Welcoming audience greets governor in banquet hall
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Gov. Walker speaks in Janesville
Gov. Scott Walker spoke Tuesday at Forward Janesville's annual dinner. Hundreds of people turned up to protest his appearance.
JANESVILLE — Having cleared a wall of protestors outside, Gov. Scott Walker knew he'd find support Tuesday night inside the Holiday Inn Express & Janesville Conference Center.
Walker received a rousing welcome as he took the stage and was interrupted by applause several times in a 25-minute speech at Forward Janesville's annual dinner.
He reiterated most of the points he made on the campaign trail and over the tumultuous two and one-half months of his governorship.
"I've seen the nods and heard the applause tonight," Walker said. "I know I'm preaching to the choir here. This is a business and economic development group."
Walker campaigned on a platform of statewide economic development and job creation anchored by fiscal restraint in Madison. The mission, he said, is to end a fiscal and economic crisis not seen in decades.
His ideas of fiscal restraint—supported in both the GOP-controlled Assembly and Senate—have drawn hundreds of thousands of protesters to Madison outraged by his budget repair bill and a biennial budget proposal that severely limit collective bargaining by public unions and force significant spending reductions at the state and local levels.
For the most part, Walker's comments drew applause and ovations. A handful of tables, however, remained seated and withheld applause, but there were no other outward displays of opposition.
Walker said past administrations looked the other way as they raided money from a tobacco settlement lawsuit, a patients' compensation fund, the state's segregated transportation fund and the federal stimulus program to pay ongoing operations.
"There's nowhere left to kick the can into the future," he said, noting that his budget does what eight preceding state budgets did not: reduce the state's structural deficit without raising taxes. "This budget is a commitment to the future."
He noted that Moody's Investor Services, one of the nation's top bond rating agencies, recently issued a report saying Walker's budget would make the state "credit positive."
"What they've said is that this budget gets serious about tackling the tough challenges," Walker said.
Walker said he's moving quickly to address the state's problems, just as any CEO facing a business crisis would. That includes cutting costs and regulations and making Wisconsin an attractive place to do business.
The results, he said, are starting to pay off as the state added 13,000 jobs in January and February, 8,200 of them in manufacturing.
That doesn't include the announcement early this month that Stoughton Trailers would reopen its Evansville plant and hire 302 workers, plus an additional 176 for its plants in Stoughton and Brodhead, Walker said.
"Small businesses will be the ones that stimulate our economy," he said. "If we get companies that add 1,000 or 3,000 jobs, I'll do cartwheels … but it's really the companies that will add 10, 15, 20 jobs that will bring us back."
Walker said he wants to be at the table with Forward Janesville and the public/private economic initiative called Rock County 5.0 to solve the problems created by General Motors' departure. A mega employer, he said, probably won't fill that void.
Smaller companies that—thanks to his agenda—have their sights set on Wisconsin will replace the lost jobs, he said.
Several times, Walker expressed his knowledge of and fondness for Rock County, which neighbors Walworth County, where he grew up in Delavan. He recalled visits as a teen to Shakey's Pizza and Ponderosa, followed by wanderings at the Janesville Mall.
"Rock County is and will continue to be a leader in turning this state around," he said.
Walker didn't leave the stage without acknowledging the protesters outside. It's been several weeks, he said, since the large protests outside the Capitol.
"Actually, it kind of refreshed my memory," he said. "But it's kind of hard to argue that it's organic when there's a big national Teamsters bus parked out front."
Forward Janesville President John Beckord said he was pleased the evening went off without a hitch, both for the 700-plus inside the hall and for the demonstrators outside.
"Everyone was safe, and that was the most important thing," Beckord said. "The reaction I've received has been nothing but positive.
"And the governor told me afterward that it was all terrific and that he left feeling very welcome in Janesville."
Apr 4, 2011 at 9:13 p.m.
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MadeinUSA.. NO where have I EVER posted that my taxes would decrease. My relief will come from knowing I am no longer financing YOUR fringe benefits! I already finance the wages of teachers... and for that I am very thankful to be able to support our great state teachers. BUT... when it comes to a pension and medical benefits that would have saved so many of us "lowly" taxpayers from bankruptcy had the state paid OUR bennies from state taxes.... well, the state can absolutely not AFFORD IT ANYMORE!
THIS is the reality check! Your union will NOT be able to get you out of this one.
Apr 1, 2011 at 7:07 p.m.
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flyboy - it is a good thing that your wife calmed you down so you didn't end up in county lockup...again
Apr 1, 2011 at 1:33 p.m.
