election, but the real test of victory comes in what we can continue to do to champion the needs of our schools and our kids. The work is just beginning! Public education is too important to stop now. We must unite and work harder than ever to ensure that every Idaho voter understands that it is the Democrats who have a real plan for education and a clear vision for the future.
I encourage each of you to support and get involved in Dr. Jana Jones’ campaign. Jana is passionate about education and I admire her long career of service. You can find out more about her race and how to get involved at http://www.jana4education.com/. Together, with Dr. Jones, we will make public education Idaho’s first priority!
Thank you again for your sincere support and friendship.
Sincerely,
Senator Bert Marley
P.S. As the dust settles, there are a few loose ends that must be tied up. Thank you to the many who took signs and distributed them around the state. I know it can be difficult and time consuming to find locations, and I genuinely appreciate your help. If you need assistance gathering and taking signs down, please contact my campaign staff at (208) 407-0287 or info@marley4education.com. All signs need to be down by Tuesday, June 30th. In some counties, campaigns are fined if signs are not down within 7 days of the election. Any help you could offer us in removing the signs would be greatly appreciated! If you cannot help taking signs down in your county, please call us so we can make further arrangements. We are not planning on saving the signs, so they can be thrown away. Thank you!
Friends and Supporters,
It has been said that “defeat is an orphan,” but I don’t agree. I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support I have received from so many of you over the last few days. Your kind words have meant the world to me, my family and my staff.
Throughout this campaign I have been humbled by the generosity of Idahoans. So many of you have opened your homes and donated your valuable time and money to support my candidacy. For that, I will be forever grateful. With your help, we spread a positive message about the needs and future of public education.
We may not have won this election, but the real test of victory comes in what we can continue to do to champion the needs of our schools and our kids. The work is just beginning! Public education is too important to stop now. We must unite and work harder than ever to ensure that every Idaho voter understands that it is the Democrats who have a real plan for education and a clear vision for the future.
I encourage each of you to support and get involved in Dr. Jana Jones’ campaign. Jana is passionate about education and I admire her long career of service. You can find out more about her race and how to get involved at http://www.jana4education.com/. Together, with Dr. Jones, we will make public education Idaho’s first priority!
Thank you again for your sincere support and friendship.
Sincerely,
Senator Bert Marley
P.S. As the dust settles, there are a few loose ends that must be tied up. Thank you to the many who took signs and distributed them around the state. I know it can be difficult and time consuming to find locations, and I genuinely appreciate your help. If you need assistance gathering and taking signs down, please contact my campaign staff at (208) 407-0287 or info@marley4education.com. All signs need to be down by Tuesday, June 30th. In some counties, campaigns are fined if signs are not down within 7 days of the election. Any help you could offer us in removing the signs would be greatly appreciated! If you cannot help taking signs down in your county, please call us so we can make further arrangements. We are not planning on saving the signs, so they can be thrown away. Thank you!
Sunday, April 02, 2006
Protect ALL of Idaho's children
Rep. Bob Nonini from Coeur d'Alene has proposed a bill to require parental consent BEFORE any student can join ANY school club. It was not given a hearing but was sent directly to the floor of the house and will be up for a vote on Tuesday April 4, 2006.
What is the purpose of this bill? Are too many parents complaining about the subersive recruitment of their children into Chess Clubs? Or Honor Society? Does Nonini want to make sure parents give permission for their children to join the dangerous Ski Clubs? What is the purpose of this bill?
And why didn't it receive any hearings? Is this an issue that is so critical in order to maintain parental control that it needs to be rushed through the process? Is he worried about the health and safety of Idaho children who are joining the Reading Club this month? Is he frightened of the impact upon Idaho children if they join the Dodge Ball Club?
Is it possible that perhaps Nonini has his own agenda?
I think that Nonini is attempting to force his homophobic beliefs upon Idaho citizens. Because, really, what is the big deal about parental consent before your child joins a club at school? Why is he trying to sneak this in?
He is trying to seek this into law in order to prevent gay and lesbian students from having support clubs. I guess by eliminating the clubs, he believes these students will no longer be gay or something. When the truth is that these students will only be prevented from receiving support and acceptance.
We need to acknowledge that gay and lesbian children are STILL Idaho's children, even if conservative bigots wish to demote them to second class citizens.
We need to be aware that without some support outside the family, many teens turn to suicide.
FORCING our children to seek parental consent in order to seek support will put many teens at risk of parental violence or homelessness.
We also need to be aware that schools in other states have lost multi-million dollar law suits for failing to ensure kids have a safe environment in which to learn.
How many of us remember the trauma experienced by our classmates who didn't fit in when we were in school? How many of us remember how the bullies physically and emotionally assaulted the kids who were different? Did that change them? Or did it scar them? How can we, in good conscience, create a barrier for Idaho's children as they try to seek acceptance and support?
It is my understanding that the highest cause of death among gay and lesbian teenagers is suicide. In my opinion, this is NOT acceptable.
For more information as to what steps are being taken in order to protect these children, please go to 43rd State Blues.
What is the purpose of this bill? Are too many parents complaining about the subersive recruitment of their children into Chess Clubs? Or Honor Society? Does Nonini want to make sure parents give permission for their children to join the dangerous Ski Clubs? What is the purpose of this bill?
And why didn't it receive any hearings? Is this an issue that is so critical in order to maintain parental control that it needs to be rushed through the process? Is he worried about the health and safety of Idaho children who are joining the Reading Club this month? Is he frightened of the impact upon Idaho children if they join the Dodge Ball Club?
Is it possible that perhaps Nonini has his own agenda?
I think that Nonini is attempting to force his homophobic beliefs upon Idaho citizens. Because, really, what is the big deal about parental consent before your child joins a club at school? Why is he trying to sneak this in?
He is trying to seek this into law in order to prevent gay and lesbian students from having support clubs. I guess by eliminating the clubs, he believes these students will no longer be gay or something. When the truth is that these students will only be prevented from receiving support and acceptance.
We need to acknowledge that gay and lesbian children are STILL Idaho's children, even if conservative bigots wish to demote them to second class citizens.
We need to be aware that without some support outside the family, many teens turn to suicide.
FORCING our children to seek parental consent in order to seek support will put many teens at risk of parental violence or homelessness.
We also need to be aware that schools in other states have lost multi-million dollar law suits for failing to ensure kids have a safe environment in which to learn.
How many of us remember the trauma experienced by our classmates who didn't fit in when we were in school? How many of us remember how the bullies physically and emotionally assaulted the kids who were different? Did that change them? Or did it scar them? How can we, in good conscience, create a barrier for Idaho's children as they try to seek acceptance and support?
It is my understanding that the highest cause of death among gay and lesbian teenagers is suicide. In my opinion, this is NOT acceptable.
For more information as to what steps are being taken in order to protect these children, please go to 43rd State Blues.
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