A MONAHAN MONK..........REALLY !!

PERSONAL:

I will continue my blog a little differently; to explain my blog headline Saturday “DO NOT PATRONIZE THE VANCOUVER COLUMBIAN NEWSPAPER”.
Based on the information I gained at the Columbia Pacific Building Trades Executive Board meeting last week. And as a retired Executive Secretary of that Council, who was fortunate enough to have Brother Ed Barnes as President of the Council for many years, and with the purpose of my blog so well defined; I believe I have a responsibility to ask my many followers, readers and relatives that may also subscribe to the Columbian to please cancel for the following reasons:
The Columbian is the local community newspaper for the greater Vancouver/SW Washington area. And as working class, Union people and public servants who are members of this community under attack from Madison, Wisconsin all the way to right here in this community, I am asking you to join with me and many others in making a stand right here in our community.

They need to hear our voices: Scott Campbell, Publisher
360-735-4500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 360-735-4500 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
scott.campbell@columbian.com
Lou Brancaccio, Editor
360-735-4505 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 360-735-4505 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
lou.brancaccio@columbian.com
Circulation
360-694-2312 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 360-694-2312 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
circulation@columbian.com

Be respectful, but tell them why you are contacting them.

Now back to my regular blog:

I awoke this morning at 6am, after 8+ hours of sleep to a 3-, because I still feel like I have a hangover even though I never had a drink at Marty's WONDERFULL 50th Birthday party Saturday night. I checked the south deck and it was just above freezing with a nasty wind blowing the wind coming sideway's, and all our patio furniture gone. I looked through the neighborhood and couldn't see any thing in our, or anyone else's yard. I took my am pills and then checked the west deck and all the patio stuff was there. Judi moved it all last night. I know it is still a little early but because cousin Chad is a leap year baby, and he has “technically” only had about 9+- B.D.'s he deserves 2 in this leap year. I did talk to lawyer cousin Dan Hutzenbieler last night and told him of my ideas regarding the PCC agreement and about getting some help from the Bar to help with getting the apprentices we commit to training to the next level; Construction Contractor. He did like where I was going and made a few suggestions. I did not make the rally Friday or Saturday because of the weather and Marty's Birthday Party and missed Gary's celebration yesterday but I did get a good report from Cousin Jim and his fiancé Frances who did make the rally Friday and cousin Bill who did make Gary's Life celebration. Jim did have some good pictures on his phone of the rally. Queen Donna did make the rally and told me again that her son Yusef was leaving for Guatemala City at the end of March for Americorps and could still use some assistance. Yusuf Word is in Americorps, and trying to get to Guatemala in Central America and spread the GOOD WORD about the U.S.A. (You can help by donating to him at 1825 S. Stevens St. Apt. 13 – Tacoma, Washington 98405.

I will take this opportunity to inform all about this important “RALLY” scheduled by the OAFL-CIO:
MONDAY MARCH 7TH NOON SALEM ON THE CAPITAL STEPS. Buses will be available; contact your local Union or the OAFL-CIO.

I did hear Uncle Hank was back in the hospital so I would still ask all to include him in your prayers. I did add that new section; “AOH” to combine the various Irish statements and thoughts in a single section.

I will apologize now for missing the life celebration of brother Gary Neibert yesterday but cousin Bill did represent us (the Mehrens') It was Gary that got Billy started in the trade and He was the only person to beat me in any Union Election I attempted. I did not run against him, as at the time I was the Local 235 Vice President and he asked me to run for he President's position, as he had decided he did not want to rerun for Local 235 President and asked me to run. I agreed to, but he subsequently changed his mind. I also hate to have to report again on the passing of 290 Brother Bob Barnett, please add him and his family to your prayers also.

I will now make another pitch for support for my election to our Internationals National Convention. I do want to keep my record intact of making every National Convention I have been eligible for since I joined the United Association. And please don't forget to register at the M.S. Walk Oregon for “WALLY'S WALKERS”, THANK YOU NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION, AND THANK YOU PAUL RIGGS and THE CPBT for YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION.

I will put the prayer to St. Jude in here again for 290 brothers Richard Hopkins (Hoppy), Gary Neibert, Bob Barnett and the families of the Tucson shootings so please add them to your prayers also.

** For Brothers Hopkins, Neibert, Barnett and the Tuscon families **

Prayer to St. Jude for Eternal Life
You are my solace, St. Jude, in the face of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will guide my heart away from the darkness of fear and into the light of Christ. May the hope that St. Jude keeps alive in my heart be a source of comfort to all those who grieve. For in that hope, we know God's mercy, and we trust God's promise of eternal life. My soul longs for the fullness of life, which is only to be revealed when I meet my Maker in heaven. Stay by my side, St. Jude, so that my soul will always know the power of your healing love. Amen.

God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray. When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep, that in His mercy, I be judged............Good enough to keep.

**** My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today. For cousin Mick, uncle Hank, nephew Arron, Kelli's Mom, good friend Ron Wyden, good family friend Pat Percin, brothers Jimmy Judge, and Gerry Bruce, sister Donna and those who are having health issues; protecting Christopher and Rhyon and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

I know I have been repeating things, apparently too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of.

KAISER AND M.S. REPORT:

I did get our request off to the 290 E-board for the M.S. Walk. To register and get started with fund raising, donate to a walker (WALLY'S WALKERS), or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com.

This is also my attempt to keep track of my experiences with Kaiser Permanente and my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the Ampyra and the 4.5mg LDN, I think I'm noticeably better. My BP is 141/82/66 at 9:30am today. After I got an “explanation of benefits” this is not a bill but in the billed amount was $84.10 ( exactly the LDN amount) in the next column was the allowed amount of $84.10, the member responsibility was 0.00, Kaiser paid 0.00; if the member responsibility was 0.00 WHY DID IT COST ME $84.10?? It sounds like the trust attorney is trying to get to the bottom of it and I did get an email from him yesterday and apparently I am supposed to get a call from someone higher up the food chain. I did clean a little off of my “nest” here on my Lazyboy and I have a full briefcase just of my Kaiser stuff. I will remind everyone that I WILL be taking action with Kaiser Member services, if and when I need to.

POLITICAL:

I hope to see you all at the solidarity rally March 7 in Salem. And I must say I wish the President showed as much concern for the liberty and rights for those workers in Madison as he and the administration are showing for those citizens and workers in the Middle East, finally something today. (Libya, Egypt, etc)

Another issue that concerns me with this NEW congress is the “SPENDING CUTS” they are considering, and it seems at the TOP of the list is “entitlement” spending. One of the talking heads shows said entitlement spending (social security, Medicare?) makes up for 84% of federal spending, does that mean that the D.O.D. Budget with 2+ wars, and interest on the current National Debt only accounts for 16%. I do think they may have it backwards. I have a question for my republican friends; When I put my money in the bank and then draw it out, would YOU consider that an entitlement? HMMMN??

MY MOST IMPORTANT SECTION!!

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION:

A PROGRAM THAT IS ALSO LOOKING FOR HELP: LETS BRING EM HOME !!

http://www.lbeh.org/

Don't forget to say THANK YOU, to all those servicemen and women who have served or are serving.

NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER IS STILL IN AFGHANISTAN, DAMN; AND IT APPEARS THAT NEPHEW RHYON WILL BE HEADED BACK. So a prayer a day for them from all my readers would sure make me feel better.

ONE RIBBON STILL UP, FOR CHRISTOPHER, AND WHEN RHYON GETS REDEPLOYED, HIS RIBBON WILL GO BACK UP.

DON'T FORGET, THE SOFT LANDING BILL, and thank you SENATOR PATTY MURRAY and CONGRESSMAN KURT SCHRADER for helping with it.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE OREGON MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK, I DID INFORM SENATOR PATTY MURRAY OF OUR EFFORTS.

If you are flying the American Flag, please keep flying it until ALL our Troops return home.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

AOH REPORT:

I received my latest AOH NEWSPAPER and I want to congratulate the Anaconda, Montana AOH Division 1 on their 125th anniversary and point out that the Montana State President, Tom Pahut, is my cousin and the Division 1 brothers carrying the AOH banner on the first page of my blog are direct decedents of my Grandfather, also pictured on the first page “John L. Monahan”. And I did tell cousin Jim he should have been there and that it was the AOH that Built St. Francis Church in SE Portland. (interesting factoid; That was the church that my #2 W.O.W. Woman attended and was married in; Dianna PAULEY McCoy.) I did see brother,brother Holmie at Marty's B.D. Party and he was still pumped about his joining.

I also need to report that Uncle Hank has returned to the hospital, and all prayers are appreciated.

While the Montana AOH received a Governors Proclamation with a 3 day celebration on their 125th anniversary; It appears our Mayor will be doing a very good proclamation and I do hope to be able to make that Council meeting. I also received the Photo from the February meeting and Brother in Law Eric did a fine job printing it. Now all I have to do is get out and find an appropriate frame. I also checked the Monahan Family name History I got while I was in D.C. a few years ago and I don't know how I missed it but I did see where, when the name ( O Manachain) whose descendants name came from the Gaelic manach; meaning Monk. Which included the famous Warrior of Connacht from the 9th century. More to come in a future blog.

SPORTS:

Well the Blazers did lose a tough one the other day but Brandon did come on strong, but based on the Trade that The Blazers made, I am not so sure that they didn't give up too much but we will not really know until CRASH acclimates to his new team. I did see where the Oregon M.S. Chapter is putting together a fund raiser game with the Blazers.

I sure hope baseball pre-season gets here soon.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES:

Lets get started with fundraising, donate to a walker, “WALLY'S WALKERS”, or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com. Thank You, Ed and Luanne Barnes, Lynn Lehrbach and Lori Vaughn for getting me started. AND ALSO THE MEMBERS AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL, AND BROTHER PAUL RIGGS AND THE CPBT FOR THAT VERY GENEROUS DONATION, and I do hope U.A. 290 acts favorably again this year.