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"Walker didn't leave the stage without acknowledging the protesters outside. It's been several weeks, he said, since the large protests outside the Capitol.
"'Actually, it kind of refreshed my memory," he said. "But it's kind of hard to argue that it's organic when there's a big national Teamsters bus parked out front.'"
Not to nitpick, but it isn't a bus, it's a semi truck. And oh, again, not to nitpick, but it's the truck of WISCONSIN TEAMSTERS. The big outline of the state on the trailer along with the "WISCONSIN WISCONSIN WISCONSIN WISCONSIN WISCONSIN WISCONSIN..." that runs along the top are pretty good clues. It was parked on the Capitol Square for a couple of weeks, so the Governor should recognize it. Hmmmm...
Apr 1, 2011 at 11:48 a.m.
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Snkybstrd10: I want you to know that I get it. But you are right, there are too many out there who just don't get. I don't know why that is. I guess they just don't really want to look at all the facts. Or else they have their blinders on, on purposes, because they don't want to face up to reality. Right on, you are!
Yes, it is going to get far worse before it gets better again with Walker at the helm.
I hope our beloved Wisconsin can survive this.
Apr 1, 2011 at 11:25 a.m.
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For all you bellyaching about the rich teachers with their fat pensions - check out this deal.
http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/business/1...
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$100 million dollar TIF deal for yet another homogenized retail strip mall. Does any business developer build ANYTHING anymore without sticking up the taxpayers first?
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For all you Tea Party whiners-please explain how this is capitalism. In the more traditional view of capitalism, shouldn't a development come about via identifiying a need or a demand instead of a handout from the taxapayers? Seems to me, if a development needs $100 million kickstart, then its questionable whether it is needed at all.
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Do you get a tax kickback like these developers do when you do a home improvement, an addition or deck on your house? That helps the economy, does it not?
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Tea Party believes in socialism for the rich, capitalism the poor.
Apr 1, 2011 at 10:57 a.m.
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The tax incentives game should end - its like paying ransom (fork it over or we'll leave the state) and putting millions of gold coins in the Rube Goldbergian slot machine, and hope and pray the state gets a return on it. Typically it all ends up in the pockets of cronies like the Kochs, (or as in the past in pocketbook of GM execs).
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An investment in education directly benefits the present and future of Janesville and Wisconsin. Awesome test scores recently.
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Share the sacrifice, raise taxes on the rich instead of sticking it all on the teachers.
Apr 1, 2011 at 9:45 a.m.
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SarahB1: Is calling me a liar truly the very best thing you can rebut me with? Obviously you were in hearing and seeing distance of ALL who protested Tuesday night. Obviously you carefully eyed each and every protester and their actions as EVERY vehicle drove by. Obviously, you were at all entrances simultaneously! WOW - you have talent! Your comment and the comments of others just show a total ignorance! You aren't by chance one of our wonderful teachers in the Janesville School District are you? Please tell me that isn't the case! If it is, then we have much bigger problems in our school district than "union busting"! Your ignorance is a total disgrace for any human being, no matter what they do for a living. I suggest that you receive tutoring by one of Janesville's finest teachers, oh wait, that may be a bad idea after all!
If you are going to insult people by calling them a liar then you better be prepared for the rebuttal! You are just plain despicable!
Apr 1, 2011 at 7 a.m.
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MadeinUSA......Our taxes won't decrease, but with this legislation there is much less of a chance of a tax increase. Take the most recent teacher's contract for example. The union demanded 100% taxpayer funding of pensions, 97% taxpayer funding of HC premiums, and 2% raises. This from a district facing a $13 million deficit. How do the unions suggest we pay for it? Tax to the max!
When Walker's legislation is implemented, situations like this will no longer be commonplace.......
Mar 31, 2011 at 9:22 p.m.
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I attended Wednesday evening and only wish those outside could have heard the positive message from all speakers inside the building. I will say I was very surprised to have "shame! shame!" shouted at me and my coworkers as we entered and exited the grounds. Really? I'm shameful for wanting a balanced budget and job growth? My hope is that most of these protesters (where DID that Teamster trailer come from?) were from out of town because I didn't think Janesville had that many rude, crude people.
Mar 31, 2011 at 6:02 p.m.
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People living beyond their means, stand to lose the most. Budget your OWN checkbook... you wouldn't be in dire straits if you knew how to watch your OWN finances! All the whining over how this is a slap to middle class. I'm non-union and middle class. Having someone else's pension and med care taken off MY tax bill is a welcome change. The gravy train has "left the station".
