It does add an interesting facet to employee relations. We now get to decide between the definitions of health code violations (suppurating lip rings) art and obscenity concerning the appearance of a person’s body. And I thought it was rough when I was a union rep trying to bring justice to the workplace. I’m just glad I don’t have to make those judgments anymore —— except as a consumer. And I have to tell you I still doubt the mental capacity of someone with a spike in their tongue.
My brother Alan sent me this trip down memory lane (as he put it). We both worked at the Starlite Drive-In theater in N. Pekin many years ago. This commercial for Smithfield Barbeque played every night at intermission. I’m sure any of you who went to the Starlite will remember this.
Yet another letter from my Senator. You don’t suppose I am getting all this attention because it is an election year do you? I would prefer to think it is because my Senator knows I am a sterling citizen but I guess that would be another fantasy. Oh Well —— it does help me decide who to vote against.
October 19, 2006
Mr. Michael Legel 22023 Allentown Rd. Tremont, IL 61568
Dear Mr. Legel:
In light of your past correspondence about the agenda of the Bush Administration and the United States Congress, I am writing to provide you with an update.
As the 109th Congress draws to a close, I remain deeply concerned that the Administration and the Majority in Congress have misjudged the priorities of the American people. The Senate Majority established a light working schedule and devoted significant portions of that schedule to matters such as same-sex marriage and flag desecration. While these issues are not insignificant, our nation faces a host of more urgent concerns that are a higher priority for the American people and require Congressional attention.
We should have used precious Senate workdays to address other issues.
Congress has so far failed to pass 10 of the 12 appropriations bills needed to keep our government funded for the year ahead -- specifically the 10 bills that fund domestic programs. The Senate has failed to provide desperately-needed oversight of the war in Iraq and war contracting. The minimum wage has been stuck for nine years and still needs to be increased. Legislation to authorize lifesaving stem cell research was vetoed by the President and has not become law. We still lack a sensible, sustainable energy policy that will address high gas prices and reduce our dependence on foreign oil. We have yet to enact the comprehensive reforms our broken immigration system needs. We must do more to provide Americans with access to affordable health care and assistance in covering the cost of college tuition. And we must exercise Congressional oversight to ensure that the federal government protects the American people while preserving the civil liberties that have helped to make our country the greatest and most enduring democracy in the world.
These are difficult issues facing our country, but the Congress has an obligation to take them on. In my capacity as the Senate Assistant Dimocrat Leader, I have worked to develop and advance proposals in these areas. Sadly, the agenda set by the Administration and the Congress has not even allowed significant debate on many of these urgent priorities. As we approach a new year and the start of the 110th Congress, I will continue to work to address these and other important issues, and I will continue to keep your concerns in mind.
Thank you again for your correspondence with me. I hope you will continue to stay in touch.
Sincerely, Richard J. Durbin United States Senator RJD/ds
P.S. If you are ever visiting Washington, please feel free to join Senator Obama and me at our weekly constituent coffee. When the Senate is in session, we provide coffee and donuts every Thursday at 8:30 a.m. as we hear what is on the minds of Illinoisans and respond to your questions. We would welcome your participation. Please call my D.C. office for more details.
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