I'm still trying to find the updated 2011 BULL SESSION website, without any luck so far. I did speak with Jim Moss and he told me they had a board meeting and he said that Pack West was reworking the Website to allow for a payment plan for the Tournament and Dinner-Auction, I did call Paul this morning but apparently he just stepped away from his desk. I will share it as soon as I get it. THANK YOU JIM ! AND THANK YOU ALSO TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 290 FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION. ALL HELP APPRECIATED.

The American Rights at Work still needs help. We must not take our eye off that MAIN issue, our two Senators haven't; E.F.C.A. It is very disappointing that it was not lame duck accomplishment, especially in light of the ongoing protests in Wisconsin, and the mine disaster in West Virginia and those Rig explosions in the Gulf. I do think that both Senator Robert Byrd and Paul Wellstone are rolling over in their graves. And based on what I have been hearing the Republican's have Organized Labor directly in their cross hairs at least for the next 2 years.

The U.A. Local 290 “Don Salee” Member Assistance Program.

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS:

MICK, BOB , RON, JIM and CHRISTOPHER, stay positive and we will meet on the golf course (but I'm not sure if Ron even Plays) but I will take it easy on all of you. I also talked to good friend Scott Gardner and he wants to get together for some golf. I also heard from good friend and brother Joe McCarthy and he is going in for surgery on his rotator cuff, but as soon as he is well we will get out also.

May love and laughter light your days
And warm your heart and homes
May good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures
May all life's passing seasons bring the best to you and yours

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand.

Mike; My blog, is just 5 pages, and under 2,400 words today, I think.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LARRY AND JOE, BOTH PUBLIC SERVANTS THAT DESERVE MORE ALSO

PERSONAL:

I will continue my blog a little differently; to explain my blog headline yesterday “DO NOT PATRONIZE THE VANCOUVER COLUMBIAN NEWSPAPER”.

Based on the information I gained at the Columbia Pacific Building Trades Executive Board meeting last Tuesday. And as a retired Executive Secretary of that Council, who was fortunate enough to have Brother Ed Barnes as President of the Council for many years, and with the purpose of my blog so well defined; I believe I have a responsibility to ask my many followers, readers and relatives that may also subscribe to the Columbian to please cancel for the following reasons:

The Columbian is the local community newspaper for the greater Vancouver/SW Washington area. And as working class, Union people and public servants who are members of this community under attack from Madison, Wisconsin all the way to right here in this community, I am asking you to join with me and many others in making a stand right here in our community.

They need to hear our voices: Scott Campbell, Publisher
360-735-4500
scott.campbell@columbian.com
Lou Brancaccio, Editor
360-735-4505
lou.brancaccio@columbian.com
Circulation
360-694-2312
circulation@columbian.com

Be respectful, but tell them why you are contacting them.

Now back to my regular blog:

I awoke this morning at 7am, after 9+ hours of sleep to a 3-, because I felt like I had a hangover even though I never had a drink at Marty's WONDERFULL 50th Birthday party last night. I checked the south deck and it was just at freezing with a nasty wind blowing. I took my am pills. I checked the west deck and the the deck was clear and the birdseed was gone. I know it is a little early but because cousin Chad is a leap year baby, so because I think he has “technically” only had about 9+- B.D.'s he deserves 2 in this leap year. I did talk to lawyer cousin Dan Hutzenbieler last night and told him of my ideas regarding the PCC agreement and about getting some help from the Bar to help with getting the apprentices we commit to training to the next level; Construction Contractor. He did like where I was going and made a few suggestions. I did not make the rally Friday because of the weather but I did get a good report from Cousin Jim and his fiancé Frances who did make it and he did have some good pictures on his phone. Queen Donna did tell me that Yusef was leaving for Guatemala City at the end of March for Americorps and could still use some assistance. Yusuf Word is in Americorps, and trying to get to Guatemala in Central America and spread the GOOD WORD about the U.S.A. (You can help by donating to him at 1825 S. Stevens St. Apt. 13 – Tacoma, Washington 98405.

I will take this opportunity again to inform all about this important “RALLY” scheduled by the OAFL-CIO:
MONDAY MARCH 7TH NOON SALEM ON THE CAPITAL STEPS. Buses will be available; contact your local Union or the OAFL-CIO.

I did hear Uncle Hank was back in the hospital so I would still ask all to include him in your prayers. I did add that new section; “AOH” to combine the various Irish statements and thoughts in a single section.

I will apologize now for missing the life celebration of brother Gary Neibert today but brother Mike said he will represent us (the Mehrens), I also hate to have to report on the passing of 290 Brother Bob Barnett, please add him and his family to your prayers also.

I will now make another pitch for support for my election to our Internationals National Convention. I do want to keep my record intact of making every National Convention I have been eligible for since I joined the United Association.

And please don't forget to register at the M.S. Walk Oregon for “WALLY'S WALKERS”, THANK YOU NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION, AND THANK YOU PAUL RIGGS and the CPBT for YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION.

I will put the prayer to St. Jude in here again for 290 brothers Richard Hopkins (Hoppy), Gary Neibert, and I am really sorry I missed his function today; Bob Barnett and the families of the Tucson shootings so please add them to your prayers also.

** For Brothers Hopkins, Neibert, Barnett and the Tuscon families **

Prayer to St. Jude for Eternal Life
You are my solace, St. Jude, in the face of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will guide my heart away from the darkness of fear and into the light of Christ. May the hope that St. Jude keeps alive in my heart be a source of comfort to all those who grieve. For in that hope, we know God's mercy, and we trust God's promise of eternal life. My soul longs for the fullness of life, which is only to be revealed when I meet my Maker in heaven. Stay by my side, St. Jude, so that my soul will always know the power of your healing love. Amen.

God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray. When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep, that in His mercy, I be judged............Good enough to keep.

**** My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today. For cousin Mick, uncle Hank, nephew Arron, Kelli's Mom, good friend Ron Wyden, good family friend Pat Percin, brothers Jimmy Judge, and Gerry Bruce, sister Donna and those who are having health issues; protecting Christopher and Rhyon and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

I know I have been repeating things, apparently too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of.

KAISER AND M.S. REPORT:

I did get our request off to the 290 E-board for the M.S. Walk. To register and get started with fund raising, donate to a walker (WALLY'S WALKERS), or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com.

This is also my attempt to keep track of my experiences with Kaiser Permanente and my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the Ampyra and the 4.5mg LDN, I think I'm noticeably better. My BP is 110/69/69 at 10:50am today. After I got an “explanation of benefits” this is not a bill but in the billed amount was $84.10 (exactly the LDN amount) in the next column was the allowed amount of $84.10, the member responsibility was 0.00, Kaiser paid 0.00; if the member responsibility was 0.00 WHY DID IT COST ME $84.10?? It sounds like the trust attorney is trying to get to the bottom of it and I did get an email from him yesterday and apparently I am supposed to get a call from someone higher up the food chain. I did clean a little off of my “nest” here on my Lazyboy and I have a full briefcase just of my Kaiser stuff. I will remind everyone that I WILL be taking action with Kaiser Member services, if and when I need to.

POLITICAL:

I hope to see you all at the solidarity rally March 7 in Salem. And I must say I am very disappointed in the President's lack of concern for those workers in Madison.

Another issue that concerns me with this NEW congress is the “SPENDING CUTS” they are considering, and it seems at the TOP of the list is “entitlement” spending. One of the talking heads shows said entitlement spending (social security, Medicare?) makes up for 84% of federal spending, does that mean that the D.O.D. Budget with 2+ wars, and interest on the current National Debt only accounts for 16%. I do think they may have it backwards. I have a question for my republican friends; When I put my money in the bank and then draw it out, would YOU consider that an entitlement? HMMMN??

MY MOST IMPORTANT SECTION!!

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION:

A PROGRAM THAT IS ALSO LOOKING FOR HELP: LETS BRING EM HOME !!

http://www.lbeh.org/

Don't forget to say THANK YOU, to all those servicemen and women who have served or are serving.

NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER IS STILL IN AFGHANISTAN, DAMN; AND IT APPEARS THAT NEPHEW RHYON WILL BE HEADED BACK. So a prayer a day for them from all my readers would sure make me feel better.

ONE RIBBON STILL UP, FOR CHRISTOPHER, AND WHEN RHYON GETS REDEPLOYED, HIS RIBBON WILL GO BACK UP.

DON'T FORGET, THE SOFT LANDING BILL, and thank you SENATOR PATTY MURRAY and CONGRESSMAN KURT SCHRADER for helping with it.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE OREGON MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK, I DID INFORM SENATOR PATTY MURRAY OF OUR EFFORTS.

If you are flying the American Flag, please keep flying it until ALL our Troops return home.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

AOH REPORT:

I received my latest AOH NEWSPAPER and I want to congratulate the Anaconda, Montana AOH Division 1 on their 125th anniversary and point out that the Montana State President, Tom Pahut, is my cousin and the Division 1 brothers carrying the AOH banner on the first page of my blog are direct decedents of my Grandfather, also pictured on the first page “John L. Monahan”. And I did tell cousin Jim he should have been there and that it was the AOH that Built St. Francis Church in SE Portland. (interesting factoid; That was the church that my #2 W.O.W. Woman attended and was married in; Dianna PAULEY McCoy.) I did see brother,brother Holmie at brother Marty's 50th yesterday and he was still pumped about his joining.

I also need to report that Uncle Hank has returned to the hospital, and all prayers are appreciated.