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:59 p.m.
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Cutting corporate taxes doesn't make jobs. Supply and demand does. In this economy all Walker is doing is giving money away. Who can afford to buy anything anyway? There is no hand forcing any of these corporations who will benefit from the elimination the corporate tax to create jobs. None! So they give the money away on the HOPE they will be grateful and create jobs. Gee thanks Walker.
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:44 p.m.
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Walker will not get the message after the love fest reception in the Holiday Inn. Want to show Walker Janesville does NOT support him? Vote out his disciple Sodemann. Vote for Murray, Shahlapour, Burt.
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:28 p.m.
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“Walker said past administrations looked the other way as they raided money from a tobacco settlement lawsuit…”
Ummmm, that would be Tommy Thompson
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“The results, he said, are starting to pay off as the state added 13,000 jobs in January and February, 8,200 of them in manufacturing.”
Results of what? Here is a link to bills introduced on the first day of the legislative session. ALL the jobs Walker is referring to were created before ANY legislation was passed.
http://www.wisciviljusticecouncil.org/20...
“Having cleared a wall of protestors (sic) outside…” “And the governor told me afterward that it was all terrific and that he left feeling very welcome in Janesville.”
So there it is folks, not only is Walker misinformed and deceitful, he is also delusional. I’d call that a Republican Trifecta.
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:17 p.m.
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NVgrl WE all know he is deaf and his beady eyes may be blind But the REAL People see and here the TRUTH!!!! UNITED WE STAND
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:12 p.m.
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snkybstrd10 WELL SAID and the people that are blind to this will be right there at the SOUP lines with the rest of us.
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:11 p.m.
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calrity there is no deficit at this time once he gives the GOP allies the breaks WE will then be deep in debt. The people he is attacking are not the problem WALKER IS
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:06 p.m.
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http://www.truthdig.com/report/item/what...
Mar 31, 2011 at 4:06 p.m.
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CLARITY/Here is just a few of his BIG TAX GIVAWAYS TO THE BIG CORPORATIONS///http://www.truthdig.com/report/item/what_gov_walker_wont_tell_you_20110220/ http://politifact.com/truth-o-meter/stat... http://factcheck.org/2011/03/walkers-tax... http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/g... http://www.fox6now.com/news/politics/wit... And there are many more to prove what you asked for And the Koch companies in this state will benefit along with every other rich corrupt Walker supporters
Mar 31, 2011 at 3:48 p.m.
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It's simply amazing the number of people who still don't get it. This bill, wether you like it or not, will hurt everyone. Every worker, every family, every business large and small, children, the elderly and the poor. With less money in peoples paychecks, the monthly bills staying the same, and projected increases in school costs, there is nothing left in peoples wallets! So that means no money to spend at local businesses, no money to spend on grandma and grandpas assisted living, no money to spend on new cars, clothes, etc. This all equals loss of more jobs. I've been applying for jobs for the last 2 1/2 years and had my first offer for an interview I had today. Its only an LTE position expected to last a month but anything at this point is better than nothing. For the last two years I've been going to school to 1. further my education because education is important, and 2. to better my chances at a quality paying job with good benefits. So much for that idea. I was also at this rally. What I saw was very peacefull. No one spitting. I'm not saying it didn't happen. There is always going to be one or two bad grapes in a bunch. All in all a good gathering. I'm glad to see the people with sense out saving the state from those with no sense. I'm not too surprised by the reporting in this story given its in the Gazette. If you base all your knowledge on subjects based on the articles in the Gazette then no wonder you have no sense! Get out there and see for yourself. Get involved. Don't rely on others for information. Seek it out yourself. Then you will know truth.
Mar 31, 2011 at 3:11 p.m.
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flyboy, watch the video again, the first part has palm trees in the background. I don't recall any palm trees around the capital. It's footage of something entirely different.
Mar 31, 2011 at 2:56 p.m.
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Clarity that is awful, I agree. I'm in the business world and can empathize. It is especially bad since the longer someone is unemployed they are treated like they are tainted survivors of a nuclear accident.
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It is an angry world out there. The recession has not exactly brought out the best in people/businesses... I don't see how blasting away at teachers and public servants helps matters.
Mar 31, 2011 at 1:56 p.m.
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For clarity-The thought process:
Its a February Sunday night, you are proud Janesville teacher in your modest home revelling in the Packers SB victory thinking Wisconsin is the greatest place on Earth...You put your beer down and thought turns to getting a few things ready for the next day's classes.
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Perhaps your mind drifts to some of the needier-than-ever kids at school, how great it is for them to enjoy their first Packer SB victory and pride in their state, silly as that may be. The mind drifts to the nation-how we all have to somehow make it work, people, states with and without unions are having trouble making ends meet. You may even think about the concessions and cut backs your Union is negotiating internally and externally, even though the climate for compromise is rough.
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Then you brush it all aside and say, "This is Wisconsin, not Mississippi we'll make it all work- we just won the damn Super Bowl" and then you drink the rest of your beer.
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Meanwhile, the new governor is in the mansion preparing to "drop the bomb", on teachers-comparing them in his mind (and later to faux-Koch)to communists and him dreaming to himself(and later to faux-Koch)as the next Reagan, a GOP superhero and slayer of communists.
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Then next day Janesville teacher wakes up, and told that he/she with their fat pension and 1999 Chevy Malibu in the driveway are the reason for the state's economic woes. You mentally prepare yourself to rearrange your finances somehow, because cuts are inevitable. However, what gives? Nobody else is sharing the sacrifice?! No referendum or tax kick-in to get thru the tough times?
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Hell no. Never new taxes, and in fact they are going to target specific cronies to give tax cuts to.
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You realize, that yesterday-you were a neighbor, a fellow hard-working proud Wisconsite enjoying the Super Bowl win. And now you are a scapegoat for the governor. Big political money from outside the state has been moved on WI to declare you and your pension the problem. Your neighbors are told to hate you.
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And most see through the BS and do not hate you. However a loud minority do, and they are well-financed to spread their misconceptions and propaganda against you. Etc. But still you vow to plow ahead in the On Wisconsin fashion.
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Surely some here will relish this story with their infantile allegiance to this political persecution brought forth by the national monied interests. It is just what you wanted. And the louder the Walker cowards scream on these internet forums, the more we know you realize your mistake and have painted yourself into a corner.
Mar 31, 2011 at 1:53 p.m.
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To all people who say Fox News lied: I watched the video and it sure looked like more than a tap although not quite a punch. The protester definitely overstepped his bounds in my opinion.
Mar 31, 2011 at 1:49 p.m.
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And Mistergee1: If your jealousy is becoming a problem then I suggest you save your money and buy a new vehicle. You missed the boat on cash for clunkers I guess.
Mar 31, 2011 at 1:45 p.m.
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Mistergee1:
How is it that you are jealous of the automobile's people drive? Oh I am sure that those "rich" evil doers paid for those cars by cheating on their taxes or backdoor dealings! Give me a BREAK! Please try to persuade the audience that ALL the people going to the dinner drove nice new fancy vehicles and that ALL the protesters drove there and away in rusted out buckets.....Your comment is unjust, totally off the point and ridiculous!
Mar 31, 2011 at 1:40 p.m.
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Oh yes, those evil Fox News people!!! Shame on them right? How about reading for yourself how the Prime Networks choose not to cover stories that are VERY fitting to print?
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/scott-whitl...
Mar 31, 2011 at 1:27 p.m.
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funny how all the people in the hall drove away in suv's and very new expensive cars...and liked what he had to say. But me, a protestor had to drive my 18 yr old truck.
Mar 31, 2011 at 12:59 p.m.
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tele78, stop calling Fox News "Fake News". How do you know it's fake? Because they don't broadcast the news the way CNN, MSNBC, and the other mainstream media outlets do? Fox News tells the truth. The only reason those protesters were chanting "Fox News Lies" is because it wouldn't just their side of the issue.
Mar 31, 2011 at 12:54 p.m.
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Clarity -the facetious statements? Usually you do better. Walker has made his motives clear, and it is not budget cutting or balancing. He doesn't like people he thinks are democrats. He aspires for higher office. Thus these moves to bust the unions, cut education (and bring on the vouchers), give tax perks to his friends and co-horts. This sort of things gives the whips and chains republicans their jollies, and him a ticket to be the next Newt Gingrich (or something like that.)
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Sorry, but you knew all that already. And we know you know. And you know we know you know. And this will go on forever until Walker and his band of criminals is recalled.
Mar 31, 2011 at 12:39 p.m.
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packersfan1
regarding your post about the Fake News reporter getting punched - he retracted his statement. One of the protestors was standing there with his video camera and recorded the whole confrontation. Fake News admitted the reporter was not punched.