While the Montana AOH received a Governors Proclamation with a 3 day celebration on their 125th anniversary; It appears our Mayor will be doing a proclamation instead of the AOH resolution and I do hope to be able to make that Council meeting. I have recieved it and WELL DONE GENTLEMEN !!

SPORTS:

Well the Blazers did lose a tough one the other day but Brandon did come on strong, but based on the Trade that The Blazers made, I am not so sure that they didn't give up too much, we will not really know until CRASH suits up and plays, tonight maybe. I did see where the Oregon M.S. Chapter is putting together a fund raiser game with the Blazers.

I sure hope baseball pre-season gets here soon.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES:

Lets get started with fundraising, donate to a walker, “WALLY'S WALKERS”, or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com. Thank You, Ed and Luanne Barnes, Lynn Lehrbach and Lori Vaughn for getting me started. AND ALSO THE MEMBERS AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL, AND BROTHER PAUL RIGGS AND THE CPBT FOR THAT VERY GENEROUS DONATION, and I do hope U.A. 290 acts favorably again this year.

I'm still trying to find the updated 2011 BULL SESSION website, without any luck so far. I did speak with Jim Moss and he told me they had a board meeting and he said that Pack West was reworking the Website to allow for a payment plan for the Tournament and Dinner-Auction, I still haven't called Paul, but I will share it as soon as I get it. THANK YOU JIM ! AND THANK YOU ALSO TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 290 FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION. ALL HELP APPRECIATED.

The American Rights at Work still needs help. We must not take our eye off that MAIN issue, our two Senators haven't; E.F.C.A. It is very disappointing that it was not lame duck accomplishment, especially in light of the ongoing protests in Wisconsin, and the mine disaster in West Virginia and those Rig explosions in the Gulf. I do think that both Senator Robert Byrd and Paul Wellstone are rolling over in their graves. And based on what I have been hearing the Republican's have Organized Labor directly in their cross hairs at least for the next 2 years.

The U.A. Local 290 “Don Salee” Member Assistance Program.

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS:

MICK, BOB , RON, JIM and CHRISTOPHER, stay positive and we will meet on the golf course (but I'm not sure if Ron even Plays) but I will take it easy on all of you. I also talked to good friend Scott Gardner and he wants to get together for some golf. I also heard from good friend and brother Joe McCarthy and he is going in for surgery on his rotator cuff, but as soon as he is well we will get out also.

May love and laughter light your days
And warm your heart and homes
May good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures
May all life's passing seasons bring the best to you and yours

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand.

Mike; My blog, is just over 5 pages, and under 2,400 words today, I think.

DO NOT PATRONIZE THE VANCOUVER COLUMBIAN NEWSPAPER

PERSONAL:

I am starting my blog a little differently today to explain my blog headline “DO NOT PATRONIZE THE VANCOUVER COLUMBIAN NEWSPAPER”.

Based on the information I gained at the Columbia Pacific Building Trades Executive Board meeting last Tuesday. As a retired Executive Secretary of that Council, who was fortunate enough to have Brother Ed Barnes as President of the Council for many years, and with the purpose of my blog so well defined; I believe I have a responsibility to ask my many followers, readers and relatives that may also subscribe to the Columbian to please cancel for the following reasons:

The Columbian is the local community newspaper for the greater Vancouver/SW Washington area. And as working class, Union people and public servants who are members of this community under attack from Madison, Wisconsin all the way to right here in this community, I am asking you to join with me and many others in making a stand right here in our community.

They need to hear our voices: Scott Campbell, Publisher
360-735-4500
scott.campbell@columbian.com
Lou Brancaccio, Editor
360-735-4505
lou.brancaccio@columbian.com
Circulation
360-694-2312
circulation@columbian.com

Be respectful, but tell them why you are contacting them.

Now back to my regular blog:

I awoke this morning at 7am, after 9+ hours of sleep to a 3-, because of some lower back pain. I checked the south deck and it was just below 20 degrees and that snow, hail mix was pretty much gone. I took my am pills. I checked the west deck and the the deck was clear of the snow/ice and the birdseed was gone. I did speak with good friend Brent Barton to ask him about getting some help from the Bar to help with getting the apprentices we commit to training to the next level; Construction Contractor. He did make a few suggestions and he said he will email me with some suggestions. I did get his email and I wonder if I am going after this the wrong way. I did not make the rally yesterday because of the weather and I received a return call from Paul R. after the rally and while he said he thought the turnout was good he did say the cold chilled him to the bone. I did make the PCC meeting at Jim Francesconi's office Tuesday and I thought it went well; there were a lot of good ideas floated. It was sure good to see him and the others again, especially Donna and she did tell me that Yusef was leaving for Guatemala City at the end of March for Americorps and could still use some assistance. Yusuf Word is in Americorps, and trying to get to Guatemala in Central America and spread the GOOD WORD about the U.S.A. (You can help by donating to him at 1825 S. Stevens St. Apt. 13 – Tacoma, Washington 98405.

I will take this opportunity to inform all about this important “RALLY” scheduled by the OAFL-CIO:
MONDAY MARCH 7TH NOON SALEM ON THE CAPITAL STEPS. Buses will be available; contact your local Union or the OAFL-CIO.
The time has come for Oregon’s union movement to come together and make our voices heard as we stand in solidarity with workers in the Midwest who could lose their right to collectively bargain.

I did hear Uncle Hank was back in the hospital so I would still ask all to include him in your prayers. I did add that new section; “AOH” to combine the various Irish statements and thoughts in a single section.

I am do hope weather cooperates for the life celebration of brother Gary Neibert this Sunday the 27th at 1pm at the hall and I hope to make it, and I also hate to have to report on the passing of 290 Brother Bob Barnett, please add him and his family to your prayers also.

I will now make another pitch for support for my election to our Internationals National Convention. I do want to keep my record intact of making every National Convention I have been eligible for since I joined the United Association. And please don't forget to register at the M.S. Walk Oregon for “WALLY'S WALKERS”, THANK YOU NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION, AND THANK YOU PAUL RIGGS and the CPBT for YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION.

I will put the prayer to St. Jude in here again for 290 brothers Richard Hopkins (Hoppy), Gary Neibert, Bob Barnett and the families of the Tucson shootings so please add them to your prayers also.

** For Brothers Hopkins, Neibert, Barnett and the Tuscon families **

Prayer to St. Jude for Eternal Life
You are my solace, St. Jude, in the face of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will guide my heart away from the darkness of fear and into the light of Christ. May the hope that St. Jude keeps alive in my heart be a source of comfort to all those who grieve. For in that hope, we know God's mercy, and we trust God's promise of eternal life. My soul longs for the fullness of life, which is only to be revealed when I meet my Maker in heaven. Stay by my side, St. Jude, so that my soul will always know the power of your healing love. Amen.

God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray. When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep, that in His mercy, I be judged............Good enough to keep.

**** My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today. For cousin Mick, uncle Hank, nephew Arron, Kelli's Mom, good friend Ron Wyden, good family friend Pat Percin, brothers Jimmy Judge, and Gerry Bruce, sister Donna and those who are having health issues; protecting Christopher and Rhyon and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

I know I have been repeating things, apparently too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of.

KAISER AND M.S. REPORT:

I did get our request off to the 290 E-board for the M.S. Walk. To register and get started with fund raising, donate to a walker (WALLY'S WALKERS), or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com.

This is also my attempt to keep track of my experiences with Kaiser Permanente and my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the Ampyra and the 4.5mg LDN, I think I'm noticeably better. My BP is 124/68/66 at 11:45am today. After I got an “explanation of benefits” this is not a bill but in the billed amount was $84.10 ( exactly the LDN amount) in the next column was the allowed amount of $84.10, the member responsibility was 0.00, Kaiser paid 0.00; if the member responsibility was 0.00 WHY DID IT COST ME $84.10?? It sounds like the trust attorney is trying to get to the bottom of it and I did get an email from him yesterday and apparently I am supposed to get a call from someone higher up the food chain. I did clean a little off of my “nest” here on my Lazyboy and I have a full briefcase just of my Kaiser stuff. I will remind everyone that I WILL be taking action with Kaiser Member services, if and when I need to.

POLITICAL:

I hope to see you all at the solidarity rally March 7 in Salem. And I must say I am very disappointed in the President's lack of concern for those workers in Madison.

Another issue that concerns me with this NEW congress is the “SPENDING CUTS” they are considering, and it seems at the TOP of the list is “entitlement” spending. One of the talking heads shows said entitlement spending (social security, Medicare?) makes up for 84% of federal spending, does that mean that the D.O.D. Budget with 2+ wars, and interest on the current National Debt only accounts for 16%. I do think they may have it backwards. I have a question for my republican friends; When I put my money in the bank and then draw it out, would YOU consider that an entitlement? HMMMN??

MY MOST IMPORTANT SECTION!!

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION:

A PROGRAM THAT IS ALSO LOOKING FOR HELP: LETS BRING EM HOME !!

http://www.lbeh.org/

Don't forget to say THANK YOU, to all those servicemen and women who have served or are serving.

NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER IS STILL IN AFGHANISTAN, DAMN; AND IT APPEARS THAT NEPHEW RHYON WILL BE HEADED BACK. So a prayer a day for them from all my readers would sure make me feel better.

ONE RIBBON STILL UP, FOR CHRISTOPHER, AND WHEN RHYON GETS REDEPLOYED, HIS RIBBON WILL GO BACK UP.

DON'T FORGET, THE SOFT LANDING BILL, and thank you SENATOR PATTY MURRAY and CONGRESSMAN KURT SCHRADER for helping with it.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE OREGON MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK, I DID INFORM SENATOR PATTY MURRAY OF OUR EFFORTS.