I was in Madison when the Fake News guy was trying to report on the protests. He was dumb enough to stop in the street, right by the Teamster's semi truck. Protestors chanted "Fox News Lies" (which is the truth) so much that the reporter grabbed his camera man and stomped off.
So, before you go posting things and believing everything on the Fox Propoganda station...get your facts straight.
Mar 31, 2011 at 12:30 p.m.
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carlitosway, I also watch local news and all the local channels show only side of the budget battle. They rarely show anyone who supports Governor Walker. I was watching Fox News when that reporter got attacked. Don't tell me Fox News lies. They were the only one showing both sides of this issue.
Mar 31, 2011 at 12:03 p.m.
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Freebird , you may have some unexpected support for that statement -If Walker runs for prez, does that mean Janesville can ship Sodemann and Perotto off with him?
Mar 31, 2011 at 11:20 a.m.
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Carlitosway: I don't know who you were talking to concerning Governor Walker in the banquet hall and the reception he received but that is so far from the truth it's disgusting! No, he did get a standing -o in his entrance and his exit. It was far far far beyond minimal. It's funny how people hear something or read a comment and it's the God spoken truth.
I was there, my wife was there, friends and colleagues were there...over 700 people were there. 99.9% of us gave him an upmost pronounced reception! So much that you would have to look very very hard to see the .1% who didn't!
Mar 31, 2011 at 11:15 a.m.
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"And the governor told me afterward that it was all terrific and that he left feeling very welcome in Janesville."
Other than being heartless, he must be blind and deaf as well!
Mar 31, 2011 at 11:12 a.m.
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packersfan1 FOX/KOCH news are the worst right wing supporters in this country as to telling the truth I watch all news networks and make my decisions based on the truth not the lies and halftruths of FOX/KOCH. BTW as I protested at the banquet I kept in mind that the people there had planned this before Walkers attack on this state and some I know as friends were NOT THERE FOR HIM. They were there to support JANESVILLE. I hope they ate before he spoke.
Mar 31, 2011 at 11:05 a.m.
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gmaof3 btw I am 57 ,you sure don't show family values for you grandchildren and the right to a good eduction. Wow even the gazette removed you post hmmmm Flyboyatjvl I was also there outside and the LIES that are about us as unruly and blocking entrance to the center are just as discusting as what you had to say in support of him.We are entitled to be there as were you and to voice our opinions are allowed and that you heard us was a good thing as you unlike walker did hear the people. He did not get a stand up when he entered. his applause was minimal when he was introduced and this come from people at the banquet.I will give you a link to back it.One of our real caring individual that believe in the people of this town.
http://defendwisconsin.blogspot.com/
Mar 31, 2011 at 11:02 a.m.
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flyboyatjvl-I believe what you said is the truth. The protesters will insult anyone who doesn't agree with them. When a Fox News reporter was in Madison covering the protests, one of the protesters hit the reporter in the nose. Some of the protesters act like a bunch of thugs and bullies. To those on this site that were protesting and said this didn't happen, just because you didn't see what happened to flyboyatjvl doesn't mean it didn't happen.
Mar 31, 2011 at 9:53 a.m.
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notfromhere
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:55 p.m.
"The results, he said, are starting to pay off as the state added 13,000 jobs in January and February, 8,200 of them in manufacturing."
Where?? My friend lost her job she had for over 10 yrs., 2 years ago almost to the day and she's still unemployed. Where are these jobs?
What does your friend do is it a useful trade?
I am in Milwaukee and hardly a week goes by that I don't get an unsolicited job offer, and I am not the only one most of the supervisors and managers at our facility get the same offers also a lot of my machinist are also getting request. The most important advice that I could offer to a person looking for a change of career is to get some training in the manufacturing arena and to network-network-network. My facility currently has close to 40 open positions that we are having a hard time filling due to lack of experience. If I didn’t love my job so much it is good to know that there are a lot of options out there.
Both my wife and I are from the Janesville area and worked at the GM facility in management both of us left for greener pastures prior to the plant closing. We both still have family there and the biggest issue we see with that area is the closed minded people in the area that rather stay in Janesville and Beloit and live with the extremely high property taxes and complain about it than look outside of Rock County at all of the opportunities out there.
Regarding the budget battle what Walker is doing is making the state more attractive to investment. The people that are protesting are only looking out for themselves and not looking at the big picture, which is getting the states dept and budget under control while not raising our already absurdly high taxes. Take our company for example we are investing over 20 million dollars in new equipment and changing our philosophy to more of a lean value stream manufacturing based mostly on General Motors Global Manufacturing System (GM-GMS). Our owner had a choice of locations to invest in and with a more positive business outlook thanks to Walker they choose to invest in Wisconsin than in other places.
My original point is that if you are willing to look there is a lot of opportunities out there.
Mar 31, 2011 at 9:06 a.m.
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And if you bring into question why I said 14 years in the military in my first post and 12 years in the Marine Corps in my second post it's because I spent 2 years in the Army as well.
Mar 31, 2011 at 9 a.m.
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To June4th, whoever you are:
I do NOT appreciate being called a liar! There were 4 people in the car I was in and they will tell you exactly the same as what I did. No, I am not bending the truth, in fact, I kept my post VERY clean because some of the comments screamed at us were vial and disgusting! We heard a few people insult our parental abilities and our children's welfare as well, which is so uncalled for that if it weren't for my wife calming me down I would still by in county lock-up. If the pro-union want to believe that this was peaceful then let them. I was there and I know what I saw and what I heard. I was a Marine for 12 years and to have you call my integrity into question is insulting and obviously shows your bias rationale towards your side of the fence.
Mar 31, 2011 at 8:45 a.m.
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OOPs point.
Mar 31, 2011 at 8:44 a.m.
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Wow...he missed the piont entirely...lol. Nothing new tho.
Mar 31, 2011 at 6:52 a.m.
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To those of you who say this, "An attack on Walker is an attack on me and my family," I'd politely remind you that what Walker's bill (not yet actually a law) proposes is a far greater attack on me and my family. In fact, it appears to be systematically designed to break down the middle class.
Please don't assume that the "anti-Walker train" is composed of extremists. We are your friends and neighbors, too. We live, work, and pay taxes in this community. We watch, read, and pay attention to news from various sources. We have thought critically about our position.
Yes, I'm angry, but I'm not going to take my anger out on you. I don't hate you because you support a different position. The stereotypes surrounding those of us who oppose the governor's tactics are ill informed.
Mar 31, 2011 at 6:35 a.m.
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must have cost a bunch to feed all those fat cat.
Mar 31, 2011 at 6:13 a.m.
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stoutt66: Shopierehuh is going to boycott your business, too just because he doesn't know who supports Walker or who doesn't and he sure doesn't. So see, even your allies can bring your business down. It gets messy.
Mar 31, 2011 at 12:42 a.m.
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gmaof3, good for you but age has nothing to do with knowledge. What's that saying, you can't teach an old dog new tricks? I can tell you as a business owner I have already be hurt by the changes King Walker has made. I find that many of my customers that have bought my goods, will soon be looking to cut back. Just when I was getting ready to expand and hire 5-10 people. Oh well, I guess more low paying factory jobs will be the key, not to mention the millions lost in local wages that would be spent at local businesses. Does my comment count, I have been a member since 2008?
Mar 30, 2011 at 10:42 p.m.
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Anybody else concerned about the young people bailing out of state first chance they get, and especially out of Janesville? Personally, I know a few so disheartened by what has happened in the last few months that they plan to get out. I am talking about some of the best and brightest the town has to offer, such as valedictorians and honors students.
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One thing about the youth, they often are adept at seeing through people. They can tell that the Walker "open for business" mantra is bogus.
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Yes, it is true they may go and find out the world is a tough place elsewhere too. But that is not going to stop them from leaving and not looking back. They will find a job and take their talents and their money somewhere else.
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Walker's denigration of teachers and particularly the lambasting to the state univ system does not bode well for the WI future.
Mar 30, 2011 at 9:47 p.m.
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gmaof3: Just so I understand the rules correctly...New posters are just here to cause problems? Unless of course they agree with your viewpoint, which then negates rule 1? Anybody that doesn't hold the same ideals as you just doesn't "get it"? Age and the length of time that one has been commenting on the gazette articles are the deciding factor of whether or not someone is capable of "getting it"? If there is anything that I am missing let me know. I look forward to learning more from you as you apparently hold a wealth of knowledge.
Mar 30, 2011 at 9:33 p.m.
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Walker is claiming jobs from Jan - Feb, but not a peep from him about the jobs LOST since he took office. My "new" job is over, going to Mexico, along with most of the company.
I'll bet ( if someone could dig around and find out for sure ) that the Stoughton Trailers orders for trailers came in before Scotty was elected.
Mar 30, 2011 at 9:19 p.m.
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Sorry, January 3rd.
Mar 30, 2011 at 9:18 p.m.