If you are flying the American Flag, please keep flying it until ALL our Troops return home.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

AOH REPORT:

I received my latest AOH NEWSPAPER and I want to congratulate the Anaconda, Montana AOH Division 1 on their 125th anniversary and point out that the Montana State President, Tom Pahut, is my cousin and the Division 1 brothers carrying the AOH banner on the first page of my blog are direct decedents of my Grandfather, also pictured on the first page “John L. Monahan”. And I did tell cousin Jim he should have been there and that it was the AOH that Built St. Francis Church in SE Portland. (interesting factoid; That was the church that my #2 W.O.W. Woman attended and was married in; Dianna PAULEY McCoy.)

I also need to report that Uncle Hank has returned to the hospital, and all prayers are appreciated.

While the Montana AOH received a Governors Proclamation with a 3 day celebration on their 125th anniversary; It appears our Mayor will be doing a proclamation instead of the AOH resolution and I do hope to be able to make that Council meeting.

SPORTS:

Well the Blazers did lose a tough one yesterday but Brandon did come on strong; but based on the Trade that The Blazers made, I am not so sure that they didn't give up too much. I did see where the Oregon M.S. Chapter is putting together a fund raiser game with the Blazers.

I sure hope baseball pre-season gets here soon.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES:

Lets get started with fundraising, donate to a walker, “WALLY'S WALKERS”, or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com. Thank You, Ed and Luanne Barnes, Lynn Lehrbach and Lori Vaughn for getting me started. AND ALSO THE MEMBERS AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL, AND BROTHER PAUL RIGGS AND THE CPBT FOR THAT VERY GENEROUS DONATION, and I do hope U.A. 290 acts favorably again this year.

I'm still trying to find the updated 2011 BULL SESSION website, without any luck so far. I did speak with Jim Moss and he told me they had a board meeting and he said that Pack West was reworking the Website to allow for a payment plan for the Tournament and Dinner-Auction, I still haven't called Paul, but I will share it as soon as I get it. THANK YOU JIM ! AND THANK YOU ALSO TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 290 FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION. ALL HELP APPRECIATED.

The American Rights at Work still needs help. We must not take our eye off that MAIN issue, our two Senators haven't; E.F.C.A. It is very disappointing that it was not lame duck accomplishment, especially in light of the ongoing protests in Wisconsin, and the mine disaster in West Virginia and those Rig explosions in the Gulf. I do think that both Senator Robert Byrd and Paul Wellstone are rolling over in their graves. And based on what I have been hearing the Republican's have Organized Labor directly in their cross hairs at least for the next 2 years.

The U.A. Local 290 “Don Salee” Member Assistance Program.

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS:

MICK, BOB , RON, JIM and CHRISTOPHER, stay positive and we will meet on the golf course (but I'm not sure if Ron even Plays) but I will take it easy on all of you. I also talked to good friend Scott Gardner and he wants to get together for some golf. I also heard from good friend and brother Joe McCarthy and he is going in for surgery on his rotator cuff, but as soon as he is well we will get out also.

May love and laughter light your days
And warm your heart and homes
May good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures
May all life's passing seasons bring the best to you and yours

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand.

Mike; My blog, is just over 5 pages, and under 2,400 words today, I think.

4pm DIRECTORS PARK TODAY - SW PARK AND YAMHILL

PERSONAL:

I awoke this morning at 7am, after 9+ hours of sleep to a 3-, because of some lower back pain. I checked the south deck and it was just below 20 degrees and that snow, hail mix was pretty much gone. I took my am pills, including my stop smoking one. I checked the west deck and the the deck was clear of the snow/ice and the birdseed was gone. I did speak with good friend Brent Barton to ask him about getting some help from the Bar to help with getting the apprentices we commit to training to the next level; Construction Contractor. He did make a few suggestions and he said he will email me with some suggestions. I did get his email and I wonder if I am going after this the wrong way. I am hoping that the weather cooperates today for the rally downtown, because I'd really like to attend. Something spooky happened yesterday; After I posted my blog I went to the our 290 face book page to announce today's rally downtown and the one on the 7th of March in Salem and friend and brother Lyman Warnock not only posted basically the same announcement, but at EXACTLY the same time. I did make the PCC meeting at Jim Francesconi's office Tuesday and I thought it went well; there were a lot of good ideas floated. It was sure good to see him and the others again, especially Donna and she did tell me that her son Yusef was leaving for Guatemala City at the end of March for Americorps and could still use some assistance. Yusuf Word is in Americorps, and trying to get to Guatemala in Central America and spread the GOOD WORD about the U.S.A. (You can help by donating to him at 1825 S. Stevens St. Apt. 13 – Tacoma, Washington 98405.

I will take this opportunity to inform all about those important “RALLY”S” scheduled by the OAFL-CIO:

TODAY 4PM AT DIRECTORS PARK DOWNTOWN SW PARK AND YAMHILL
MONDAY MARCH 7TH NOON SALEM ON THE CAPITAL STEPS. Buses will be available; contact your local Union or the OAFL-CIO.

The time has come for Oregon’s union movement to come together and make our voices heard as we stand in solidarity with workers in the Midwest who could lose their right to collectively bargain.

I did hear Uncle Hank was back in the hospital so I would still ask all to include him in your prayers. I did add that new section; “AOH” to combine the various Irish statements and thoughts in a single section.

I am do hope weather cooperates for the life celebration of brother Gary Neibert this Sunday the 27th at 1pm at the hall and I hope to make it, and I also hate to have to report on the passing of 290 Brother Bob Barnett, please add him and his family to your prayers also.

I will now make another pitch for support for my election to our Internationals National Convention. I do want to keep my record intact of making every National Convention I have been eligible for since I joined the United Association. And please don't forget to register at the M.S. Walk Oregon for “WALLY'S WALKERS”, THANK YOU NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION, AND THANK YOU PAUL RIGGS and the CPBT for YOUR VERY GENEROUS PERSONAL DONATION.

I will put the prayer to St. Jude in here again for 290 brothers Richard Hopkins (Hoppy), Gary Neibert, Bob Barnett and the families of the Tucson shootings so please add them to your prayers also.

** For Brothers Hopkins, Neibert, Barnett and the Tuscon families **

Prayer to St. Jude for Eternal Life
You are my solace, St. Jude, in the face of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will guide my heart away from the darkness of fear and into the light of Christ. May the hope that St. Jude keeps alive in my heart be a source of comfort to all those who grieve. For in that hope, we know God's mercy, and we trust God's promise of eternal life. My soul longs for the fullness of life, which is only to be revealed when I meet my Maker in heaven. Stay by my side, St. Jude, so that my soul will always know the power of your healing love. Amen.

God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray. When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep, that in His mercy, I be judged............Good enough to keep.

**** My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today. For cousin Mick, uncle Hank, nephew Arron, Kelli's Mom, good friend Ron Wyden, good family friend Pat Percin, brothers Jimmy Judge, and Gerry Bruce, sister Donna and those who are having health issues; protecting Christopher and Rhyon and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

I know I have been repeating things, apparently too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of.

KAISER AND M.S. REPORT:

I did get our request off to the 290 E-board for the M.S. Walk. To register and get started with fund raising, donate to a walker (WALLY'S WALKERS), or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com.

This is also my attempt to keep track of my experiences with Kaiser Permanente and my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the Ampyra and the 4.5mg LDN, I think I'm noticeably better. My BP is 128/80/66 at 10am today. After I got an “explanation of benefits” this is not a bill but in the billed amount was $84.10 ( exactly the LDN amount) in the next column was the allowed amount of $84.10, the member responsibility was 0.00, Kaiser paid 0.00; if the member responsibility was 0.00 WHY DID IT COST ME $84.10?? It sounds like the trust attorney is trying to get to the bottom of it and I did get an email from him yesterday and apparently I am supposed to get a call from someone higher up the food chain. I did clean a little off of my “nest” here on my Lazyboy and I have a full briefcase just of my Kaiser stuff. I will remind everyone that I WILL be taking action with Kaiser Member services, if and when I need to.

POLITICAL:

I hope to see you all at the solidarity rallies both today and March 7th.

BIG ED SCHULTZ IS NOT THE ONLY ONE DISAPOINTED IN PRESIDENT OBAMA FOR NOT GOING TO MADISON !

Another issue that concerns me with this NEW congress is the “SPENDING CUTS” they are considering, and it seems at the TOP of the list is “entitlement” spending. One of the talking heads shows said entitlement spending (social security, Medicare?) makes up for 84% of federal spending, does that mean that the D.O.D. Budget with 2+ wars, and interest on the current National Debt only accounts for 16%. I do think they may have it backwards. I have a question for my republican friends; When I put my money in the bank and then draw it out, would YOU consider that an entitlement? HMMMN??

MY MOST IMPORTANT SECTION!!

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION:

A PROGRAM THAT IS ALSO LOOKING FOR HELP: LETS BRING EM HOME !!

http://www.lbeh.org/

Don't forget to say THANK YOU, to all those servicemen and women who have served or are serving.

NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER IS STILL IN AFGHANISTAN, DAMN; AND IT APPEARS THAT NEPHEW RHYON WILL BE HEADED BACK. So a prayer a day for them from all my readers would sure make me feel better.

ONE RIBBON STILL UP, FOR CHRISTOPHER, AND WHEN RHYON GETS REDEPLOYED, HIS RIBBON WILL GO BACK UP.

DON'T FORGET, THE SOFT LANDING BILL, and thank you SENATOR PATTY MURRAY and CONGRESSMAN KURT SCHRADER for helping with it.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE OREGON MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK, I DID INFORM SENATOR PATTY MURRAY OF OUR EFFORTS.

If you are flying the American Flag, please keep flying it until ALL our Troops return home.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

AOH REPORT:

I received my latest AOH NEWSPAPER and I want to congratulate the Anaconda, Montana AOH Division 1 on their 125th anniversary and point out that the Montana State President, Tom Pahut, is my cousin and the Division 1 brothers carrying the AOH banner on the first page of my blog are direct decedents of my Grandfather, also pictured on the first page “John L. Monahan”. And I did tell cousin Jim he should have been there and that it was the AOH that Built St. Francis Church in SE Portland. (interesting factoid; That was the church that my #2 W.O.W. Woman attended and was married in; Dianna PAULEY McCoy.)

I also need to report that Uncle Hank has returned to the hospital, and all prayers are appreciated.

While the Montana AOH received a Governors Proclamation with a 3 day celebration on their 125th anniversary; It appears our Mayor will be doing a proclamation instead of the AOH resolution and I do hope to be able to make that Council meeting.

SPORTS:

Well the All Star break is over and that the week off should have helped the banged up Blazers but based on that Laker Game they could have used a little more time. I did see where the Oregon M.S. Chapter is putting together a fund raiser game with the Blazers.

I sure hope baseball pre-season gets here soon.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES:

Lets get started with fundraising, donate to a walker, “WALLY'S WALKERS”, or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com. Thank You, Ed and Luanne Barnes, Lynn Lehrbach and Lori Vaughn for getting me started. AND ALSO THE MEMBERS AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL, AND BROTHER PAUL RIGGS AND THE CPBT FOR THAT VERY GENEROUS DONATION, and I do hope U.A. 290 acts favorably again this year.

I'm still trying to find the updated 2011 BULL SESSION website, without any luck. I did speak with Jim Moss and he told me they had a board meeting and he said that Pack West was reworking the Website to allow for a payment plan for the Tournament and Dinner-Auction, I still haven't called Paul, but I will share it as soon as I get it. THANK YOU JIM ! AND THANK YOU ALSO TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 290 FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION. ALL HELP APPRECIATED.

The American Rights at Work still needs help. We must not take our eye off that MAIN issue, our two Senators haven't; E.F.C.A. It is very disappointing that it was not lame duck accomplishment, especially in light of the ongoing protests in Wisconsin, and the mine disaster in West Virginia and those Rig explosions in the Gulf. I do think that both Senator Robert Byrd and Paul Wellstone are rolling over in their graves. And based on what I have been hearing the Republican's have Organized Labor directly in their cross hairs at least for the next 2 years.

The U.A. Local 290 “Don Salee” Member Assistance Program.

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS:

MICK, BOB, RON, JIM and CHRISTOPHER, stay positive and we will meet on the golf course (but I'm not sure if Ron even Plays) but I will take it easy on all of you. I also talked to good friend Scott Gardner and he wants to get together for some golf. I also heard from good friend and brother Joe McCarthy and he is going in for surgery on his rotator cuff, but as soon as he is well we will get out also.

May love and laughter light your days
And warm your heart and homes
May good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures
May all life's passing seasons bring the best to you and yours

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand.

Mike; My blog, is just over 5 pages, and under 2,700 words today, I think.

STAND WITH WISCONSIN TOMORROW AND MARCH 7th

PERSONAL:

I awoke this morning at 7am, after 8+ hours of sleep to a 3. I checked the south deck and it was just at freezing, with that snow, hail mix. I took my am pills, including my stop smoking one. I checked the west deck and the birdseed was covered with the snow/hail mix. I did call friend Brent Barton to ask him about getting some help from the Bar to help with getting the apprentices we commit to training to the next level; Construction Contractor. He did make a few suggestions and he said he will email me with some suggestions. I did call sister Danni and told her that brother Marty's B.D. Party is this Saturday night. I did make the PCC meeting at Jim Francesconi's office Tuesday and I thought it went well; there were a lot of good ideas floated. It was sure good to see him and the others again, especially Donna and she did tell me that Yusef was leaving for Guatemala City at the end of March for Americorps and could still use some assistance. Yusuf Word is in Americorps, and trying to get to Guatemala in Central America and spread the GOOD WORD about the U.S.A. (You can help by donating to him at 1825 S. Stevens St. Apt. 13 – Tacoma, Washington 98405.

I will take this opportunity to inform all about those “RALLY”S” scheduled by the OAFL-CIO:

My Brothers and Sisters:

The time has come for Oregon’s union movement to come together and make our voices heard as we stand in solidarity with workers in the Midwest who could lose their right to collectively bargain.

Join us at Director Park on Friday, February 25th at 4:00pm for a solidarity rally to show our embattled brothers and sisters across the nation that we are all in this together.
Director Park is located on Park Avenue in downtown Portland between southwest Taylor and Yamhill.

This is a short notice event. If you cannot attend, please come to the Rally for Jobs on Monday, March 7th. We will be meeting on the steps of the Capitol Building in Salem at noon. Transportation will be provided from Portland and details will be announced soon about where you can find buses to Salem.
I hope to see all of you on Friday. Wear red to show unity with workers everywhere.

It does appear they are organizing some buses so keep in touch with your local. I don't think it will quite be the Madison Wisconsin one, but one never knows?
I did hear Uncle Hank was back in the hospital so I would still ask all to include him in your prayers. I did add that new section; “AOH” to combine the various Irish statements and thoughts in a single section.

I am do hope weather cooperates for the life celebration of brother Gary Neibert this Sunday the 27th at 1pm at the hall and I hope to make it, and I also hate to have to report on the passing of 290 Brother Bob Barnett, please add him and his family to your prayers also.

I will now make another pitch for support for my election to our Internationals National Convention. I do want to keep my record intact of making every National Convention I have been eligible for since I joined the United Association. And please don't forget to register at the M.S. Walk Oregon for “WALLY'S WALKERS”, THANK YOU NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION, AND THANK YOU PAUL RIGGS and the CPBT for YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION.

I will put the prayer to St. Jude in here again for 290 brothers Richard Hopkins (Hoppy), Gary Neibert, Bob Barnett and the families of the Tucson shootings so please add them to your prayers also.

** For Brothers Hopkins, Neibert, Barnett and the Tuscon families **

Prayer to St. Jude for Eternal Life
You are my solace, St. Jude, in the face of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will guide my heart away from the darkness of fear and into the light of Christ. May the hope that St. Jude keeps alive in my heart be a source of comfort to all those who grieve. For in that hope, we know God's mercy, and we trust God's promise of eternal life. My soul longs for the fullness of life, which is only to be revealed when I meet my Maker in heaven. Stay by my side, St. Jude, so that my soul will always know the power of your healing love. Amen.

God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray. When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep, that in His mercy, I be judged............Good enough to keep.

**** My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today. For cousin Mick, uncle Hank, nephew Arron, Kelli's Mom, good friend Ron Wyden, good family friend Pat Percin, brothers Jimmy Judge, and Gerry Bruce, sister Donna and those who are having health issues; protecting Christopher and Rhyon and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

I know I have been repeating things, apparently too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of.

KAISER AND M.S. REPORT:

I did get our request off to the 290 E-board for the M.S. Walk. To register and get started with fund raising, donate to a walker (WALLY'S WALKERS), or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com.

This is also my attempt to keep track of my experiences with Kaiser Permanente and my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the Ampyra and the 4.5mg LDN, I think I'm noticeably better. My BP is 118/76/73 at 1pm today. After I got an “explanation of benefits” this is not a bill but in the billed amount was $84.10 ( exactly the LDN amount) in the next column was the allowed amount of $84.10, the member responsibility was 0.00, Kaiser paid 0.00; if the member responsibility was 0.00 WHY DID IT COST ME $84.10?? It sounds like the trust attorney is trying to get to the bottom of it and I did get an email from him yesterday and apparently I am supposed to get a call from someone higher up the food chain. I did clean a little off of my “nest” here on my Lazyboy and I have a full briefcase just of my Kaiser stuff. I will remind everyone that I WILL be taking action with Kaiser Member services, if and when I need to.

POLITICAL:

I did receive a letter of request from Senator John Kerry for a donation to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) and if you take action before March 31st your donation will be matched. I have an envelope and while I can't do too much I will do something. (you can online at www.dscc.org/vision (remember CORPORATIONS ARE NOW CONSIDERED PEOPLE) and we have 2 friends; right here in river city; that can be helped by this Committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WASHINTON) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OREGON). Don't let these seats become “Walmart seats”.
www.credo.com has a petition to tell the republicans in congress, who HAVE government health care, what the republicans like to call “Obamacare”; to give it up if they are so bent on taking it away from the 30+ million AMERICANS now covered under the new Health Care Law. I hate to report now that I watched the House of Representatives vote to not allow the IRS to spend any money on the new health care bill. “I GOT MINE” They also are trying to help the Wisconsin 14, Chris Larson, and his fellow Democratic senators, are literally working to evade capture by state police in order to prevent this radical attack on public workers. He's asked for Credo Support and they deserve it, you can find out more at their website; click above.

Another issue that concerns me with this NEW congress is the “SPENDING CUTS” they are considering, and it seems at the TOP of the list is “entitlement” spending. One of the talking heads shows said entitlement spending (social security, Medicare?) makes up for 84% of federal spending, does that mean that the D.O.D. Budget with 2+ wars, and interest on the current National Debt only accounts for 16%. I do think they may have it backwards. I have a question for my republican friends; When I put my money in the bank and then draw it out, would YOU consider that an entitlement? HMMMN??

MY MOST IMPORTANT SECTION!!

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION:

A PROGRAM THAT IS ALSO LOOKING FOR HELP: LETS BRING EM HOME !!

http://www.lbeh.org/

Don't forget to say THANK YOU, to all those servicemen and women who have served or are serving.

NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER IS STILL IN AFGHANISTAN, DAMN; AND IT APPEARS THAT NEPHEW RHYON WILL BE HEADED BACK. So a prayer a day for them from all my readers would sure make me feel better.

ONE RIBBON STILL UP, FOR CHRISTOPHER, AND WHEN RHYON GETS REDEPLOYED, HIS RIBBON WILL GO BACK UP.

DON'T FORGET, THE SOFT LANDING BILL, and thank you SENATOR PATTY MURRAY and CONGRESSMAN KURT SCHRADER for helping with it.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE OREGON MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK, I DID INFORM SENATOR PATTY MURRAY OF OUR EFFORTS.

If you are flying the American Flag, please keep flying it until ALL our Troops return home.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

AOH REPORT:

I received my latest AOH NEWSPAPER and I want to congratulate the Anaconda, Montana AOH Division 1 on their 125th anniversary and point out that the Montana State President, Tom Pahut, is my cousin and the Division 1 brothers carrying the AOH banner on the first page of my blog are direct decedents of my Grandfather, also pictured on the first page “John L. Monahan”. And I did tell cousin Jim he should have been there and that it was the AOH that Built St. Francis Church in SE Portland. (interesting factoid; That was the church that my #2 W.O.W. Woman attended and was married in; Dianna PAULEY McCoy.)

I also need to report that Uncle Hank has returned to the hospital, and all prayers appreciated.

While the Montana AOH received a Governors Proclamation with a 3 day celebration on their 125th anniversary; It appears our Mayor will be doing a proclamation instead of the AOH resolution and I hope to be able to make that Council meeting.

SPORTS:

Well the All Star break is over and that the week off should have helped the banged up Blazers but based on that Laker Game they could have used a little more time. I did see where the Oregon M.S. Chapter is putting together a fund raiser game with the Blazers.

I sure hope baseball pre-season gets here soon.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES:

Lets get started with fundraising, donate to a walker, “WALLY'S WALKERS”, or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com. Thank You, Ed and Luanne Barnes, Lynn Lehrbach and Lori Vaughn for getting me started. AND ALSO THE MEMBERS AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL, AND BROTHER PAUL RIGGS AND THE CPBT FOR THAT VERY GENEROUS DONATION, and I do hope U.A. 290 acts favorably again this year.

I'm still trying to find the updated 2011 BULL SESSION website, without any luck. I did speak with Jim Moss and he told me they had a board meeting and he said that Pack West was reworking the Website to allow for a payment plan for the Tournament and Dinner-Auction, I still haven't called Paul, but I will share it as soon as I get it. THANK YOU JIM ! AND THANK YOU ALSO TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 290 FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION. ALL HELP APPRECIATED.

The American Rights at Work still needs help. We must not take our eye off that MAIN issue, our two Senators haven't; E.F.C.A. It is very disappointing that it was not lame duck accomplishment, especially in light of the ongoing protests in Wisconsin, and the mine disaster in West Virginia and those Rig explosions in the Gulf. I do think that both Senator Robert Byrd and Paul Wellstone are rolling over in their graves. And based on what I have been hearing the Republican's have Organized Labor directly in their cross hairs at least for the next 2 years.

The U.A. Local 290 “Don Salee” Member Assistance Program.

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS:

MICK, BOB , RON, JIM and CHRISTOPHER, stay positive and we will meet on the golf course (but I'm not sure if Ron even Plays) but I will take it easy on all of you. I also talked to good friend Scott Gardner and he wants to get together for some golf. I also heard from good friend and brother Joe McCarthy and he is going in for surgery on his rotator cuff, but as soon as he is well we will get out also.

May love and laughter light your days
And warm your heart and homes
May good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures
May all life's passing seasons bring the best to you and yours

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand.

Mike; My blog, is over 5 pages, and under 2,700 words today, I think.

PCC MEETING WENT WELL - LETS HOPE IT'S MORE THAN JUST LIP SERVICE !!

PERSONAL:

I awoke this morning at 7am, after 8+ hours of sleep to a 3. I checked the south deck and it was just at freezing, wet but no snow. I took my am pills, including my stop smoking one. I checked the west deck after and all the birdseed was gone from yesterday. I didn't make the Blumenhauer breakfast yesterday but I did make the CPBT and then the PCC meeting at Jim Francesconi's office and I thought it went well; there were a lot of good ideas floated. It was sure good to see him and the others again, especially Donna and she did tell me that Yusef was leaving for Guatemala City at the end of March for Americorps and could still use some assistance. Yusuf Word is in Americorps, and trying to get to Guatemala in Central America and spread the GOOD WORD about the U.S.A. (You can help by donating to him at 1825 S. Stevens St. Apt. 13 – Tacoma, Washington 98405. After I parked the car and started looking for 200 Market street I noticed that the M.S. Society of Oregon's office was right there; I should have stopped in but by the time the Francesconi meeting was done, I was drained. I didn't make the “Workers Rights Board meeting” the 21st either, but I hope they had a good turnout. I have signed up for picket duty for the Local, if needed, although I hope it doesn't come to that, I am ready; if I get the call I would REALLY like to picket the Kaiser projects for a couple reasons. ALSO, SAVE THE DATE, MARCH 7TH FOR A WORKER RALLY AT THE CAPITAL IN SALEM. It does appear they are organizing some buses so keep in touch with your local. I don't think it will quite be the Madison Wisconsin one, but one never knows?

I did hear Uncle Hank was back in the hospital so I would still ask all to include him in your prayers. I did add that new section; “AOH” to combine the various Irish statements and thoughts in a single section.

I do hope weather cooperates for the life celebration of brother Gary Neibert this Sunday the 27th at 1pm at the hall and I hope to make it. I will now make another pitch for support for my election to our Internationals National Convention. I do want to keep my record intact of making every National Convention I have been eligible for since I joined the United Association. And please don't forget to register at the M.S. Walk Oregon for “WALLY'S WALKERS”, THANK YOU NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION, AND THANK YOU PAUL RIGGS for YOUR VERY GENEROUS PERSONAL DONATION.

I will put the prayer to St. Jude in here again for 290 brothers Richard Hopkins (Hoppy), and Gary Neibert and the families of the Tucson shootings so please add them to your prayers also.

** For Brothers Hopkins, Neibert and the Tuscon families **

Prayer to St. Jude for Eternal Life
You are my solace, St. Jude, in the face of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will guide my heart away from the darkness of fear and into the light of Christ. May the hope that St. Jude keeps alive in my heart be a source of comfort to all those who grieve. For in that hope, we know God's mercy, and we trust God's promise of eternal life. My soul longs for the fullness of life, which is only to be revealed when I meet my Maker in heaven. Stay by my side, St. Jude, so that my soul will always know the power of your healing love. Amen.

God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray. When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep, that in His mercy, I be judged............Good enough to keep.

**** My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today. For cousin Mick, uncle Hank, nephew Arron, Kelli's Mom, good friend Ron Wyden, good family friend Pat Percin, brothers Jimmy Judge, and Gerry Bruce, sister Donna and those who are having health issues; protecting Christopher and Rhyon and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

I know I have been repeating things, apparently too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of.

KAISER AND M.S. REPORT:

I did get our request off to the 290 E-board for the M.S. Walk. To register and get started with fund raising, donate to a walker (WALLY'S WALKERS), or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com.

This is also my attempt to keep track of my experiences with Kaiser Permanente and my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the Ampyra and the 4.5mg LDN, I think I'm noticeably better. My BP is 112/84/72 at 9:25am today. After I got an “explanation of benefits” this is not a bill but in the billed amount was $84.10 ( exactly the LDN amount) in the next column was the allowed amount of $84.10, the member responsibility was 0.00, Kaiser paid 0.00; if the member responsibility was 0.00 WHY DID IT COST ME $84.10?? It sounds like the trust attorney is trying to get to the bottom of it and I did get an email from him yesterday and apparently I am supposed to get a call from someone higher up the food chain. I did clean a little off of my “nest” here on my Lazyboy and I have a full briefcase just of my Kaiser stuff. I will remind everyone that I WILL be taking action with Kaiser Member services, if and when I need to.

POLITICAL:

CNN is reporting that former White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel is Chicago's new mayor. With 81 percent of vote in, Emanuel leads with 55 percent of the vote. Gery Chico was in second place with 25 percent of the vote. Miguel del Valle was in third place, with 9.3 percent of the vote. Carol Moseley Braun was in fourth place, with 8.7 percent.

I did receive a letter of request from Senator John Kerry for a donation to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) and if you take action before March 31st your donation will be matched. I have an envelope and while I can't do too much I will do something. (you can online at www.dscc.org/vision (remember CORPORATIONS ARE NOW CONSIDERED PEOPLE) and we have 2 friends; right here in river city; that can be helped by this Committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WASHINTON) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OREGON). Don't let these seats become “Walmart seats”.