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Walker was inaugurated January 2nd, and he's already claiming credit for adding jobs in January and February. How can anyone believe this self-serving tool.
Mar 30, 2011 at 9:08 p.m.
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gmaof3 and doc0430, you were "newbies" once too. Get over yourselves.
Mar 30, 2011 at 9:03 p.m.
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We were there. There was no spitting, no eggs, no fingers. We had people at both entrances. I'm saying "no eggs" because I've heard rumors to that that aren't true.
Mar 30, 2011 at 8:57 p.m.
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I am sure what flyboyatjvl is describing is a bending of the truth.....I was there protesting along with many friends and family and I saw nothing at all close to this!!!
Mar 30, 2011 at 8:46 p.m.
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gmaof3, don't let the newbies that are here just to create as you put it "We have many who are just NOW posting to add confusion and depth to a shallow issue" well said and I have noticed the increased number of them over the last two months who just either don't or can't get it, don't let them bother you.
When this is all said and done we will all be thankful for Gov. Walkers plans for our states future.
There I think I covered everything I needed to (for now at least)
Have a good night everyone and keep the faith, we are moving in the right direction with Gov.Walkers leadership.
Just my own opinion here of course, and I am entitled to that.
Mar 30, 2011 at 8:45 p.m.
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"There's nowhere left to kick the can into the future," he said, noting that his budget does what eight preceding state budgets did not: reduce the state's structural deficit without raising taxes. "This budget is a commitment to the future."
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Those are the facts for some of you that choose to jump on board the anti-Walker train, the deficet numbers are absolutely staggering that he was left with from prior administrations, (yes even from Tommy Thompson) the fact is that our state is in an economic crisis and Gov. Walker is doing the responsible things here, you all have questions but are afraid of the answers!
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Walker said he's moving quickly to address the state's problems, just as any CEO facing a business crisis would. That includes cutting costs and regulations and making Wisconsin an attractive place to do business.
I applaud his efforts here and we will make it through this mess if he is given the chance to do the right thing.
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He noted that Moody's Investor Services, one of the nation's top bond rating agencies, recently issued a report saying Walker's budget would make the state "credit positive."
"What they've said is that this budget gets serious about tackling the tough challenges,"
I thank Gov. Walker for his efforts here and his showing of fiscal responsibility with his new budget, like it or not it is the right way to do this, yes it is going to mean some belt tightening for some but in the end it's going to create a better future for all of us and our children and our grandchildren.
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flyboyatjvl, I also thank you for your efforts to keep our country safe and the way you and your wife were treated last night speaks volumes for the people that are against a better future (YES I AM REFERING TO THE PROTESTERS)the actions were reprehensible to say the least and the should have been arrested, plain and simple actions of disrespect to you and your wife, i say if you want to act like an animal then you should be treated like one and be put in a cage!
To those involved in last nights protest that6 committed those disrespectful actions you have to live with knowing you are a piece of trash!
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sharkster
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:08 p.m.
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All 12 people applauding him were happy to see him
Really? 12 people? You have got to be kidding me, there were over 700 people in attendance last night that were very respectful and the overwhelming majority of them support Gov. Walker so be implying that he only has 12 people behind him is idiotic at the very least.
Mar 30, 2011 at 8:45 p.m.
Mar 30, 2011 at 8:30 p.m.
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doc0430... THANK YOU!! I've been saying this all along!
Mar 30, 2011 at 8:18 p.m.
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notfromhere, I don't even know why I am responding to you other than to say that "yes there are jobs out there", maybe not at the same level of pay your "friend" was getting after working there for 10 years, well duh??? Of course they aren't going to start you off at where you were after 10+ years working for the same company, those jobs are out there for those that are willing to actually actively willing to go out and look for, I to have a friend who was just released from prison last year and he somehow was able to find a job (yes he has to drive 30 minutes each way because he doesn't want to leave Janesville) but he is making great money has benefits and a retirement package he also belongs to a union, big difference is that the company he works for is paying for those perks and not sticking the tax payers with those benefit packages!! The jobs are out there but companies aren't going to go looking for you, you still have to go out pound the pavement and actively pursue them, I know of several other people that have found employment over the past two months. So don't sit there and try to say that there are no jobs out there, go up to the job center, there are plenty of jobs for those that want to work and don't feel some sense of entitlement that they should go to a new job and pick right up where they left off. In the real world that just doesn't happen.....
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:55 p.m.
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"The results, he said, are starting to pay off as the state added 13,000 jobs in January and February, 8,200 of them in manufacturing."