I found out at the building trades that Good friend Bob Shiprack was passed over for the appointment to Metro. He would have made a GREAT counselor. (JOBS, JOBS, JOBS) SUPPORT FOR BOB AT THE PUBLIC MEETING AT THE DAVID DOUGLAS ADMINISTRATION BUILDING; 1500 SE 130 IN PORTLAND HAD A VERY GOOD TURNOUT, I DID GET THERE AND TESTIFIED, AND IF I COUNTED RIGHT BOB HAD THE MOST SUPPORT AND I WAS SURPRISED AND MIFFED THAT ONE OF THE COUNSELORS WAS “surprised” THAT THERE WAS SO MUCH INTEREST THEN AND HE DIDN'T THINK THE CONSTRUCTION TRADES EVER SHOWED SO MUCH INTEREST IN METRO BEFORE, I DIDN'T HAVE TIME ENOUGH TO EXPLAIN THAT A) THE TRADES HAVE SHOWN INTEREST ALL THE WAY BACK TO METRO EXECUTIVE RENA CUSMA, AND OUR SUPPORT FOR THE BUILDING OF THE METRO HEADQUARTERS BUILDING AND I WANTED TO TELL THEM THAT THERE IS A PLACQUE ON THE WALL OF THE CONVENTION CENTER CELEBRATING MOST OF THE WORKERS THAT HELPED BUILD IT, I DARE SAY THE BUILDING TRADES HAVE A LONGER TIME OF INTEREST THAN EVEN THAT PARTICULAR COUNSELOR. THANK YOU MR EXECUTIVE FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

www.credo.com has a petition to tell the republicans in congress, who HAVE government health care, what the republicans like to call “Obamacare”; to give it up if they are so bent on taking it away from the 30+ million AMERICANS now covered under the new Health Care Law. I hate to report now that I watched the House of Representatives vote to not allow the IRS to spend any money on the new health care bill. “I GOT MINE” They also are trying to help the Wisconsin 14, Chris Larson, and his fellow Democratic senators, are literally working to evade capture by state police in order to prevent this radical attack on public workers. He's asked for Credo Support and they deserve it, you can find out more at their website; click above.

Another issue that concerns me with this NEW congress is the “SPENDING CUTS” they are considering, and it seems at the TOP of the list is “entitlement” spending. One of the talking heads shows said entitlement spending (social security, Medicare?) makes up for 84% of federal spending, does that mean that the D.O.D. Budget with 2+ wars, and interest on the current National Debt only accounts for 16%. I do think they may have it backwards. I have a question for my republican friends; When I put money in the bank and then draw it out, would YOU consider that an entitlement? HMMMN??

MY MOST IMPORTANT SECTION!!

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION:

A PROGRAM THAT IS ALSO LOOKING FOR HELP: LETS BRING EM HOME !!

http://www.lbeh.org/

Don't forget to say THANK YOU, to all those servicemen and women who have served or are serving.

NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER IS STILL IN AFGHANISTAN, DAMN; AND IT APPEARS THAT NEPHEW RHYON WILL BE HEADED BACK. So a prayer a day for them from all my readers would sure make me feel better.

ONE RIBBON STILL UP, FOR CHRISTOPHER, AND WHEN RHYON GETS REDEPLOYED, HIS RIBBON WILL GO BACK UP.

DON'T FORGET, THE SOFT LANDING BILL, and thank you SENATOR PATTY MURRAY and CONGRESSMAN KURT SCHRADER for helping with it.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE OREGON MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK, I DID INFORM SENATOR PATTY MURRAY OF OUR EFFORTS.

If you are flying the American Flag, please keep flying it until ALL our Troops return home.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

AOH REPORT:

I received my latest AOH NEWSPAPER and I want to congratulate the Anaconda, Montana AOH Division 1 on their 125th anniversary and point out that the Montana State President, Tom Pahut, is my cousin and the Division 1 brothers carrying the AOH banner on the first page of my blog are direct decedents of my Grandfather, also pictured on the first page “John L. Monahan”. And I did tell cousin Jim he should have been there and that it was the AOH that Built St. Francis Church in SE Portland. (interesting factoid; That was the church that my #2 W.O.W. Woman attended and was married in; Dianna PAULEY McCoy.)

I also need to report that Uncle Hank has returned to the hospital, and all prayers appreciated.

While the Montana AOH received a Governors Proclamation with a 3 day celebration on their 125th anniversary; It appears the Mayor will be doing a proclamation instead of the AOH resolution and I hope to be able to make that Council meeting.

I also received a real nice package from the Portland Timbers trying to sell a few more season tickets for their 2011 MLS season and if there is anyone out there that would like to share a set with me, I know we have AOH brothers that are big Soccer fans.

SPORTS:

Well the All Star break is over and that the week off should really help the banged up Blazers the rest of the league had better beware! I did see where the Oregon M.S. Chapter is putting together a fund raiser game with the Blazers.

I sure hope baseball pre-season gets here soon.

And believe it or not; I am a soccer fan and looking forward to the Timbers Debut. I did watch the Premier league match between Manchester United and Manchester City and the goal made by that Manchester United Irishman (#10), I thought, was as good as anything Pele ever did.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES:

Lets get started with fundraising, donate to a walker, “WALLY'S WALKERS”, or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com. Thank You, Ed and Luanne Barnes, Lynn Lehrbach and Lori Vaughn for getting me started. AND ALSO THE MEMBERS AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL, AND BROTHER PAUL RIGGS AND THE CPBT FOR THAT VERY GENEROUS DONATION, and I do hope U.A. 290 acts favorably again this year.

I'm still trying to find the updated 2011 BULL SESSION website, without any luck. I did speak with Jim Moss and he told me they had a board meeting and he said that Pack West was reworking the Website to allow for a payment plan for the Tournament and Dinner-Auction, I guess I better call Paul. I will share it as soon as I get it. THANK YOU JIM ! AND THANK YOU ALSO TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 290 FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION. ALL HELP APPRECIATED.

The American Rights at Work still needs help. We must not take our eye off that MAIN issue, our two Senators haven't; E.F.C.A. It is very disappointing that it was not lame duck accomplishment, especially in light of the ongoing protests in Wisconsin, and the mine disaster in West Virginia and those Rig explosions in the Gulf. I do think that both Senator Robert Byrd and Paul Wellstone are rolling over in their graves. And based on what I have been hearing the Republican's have Organized Labor directly in their cross hairs at least for the next 2 years.

The U.A. Local 290 “Don Salee” Member Assistance Program.

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS:

MICK, BOB, RON, JIM and CHRISTOPHER, stay positive and we will meet on the golf course (but I'm not sure if Ron even Plays) but I will take it easy on all of you. I also talked to good friend Scott Gardner and he wants to get together for some golf. I also heard from good friend and brother Joe McCarthy and he is going in for surgery on his rotator cuff, but as soon as he is well we will get out also.

May love and laughter light your days
And warm your heart and homes
May good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures
May all life's passing seasons bring the best to you and yours

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand.

Mike; My blog, is just under 6 pages, and under 2,800 words today, I think.

CLASSIC OR ANTIQUE; HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROTHER MARTY

PERSONAL:

I awoke this morning at 6am and after 9+ hours of sleep I awoke to a 3-. I checked the south deck and it was just over 20 degrees. I took my am pills, including my stop smoking one. I must report that, and it's all over the airwaves, that youngest brother Marty is 50 today....that's over 350 dog years, and isn't that when a CLASSIC CAR becomes an ANTIQUE? :-p I checked the west deck after I heard the geese go over and there was plenty of birdseed left from yesterday. I will text brother Mike to see if he wants to go to lunch today and I'll keep track of the weather to see if I can make that “Workers Rights Board” Meeting tonight, 6-8pm at Augustana Lutheran Church, 2710 NE 14th in Portland. (it does sound like a rebirth of the MACG to me). I am signed up for picket duty, if needed although I hope it doesn't come to that, I am ready; if I get the call I would REALLY like to picket the Kaiser projects for a couple reasons. SAVE THE DATE, MARCH 7TH FOR A WORKER RALLY AT THE CAPITAL IN SALEM. I don't think it will quite the Madison Wisconsin one, but one never knows?

I did speak to Uncle Hank after the AOH meeting Tuesday and he was home and sounded good, but I heard yesterday he was back in the hospital so I would still ask all to include him in your prayers. I did add a new section; “AOH” to combine the various Irish statements and thoughts in a single section.

I am still looking forward to the meeting with PCC Tomorrow morning and while I am looking forward to it, it will be a long day, Breakfast with my Congressman, followed by the CPBT E-board and then followed by the PCC meeting; I just hope the weather cooperates. And don't forget the life celebration of brother Gary Neibert next Sunday the 27th at 1pm at the hall and I hope to make it. I will now make another pitch for support for my election to our Internationals National Convention. I do want to keep my record intact of making every National Convention I have been eligible for since I joined the United Association. And please don't forget to register at the M.S. Walk Oregon for “WALLY'S WALKERS”, THANK YOU NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION, AND THANK YOU PAUL RIGGS for YOUR VERY GENEROUS PERSONAL DONATION.

I will put the prayer to St. Jude in here again for 290 brothers Richard Hopkins (Hoppy), and Gary Neibert and the families of the Tucson shootings so please add them to your prayers also.

** For Brothers Hopkins, Neibert and the Tuscon families **

Prayer to St. Jude for Eternal Life
You are my solace, St. Jude, in the face of loss and sorrow. I pray that you will guide my heart away from the darkness of fear and into the light of Christ. May the hope that St. Jude keeps alive in my heart be a source of comfort to all those who grieve. For in that hope, we know God's mercy, and we trust God's promise of eternal life. My soul longs for the fullness of life, which is only to be revealed when I meet my Maker in heaven. Stay by my side, St. Jude, so that my soul will always know the power of your healing love. Amen.

God grant that I may live to fish until my dying day, And when it comes to my last cast, I then must humbly pray. When in the Lord's safe landing net I'm peacefully asleep, that in His mercy, I be judged............Good enough to keep.

**** My daily prayer, is to Mary Mother of God…..”O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today. For cousin Mick, uncle Hank, nephew Arron, Kelli's Mom, good friend Ron Wyden, good family friend Pat Percin, brothers Jimmy Judge, and Gerry Bruce, sister Donna and those who are having health issues; protecting Christopher and Rhyon and all in need. We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help ALL of us, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever, Amen.”

I know I have been repeating things, apparently too much, on my blog; but some of this stuff I need to be reminded of and some of this stuff others need to be reminded of.

KAISER AND M.S. REPORT:

I did get our request off to the 290 E-board for the M.S. Walk. To register and get started with fund raising, donate to a walker (WALLY'S WALKERS), or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com.

This is also my attempt to keep track of my experiences with Kaiser Permanente and my Neurologist and his RN. So far with the Ampyra and the 4.5mg LDN, I think I'm noticeably better. My BP is 120/79/58 at 8:10am today. After I got an “explanation of benefits” this is not a bill but in the billed amount was $84.10 ( exactly the LDN amount) in the next column was the allowed amount of $84.10, the member responsibility was 0.00, Kaiser paid 0.00; if the member responsibility was 0.00 WHY DID IT COST ME $84.10?? It sounds like the trust attorney is trying to get to the bottom of it. I did clean a little off of my “nest” here on my Lazyboy and I have a full briefcase just of my Kaiser stuff. I will remind everyone that I WILL be taking action with Kaiser Member services, if and when I need to.

POLITICAL:

I did receive a letter of request from Senator John Kerry for a donation to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) and if you take action before March 31st your donation will be matched. I have an envelope and while I can't do too much I will do something. (you can online at www.dscc.org/vision (remember CORPORATIONS ARE NOW CONSIDERED PEOPLE) and we have 2 friends; right here in river city; that can be helped by this Committee, Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WASHINTON) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OREGON). Don't let these seats become “Walmart seats”.

Good friend Bob Shiprack is up for an appointment to Metro and he would make a GREAT counselor. (JOBS, JOBS, JOBS) SUPPORT FOR BOB AT THE PUBLIC MEETING AT THE DAVID DOUGLAS ADMINISTRATION BUILDING; 1500 SE 130 IN PORTLAND HAD A VERY GOOD TURNOUT, I DID GET THERE AND TESTIFIED, AND IF I COUNTED RIGHT BOB HAD THE MOST SUPPORT AND I WAS SURPRISED AND MIFFED THAT ONE OF THE COUNSELORS WAS “surprised” THAT THERE WAS SO MUCH INTEREST THEN AND HE DIDN'T THINK THE CONSTRUCTION TRADES EVER SHOWED SO MUCH INTEREST IN METRO BEFORE, I DIDN'T HAVE TIME ENOUGH TO EXPLAIN THAT A) THE TRADES HAVE SHOWN INTEREST ALL THE WAY BACK TO METRO EXECUTIVE RENA CUSMA, AND OUR SUPPORT FOR THE BUILDING OF THE METRO HEADQUARTERS BUILDING AND I WANTED TO TELL THEM THAT THERE IS A PLACQUE ON THE WALL OF THE CONVENTION CENTER CELEBRATING MOST OF THE WORKERS THAT HELPED BUILD IT, I DARE SAY THE BUILDING TRADES HAVE A LONGER TIME OF INTEREST THAN EVEN THAT PARTICULAR COUNSELOR.

www.credo.com has a petition to tell the republicans in congress, who HAVE government health care, what the republicans like to call “Obamacare”; to give it up if they are so bent on taking it away from the 30+ million AMERICANS now covered under the new Health Care Law. I hate to report now that I watched the House of Representatives vote to not allow the IRS to spend any money on the new health care bill. “I GOT MINE” They also are trying to help the Wisconsin 14, Chris Larson, and his fellow Democratic senators, are literally working to evade capture by state police in order to prevent this radical attack on public workers. He's asked for Credo Support and they deserve it, you can find out more at their website; click above.

Another issue that concerns me with this NEW congress is the “SPENDING CUTS” they are considering, and it seems at the TOP of the list is “entitlement” spending. One of the talking heads shows said entitlement spending (social security, Medicare?) makes up for 84% of federal spending, does that mean that the D.O.D. Budget with 2+ wars, and interest on the current National Debt only accounts for 16%. I do think they may have it backwards. I have a question for my republican friends; When I put money in the bank and then draw it out, do YOU consider that an entitlement? HMMMN??

CHECK OUT PAST BLOGS FOR THE Top 5 Social Security Myths. I am only going to list the first one, as it is the biggest, as far as I'm concerned and I will save the space.

Myth #1: Social Security is going broke.
Reality: There is no Social Security crisis. By 2023, Social Security will have a $4.6 trillion surplus (yes, trillion with a 'T'). It can pay out all scheduled benefits for the next quarter-century with no changes whatsoever. After 2037, it'll still be able to pay out 75% of scheduled benefits—and again, that's without any changes. The program started preparing for the Baby Boomers' retirement decades ago. Anyone who insists Social Security is broke probably wants to break it themselves.

MY MOST IMPORTANT SECTION!!

YELLOW RIBBON SECTION:

A PROGRAM THAT IS ALSO LOOKING FOR HELP: LETS BRING EM HOME !!

http://www.lbeh.org/

Don't forget to say THANK YOU, to all those servicemen and women who have served or are serving.

NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER IS STILL IN AFGHANISTAN, DAMN; AND IT APPEARS THAT NEPHEW RHYON WILL BE HEADED BACK. So a prayer a day for them from all my readers would sure make me feel better.

ONE RIBBON STILL UP, FOR CHRISTOPHER, AND WHEN RHYON GETS REDEPLOYED, HIS RIBBON WILL GO BACK UP.

DON'T FORGET, THE SOFT LANDING BILL, and thank you SENATOR PATTY MURRAY and CONGRESSMAN KURT SCHRADER for helping with it.

PLEASE SUPPORT THE OREGON MILITARY SUPPORT NETWORK, I DID INFORM SENATOR PATTY MURRAY OF OUR EFFORTS.

If you are flying the American Flag, please keep flying it until ALL our Troops return home.

At the 11th Hour, on the 11th Day, of the 11th Month a cease fire was signed to end the war to end all wars in 1918. How's that worked out so far?

AOH REPORT:

I received my latest AOH NEWSPAPER and I want to congratulate the Anaconda, Montana AOH Division 1 on their 125th anniversary and point out that the Montana State President, Tom Pahut, is my cousin and the Division 1 brothers carrying the AOH banner on the first page of my blog are direct decedents of my Grandfather, also pictured on the first page “John L. Monahan”. And I did tell cousin Jim he should have been there and that it was the AOH that Built St. Francis Church in SE Portland. (interesting factoid; That was the church that my #2 W.O.W. Woman attended and was married in; Dianna PAULEY McCoy.)

I also need to report that Uncle Hank has returned to the hospital, and all prayers appreciated.

While the Montana AOH received a Governors Proclamation with a 3 day celebration on their 125th anniversary; It appears the Mayor will be doing a proclamation instead of the AOH resolution, but I hope to be able to make that Council meeting.

I also received a real nice package from the Portland Timbers trying to sell a few more season tickets for their 2011 MLS season and if there is anyone out there that would like to share a set with me, I know we have AOH brothers that are big Soccer fans.

SPORTS:

Well, I did watch most of the NBA All Star game yesterday, I wonder if I am the only one who thought, while Koby did have a great game, the real deserving MVP All Star was “homered. ( TRIPLE DOUBLE, IGNORED). But I am sure that the week off should really help their banged up Blazers and when everyone starts playing after the All Star break the league had better beware! I did see where the Oregon M.S. Chapter is putting together a fund raiser game with the Blazers.

I sure hope baseball pre-season gets here soon.

And believe it or not; I am a soccer fan and looking forward to the Timbers Debut. I did watch the Premier league match between Manchester United and Manchester City and the goal made by that Manchester United Irishman (#10), I thought, was as good as anything Pele ever did.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS & CHARITIES:

Lets get started with fundraising, donate to a walker, “WALLY'S WALKERS”, or find out about volunteer opportunities, visit www.walkmsoregon.com. Thank You, Ed and Luanne Barnes, Lynn Lehrbach and Lori Vaughn for getting me started. AND ALSO THE MEMBERS AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR COUNCIL, AND BROTHER PAUL RIGGS FOR THAT VERY GENEROUS PERSONAL DONATION, and I do hope U.A. 290 acts favorably again this year.

I'm still trying to find the updated 2011 BULL SESSION website, without any luck. I did speak with Jim Moss and he told me they had a board meeting and he said that Pack West was reworking the Website to allow for a payment plan for the Tournament and Dinner-Auction, I guess I better call Paul. I will share it as soon as I get it. THANK YOU JIM ! AND THANK YOU ALSO TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 290 FOR YOUR VERY GENEROUS DONATION. ALL HELP APPRECIATED.

The American Rights at Work still needs help. We must not take our eye off that MAIN issue, our two Senators haven't; E.F.C.A. It is very disappointing that it was not lame duck accomplishment, especially in light of the ongoing protests in Wisconsin, and the mine disaster in West Virginia and those Rig explosions in the Gulf. I do think that both Senator Robert Byrd and Paul Wellstone are rolling over in their graves. And based on what I have been hearing the Republican's have Organized Labor directly in their cross hairs at least for the next 2 years.

The U.A. Local 290 “Don Salee” Member Assistance Program.

OTHER STUFF AND COMMUNICATIONS:

MICK, BOB , RON, JIM, UNCLE HANK and CHRISTOPHER, stay positive and we will meet on the golf course (but I'm not sure if Ron or Hank even Plays) but I will take it easy on all of you. I also talked to good friend Scott Gardner and he wants to get together for some golf. I also heard from good friend and brother Joe McCarthy and he is going in for surgery on his rotator cuff, but as soon as he is well we will get out also.

May love and laughter light your days
And warm your heart and homes
May good and faithful friends be yours wherever you may roam
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures
May all life's passing seasons bring the best to you and yours

Whether you attend a church service, a Mosque, GLBT gathering, or Synagogue service, please say a prayer that God; yours, mine or ours; keeps our service men and women in the Palm of their hand.

Mike; My blog, is just over 5 pages, and under 2,800 words today, I think.