Where?? My friend lost her job she had for over 10 yrs., 2 years ago almost to the day and she's still unemployed. Where are these jobs?
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:45 p.m.
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Bueno, thanks for telling the truth. It is an insult that Gov. Walker said what he did. No wonder people are turning against the governor.
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:27 p.m.
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Wando.. I can't even imagine why my point was not understood. We have many who are just NOW posting to add confusion and depth to a shallow issue. Such as voting one's conscience... Whatever.. join the Gazette blogs, but be prepared for we who have been here for a few years. And at 52 years old, I think I "get it" more than you do!
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:08 p.m.
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All 12 people applauding him were happy to see him
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:02 p.m.
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I attended the rally. I was one of the protesters. I can tell you that the vast majority of us did not spit or give the finger to the people going into the hotel parking lot. Most of us booed or chanted or observed or read each other's signs or talked about relative matters. I actually talked to one of the protesters after he rushed one of the cars coming in and reasoned that some of these people coming in did not support what Walker was doing. I think it is wrong to imply any unruliness by the vast majority. To flyboyatjvl, I am sorry this happened to you and I'm positive that if possible, you would get over 1,000 similar apologies.
And Walker saying the people outside were "organic because of the big Teamsters truck" is an insulting implication. That was a Wisconsin Teamsters union! And like I said, I was there and saw many, many, many locals. Dismiss the protesters, inaccurately write the stories and use misleading statements. I'm hoping that people are paying attention.
Mar 30, 2011 at 7:02 p.m.
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And I do feel honored to be that whatever I've posted stirred gmaof3 to research me. Maybe the GOP thought-police will come after me like Prof Cronon.
Mar 30, 2011 at 7 p.m.
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Quality over Quantity.
Mar 30, 2011 at 6:57 p.m.
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gmaof3: What is the limit on the number of days that someone can be posting before they can have an opinion that is different than yours? I read the user policy agreement and didn't see a timetable posted. I just want to know before I say anything that might offend you.
Mar 30, 2011 at 6:46 p.m.
Mar 30, 2011 at 6:45 p.m.
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Feel free to protest unions at the Labor Day parade.
Mar 30, 2011 at 6:43 p.m.
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flyboyatjvl... I'm so sorry this happened to you and your wife! The "protesters" keep reiterating how "peaceful" the protest was. It was only peaceful for the protesters. To denigrate those in attendance is beyond rude! Thank you for attending... you have OUR household support.
This will fade soon... I am sure that the changes Walker puts in place will be good for Janesville, and Wisconsin as a whole!
Wisconsin is used to seeing picket lines... but they now have no platform to stand on.
Our goal should be, NOT leaving our children and grandchildren with a state that can't support them. It is the 'check and balance" of our democracy that MUST take place.
Mar 30, 2011 at 6:35 p.m.
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Surely it was a grand time inside listening to the ideologue celebrate plutocracy with his like-minded Forward disciples.
Personally, I prefer the spirit of the Rotary Club version of a business group. Surely some of its members are in Forward, but historically it is more light-hearted networking group, devoted to civic and community-minded causes.
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The difference in mission statements say it all
"Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders who provide humanitarian service and help build goodwill and peace in the world. It is the world’s first service organization. Rotary has a long history of helping those in need and uniting people of different cultures and beliefs."
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The Mission Of Forward Janesville, Inc.
FJI leads private sector economic and community development efforts to ensure the continued health and prosperity of business and industry in Janesville.
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And they fulfill their missions accordingly, the peopple have the Rotary to thank for Janesville's lovely gardens, and the people have Forward to thank for visits by slimy politicians.
Mar 30, 2011 at 5:29 p.m.
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Governor Walker was well received by the audience at the Holiday Inn Express Banquet because they know he will make Wisconsin proud. Don't underestimate Walker; he is going to work hard for the people and is a true American.
Mar 30, 2011 at 5:23 p.m.
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My wife and I had a very pleasant time at the Janesville Forward Dinner and listening to our Governor. Unfortunately, the negative things we have to report are being called bad parents, parents of screwed up kids, bad people, numerous other name calling (for example: my wife was called a whore and that was a minor name compared to the... rest ), the middle finger being displayed to us numerous times and being spit at as we drove by the protesters. Yes, the dinner was eloquent and the Governor was first class. Too bad I can not say the same for those who opposed us. 14 years in the military to defend your rights to protest. 14 years in the military to be scoffed, ridiculed, name called and to be treated with the up most disrespect. God Bless America!
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